Object #1: The rain shield
Inspiration: novelty umbrellas/rain gear from Japan, clear raincoats, bubble umbrellas, hiking backpack/umbrella combos
Description:
The rain shield is designed to maximize the user’s protection from rain and wind. It consists of three parts: The umbrella, the shield, and the backpack. All parts are made of clear waterproof plastic. The shield covering the user’s body can detach from the umbrella if needed. The umbrella is also detachable from the backpack so that it can be stored inside when not in use. The sketches depict how the user should store the object. First, detach it from the backpack and turn it inside out so that the rainwater is contained. Wring out excess water if necessary and then seal it using the drawstring located along the bottom of the shield. The user can then fold it and keep it in the backpack for easy storage.
Object #2: The convertible boot
Inspiration: hiking/travel clothes with removable parts, various models of Dr. Martens boots and platform shoes
Description:
Designers have made many innovations when it comes to the versatility of clothing. People can wear pants that become shorts and take the hoods off their hoodies, and that can extend to footwear as well. The convertible shoe has a base model to which the soles and extensions attach and detach by a small zipper. This design allows for customizability by the user. Additionally, one pair of shoes and its extensions are easier to store and more cost effective than owning multiple pairs that are similar but have different heel sizes or boot lengths. It also invites more crafty consumers to create or modify their own soles and attach them to the shoe easily.
Protoypes for object #2: The Convertible Boot
The inspiration for the sewing pattern of the boots came from user Scargeear on DeviantArt. They list the pattern as free for use with credit. I modified the pattern slightly by making the side pieces shorter and altering the shape.
The two materials I used for the main body of the shoe were leather and fabric, which I pieced together with hot glue (my skills and resources for sewing are limited). I used velcro as the method of attachment for these prototypes because I didn't have access to zippers.
the platform sole is made from foam and fabric and the standard height sole came from an existing shoe (rubber/found object).
To attach the shoe to the sole, simply press the velcro together.
Mix and match different shoe and sole styles:
Revised Sketches
I didn't have enough resources to create prototypes for the length extensions of the boots (ankle/mid-calf/knee), but development is included in the sketches.
