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THE SITUATION.
KEY DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES.
Most everyday products are designed to be replaced completely, not repaired.
This project explores an alternative approach - rethinking a common kitchen tool as a product that can be maintained, upgraded and kept in use over time.
The aim was to design a can opener that challenges typical consumption patterns by introducing a modular, repairable structure without compromising usability or performance.
Conventional kitchen tools are often designed for low-cost mass production, where:
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Components are difficult or impossible to disassemble.
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Worn parts cannot be replaced.
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Products are discarded rather than maintained.
In tools like can openers, key failure points such as gears and cutting wheels are subject to wear over time, often leading to full product replacement rather than repair/localised replacement.
The challenge was to rethink this typology by balancing:
01. Repairability and modularity.
02. Ease of use and ergonomics.
03. Manufacturing simplicity.
04. Product longevity and durability.
While ensuring the product still feels intuitive and familiar to use.
OUTCOMES.
The project resulted in a refined product concept that rethinks how everyday tools can be owned and maintained.
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Modular can opener concept designed for repair and replacement.
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Clear product architecture supporting disassembly and part replacement.
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Improved product longevity through targeted component design.
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Reduced reliance on full product replacement.
The result is a product that encourages a longer-term relationship between user and object.
*Registered design (2022)
DESIGN FOR REPAIR & LONGEVITY.
The final concept centres around a modular construction that allows the product to evolve over time rather than be discarded.
Key considerations included:
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Replaceable worn components - parts most likely to degrade can be removed and replaced individually, extending the overall product lifespan.
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Simplified assembly - the product is structured to allow disassembly, avoiding permanent joins where possible.
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Material separation - components are designed to be easily separated, supporting end-of-life recycling.
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Durable core structure - the main body is designed to last, while smaller components can be maintained or upgraded.
Designing for repair not only extends product life, but also reduces waste and resource consumption over time.
OUR APPROACH.
Rather than treating repairability as an add-on, it was considered as a core design principle from the outset.
Development focused on:
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Breaking the product into logical, replaceable components.
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Simplifying the overall architecture to reduce unnecessary complexity.
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Designing connections that allow for disassembly without specialised tools.
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Maintaining a clear and intuitive user interaction.
The design was intentionally stripped back - removing unnecessary features and focusing on essential function and clarity first.
Redesigning a Consumer Product for Longevity and Repairability.
Rethinking everyday products through repairability, longevity and modular design.
Client: Abtin Valerie | 2022
Our Role: Abtin Valerie Exploration Project - Consumer Product Engineering
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Abtin Valerie Ltd. | UK Company No: 15488879
© 2026 Abtin Valerie
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