Senik is a low-cost, technologically innovative fire extinguisher that was designed for the context of urban settlements in India. The most important constraints were of cost and accessibility, especially for low-income groups who are unaware of and untrained in operating existing fire-safety solutions.

My objective of creating a low-cost solution was responsible for imposing other design constraints. There were three major areas that I focused on: finding chemical agents for chemical generation, designing an optimally functioning nozzle based on the Venturi principle and form and materials that optimize cost without compromising design.
The form addresses usability in two important ways: reducing the mental load of the instruction 'point spray at base of fire' by its angled form; simplifying the instructions to make them apparent to even first-time, untrained or uneducated users.

The nozzle was 3-D printed to prototype and test engineering factors until a good quality mist was achieved. The body was vacuum-formed in polystyrene and the trigger was fabricated in wood and metal.
Extensive research was required to identify the connection between the use of Water mist Fire suppression while replacing the pre-pressurized atomizing gas with a chemical (rapidly decomposing pressure generant).

The final mock-up was tested by target users on small, controlled fires. Many more interviews and testing was conducted to get feedback from users concerning the ergonomics and simplicity of instructions.
My biggest learning from this project was the stretch of design thinking and effort required to implement complex innovation in a product.

For more details please visit: https://www.behance.net/gallery/44579553/Senik-Fire-Extinguisher-Redesign
This project was featured on Yanko Design: http://www.yankodesign.com/2016/11/11/panic-proof-fire-fighting/

Sailee Adhao

Product Designer, graduating from National Institute of Design, India. I'm currently looking for a 4-6 month internship in 2017.
As a designer, I am deliberative and passionate. I am driven by the ability of design to make a positive impact and this is reflected in the projects that I've undertaken and also in the kind of opportunities I'm looking for.

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