Innovative Furniture Design by IIT Guwahati
Addressing Space Constraints in Urban Homes
A research team led by Prof Supradip Das from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has developed a unique furniture design to tackle the challenges of small living spaces. This innovative piece can transform into eight different configurations, making it ideal for compact homes.
Design and Functionality
The furniture, created using a ‘Prototype-Driven Innovation’ approach, consists of two side panels, cylindrical bars, and round-headed bolts. It can be adjusted to serve as a chair, table, or storage unit, providing flexibility for users.
Patent and Market Potential
The team has secured a patent for this design, which is expected to be affordable and accessible to various income levels. The furniture is flat-packed, allowing users to assemble it themselves, enhancing user satisfaction.
Survey Insights and Market Need
According to the National Sample Survey Organization, a significant percentage of urban and rural homes are small, increasing the demand for versatile furniture. IIT Guwahati’s design offers a practical solution for these spaces.
Cost and Material Options
While the prototype costs around Rs. 35,000, mass production is expected to reduce costs. The design is flexible in material choice, from affordable particle boards to premium acrylic and toughened glass.
Conclusion
This multifunctional furniture is set to revolutionize living in compact spaces, combining practicality with style.
Doubts Revealed
IIT Guwahati -: IIT Guwahati is one of the top engineering colleges in India, located in the city of Guwahati in the state of Assam. It is known for its advanced research and innovative projects.
Prof Supradip Das -: Prof Supradip Das is a professor at IIT Guwahati who leads research and projects in design and innovation. He is involved in creating new and useful products like the space-saving furniture.
Patent -: A patent is a special right given by the government to inventors, allowing them to make, use, and sell their invention for a certain number of years. It helps protect their ideas from being copied by others.
Space-saving furniture -: Space-saving furniture is designed to take up less room and can be used in different ways to fit into small spaces. This is especially useful in cities where homes are often smaller.
Urban areas -: Urban areas are places where there are lots of buildings, roads, and people, like cities and towns. In India, cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are examples of urban areas.
