The project is a measuring spoon which targets the interaction between itself and the user by making it's usage more intuitive and seamless, and also looks at the before-after scenarios

The spoon is a single flat sheet of plastic with multiple measurements, aiming to replace the multiple implements that are usually present in kitchens The volume of the spoon gets set to the desired quantity simply depending on the way it is picked up

It's flattening out solves several problems with existing measuring spoons such as cleaning, storage, removal of viscous liquids, price, and it's implementation in other contexts

The project started out looking at the kitchen space, and making cooking implements more accessible to a larger population

The product is intended for any scenario where small amounts of fluids/ingredients need to be measured. It is primarily focused at the household kitchen scenario, and shops (eg. vendor selling spices). It is also intended for integration into packaging (eg, the profile can be perforated into the packaging of medicine boxes, for relevant dosage)

People were willing to sacrifice the accuracy of measuring spoons for the more cost-effective solution of taking a regular spoon and estimating ingredients with it. This works to some extent for seasoned cooks, but anyone new to cooking would have difficulty in getting the quantities right Thus, the main challenge here was to make something which was accessible and desirable to a larger range of classes

With accessibility being the main criteria, the more elaborate challenge i set for myself was to make something which also solved the problems with existing measuring implements

The desire was to create something which didn't clinically look like a kitchen implement, and it's usage would give delight to the user

The before-after interactions with the spoon were also considered, for a more holistic solution

1) Observations were made about the different scenarios and ways in which measuring spoons were used by people, and also how people employed a single spoon to measure different quantities

Housewives and cooks were asked for their opinions and aspirations with measuring implements

2) After initial concept generation, one of the directions was taken forward, which involved a single implement for measuring multiple quantities

3) Paper mock ups were first made to test the most efficient folding patterns

4) After freezing upon one pattern, prototypes with actual volumetric dimensions were made testing different materials like silicon, plastic, acrylic, tape, etc

5) Along the process of simplification of the tool, it's manufacturing angle benefited too, as the product was conceived to be made of only a single piece of plastic

6) Details like the typeface of the markings on the spoon, branding, and naming were carried out

7) The final form was defined by it's function, with not a single line on the product existing without a clear purpose

1) Cost Factor A set of measuring spoons would generally cost not less than 150 rupees The Polygons measuring spoon can be manufactured for less than 3-5 rupees per piece, thus, even with a profit margin, it can be sold for much much less than a regular set, while offering so many more advantages Thus, it makes a fine culinary experience more accessible to a larger section of society

2) Easy Cleaning The spoon flattens out for a quick wipe, doing it's part in saving resources like water, detergent, time, and energy

3) Easy storage With living spaces shrinking so rapidly, the flattening function of the spoon is a clear benefit

4) No wastage Thick liquids such as honey, which are often wasted while pouring since all of it doesn't pour out, can be easily wiped off against the edge of the utensil/bottle to avoid wastage

5) Cross-context As stated earlier, the spoon can be carried over to other contexts as well, like medicine packaging, etc

Accurately measured quantities of ingredients are a standard characteristic requirement of any dish across the globe Thus, as such, the product takes no singular cultural stand, as it tackles a scenario which is universal

The project doesn't have any nutritional elements It could serve as part of edible packaging though :)