We conducted extensive research at both universities, focusing on the topic of tableware and how students currently store and transport their food. This investigation began with an assessment of the current state: we observed how students package their meals and which solutions they typically use on a day-to-day basis. We also explored how other individuals, such as working professionals, manage their meal storage needs.

In addition, we analyzed how larger companies and organizations approach tableware and packaging solutions, learning from both their successes and their challenges. Our research identified several best practices as well as shortcomings in existing systems, highlighting key areas where design improvements are needed.

Through this comprehensive analysis, we pinpointed critical pain points and opportunities for innovation in tableware design, ensuring our project addresses real-world problems and meets the needs of our target users.

After we had finalized the design of our lunchbox, we decided to construct a rapid prototype to quickly test and evaluate our concept. This step allowed us to assess the handling, ergonomics, and usability of the product in a practical way, ensuring that the design met our expectations before moving on to final production.

To bring this prototype to life, we chose to use 3D printing as our fabrication method. 3D printing is a versatile, efficient, and cost-effective way to produce models for design verification and user testing. It provided us with a stable and sufficiently detailed representation of the product, while significantly reducing production time compared to traditional prototyping methods.

For the 3D print, we selected Extrudr’s high-quality matte finish filament, which delivered a professional look and feel while being easy to post-process. The model was printed on the Ender 2 printer, known for its reliability and precision, especially in small batch prototyping.

Once the prototype was complete, we conducted a thorough functionality check, filled it with food, and documented the process through photography. These photos not only showcased the product’s practicality but also served as valuable material for presenting the design and gathering feedback.