The

Cream

Cooler

Learn By Doing

This project focused on the implementation of research in order to innovate upon an already existing product. I, along with a large group was given a selection of ice cream machines to learn about through use. 

Diving Deeper

This research was explored further through observation of others using the machines, and questioning them about their experiences.

Through this information, I was able to gain personal insights that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Then came a mechanical breakdown, figuring out the specific variables necessary to make ice cream and the parts needed to do so. 

The Problem

A large problem which stuck out to me was that people avoid using ice cream machines not because they don't like ice cream, but rather because it is inconvenient to use.

Finding Innovation

I decided to tackle this problem of inconvenience through sketch iteration, by finding ways to introduce ice cream machines in an unobtrusive way.

One solution stood out against the others.

What if an ice cream machine wasn't an ice cream machine until you wanted it to be?

A Different Approach

The idea of a cooler that doubled as an ice cream machine stood out as a unique opportunity, and it was one that I pursued further through a full size, physical sketch model.

The final prototype was a full-scale non-functional model, able to fit three drinks for use as a personal cooler.

The machine comes with two caps, one with a motor and one without, and they can be interchanged very easily. 

The Cream Cooler keeps itself in use more often than a traditional ice-cream machine, leading to higher frequencies of use.

The final forms hint at those of a traditional ice cream tub while maintaining sleek and simplified modern materials. The Rubber base prevents slippage, and the thick insulated body provides a cool interior.