Package Design: Lightbulb Package
Project Overview
OBJECTIVE
The objective is to design a unique, stackable, and durable package that stores 4 lightbulbs in multiple directions. It must be made from a
continuous sheet of bristol with no glued connections.
CHALLENGE
The challenge was being able to visualize in 3D.
SOLUTION
The solution tightly stores 4 lightbulbs in different directions. Each bulb is separated by a wall to prevent contact between the bulbs. The square pop-ins provide a unique design, as well as support for the walls.
TEAM
Fiona Zhao, Lucy Kim
ROLES
Package designer
TIME
6 weeks
TOOLS
Illustrator
Initial Sketches and Prototypes
Because it was difficult to translate a 3D sketch into a flat template, my teammate and I went through many mini printer paper prototypes to visualize how each tab would fold into the slots.
After developing a better understanding of how the templates transform into 3D cubes with internal inserts, holes for lightbulb visibility, and extra walls for crash support, we started testing different cuts and folds in the exterior for visual interest.
During this project, my classmates and I were assigned one test drop before the final drop. Since my partner and I knew we needed multiple drops to design the package to be more durable, we came in several times to drop our prototypes.
Final Product
Great craftsmanship was an important factor that we wanted our product to have. To achieve that goal, we were very attentive and careful when handling our Adobe Illustrator file for the laser cutting and assembling the package. Referring to the previous bottom-right image, we realized that the fold-in oval design would not be the best option because of the lack of structural integrity, so we decided on angular pop-ins. In addition to a design element that played with the overall cube shape of the package, it added strength to the corners of our package.
Reflection
Because this was the first project of our degree path to have a teammate, I learned a lot about how to work with someone in a successful and productive manner. The limitations in the project brief challenged us to stretch our minds to be more creative. With the limited time slots for the laser cutting machine, our time management skills were also improved.