FILTA
OVERVIEW
Filta is a portable wash bag developed through an incremental innovation brief focused on washing equipment. After discovering the popular Scrubba wash bag, I chose this as my focus for incremental design, aiming to elevate the user experience through targeted functional enhancements. Filta integrates a transparent water filtration pocket, providing visual feedback to users. Designed for off-grid and outdoor use, Filta offers a compact and intuitive solution for washing clothes where access to clean running water is limited.
Context
University Project
Year
2023
PROBLEM
The main problem with the existing Scrubba Wash Bag was that it only works effectively with access to clean water, which is not always the case when living off-grid. Contaminated water sources transfer pollutants to the clothing fibres, leading to skin irritations and bad odours. Other issues were that the clothes fell out when draining the dirty water, and the strap was uncomfortable to hold when the bag was full.
Around 50% of lakes and rivers in the US are too polluted for swimming, fishing and drinking.
TARGET MARKET
The target users are off-grid individuals, particularly hikers, campers, backpackers, and van dwellers who lack consistent access to clean running water. They are typically self-reliant, adaptable, and environmentally conscious, valuing minimalism and resourcefulness in remote settings. Their core needs include clean water, safe shelter, nutritious food, navigation tools, and appropriate clothing for changing conditions.
SCRUBBA USE CYCLE ANALYSIS
SCRUBBA CLEANING TEST
BEFORE
A single t-shirt was stained and put to the test using scrubba. The bag was filled with laundry detergent and clean water.
PROS
Portable/compact
Durable material
Internal washboard effective
Simple
AFTER
The t-shirt was rubbed for around 3 min, and the end result was surprisingly very clean.
CONS
Only works effectively with clean water and enough soap
Clothes fell out when draining
Strap is uncomfortable when heavy
Time consuming for many clothes
INCREMENTAL DESIGN OPPORTUNITY
My project builds on the popular Scrubba wash bag by improving access to clean water during use. The key innovation is an integrated water filter that allows users to wash clothes using a wider range of water sources. Additional refinements include improved handle ergonomics and a securing feature that prevents clothes from falling out while draining dirty water.
IDEATION
A range of initial concepts were explored, including integrated water filters, a life-vest wash bag, and a foot-pump system. The water filtration concept was developed further as it most effectively addressed the core problem.
PROTOTYPING
Many prototypes were made mainly to test the mechanics, practicality and ease of use of the filter mechanism. I wanted the filter mechanism to be seamlessly integrated into the bag without sacrificing portability and ease of use. Each iteration was tested with my classmates and user feedback was applied to arrive at the final looks-like model.
Note: The final looks-like model does not include the transparent filter pocket due to manufacturing constraints - this feature is shown in the renders further below.
USER TESTING
Extensive user testing was completed to test the ease of filling, filter efficiency, ease of cleaning and comfort when using the wash bag. Valuable insights were gained from each prototype to arrive at the final design.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
During the user testing phase, constant ideation and refinement was done simultaneously to explore and determine how the filter would work and be removed once its dirty.
FINAL DESIGN
The final design consists of a simple and efficient filter mechanism with a easily replaceable filter pad, improved and more comfortable handle and a drainage zipper with a built in mesh.
ORTHOGRAPHIC VIEWS
The filter pocket with zipper, deflate valve and drainage zipper are on the front side of the bag. The internal wash board and grip backing (to prevent slippage when rubbing the clothes) are on the back side of the bag.
FINAL DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
After receiving feedback on the final design, I explored with different colorways and form variations for the bag. The final bag has a slightly tapered design with a charcoal grey color (main colorway) and three color variations (blue, green, red pastel).
EXPLODED VIEW
KEY FEATURES
The key feature of the Filta wash bag is its integrated transparent filter pocket, which enables clean washing on the go while providing visual feedback as water is being filtered. A built-in mesh for the filter pocket prevents large debris from entering, while a polyester filter pad is housed in an internal pocket inside the bag.
USE CYCLE
FILTA COLORWAYS
The main colorway for Filta is a charcoal grey, however, it would also be sold in blue, green or red pastel colors so consumers can choose their preferred color.
FILTA PACKAGING
