Homedics Collapsible Foot Spa Line
The team at Homedics provided us with a design brief that had been long overdue. The core challenge; how do we make foot spas easier to store when they are not being used, and could this also help reduce packaging size for a marked reduction in shipping costs? Once we fully understood the project brief, we began with competitive market analysis, which included both existing foot spa models as well as general research of collapsible and space saving products in other markets. We found some great reference for flexible TPR bellows on collapsible bowls and laundry baskets that we were confident could be adapted to work perfectly for foot spas. Because foot spas are filled with water during user, and the risk of collapsing the bellows during user would ensure a wet clean up, we also needed to design a system that would support the top edge of the spa to prevent collapse.
During our initial 3D design in SolidWorks, we realized that since the collapsible bellows not only need to be co-injected with the top rim of the foot spa but also with the top half of the base, tooling would be very costly. To offset this, it was decided that we would try to share as much tooling between multiple trim levels as possible to reduce up front cost. This actually complimented our client’s business model well, since they often provide exclusive designs to different retailers. We ended up designing the foot spa line with a modular approach where there would be 3 different splash guard designs with different trim and accessory levels to differentiate price points. In addition, we designed 2 basin styles, once for a more basic design and one with more premium features to further justify stepping up in price for the most premium model. Each foot spa SKU was designed with a large integrated carry handle (for easy filling, carrying and pour/emptying) and bent metal supports for the top rim which slide away into the base of the product for slim storage. The basin of the premium model was based on existing foot spas in the Homedics line, but the basin for the OPP model sports an ergonomic arch support/massage zone and simplified (fixed) massage rollers in the center. For internal and stakeholder testing and sign off, we 3D printed a 1:1 model of the basin bottom to ensure ergonomics were optimal.
By varying the application of CMF (Color, Material, Finish) to the different designs, Homedics could have their own online exclusive model for each SKU, while still providing exclusives to different brick and mortar, and online vendors. The OPP (opening price point) model has a simple fixed splash guard and fixed massage rollers in the basin. The MPP (mid price point) model has a splash guard with integrated attachment storage, premium basin with warming and bubble generators and breathable mesh storage bag. The PPP (premium price point) model has a wireless remote that nests into the top of the splash door, accessory storage, and the same premium basin features and storage bag as the MPP model.
The final off tool designs look amazing and are already earning glowing reviews on most retailer websites. It is always rewarding when consumers confirm that you nailed the design, ergonomics, features and finishes.
