We created a high functioning prototype of a PR box for Paulaner Sunset with provided materials. We wanted to create an interactive experience to increase sales and brand loyalty for Paulaner Sunset. This case study walks through our design process, market research, idea generation, prototyping and implementation process, and reflection.
Creating a functioning prototype within our design constraints was our main focus. We were constrained with limited experience, time, and knowledge.
Prototyping
Design Thinking
Problem-Solving
Arduino Coding
Collaboration and Communication
Shaken-up bottle box: PR box that on the outside looks like a treasure chest. When the box is opened the treasure is a prototype of the Paulaner Sunset soda drink. The drink will look like it is cut in half so that it lays flat on the chest board and it will have lights that come out of the top of the bottle that look like liquid that sprays out of the bottle when the box is shaken up. When opened the bottle and the liquid will light up.
A Puzzle box: A PR box that is a puzzle to open. The puzzle would be sunset-themed and once the puzzle was solved a button would appear which would light up the case. The soda would be placed inside the box as well.
Aromatic Experience: A PR box that when you open there will be a button to press that will release the scent of the soda. Graphics of the ingredients along with brand elements will be included inside the box.
Sunset feeling: This PR box will have a lot of sunset graphics and lighting elements so that the main feeling is the feeling of a sunset. The lighting will be the most interactive part of this box, it will have a program-based design so that the sunset would slowly fade to be darker.
We decided to move forward with idea 4: sunset feeling. We picked this idea because it aligned well with our design constraints and timeline. Our peers liked the second and third idea the most. They liked how the second sensor idea had a second moment of truth (SMOT) to keep them engaged.
We need to design an interactive PR packaging that promotes the Paulaner Sunset brand and increases sales in the United States, targeting younger consumers ages 16 to 30.
For concept development, we used Tinkercard for simulating the Arduino board and we created a user persona that helped us with our design.
As we began moving to a higher-fidelity prototype, we integrated a weighted sensor. The interactive elements (sound and music) would stop once there was an item placed on the sensor. If the item was removed, the interactions would begin.
Debugging Arduino code
Finding correct weighted-sensor variable
Assembling the bread board
Snippet of our Arduino code:
We learned in this phase that using the weighted sensor is more tricky than we anticipated. We realized we would have to use a full Paulaner Sunset bottle in order to satisfy the weighted sensor requirements. We also adjusted the variable in our code several times until we found the best weight for a bottle.We also learned to better plan out or designs before begin prototyping because we realized we should have spent some more time researching the weighted sensor.
For a higher-resolution prototype, we needed a box to simulate our PR box idea. We decided to create our own box so we could design graphics on it as well. We had some challenges with sizing constraints for the box, so we decided we could achieve the desired effect with a smaller box that could hold one singular bottle. We also printed an insert the size of a standard bottle so we could prototype where the bottle would go and hide the materials.
Our alpha prototype will be made from a stronger material than paper to improve structural integrity. We will also have a better and stronger insert. Finally, we will use an actual Paulaner Sunset bottle (we could not find any for our prototype). Overall, our alpha protype will include all the same components as our current prototype, but will have a stronger structure and a cleaner look.
Below is a 3D simulation of our alpha prototype:
To produce the Beta prototype, we would have to find ways to streamline the manufacturing process. It took us a while to make our prototype, but would would have to make the Beta prototype faster for larger quantities.
For high-volume production, printed electronics will be used for creating the simpler circuits.
For components requiring higher precision or more complex functionality, traditional methods such as surface-mount (SMT) technology will be employed.
We would design outer casing for die-cutting and folding, which are common and cost-effective manufacturing techniques for cardboard. This ensures precise and repeatable proudction.
Snap-fit components and adhesive tabs will be used to reduce the need for screws or other fasteners, which streamlines the manufacturing process and reduces assembly time.
To produce larger quantities we would scale up production using hybrid manufacturing processes and establishing partnerships with experienced electronics manufacturers to handle the hybrid production process efficiently.
Throughout this project, I enhanced my ability to work collaboratively within a team, learning to balance different ideas and perspectives. I also gained practical experience in using Tinkercad and Arduino, which improved my technical skills in digital prototyping and electronics. Most importantly, I learned a lot about Human-Computer Interaction and the Product Development Process. The key takeaways include the importance of flexibility in the design process, the value of integrating new technologies for problem-solving, the importance of ideation and prototyping within product development, and basic knowledge of electronic components.