We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Xunxing liang about their original and creative Metering Salt Shaker Package design work. Xunxing liang is an award-winning communication designer, that makes our world a better place with their original metering salt shaker package works.
Xunxing liang ("XL") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Morton Metering Salt Shaker Package. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
XL : The main inspiration behind my design is to address the common issue faced by novice cooks who struggle with accurately measuring the amount of salt to use in their dishes. The design principle revolves around providing a user-friendly solution that allows precise measurement of salt from 1 to 5 grams. This idea was motivated by the need for consistency and accuracy in cooking, aligning with the recommendations from the World Health Organization on salt intake.
XL : My main focus was to create a practical and ergonomic salt dispenser that not only simplifies the process of adding salt to food but also promotes healthier eating habits by preventing overuse. I aimed to achieve a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring the product is easy to use with one hand and can be refilled for continuous use.
XL : I plan to refine the design based on user feedback and explore potential collaborations with established kitchenware brands to bring this product to market. Additionally, I aim to expand the concept to other seasonings and cooking ingredients, maintaining the core idea of precise measurement.
XL : This project started in September 2023 and was completed in December 2023, taking approximately three months from concept to final design.
XL : This design was a personal initiative inspired by the common challenges faced in home cooking. It was not commissioned; instead, it stemmed from my observation of the need for a more precise and user-friendly salt dispenser.
XL : Currently, the design is not being produced by another company. I am open to selling or leasing the production rights to a suitable partner who shares my vision for making cooking easier and healthier.
XL : The primary motivation was to solve a real-world problem in a simple yet effective way. By focusing on user experience and the specific needs of home cooks, I wanted to create a product that could make a tangible difference in everyday cooking practices.
XL : While the core idea was original, I was influenced by the functional aspects of other precise measuring tools and dispensers.
XL : The target customers are home cooks and culinary enthusiasts who value precision and ease of use in their kitchen tools. This includes individuals who are health-conscious and those who appreciate innovative kitchen gadgets.
XL : This design stands out due to its precise measurement capability, ergonomic single-hand operation, and the ability to be refilled for continuous use. The combination of a sleek, minimalist design with practical functionality makes it unique in the market.
XL : The name "Morton Quantitative Salt Dispenser" was derived from the brand Morton, which is synonymous with salt, and the term "quantitative" reflects the product's ability to measure precise amounts of salt. The name aims to convey the core functionality and brand association in a clear and straightforward manner.
XL : I used a combination of design software and tools including Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for visual design, SolidWorks for 3D modeling, and Blender for rendering and simulation. These tools allowed me to create detailed and accurate representations of the final product.
XL : The most unique aspect of the design is the precise measurement mechanism that allows users to dispense exactly 1 to 5 grams of salt with a simple, single-hand operation. This level of precision is not commonly found in typical salt dispensers.
XL : While I led the design process, I collaborated with engineers and materials specialists to ensure the feasibility of the design. Their expertise was crucial in refining the dispensing mechanism and selecting suitable materials for production.
XL : Technology played a significant role in both the design and prototyping phases. Advanced 3D modeling software helped in visualizing the design, while injection molding and blow molding technologies were essential for creating the physical prototype.
XL : Yes, the design is heavily influenced by data on recommended salt intake levels from health organizations such as the World Health Organization and the American Heart Association. I conducted research on user behavior, ergonomic studies, and material durability to ensure the design met both health guidelines and user needs.
XL : One of the main challenges was ensuring the durability of the dispensing mechanism. The initial prototypes had issues with the catch mechanism breaking, which required adjusting the wall thickness and material composition. Balancing the compact size with the need for clear and accurate measurements also posed a significant challenge.
XL : I decided to submit my design to the A’ Design Award after receiving positive feedback from peers and mentors who recognized the innovation and practicality of the product. Participating in an international competition is a valuable opportunity to gain exposure and validate the design on a global platform.
XL : This project taught me the importance of iterative design and prototyping. Each version of the prototype brought new insights and improvements, highlighting the value of persistence and attention to detail. I also enhanced my collaboration skills, learning how to effectively integrate feedback from different disciplines.
XL : I would like to emphasize the potential social impact of this design. By making it easier to measure and control salt intake, this product can contribute to better health outcomes and raise awareness about the importance of mindful eating. Additionally, I aim to explore sustainable materials for future iterations to align with environmental goals.
