Annie Yu
My name is Annie Yu, I am an industrial design graduate based in Toronto, Ontario. As a future industrial designer, I aim to create designs that influence and elevate human experiences. I like to seek opportunities to create functional yet creative designs that are meaningful and impactful to users and the environment. I look forward to applying what I learn from my education and my previous experiences to where ever my career may take me, and continue to learn more from others along the way.
The Four Essential Pillars for Design Excellence
The four essential pillars encompass human-centric design approach and the understanding of full-bodied, three dimensional physical interaction of user, product and environment. The projects generate innovative solutions using research-driven, evidence-based designs which focus on the user experience.
Enhancement of Human Lifestyle
Nattiq expedition shelter is designed to provide comfort and protection to the user in harsh Arctic climates.
It enhances the overall expedition experience with a quick shelter setup procedure, duo access storage and multi-functional space. Nattiq's underframe can be easier attached to most snowmobiles, and transport shelter and supplies all in one go. This reduces the amount of physical stress on the user and provides a more pleasant expedition.
Human-Interaction & User-Centric Design
Nattiq's multi-functional design offers many interactive opportunities for the user.
Duo access storage can be accessed internally and externally which prevents users from trekking snow or ice into the cabin space. The cabin offers different zones to provide a sense of separation while staying inside a compacted interior space. Users can The modular bed pads can be rearranged to fit the user's needs and change the function of the space once repositioned to the user's needs.
Ergonomics & Human Factors Design
Nattiq is designed to accommodate various statures of users ranging from the fifth percentile female to the ninetieth percentile male.
The sleeping zone and work zone provide adjustability that can accommodate users without compromising the storage solution within the space.
Sustainability & Social Responsibility
Steel is used in most of the base frames of Nattiq for its sturdiness and durability.
Steel can also be easily recycled and repurposed. Nattiq is insulated using HYBRIS insulation which is polyethylene foams and aluminum sheets. Aluminum is used for the structure of the roof, while the flexible material is made up of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), both of which are lightweight, durable and recyclable. Natural latex is used in the bed pads, it is breathable and biodegradable.
Nattiq-Optimizing Shelter for Arctic Photography Expedition
Project Summary
The Arctic is known to be vastly unexplored due to various challenges connected to climate conditions and its harsh environments. The Arctic Ocean has a very different climate from other regions, which makes it a challenging environment. It is also known as the "ice planet" because of its extremely cold and harsh environment and it is home to a large number of different species. Photo documentation is necessary to keep track of the ongoing climate crisis our planet is facing, however, that also comes with challenges such as unpredictable terrain, periods of 24-hour daylight/darkness, exposure to the elements, and lack of knowledge of the environment and wildlife. Wildlife photographers conducting expeditions in the Arctic often have to travel with Inuit guides as they are unfamiliar with the region and its hazards. These Arctic expeditions last for weeks at a time and often require photographers to transport their equipment to various locations. Photographers would often have to carry photography gear and equipment, along with multiple tents, sleeping bags, generators, tools, food sources and clothing for the duration of their trip or until they can restock on supplies. This could cause injuries due to a large number of supplies and extend the travelling time, thus leading to prolonged exposure to the elements for both the photographers and the guides. This thesis required an in-depth investigation of how wildlife photographers conduct expeditions in the Arctic region, and the challenges they may face when being exposed to the element. The data is collected by conducting observational studies, interviews, and surveys, which are then further analyzed to maximize the positive impact it can have to enhance the user experience. A solution was developed from the data collected and applied to the design development of a cohesive design solution which benefits the overall user experience, ergonomic consideration, optimized protection, comfort, safety and sustainability.
Thesis Summary Motion Presentation
Nattiq is a multi-functional expedition shelter for Arctic wildlife photographers. It provides photographers with quick shelter solutions, protection from the harsh Arctic environment and compact storage for photography and expedition equipment.
Thesis Visual Presentation
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Thesis Development Process
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3D Design Development & Modeling
CAD Modeling Video
The CAD Development for Nattiq was done in Solidworks 2022, built using 300+ sketch features, and 84 solid bodies.
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