Problem Statement:
From our shadowing and research, the problem lies in the forces that are needed to open a jar. A twisting force must be used on the jar lid in order to break the vacuum seal. A user with only one arm lacks the capability to hold the jar in place with one hand and twist the jar lid counterclockwise with the other hand.
In addition, a problem for users is that most products that have lids are designed to need two forces to be opened. This problem seems to stem all of the way to the design of the packaging.
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Problem Mindmap:
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Problem Areas/Solutions: Torque = F *r = Force * radius
1)The main problem is that the jar/container will not stay in place when the lid is being twisted. There is no force being applied to separate the two (jar,lid) , we are able to create resistance to hold one in place.
- Solution: Secure one of the objects so that we can create opposing forces that will separate them (jar,lid)
2)Despite being able to open the jar after tough attempts, the container/jar seemed to always be about to tip over and is not stable where it lied, especially when trying to remove the contents from within (scooping peanut butter from a jar)
- Solution: The jar/container needs to be able to stand up straight after the lid is removed.
3)The way the child proof medicine lids are manufactured make sit extremely difficult for someone with access to only one arm. They are made to have multiple pressure points from having children open them, but its nearly impossible for some individuals.
- Solution: Create a lid that relies on mental knowledge or wisdom rather than physical ability.
4) Current products combating this issue are not very versatile.
- Solution: Create a ‘one size fits all’ tool for opening jars/containers.