Journey analysis
The research mapped collection times, transport tools, storage environments, consumption priorities, and health risks.
CASE STUDY / 032024
Bluepath
Water transport and filtration for low-resource settings
01 / Overview
A two-part product system designed around the water journeys of women and children in the DRC: a rolling transporter that filters while moving, and a compact unit for rainwater collection or bottle-connected filtration.
02 / Challenge
The problem had to be experienced, not only seen.
Water collection can require long travel, heavy loads, unsafe storage, and consumption without treatment. The design needed to work without electricity and make use of locally plausible resources.
03 / Process
Local material hypothesis
Seaweed-derived alginate and copper resources informed experiments with a semi-permeable filtration membrane.
Two usage modes
A rolling form reduces carrying burden, while a compact form supports rain collection and connection to commonly available bottles.
04 / Outcomes
05 / Full project presentation
Selected portfolio spreads showing the research, design process, and final outcome.
06 / Reflection
The project combines product ergonomics with material investigation. Any real-world deployment would require certified water-safety testing, local partnership, and participatory field validation.