Observation
While using a cheap watering I found that it can be frustrating to try to get the stream of water the thickness I wanted. Either coming out too fast or too slow depending on what types of plants I was watering in my apartment. Otherwise overfilling and the pot caused spillage very easily.
Market Research
Best Selling Watering Can
According to Amazon.com 2019 Statistics
With research I found that there was a hole in the center of the market for moderately priced watering can, that can handle both large and precise pouring amounts.
Inspiration
My inspiration (in both frustration and aesthetically) is the Ikea PS 2002 watering can. This watering can has a hole in the handle that always spills and splatters when ever you over fill it.
The idea was why not actually use that side? Instead of source of frustration, but rather another way to water a larger potted plant?
Observations
.png)
Designed to water either small or areas of water
Watering cans often over water small plants such as succulents and herbs.
People often over fill to reduce trips for watering plants
The form I wanted to explore was dual leaf design. Where both the side profile and top profile have a leaf shape just as both sides are actualy the correct side to pour from. As well with a tapered design to allow for both structure and ease of release with Vacuum forming for a cheap manufacturing method.
I explored the top profile and landed on what I though was most reminiscent of a tulip leaf. With a ridge by the front that both lets you get a better grip on the watering can and can be pressed for better control of the flow.
The ridge also helps with the strength and structual.
The original material I wanted to use for this was 1/16 ABS plastic. This worked but felt too flimsy.
As well I believed that a slot needed to be cut to allow for a faster pour for the rear spout. This turned out unnecessary and caused less control of the water stream and leakage.
Ultimately I ended up going with 1/8 in thick white ABS, which gave the best strength and durability.
Cutting a slight curve at the main pour spout allowed for easier use as a handle and finished the design.
Vacuum Forming
The manufacturing process I decided on for was Vacuum forming, due to cost effectiveness and flexibility.
The mold was made from scraps of wood and foam for the prototype. For secondary testing a full wood mold is planned.
Vacuum forming uses a heated sheet of plastic (typically ABS in this case), heated until it droops and is then pulled down over a mold on a suction bed that pulls in the plastic to conform to the mold.
Tulip Watering Can
