The Rx Slim is a project that originates from a class focused on innovation and entrepreneurship taught by Stephen Chininis at the Georgia Tech College of Design, where students work to design and manufacture 10 products for sale.
I initially struggled with the open nature of the project, but found focus through a personal connection- my younger sister, who at the time was managing her epilepsy symptoms through numerous medications. I began to wonder how I might be able to help her find a sense of normalcy through a product that might spark more joy.
After racking my brain for ideas for hours, I decided to take a break and do what any older sister might do- go bother your younger sister. She was counting out her pills for the week when I hopped onto her bed, and the subsequent conversation sparked an idea that made me think more about designing with a specific audience in mind.
I hopped back to the drawing board, but I wasn't really happy with what I came up with. While the designs were fun, they didn't consider the user much, if at all.
I interviewed my sister and mapped out a couple key points that were most relevant to her and others voicing their opinions online- what mattered most in a product like this? What bothered people most? How could I help them feel more empowered and joyful about an everyday chore?
First prototype made from chipboard- exploring a sleeker form than conventional pill organizers
A more fleshed out prototype that addressed issues with the chipboard prototype's design, as well as a first stab at branding.
I eventually pivoted from this look due to the manufacturing constraints, as I only had access to so many manufacturing methods at Tech, and 3D printers weren't as readily available as they are now. If this product truly came to market, it would likely be in this plastic format.
To manufacture 10 copies of the same product, I turned to campus resources- the CNC machine in the shop, and the waterjet in the Invention Studio. I also developed a different line of branding, leaning into the "rex" / rx homonym.
It was a mad dash to get each product completed in time for the market, especially when considering all my other classes.
I created a few promotional marketing posters to help explain the product and its purpose.
Bill of materials & labor
I was awarded 1st place by event sponsor Orange Sparkle Ball amongst my peers, for demonstrating innovation, manufacturing, and marketability.