TORRENT
Industrial Design
Spring 2025, 3 weeks
Tools: Bandsaw, Machine Sanders, Ash Wood
Team: Individual
How can a spatula intuitively guide the user to pick it up? Inspired by the hydrodynamic forms of fast-speed sharks, the spatula’s curves and fillets detaches itself from the ground when resting, conveying an easy pickup.
During usage, the two silhouette curves diverge from the thumb and converge at the point of contact like the flow of water.
Hydrodynamic Form
I analyzed curves of fast speeding sharks.
I noticed how most hydrodynamic fishes have a three-part body – a taper on the head, a larger mid-torso, and a taper at the tail.
I tried to create variations based on the defined three part geometries.
Prototype 1
FlatIt had a comfortable grip for both hands, but the way it sits on the desk feels more flat.
Prototype 2
ArchIt incorporates the form of sharks in the negative space, becoming thinner in the middle and expands outwards.
CAD
Using Solidworks, I experimented with different forms that have a bump at the bottom of the spatula relating to fins.
Prototype 3
FinI thickened the handle and made a tip that detaches from the ground.
I liked how this looked from the side view. From a heightened view – which is the angle that we usually look at spatulas -- the detail seems like a mistake rather than an intentional design choice.
Context Visualization
What is the journey of the person picking it up and using it?
What kind of cooking utensils would people use with this spatula?
Prototype 4
FlowAs such, I removed the bottom bump. This conveys a fluid form more effectively.
The tip of the spatula points slightly upwards – appearing to be detached from the ground. The negative space under the handle combined with the raised tip intuitively guide the user to pick it up.