Plummy

Portable changing table with inflatable supports

As part of the final synthesis workshop of the Master's Degree In Design&Engineering course at Politecnico di Milano, Faculty of Design, the "Plummy" project was born. Collaborating with Fluid-o-Tech, a leading manufacturer of peristaltic valves and pumps, we immersed ourselves in a design experience centered on the needs of newborns and parents experiencing the challenge of balancing work and family life.

The inspiration behind "Plummy" is clear from the result of 400 questionnaires distributed to millennial parents. The research highlighted parents' main concerns, underscoring a marked interest in the safety of products for their little ones. Infants' need for emotional and physical safety, coupled with parents' need to balance work with constant attention to their children, led to the emergence of a product designed for infants, but also considering the needs of modern parents.

"Plummy" is a hybrid infant carrier that can be used in a variety of situations. This product is designed to be easily adaptable, ensuring stability and safety. Its distinguishing feature is its ability to fold, making it extremely transportable. The innovative heart of the project lies in the pump system provided by Fluid-o-Tech: thanks to it, it is possible to change the configuration of the support, stabilizing the infant's body and improving comfort.

The design specifications of the project were dictated by the need to meet specific requirements:

  1. Adaptability to three different positions.
  2. Safety and comfort for the infant.
  3. An optimal height edge that allows parents to easily monitor the child without interrupting their work.
  4. One-handed controllable movement, so as not to disturb parents' activities.
  5. Ease of cleaning.

The design phase saw several iterations. The initial concept called for a full, round outer shape, but this would have required an additional inner shell. To optimize the design and facilitate production, the shape was later redefined, opting for internal ribs that strengthen the shell while providing a clean, functional aesthetic.

"Plummy" not only represents a functional solution, but is also an ode to aesthetics and ergonomics. Designed to meet the needs of millennial parents, it serves as a reliable and stylish companion in the delicate balance between baby care and work commitments.

Realized the

December 22, 2017

Client

Polytechnic University of Milan

End customer

Fluid-o-Tech

Activities carried out in the project

Design lab, product design, Concept, Fem analysis, Rendering

Skills

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