ICE SCRAPER REDESIGN
PROJECT OVERVIEW
A redesign of an ice scraper for a car windshield that promotes an ergonomic hand position to increase effectiveness when operating. Aimed to help people with limited strength and mobility, this redesigned ice scraper targets the universal design principles of equitable use and low physical effort.
TIMELNE
4 Weeks
September – October 2025
TOOLS
Rhino 3D
Foam Prototyping
Product Hacking
Research
PAIN POINT ANALYSIS
No place to put thumb when scraping. Causes loss of leverage when using force to scrape thicker ice.
Handle does not accommodate users with smaller hands and the flat handle is uncomfortable.
When scraping thicker ice it is difficult to use two hands since there is nowhere to brace the second hand.
UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES
Equitable Use: Harder for users with limited strength or limited range of motion.
Flexibility in Use: The product is not specifically made for right or left-handed people.
Simple and Intuitive: Relatively intuitive to use because of the simple function and clear distinction between handle and scraper.
Perceptible Information: Form language is consistent with tools of a similar use case.
Tolerance for Error: Could possibly scratch the windshield with improper technique.
Low Physical Effort: Requires significant effort to scrape ice and is often repetitive due to the large surface area of a windshield.
Size and Space for Approach and Use: Smaller hand sizes may find it difficult to fully grip. However, it is small enough for easy storage.
MOOD BOARD + CMF
Ideation
PRODUCT HACKS
Triangle Grip
+ Compelling form
- Angle of grip isn’t comfortable
- Doesn’t fully accommodate larger hands
Rounded End Grip
+ Compelling form
- Angle of grip isn’t comfortable
- Doesn’t fully accommodate larger hands
Long End Grip
+ Compelling form
- Angle of grip isn’t comfortable
- Doesn’t fully accommodate larger hands
CONCEPT SKETCHES
FORM STUDIES
Downward Angle Grip
+ Compelling form
- Angle of grip isn’t comfortable
- Doesn’t fully accommodate larger hands
Curved Grip
+ Very comfortable to hold and use
+ Accommodates various hand sizes
- Not enough space for pinky
- Form is not as interesting
FINAL DESIGN
