Ropo: The Self-Balancing Dustpan and Broom

A Modern Twist on Cleaning Tools

Ropo stands out from traditional dustpans and brooms with its innovative design and clever engineering. The secret lies in the small water tank located in the bottom compartment of the dustpan. This tank adds just enough weight to the base of Ropo to keep it balanced naturally, ensuring it always remains upright.

Using Ropo is a breeze. The straight lip of the dustpan allows for easy and efficient sweeping, while the self-balancing feature adds a touch of fun to the cleaning process. Once the dust is collected, users can simply snap the broom and the dustpan together, creating a single unit that can be stored without the worry of it ever falling down.

The modern organic form of Ropo adds a touch of simplicity and elegance to any interior space. Its sleek design and rocking weeble wobble feature make it not only a practical cleaning tool but also an entertaining addition to the household chores.

When it comes to the production of Ropo, the dustpan part can be manufactured using rotational molding, while the water tank at the bottom can be capped using ultrasonic welding. The broom, on the other hand, can be produced using injection molding, with the bristles made through plastic extrusion. ABS plastic is the material of choice for the dustpan and broom, while the bristles are made of PP.

Measuring at 400 mm x 470 mm x 1050 mm, Ropo is designed to be compact yet functional, fitting seamlessly into any storage space. Its unique features and practicality make it a standout choice for those looking to simplify their cleaning routine.

The Ropo project started in December 2010 in Ankara and was completed in September 2011. Throughout the design process, Berk Ilhan conducted extensive research on the storage and usage of dustpans and brooms. Observing how people tend to lean them against walls or behind doors, Ilhan aimed to create a design that addressed the challenges of storage and stability.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was finding the optimal weight distribution for Ropo. The self-balancing feature required the bottom of the tool to be heavier than the top. Through numerous mock-up trials, Ilhan was able to fine-tune the weight distribution, ensuring the perfect balance and mobility of Ropo.

The innovative design of Ropo has been recognized and awarded the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in 2013. This award is a testament to the creativity, expertise, and innovation demonstrated by Berk Ilhan in creating a design that combines functionality and entertainment in a single cleaning tool.