Mother of invention: Small space, big use

LAHORE:

“I went to school near Bhati Gate. Growing up, I always wondered how ambulances could make their way into narrow streets in the area in times of emergencies,” said Syed Ali Adil, a gradating student of Product Design at the National College of Arts.

His thesis display showcased a first responder for congested areas. A collapsible stretcher attached to a motorbike was his solution to the problem.

Named Temar, the vehicle is supposed to navigate easily through traffic jams. Adil said in an emergency situation, Temar could potentially be a life-saver. The vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit and an oxygen cylinder.

Umair Qazi’s smart kitchen looks like a desk but it contains a pull-out stove, sink and various compartments.

“If you are working and feel the need to make a cup of tea, you can simply pull out the stove,” said Qazi.

He said the design was ideal for small apartments, students living in hostels, roadside restaurants or temporary kitchens near construction sites.

“It has space for a gas cylinder and water storage so no additional connections are required,” he said. In addition, he said, he had tried to make the product more cost effective.

“Installing a kitchen normally takes around Rs200,000. The smart kitchen costs Rs65,000,” he said.

Qazi said the product was available on order and could be made in different colour schemes.  Another product created for small spaces was an off-the-grid clothes washer designed by Muhammad Hussain Amin.

He said the washing machine was easily available but was not an affordable option especially for people living in rural areas. He said washing clothes by hand was strenuous procedure, something the off-grid-clothes washer could help resolve.  The washer has internal sections to accommodate washing powder, clothes and water. By pedalling a flap at the bottom, the clothes inside revolve, making washing easier.

Other products on display included a smart bike, with three wheels. Another student had designed calligraphic jewllery, while another had designed special shoes for working women.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 15^th, 2016.