Accessible Cup Design for the Visually Impaired

This electric water bottle is specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments, ensuring safe water boiling and drinking. Its primary goal is to redress burn risks and usability challenges caused by the lack of visual cues when handling hot liquids. The bottle features a cylindrical form with a wide, stable base to prevent toppling. It also incorporates an ergonomic grip for secure handling. The design combines elements from ancient Greek pillars and modern minimalism with functional safety.

A steam-activated ball indicator on the cap rises when the water reaches boiling temperature, allowing users to confirm heat through touch rather than sight (steam, condensation, etc.) Users are able to feel the position of the ball to decipher if the water is at a safe temperature. This design ensures a critical safety advancement over existing electric bottles without temperature feedback and also offers a more intuitive experience compared to digital-sound electric bottles. Additionally, a 360° accessible spout enables drinking from any angle and controls water flow rate, thereby preventing spills. These functions address common pain points for visually impaired users, such as locating a specific spout position or managing tilt angles precisely.

To use this product, the user simply places the bottle on its powered base. As the water temperature rises, water vapour builds up inside the bottle, eventually pushing the ball up after saturation water pressure exceeds the weight of the ball. Heating stops immediately after the water starts to boil and tactile feedback from the ball informs the user if the water is at a safe drinking temperature. The seal is designed to act as a pressure-relief value for maximum safety.

The bottle’s body is constructed from stainless steel with a silicone coating for enhanced grip and heat insulation, ensuring longevity and reducing the need for replacements. Additionally, the use of biodegradable soy-based insulation for wiring minimizes environmental impact during disposal. This bottle also eliminates the need for a separate kettle and thermos. This bottle was designed to be an accessible and safe alternative to electric kettles and thermoses, while not compromising on sustainability.