Problem
Gregory had a stroke a few years ago and since then, he has dealt with decreased proprioception. This makes it harder for Gregory to measure quantities accurately, something that he consistently needs to do when pouring coffee each morning and cooking. Gregory feels like some of his freedom in the kitchen has been taken away because he can no longer cook freely without sticking to measurements. Instead, he needs his wife to help him measure exact quantities of ingredients.
Purpose
The purpose of our design is to help our client accurately pour liquids. We hope that our solution will allow Gregory and other people with decreased proprioception to pour their desired amount of liquid while cooking or performing other tasks that involve pouring liquids.
Methodology
We started with four mockups: an automatic pouring machine, a liquid pump, an adjustable liquid level indicator, and a slip bobber indicator. Based on what seemed easy enough to build with the available materials and the time remaining, we decided to move forward with the adjustable liquid level indicator and the slip bobber indicator. For the user testing session, we presented both ideas to Gregory. Gregory was able to easily tell the difference between two colors on two sides of the slip bobber mockup. Since this design seemed easier to build than the adjustable liquid level indicator, we chose to move forward with the slip bobber indicator.
Final Design
The main components of our design are nylon fishing wire, a stainless steel weight, a metal alligator clip, and a slip bobber. The slip bobber is tied to the nylon wire, which is then threaded through the stainless steel weight. The length of the wire can be adjusted by moving the stainless steel weight along the wire and attaching the alligator clip below it. The bobber stays on its side until the desired liquid level is reached. When this level is reached, the wire will be pulled and the bobber will become upright, indicating that the user should stop pouring the liquid.
Limitations
Our design is specifically addressing Gregory’s needs and is based on the size of his mugs and pots at his home. We would possibly have to modify the design for other people who deal with decreased proprioception to use. Additionally, for our design to be safe to use in liquids that will eventually be ingested, we would possibly need to utilize a bobber that is considered to be food safe. We would also need to utilize a bobber that can safely last in hot liquids in order to use this product in hot liquids.