
Ayla is a modular & transformable leather bag system
incorporating detachable hardware, replaceable
leather panels, & pre-planned patterns to allow
the product to last multiple life cycles.


TRANSFORMABLE - DETACH, UNFOLD, CUT OUT, DONE

PIN SYSTEM - ATTACH, FASTEN, SCREW, DONE
The detachable hardware facilitates ease of repair.
Instead of replacing the entire product, simply
replace the damaged panel.
Alternatively, transform the damaged panel into
a new item using the pre-planned patterns.

ALL THAT FITS

MAGNETIC FLAP CLOSURE FOR SECURITY

With enough room for everyday essentials, Ayla
allows for a beautiful everyday product with
an environmentally friendly end-of-life
The detachable hardware facilitates less wastage
through easy repair or repurpose.






Process


Research included databases, articles, & an analysis on existing strategies to reduce waste.
These informed the criteria & parameters for the final hinge mechanism.
Moodboards, Surveys, & User Interviews informed the desired look of the final product.


Industry Advisors contributed advice and recommendations for further research.
Ultimately, takeaways, seen on the right, mapped out the final direction of the project.


3 design criteria were established: ease of repair, distinct nature, and cost effective construction
A mood board representing the target audience was created to better inform final look.


Three ideas were explored for facilitating repair: easy fastening, applique, & preset patterns.
Easy fastening was chosen as the idea to further explore as it kept the material in the most usable form.


Easy fastening combined the idea of a traditional frame with the ability to disassemble and reassemble as seen in the Coachtopia re-lacable tote.
Many attempts were made to perfect the hardware and bag shape. Each iteration of hinge was made using PLA 3D printed components. Process can be seen below.


PROCESS VIDEO
