Redesign of a Wet Grinding System

for domestic kitchen applications

To design a new kitchen appliance as a simple and effective
alternative to the existing domestic wet grinders
to grind fermented rice batter, grain pastes and chutneys.
Guided by: Prof. Pankaj Upadhyay
Balaprasanth S In this project, the critical issues present in the existing domestic wet grinders are mainly
addressed through in-depth observations and unstructured discussions with the lead users.
M.Des. An evolutionary study has been done in this product’s market segment to benchmark a
most recent advancement for redesign analysis. The core technical factors and root cause
for problems in the whole functional sytem of the product are identified. Field studies have
+91 9442321909 been carried out in wet grinder association (Coimbatore), motor industry, stone sculpting,
balaprasanth29195@gmail.com street mills and domestic kitchens. All the collected data are analyzed and mapped to
behance.net/balaprasanth_s validate the needs for new design. The various insights gained in different stages of the
research process are translated into features of the new appliance design.

Key Research Insights Moodboard

• Natural grinding stones have ethnic value interms of batter quality and taste preferences.
• Letting the grinded grains out improves the grinding efficiency by reducing grinding time.
• Misalignment of grinding components exponentially reduces the product’s life.
• Capacity of grinding is restricted without any specific time limit for a small quantity of ingredients.
• Grinding sequence for different kinds of batter/paste need to be open to user’s preferences.
• Colloidal milling principle is best suitable for wet grinding.

Concept Development

Usage

Batter maker [Final Design]

Key features

Consistency Power indicator Flow guiding Outlet spout Motor vent Hopper lid Side lifting
control (Slider) (Push Button) groove (Capped) grills with lock Handles

Notable Improvements
• Unrestricted grinding capacity • Increased frequency of use • Ease in transfering/storing batter • Controlled consistency of batter
• Compact grinding unit • Enclosed grinding for safety • Instant batch grinding of batter • Ease in cleaning and handling parts

Design Innovation Centre

Department of Design