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Espresso Machine Project
I conducted my survery on r/espresso, an online forum for espresso enthusiasts and fans to share their knowledge and love for all things espresso. This survey was a complete success, as I received numerous detailed responses from people that truly care about espresso.
I started exploring forms through sketches and countless CAD models to figure out what proportions I thought looked best. I was sure to remember the survey's results and tailor my machine to what the user wants, not what I think looks best.
After the third round of class critique I decided on the form I would continue with. I then mapped out the dimensions of each part, ensuring that my machine fit within the user's wants and the market average.
Using my final form, I added and organized the essential components of the machine such as the reservoir, head exchange, boiler solenoid and various other parts. Incorporating the water reservoir was particularly difficult, as the survey revealed that most people had an issue with the way their machine's reservoir was filled.
I then determined how each of the machine's components would be manufactured, ensuring that my design is feasible. Pictured is my plan for the drip tray, a folded and spot welded metal component.
Before continuing to the machine UX design, I analyzed the human factors of an espresso machine to be sure my concept was viable and accessible for all types of people.
As I created the UI of my espresso machine, I had simplicity and modern aesthetics in mind. I wanted a user experience that was simple yet modern. I decided on a touch screen with one-tap gestures, giving the user a simple and engaging experience.
I then created a storyboard, visualizing the user's experience with my machine. This step was very important, as it helped me determine the simplicity of my UX.
After creating my storyboard, UX, and mechanical engineering, I assembled a low fidelity model of my espresso machine out of foam-core to see how the dimensions of the machine would look in its environment.
Next, I finalized the model of my espresso machine and 3D printer it to see the finer details in person.
Finally, I rendered the model in Keyshot and created an animation below.
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