Mark Taylor at the MD at
HOTCAN asked us to look at
making it easier to use and
operate their self heating can.
Their system works by simply
adding water to baked limestone
granules, an operation done by
piecing a water pouch with a
sharp metal rod.
Historically HOTCAN focused on
the outdoor, and survival markets,
such as the armed forces, rescue
services and outdoor activities
such as fishing.
The redesign specifically looked
at improving the user experience
and making the the operation
more intuitive and less scary, to
be suitable for a wider variety of
customers in different sectors.
Keeping the basic chemical
reaction, and adopting standard
Can dimensions we undertook a
rigorous user testing program.
Following ergonomic tests we
discovered that users found the
“twisting” operation most
intuitive, and that they disliked
eating out of the can itself, so we
integrated a cup and spoon into
the packaging.
Our redesign features a hidden
mechanism which activates the
heat by a simple twist and has
several safety features to keep
users safe.
The Just-Twist system underwent
constant testing, using many forms
of prototypes. The user experience
remained the key driving factor
throughout the design process,
ensuring the final design was fun
and easy to use..
If you have a development in mind
… give us a call and we’d be happy
to chat about how we might help.
Self heating meal
HOTCAN
