Question

Below is an image of a Pressure Cooker commonly used in Indian households. 

Identify five unique problems from the point of view of the users.

Write these unique problems briefly in the space provided. 
Briefly justify each of these problems in the space provided. % Space for justification 
Illustrate a solution for each of the identified problems with a sketch in the space provided. es and solutions 
 

Hint:

When designing or using a pressure cooker, focus on solving real user pain points like cleanability, safety, usability, and maintenance. Prevent food buildup with smart gasket design, reduce burn risk with insulated handles, tether small parts like the whistle to avoid loss, use clear visual indicators for proper sealing, and incorporate lid-edge channels or drip guards to catch condensation. Small design tweaks can drastically improve hygiene, safety, and user confidence.

Answer 1

Five Unique User Problems with a Pressure Cooker
Difficulty Cleaning the Rubber Gasket Groove Problem: The deep, narrow groove holding the rubber gasket in the lid traps food particles and cooking residue, making thorough cleaning nearly impossible with standard sponges or brushes.
Justification: This groove becomes unhygienic over time and can lead to foul odors or bacterial growth if not cleaned properly.
Solution: Design the rubber gasket with a flexible, integrated lip that extends to cover the groove entirely when in place, preventing food from entering the channel.

Heat Transfer to the Handle
Problem: The handle becomes uncomfortably or dangerously hot during prolonged cooking as heat conducts through metal brackets to the handle material.
Justification: This poses a burn risk and discomfort, reducing safety and usability.
Solution: Redesign the handle as a vented handle with heat-break fins by incorporating internal air gaps and insulating polymer or ceramic fins at the metal-to-plastic junction to reduce conductive heat transfer.
Misplacement of the Whistle/Vent Weight Problem: The small whistle or vent weight is easily lost during cleaning, rendering the cooker unusable until replaced.
Justification: Losing this component interrupts cooking and forces users to buy replacements.
Solution: Attach the whistle to the lid with a short, heat-resistant steel cable or chain to keep it tethered and prevent loss.
Lack of Blind Sealing Indication Problem: There is no clear visual confirmation that the lid is perfectly aligned and sealed before twisting, leading to pressure leaks and steam loss.
Justification: Improper sealing wastes energy and prolongs cooking time.
Solution: Implement alignment lock indicators such as colored arrows on the lid and pot body, and a green 'check' window visible only when the lid is properly sealed.
Condensation Drips from the Lid upon Removal Problem: Hot condensation drips from the lid when it is lifted, creating messes and burn hazards.
Justification: Dripping water can cause slips or burns and makes cleanup harder.