Soappy is designed to resemble a toy, capturing children's attention and making the hand washing process more enjoyable. With a screen interface, kids can choose from a variety of sanitizer patterns to be printed on their hands. The patterns are grouped based on the level of dirtiness, with more complex patterns containing a higher amount of hand sanitizer.
The technology behind Soappy includes 3D printing, bacteria detection, and image recognition. When a child places their hands on either side of Soappy, sensors detect the level of dirtiness and generate a corresponding group of patterns. The child can then select their preferred pattern and place their hand under the printing area. The hand sanitizer pattern is printed, providing a visual representation of the cleaning process.
One of the key challenges in designing Soappy was integrating all the complex printing and detecting components into a compact product. Through careful research and testing, the dimensions of Soappy were determined to ensure a comfortable and user-friendly interaction.
Soappy not only encourages regular hand washing but also helps parents in their efforts to instill good hygiene habits in their children. By making the hand washing process playful and interactive, Soappy transforms a mundane task into an engaging activity that kids will look forward to.
The design of Soappy was inspired by the need to create a more appealing environment for kids in bathrooms. Many bathrooms lack attractive colors and materials that would make hand washing more enjoyable. Soappy addresses this issue by providing a visually stimulating and interactive experience.
Recognizing the innovative nature of Soappy, the design was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Baby, Kids, and Children's Products category in 2021. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life.
Soappy is not only a practical solution for promoting good hygiene habits but also a testament to the power of design in making positive changes in our daily lives. With its playful interaction and unique features, Soappy is set to revolutionize the way kids approach hand washing.
Project Designers: Kai Li
Image Credits: Kai Li
Project Team Members: Kai Li
Ran Zhang
Project Name: Soappy
Project Client: Kai Li