Puanton is a kitchen waste recycling system to make it convenient and even fashionable to recycle kitchen waste, improve the recycling rate, and use it to generate electricity.
In this collaborative project, I identified key user pain points, crafted solutions, and 3D rendered them into a tangible prototype.
Tzu-Hsien Kuo
Yi-Ting Liu
Product design
9 months
In Taiwan, kitchen waste accounts for 40% of total garbage, yet less than 10% of it is recycled due to various reasons. Firstly, there is no unified system for recycling kitchen waste, and each district has its own policy for collecting it, leading to inconsistencies and confusion among the public. Additionally, the sheer volume of kitchen waste often results in insufficient transport containers, forcing collectors to discard it with general garbage. As a result, there is a pressing need for a more cohesive and effective kitchen waste recycling system to tackle this issue.
Target users
In Taiwan, due to the lack of a proper sewerage system, it is not possible to use a garbage disposal unit to dispose of kitchen waste by grinding it up and flushing it down the drain, as is commonly done in the United States. Below is the process of kitchen waste treatment with different types of residential properties in Taiwan. As a result, the recycling rate of kitchen waste is low, causing external costs for both the incinerator and the environment.
This chart shows the recycling rate is decreasing annually.
Approximately 40% of the waste generated in Taiwan is comprised of kitchen waste.
To create a waste-to-energy system that allows individuals to effectively manage their kitchen waste at home while eliminating unpleasant odors.
We have done marketing research and found that most of the kitchen appliances are square. Therefore, we want our product to be suitable for kitchen, so we have come up with a simple shape, which is composed of rectangle and circle.
Puanton is a essential component in our mission to simplify food waste recycling for families. Designed as a recyclable container, Puanton eliminates the need for washing before disposal.
Made from waterproof material derived from fermented food residue, Puanton is both organic and natural. This means the containers and processed food waste can be recycled to generate electricity, contributing to a more sustainable approach to waste management.
Its streamlined shape allows for efficient mass production, and the cap is firmly attached to the body to prevent loss. Plus, its leakproof design ensures no spills or odors to worry about.
we utilized 3D printing, ABS plastic, and paper materials to create some prototypes.
In contrast to existing products, our processor does not convert food waste into fertilizer; instead, it is specifically designed to prepare the waste for electricity generation. While the appearance of the processor is simple, its functionality is comprehensive. Operating the machine is easy, initiating the entire process by simply pressing the start button.
How to use
Consume the food.
Place the food waste into the machine.
Insert Puanton containers into the machine, allowing for automated filling of processed food waste.
Press the start button and wait for the machine to shred and dry the food waste.
Our gathering stations are strategically placed along recycling truck routes, convenience stores, and other easily accessible locations. Like vending machines, when a gathering station reaches capacity, our staff will collect the used Puanton containers and deliver fresh ones to the power plant. This ensures uninterrupted operation and maximum convenience for families, as the system works around the clock.
To further enhance user experience, our system includes a user-friendly application. The application calculates the electricity discount based on the weight of food waste contributed, providing incentives for users to participate in recycling actively. Additionally, the application offers a mini-map that displays nearby gathering stations, making it easy for users to locate the most convenient drop-off points for their food waste.
We have designed a range of common colors for the processor to cater to various kitchen styles and preferences. This allows users to choose a color that best complements their kitchen aesthetics, ensuring the processor seamlessly integrates into their kitchen setup. With multiple color options available, users can select the one that matches their style and enhances their kitchen's overall look.
LOHAS white
conservative gents blue
classic black
Logo was designed by me.
This is my first experience working on such a massive project, and upon reflecting on it, I realize that it has greatly expanded my knowledge of sustainability design. It has truly opened my eyes to the fact that we still have countless opportunities to impact the environment positively.
Throughout this project, I have identified areas that require improvement. For instance, we still need to refine the mechanics to ensure our product functions effectively. Additionally, we need to address certain flaws of taking kitchen waste to the gathering station in order to enhance the overall user experience.
Despite these challenges, I have gained valuable insights from this project, including the opportunity to interview experts and gain a deeper understanding of how kitchen waste can be converted into electricity. It has also encouraged me to think creatively and find innovative solutions to everyday problems that can contribute to environmental sustainability.