USO
DATE - FALL 2023
SCOPE - 10-WEEK HOMEGOODS DESIGN PROJECT
Clean and Efficient Dishwashing
USO is a self-cleaning sponge which replaces the bacteria-laden kitchen sponge with Ultrasonic Sound technology, reducing water, heat, and effort.
Sponges are gross
They harbor, spread, and grow millions to billions of bacteria.
Reframed Prompt
Improve the humble, bacteria-laden dish sponge
Ultrasonic Cavitation is used to sterilize, degrease, and shine
Why not apply it to dishes?
Proof of Concept
Petri plates compared the bacteria cultures of dirty dishes, dishes washed with soap and sponge, and those put into an ultrasonic bath for 5 minutes.
After 3 Days…
The plates grew the most bacteria for dirty dishes, still significant bacteria for the washed dishes, and no bacteria grown on the portion dedicated to dishes exposed to ultrasonic frequency.
Ideation
Early Renderings (AI)
Refinement
Prototyping
USO
USO is a self-cleaning sponge
It reduces water, heat, and effort by replacing the bacteria-laden kitchen sponge with Ultrasonic Sound technology,
USO uses ultrasonics
While the device is washing dishes, the ultrasonic frequency travels through the water to the dishes to aid in scrubbing effort, sanitation, and efficiency.
USO increases ease of clean
Sponges can be swapped using the dovetail joint
Contact charging via an aluminum band.
A light ring enhances visibility.
The base dries fast with antimicrobial Diatomaceous earth.
USO has three modes, Light Clean, Stain Removal, and Batch Cleaning.
Multiple grip configurations, from relaxed handshake to engaged palm
Lessons Learned
Hands-On Testing
Non-handedness and ergonomic versatility were identified as key, and testing brought key insights.
Scope Identification
The given prompt was “Homegoods Product”. The concept arose from a personal challenge.
Iterative Problem-Solving
Failing early and often led to quick development in form, CAD modeling, and interaction.
