A simple design for integrating cent oils into the diffuser.

For this project, I had the opportunity to work with an individual who sought to revolutionize the experience of using a vapor diffuser. The client's vision was to create a sleek and aesthetic diffuser that seamlessly integrated the oil canisters directly into the product. The goal was to design a diffuser with compartments for four oil canisters, allowing the user to effortlessly mix oils into one central water compartment with the press of a button.

The design process began with thorough research of existing vapor diffuser styles, with a focus on cylindrical and bulb-shaped designs. Together with the client, we opted for the bulb-shaped variant, which became the foundation for our work. Starting with sketches and initial design mockups, we iterated on the transition between the lid and the base, striving to strike the perfect balance between form and function. After working through different sketches and concept models we finally came up with our final design.

Their were two main engineering challenges to this project. The first was designing the fan and water compartments such that there is sufficient airflow without any possibility of water entering the fan compartment. (see images with fan placement on the left pointing up) I initially had the fan relativly exposed with a cut into the central compartment. Water, however, was splashing through that compartment and out the top and the airflow wasn't great. After many iterations I fully covered the fan and allowed a small outlet to guide the air around and into the lower into the base of the water to push as much mist up as possible. I also prototyped a de-splasher to prevent water splashing out the port hole and into the oil dispensers.

The second challenge was designing the oil dispensers. The main advantage of this diffuser over other diffusers is that it can hold oil dispensers inside the diffuser so designing a leak proof dispensing container proved challenging. While I was on track to design an ergonomic dispenser, after iterating through roughly 10 beta versions, I decided, for the alpha version of the product, it would be most efficient to find an off-the-shelf dispenser, alter it in whatever ways, and then seamlessly integrate into the diffuser.

I collaborated closely with the client and another electrical engineer. I collaborated with my client to ensure his vision and required functionality was clearly executed on. I kept him up to date on the design, prototyping and testing process. This project ended up lasting more than a year due to lots of speed bumps when testing. I worked closely with an electrical engineer to design the internal electronics to propely interface with the housing.

The vapor diffuser project resulted in a sleek and functional design with four compartments for oil canisters, offering an easy mixing experience. The integration of off-the-shelf oil dispensers sets it apart in the market, combining aesthetics and convenience.

The project provided insights into specialized injection molding techniques for complex geometries and collaboration with OEM manufacturers for seamless production. Working with an electrical engineer to incorporate an internal PCB enhanced interdisciplinary teamwork and the integration of technology. The power of purchase and altering was again reinforced due to the simplicity and efficiency of integrating an off the shelf oil dispenser. These experiences honed my expertise in manufacturing, problem-solving, and the fusion of form and function.