HAUS- Hydro Adaptive Utility Shelter

HAUS
How to Haus- Instruction Manual
Unfolded HAUS
Bluetooth Speaker
Control Panel
Torch
HAUS- App Interface 1
HAUS- App Interface 2
HAUS- App Interface 3
HAUS- App Icon
Background Research
Materials Research

The idea for HAUS was inspired by increasing the increasing of extreme weather events, particularly flood and the need for accessible, modular emergency solutions that can integrate into everyday life and have another purpose that is not solely for safety. We also wanted to have another use for it so it is easy to find in emergencies, especially for children.

Our main inspiration came from multifunctional design principles, particularly furniture that transforms into safety kits. We are inspired but biodegradable materials and the need for sustainable emergency equipment that does not contribute to landfill waste once its function has been fulfilled.

What it does

Speaker and Ottoman by day and in an emergency turns into a lifesaving device- equipped with life jackets and medical kit and like your house, can store all your valuables. The design also comes with an app which can connect to the speaker via Bluetooth. The app calls emergency services, gives information on what to do in a flood and sends a message so emergency contacts (you can set up on the app). The lid doubles as a blanket for warmth after the flood too.

How we built it

We produced a CAD model and produced posters of the website and research.

Challenges we ran into

Ensuring a collapsible and secure structure. We found it difficult designing a system a system that can collapse compactly but also open smoothly and lock in place. We mimicked a flower opening and held it in place with a lid.

Ensuring easy replacements for components and ensure they are sustainable, durable and affordable especially if they will be replaced, ensuring that if a component breaks it have a negative environmental impact. We wanted a system where parts can be easily swapped without requiring full replacement. So we implemented a clip and realised mechanism for the dry bags and modular attachment points for the life jacket and flashlight.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

How well in worked we worked in a team and bounced ideas off each other really well.

We made a product that is feasible, we spent a long time conceptualising our design so we had a sturdy design.

How much we were able to do in the given time frame and come up with a unique concept also thinking about the long term impact of our design.

What's next for HAUS- Hydro Adaptive Utility Shelter

Design for customisation, if house holds are larger they are choose how many life jackets or compartments they want. Could also have a similar one but for other hazards like a fire.