ReDesigning the Sea Otter Wellness Check Experience.

Team Romp N Roll partnered with Shedd Aquarium to design the OX, a polycarbonate enclosure that enhances wellness checks for sea otters by improving safety, accessibility, and care. Designing for both Shedd staff and the otters posed a unique challenge, as "otters can't tell you how they feel about your design." Through thoughtful research, iterative prototyping, and close collaboration, we developed features like adjustable drop-down doors and a compression mechanism to balance functionality with the well-being of all users. The OX reflects my ability to create user-centered solutions that integrate empathy, innovation, and practicality.

RENDERS!!

Challenge

Safety

The existing method (using nets) posed risks for both the otters and the staff, leaving the team exposed to potential bites and sudden movements, especially when working with untrained or unpredictable otters.

Compatibility

Needed to fit seamlessly within the otters’ enclosure, using transparent, x-ray-compatible walls that don’t interfere with wellness checks like blood draws and injections.

Adaptability

To work effectively with both cooperative, trained otters and untrained or sick otters, allowing flexibility in approach and ensuring quick access for various wellness procedures.

Designing for Ergonomics

Focused on creating a safe, efficient interface between vets and otters with features like a compression door for gentle guidance.
Designed with the otters' comfort in mind, accounting for their natural behaviors and shapes to minimize stress during wellness checks.
Balanced control and freedom, ensuring the compression door provided secure positioning without excessive restriction.

Prototyping & Iteration

Developed early concepts inspired by functional requirements and insights from Shedd staff.
Conducted materials research to identify cost-effective and durable substitutes like polycarbonate.
Iterated designs based on feedback from Shedd visits, improving usability and refining key features like doors and access points.

Ensuring Functionality

Designed an enclosure that integrates all features—compression doors, drop-down access points, and locking mechanisms—into a seamless, reliable system.
Ensured the kennel was intuitive for staff to use and adaptable to the varying needs of otters during procedures.
Selected materials like polycarbonate for their durability, transparency, and water resistance, creating a system that balances safety, usability, and hygiene.

The Process

Secondary Research

Analyzing existing tools to identify design gaps
Reached out to aquariums across the U.S. to learn about their wellness check processes
Prototyping in Action

Shaping polycarbonate and molding materials to ensure durability
Using advanced tools like the water jet cutter and laser-cutter for rapid iteration and exploration of design possibilities.
Building Strong Client Relationships

Facilitated open communication with Shedd staff to gather feedback and align design goals
Served as the primary point of contact, ensuring client insights were reflected in the design process
Feedback and Refinement

Created small-scale mockups and facilitated design reviews to refine functionality
Collected hands-on feedback from diverse professionals, driving usability improvements.