OpBoost

‘OpBoost’ was a concept developed to meet a project brief to design a device for the consumption of a food or beverage that utilizes 3D-printing in its construction. A near-future hypothetical was devised in which military personnel on operations are issued with a highly-concentrated energy supplement in the form of a fluid to be consumed in small doses. Inspired by classic military-issue hip flasks and canteens, OpBoost is a simple and durable dispenser for this supplement that is designed to be as low-profile and ergonomic as possible. The unobtrusive, hip-hugging form with its minimal protrusions is firmly kept close to the body, while a one-piece hook allows it to be swiftly attached to and removed from webbing and clothing. Also integrated is a dosage reservoir that dispenses the fluid in measured amounts when the flask is momentarily inverted and then righted again. A non-functional 1:1 scale prototype was 3D-printed in separate parts and assembled to validate the proof-of-concept.

{2014, Victoria University of Wellington]