portfolio :
a toilet with affective capabilities

As part of an Affective Interaction module we were asked to consider the design of a product that generates an emmotive response, we chose the toilet. Our research indicated a need for the toilet to feel as clean as possible before being used. Our solution was a toilet that cleaned itself after each use.

The situation

Toilets are emotive
There are cultural differences to consider
How can we make them better places to be?

Research methods

An online questionnaire was used to generate user opinions and needs
Brain-storming with in-house team
Sketching design ideas

Research outcomes

Most important: cleanliness
Also important: not being interrupted, nice surroundings, security
Not important: lighting, music, comfort features e.g. heated seats

Visceral responses (Norman's model)

Touch/texture: Handles, seat, wasbasin, surroundings
Aesthetics: Lighting, colour, sound, smell

Behavioural responses (Norman's model)

Privacy
Hygiene
People unwilling to use unfamiliar facilities

Reflective responses (Norman's model)

A chance for privacy

Design ideas

Satisfying, simple locking mechanism that won't fail or break
Warm, comfortable seat (taken from Japanese toilets)
Sound-proofing
Projection screen to entertain, relax and distract
Retracting toilet lid that cleans and dries itself after use
Good lighting and aroma: clean but not sterile, cosy but not dark

Moodboards developed to portray the desired feelings of aroma, colour, texture and sound:

Toilet moodboard

Sketching helped us think through ideas:

Toilet sketches

Toilet sketches

Toilet sketches

Toilet sketches

Online surveys were used to generate user data on what users felt about toilets and what was important to them

Toilet survey results