The biggest challenge of this project was to brainstorm how a gym step-up box could be redesigned and look different from other options in the market. The client made clear that he wanted the final product to have bright colours and his logo - that was previously designed - to be placed in a strategic spot.
I started this project by collecting images of different step-up boxes and analyzing their pros and cons. Based on my research and the reviews available online, I realized that most people had been complaining about how step-up boxes are difficult to store in their homes due to their size, and how most products would slide on laminate flooring. Upon collecting the most required features by frequent users and professionals, I started to ideate some creative solutions.
The solution was to create a fully foldable and sturdy step-up box. The design was inspired by popular step-up boxes available in the market as the client and I didn't want the user to feel unfamiliar with the product. The final design would have adjustable height for alternate workouts and non-slip feet to prevent accidents. In addition, the client would propose to his company a lightweight but strong material that could support up to 500 lbs. The top surface was supposed to be manufactured of high-density rubber to provide stability and balance to the user.
Autodesk Maya 2020 was used to model the product. I started by 3D modeling the top surface and UV mapping it with the colour chosen by the client and logo. Next, the structure and adjustable knobs were created and put into place to portray how the product could be used by its users. Once the final product was designed, I created a simple scene with walls and laminate flooring to place the object in, the idea was to show off how the step-up box could be used in different settings, even on slippery surfaces.