BINO
project type: Houseware Innovationdate: December 2025
duration: 3 months
skills: Prototyping, 3D Printing, Electronics, Soldering, SolidWorks, Keyshot, Illustrator, Photoshop
project description
Bino is a portable waterbottle that integrates aromatherapy to support everyday wellness on the go. This project explores how existing consumer technology can be reimagined into an everyday object. Using peristaltic pumping, ultrasonic atomization, and compact power systems, this project is desgined to merge hydration with scent diffusion, so users can benefit from aromatherapy as long as they have their waterbottle on hand.
Bino balances function with a wellness-driven aesthetic, to transform a routine item like a waterbottle into a multi-sensory experience to promote stress relief and mindfullness into any environment.
brief
This project was developed to submit to the Global Innovation Award (GIA) Student Design Competition, an international competition presented by the International Housewares Association (IHA) and judged by professional designers and product development leaders in the housewares industry.The objective of the project was to redesign or innovate a housewares product that addresses a consumer need through research-driven design, technical feasibility, and compelling storytelling. In alignment with the competition criteria, the project emphasized user research, market analysis, concept validation, and clear visual communication.
The design process was structured into five phases:
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Product Analysis – Research into existing products, market gaps, user behaviors, and competitive positioning within the housewares category.
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Concept Development – Ideation, sketching, and concept refinement informed by user needs and feasibility constraints.
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Prototyping and Testing – Physical and/or appearance models used to evaluate ergonomics, function, and user interaction.
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Detailed Design – Finalized form, materials, mechanisms, and manufacturing considerations supported by technical drawings.
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Final Documentation – Compilation of process work and final outcomes into presentation-ready materials.
Final deliverables included an appearance or working model, a process booklet, technical drawings, and presentation boards, all designed to communicate the product’s innovation, usability, and readiness for production.
phase 1: product analysis
This phase established a foundational understanding of the market and user by examining consumer behaviors around hydration, wellness, and aromatherapy. Through market research and product analysis, patterns in daily routines, environments of use, and existing product limitations were identified, revealing an opportunity to create a more engaging and integrated hydration experience that supports both physical and mental well-being.
phase 2: concept development
This phase began with making a focused design brief to guide ideation and concept development. In my brief, I identified the key user needs, constraints, and project goals relevant to the concept. Using this framework, I explored multiple concepts through sketching and iteration. Research in feasible technologies informed the possiblilties of the design and the variation of ways that the design intent could be met. Concepts were evaluated based the contents of the brief and three refined concepts were then carried forward for further development and selection.
phase 3: prototyping and testing
Multiple prototypes were created with variations in height, circumference, lid configuration and button placement to explore ergonomics and usability. User testing focused on preferences around size, grip, and overall functionality, with feedback directly informing key design decisions.
Testers consistently preferred a mid-sized bottle with a subtle grip indents and a wider profile that gives the indents more significance. Buttons were favoured to be at the top of the bottle, on or around the lid, for easy access where the bottle is already interacted with. These insights guided the final proportions towards the final definitive design.
Feedback from testers was compiled, with the most frequently recurring insights given the greatest weight in the final design decisions.
phase 4: detailed design
The selected concept was refined through minor iterations and detailed technical development. The final system uses an internally powered pump to move water from the primary chamber into a secondary chamber for diffusion. Due to size constraints, a lithium-ion cell with a charging and 5V boost module replaced the original power bank, enabling simultaneous operation of the pump and diffuser. An Arduino Nano controls the timing and sequencing of all functions, with MOSFET drivers allowing independent, safe control of each component.
To improve balance, usability, and water protection, all electronics were relocated from the lid to a sealed bottom compartment. Power, control wiring, and pump tubing are routed through internal channels and sealed with silicone, ensuring stability, cleanability, and water resistance in the final design.
phase 5: final documentation