Brainstorming the idea

The idea for TippiStop started from a brainstorming session where we explored different unnecessary inventions. The goal was to come up with creative, sometimes humorous solutions to problems that aren’t critical but still annoying. In our earlier chat, we discussed several ideas, including "Ear Umbrellas for Sunglasses" to protect ears from sunburn, but the one that stood out was solving the issue of mugs tipping over. We realized this was a common but minor annoyance—spilling coffee or tea on important papers or electronics. After refining the idea, we landed on the concept of TippiStop, a simple and effective solution to keep mugs stable and prevent accidental spills. From there, we moved forward with developing the product.

Identifying the problem

The process of creating TippiStop started with identifying a simple problem: mugs tipping over by mistake. It’s something that can happen almost anywhere—at your desk, in the kitchen, or even when you’re just relaxing on the couch. We realized that spills, although small, could be really annoying and cause unnecessary messes. So, we needed to come up with a practical solution that could stop mugs from tipping over accidentally.

From concept to creation

After brainstorming various ideas, we decided to create TippiStop, a device that attaches to the base of a mug and prevents it from falling over. The goal was to make it functional yet simple, something that anyone could use. We wanted to avoid overly complex designs or features, so we focused on making it easy to apply to any mug and effective at keeping it stable on flat surfaces.

Naming the product

We then came up with several names for the product, such as MugSecure, SteadySip, and NoTipGrip, but eventually chose TippiStop. This name stood out because it was catchy and clearly communicated the idea of stopping tips or falls. It also felt memorable and aligned with the purpose of the invention.

How it works

The core of the design revolves around a non-slip, suction-based bottom. When the mug is placed on TippiStop, the suction grip keeps the mug stable, preventing it from moving or tipping over. However, when the user is ready to take a sip, they can easily lift the mug without any resistance from the device. This combination of stability and ease of use made the product both effective and convenient.

Simple solution, big impact

Finally, we described how TippiStop works in a straightforward way. The suction technology ensures a secure grip, but the mug remains easy to lift for drinking. The idea is to offer a simple solution to an everyday problem, without complicating the process of enjoying a drink. By preventing accidental spills, TippiStop helps protect your workspace, electronics, and clothes from unnecessary messes

Design a book cover

For this assignment, I didn't do anything, because I decided to focus on creating my portfolio website as well as looking for an internship for the upcoming semester. I had a talk with Rens regarding that and I explained him the whole situation regarding this challenge. He was very undarstanding on the situation, but made me realise that maybe I should have worked on this, because I could have still gained some more knowledge if I had given it a try. Also I should have communicated it with the teachers, explaining my intentions and reasoning for not doing the assignment. For the next time if I have to do something similar to that I would definately reconsider doing it, because I realised that everything that has been given to us is important in some way and I shouldn't consider of not trying to work on this assignment and would try to communicate it with the teachers.