Project Nebula: Revolutionizing Food Preservation

Filippo Batavia and Ginevra Della Porta's Innovative Design

Project Nebula stands as a testament to the fusion of scientific aesthetics and functional design. Drawing inspiration from the robust architecture of NextTorr pumps used in particle accelerators, the device's cage-like structure is both a visual and technological marvel. The designers have skillfully employed glass to highlight the core of Nebula, creating a striking contrast with its deep black exterior. This design not only reflects the rational language of laboratory instruments but also serves as a beacon of design-driven innovation within the company.

What sets Nebula apart is its incorporation of a miniaturized Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) system into a consumer-friendly product. This pioneering device utilizes pre-mixed gas capsules to replace the air inside a container with a gas composition that drastically extends the shelf life of food. By venturing into the realm of Industrial Design, SAES has taken a significant step in applying its expertise in laboratory workflows to everyday consumer use, demonstrating the potential of design to influence and enhance scientific application.

The creation of Nebula is a result of SAES's proficiency in getter technologies, gas management, and advanced compostable packaging materials. The device leverages the company's three core competencies to produce a lightweight, energy-efficient, and recyclable solution. The innovative use of microcellular polypropylene molding technique in Nebula's containers exemplifies the commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing material properties.

Measuring 210 mm x 45 mm x 52 m, Nebula's design is not only about aesthetics but also about functionality. It operates with a simple rotational selector switch and a display that provides real-time feedback. The device's ability to replace the internal atmosphere with a preservative gas mixture is a significant advancement in home-level food preservation, offering a practical solution to the global issue of food waste.

The journey of Nebula began in Milan in May 2019 and culminated with its presentation at Cibus 2020 in Parma. The multidisciplinary team behind this project, including Marco Filippo Batavia and Ginevra della Porta, embarked on a comprehensive research and development process. They conducted laboratory tests, market research, and user experience studies to ensure that Nebula not only met technological standards but also addressed a critical societal issue effectively.

Overcoming the challenges of miniaturizing MAP technology was no small feat. The team had to abandon traditional scaling methods in favor of innovative kinematics to achieve the desired results. The breakthrough came with the development of compressed gas capsules and a business model inspired by the coffee pod industry. The design process involved advanced software and scripting to manage complex logistics, reflecting the intricate nature of integrating advanced technology into a user-friendly product.

Nebula's impact extends beyond its innovative design; it is a device that embodies SAES's commitment to reducing food waste and empowering consumers. With an estimated 930 million tons of food wasted in 2019, Nebula offers a technologically advanced solution to a pressing global problem. Recognized with the prestigious Golden A' Design Award, Nebula is not just a product but a movement towards a more sustainable and conscientious future.

Protected by patent 008154751, Nebula's design is a valuable intellectual property of Saes Getters S.p.A. This recognition is a testament to the unique and original nature of the project, ensuring its place as a leader in the field of design and technology.