Ingot
Ingot is a micro-printer designed to improve the experience of collecting physical photography by making it quick and easily accessible.
Year
2023
Disciplines
Industrial Design
3D Visualization
Animation
Timeline
10 weeks
Ingot grants the user convenient access to physical copies of cherished memories to share and display around their home.
The tap to print functionality allows designers to quickly create physical copies of inspiration and digital work wherever they are located.
Research
99% of users take photos with their phone.
76% of users collect physical photography.
60% of users display physical photography in their home.
Statistics from a survey of 135 participants.
Finding Opportunity
Physical photography allows us to revisit memories without scrolling though endless digital photo albums, creating an analog documentation of important moments and memories to view or share with others.
How can we improve on the process of collecting physical photography?
Ideation immediately centered around a small printer dedicated to physical photography.
Competitive Landscape
Existing micro printers rely on apps over saturated with unnecessary features that slow the interaction process.
Most are also marketed towards mobile use, which doesn’t support long term use.
Design Criteria
Simple
Reducing the details, form, and functionality to only what is necessary.
Static
An aesthetic that has an identity in the home or workspace supports long term use.
High Quality
Improving on the longevity of existing products by using high end materials.
Press down to cut
No app required
With a single tap, Ingot will request to print whatever is currently displayed on screen.
Optional mobility
Ingot is designed to live at the user’s desk or in their home, but the device also has the ability for mobile use.
Easy access to materials
Simply press on the material tray to quickly gain access to the paper roll and ink cartridge.
