Zook: Electric hookah

Industrial Design

THE BRIEF

Reimagining the Electric Hookah for Effortless Enjoyment in the Modern Era

Our journey with Zook began with a clear objective: to transform the e-hookah landscape by addressing the common challenges faced by enthusiasts.
Through extensive research and attentive listening, we identified key pain points: complicated setups of traditional hookahs, their lack of portability and the time-intensive preparation they require.

In today's fast-paced world, where time is of the essence and convenience is paramount, Zook is a groundbreaking electronic hookah experience. While traditional shishas often don't fit the modern lifestyle, Zook stands as a testament to pushing the boundaries. With its simple design and user-friendly features, they ensure that relaxation and enjoyment remain accessible and hassle-free.
Armed with these insights, we set out to engineer a solution that would revolutionize the way hookah is enjoyed. By crafting a product that simplifies the hookah experience while enhancing its enjoyment, we've set a new standard for indulgence.

THE CHALLENGE

Embracing Simplicity: Innovating the Modern Glass Hookah

Zook marks a modern approach by shifting away from outdated coal and fuel-based combustion to electrically heated coils. Its magnetic latching mechanism for assembling the pipe introduces a hassle-free experience, focusing on convenience and overall user experience.

Our approach began with a comprehensive in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape. We scrutinized various e-hookahs to discern the distinguishing features that set them apart, understanding what made them unique and effective. This extensive research encompassed not only the design aspects but also delved into the underlying technology powering these products.
Building upon this foundation we conducted a detailed user study, employing methodologies such as persona creation and scenario analysis to gain deeper insights into user preferences and usage patterns.
We were able to identify three key areas for improvement:
1. Quick and easy setup
2. Instant charging capabilities
3. Enhanced stability to prevent tipping.

The development of our solutions was driven by a focus on user convenience, performance and durability.
In response to the need for instant charging, we explored innovative methods to accelerate smoke production, ensuring a seamless and time-efficient experience for users.
Parallel to our user-centric approach, we conducted a rigorous technical study, dissecting various vape and e-hookah devices to understand the underlying technology and identify opportunities for improvement. This holistic research process served as the cornerstone of Zook's development, enabling us to create a product that not only addresses user needs but also sets a new standard for excellence in the e-hookah market.

IDEATION

Looking at the Silver Lining

Our design vision for Zook began with a trend analysis that explored natural textures and architectural elements. We envisioned a fusion inspired by a skyscraper's "Silver Lining" silhouette soaring above the clouds.

Some design elements it incorporates are prominent silhouettes and concealed rays of light. To solve design and functionality challenges, our approach was rooted in a holistic integration of trend analysis, user research insights and creative ideation. These steps served as the foundation for the concept stories, which not only guided our ideation process but also imbued Zook with a distinct design language that resonates with users on a visual and emotional level.

Based on the insights gathered through extensive user research, we carefully integrated functional features into Zook's design. Each element serves a specific purpose while contributing to the overall user experience, addressing issues like the cumbersome setup process and the desire for instant gratification.

To streamline the user experience, we introduced intuitive features such as the hose, flavor pods, and heat adjustment buttons, empowering users to customize their hookah experience with ease. The incorporation of USB-C technology not only ensures fast and efficient charging but also aligns with modern standards of connectivity, catering to the evolving needs of our tech-savvy audience.

Additionally, we leveraged quirky design elements to infuse Zook with personality and storytelling potential, creating a product that not only satisfies functional requirements but also sparks curiosity and engagement. From the whimsical design of the air inlet pipe to the playful use of LEDs to communicate status, every aspect of Zook is thoughtfully crafted to invite users into a narrative of exploration.
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By blending form and function, innovation and storytelling, our approach to solving key issues in the design of Zook transcends mere utility, transforming the act of electric hookah enjoyment into a multi-sensory experience that delights and captivates users.

THE Essence

Semantics and Familiarity in an Electric Hookah

From the moment users engage with the Zook e-hookah, they are greeted by an intuitive dial interface that responds to various touches. The press-to-on feature easily transitions the device from sleep to active mode, signaled by a calming blue light on the top of the screen. Whether adjusting heat settings with a simple touch or navigating through flavor options with a gentle twist of the dial, every interaction with Zook is intuitive and memorable.

Zook's unparalleled success is not merely a result of its cutting-edge technology or sleek design. We recognized that true innovation lies in the minutiae – those subtle interactions and nuances that may not be immediately apparent but ultimately define the essence of a product. With this philosophy at the forefront of our design process, we designed Zook to offer a myriad of unique selling points that set it apart from competitors.
The heat settings, for example, are communicated through a vibrant color spectrum: orange for gentle warmth and red for intense heat.
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But it is perhaps during the act of puffing that Zook truly shines. With each inhale, the device's light glows more intensely, mimicking the mesmerizing glow of burning coals and immersing users in an authentic hookah experience.
Meanwhile, Zook's intelligent battery management system keeps users informed of their device's status at all times, from indicating low battery levels to signaling successful charging completion.

Zook boasts a range of features designed to enhance convenience and customization, including a puff counter to track usage, a battery health indicator to monitor performance, and a vibrant screen for effortless navigation. The rotating dial interaction adds a tactile and engaging element to the user experience, inviting users to interact with Zook in a more intuitive manner.
Zook also excels in convenience and customization. It features a puff counter to track usage, a battery health indicator to monitor performance, and a vibrant screen for seamless navigation. The rotating dial interaction adds a tactile and engaging element, inviting users to interact with the device in a more hands-on way.
Flavor maintenance, a built-in mechanism to alert users when the flavor is worn out, is another standout feature. Zook ensures that every puff from the electronic hookah is as fresh and flavorful as the first.

the top of the electronic shisha by Zook

Embers, Auras and flavours in a Glass Hookah

With its vibrant LED lights pulsating in response to user interaction, Zook becomes more than just a device – it becomes attuned to the needs and desires of its users. And as users inhale, they are greeted by the warm glow of the device, reminiscent of glowing embers, transporting them to a place of relaxation and bliss.

Zook offers a user experience that transcends mere functionality, embodying a seamless fusion of innovation, elegance, and emotion. The device's sleek design and intuitive interface invite users to embark on a sensory journey unlike any other, where every touch, every puff, evokes a sense of delight and satisfaction. With Zook, Analogy has designed more than just an electronic hookah – it has created an experience that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on the user.

Functional and Precise details

In the initial phase, we crafted an aesthetic visual prototype to scale, aimed at evaluating the ergonomics and component housing. Subsequently, the second phase involved developing a functional prototype to assess mechanics, including knob rotations inspired by watch dials. Gear modifications with synchronized color changes added familiarity and ease of use. Vent details were refined to align with manufacturing specifications.

Over the course of 1.5 years, we embarked on a meticulous design process that included every aspect of the product – from its technological intricacies to its color, material, and finish (CMF) selections.
Bringing the Zook electric hookah to life was a journey marked by dedication, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of perfection.

Beginning with rudimentary prototypes crafted from cardboard and paper, we engaged in a process of continuous exploration and refinement, pushing the boundaries of creativity and functionality with each iteration.

As the design evolved, so too did the complexity of our prototypes. Transitioning from simple mock-ups to sophisticated, life-size models created through 3D printing technologies, we meticulously honed every detail to ensure that Zook not only met but exceeded user expectations.
Each prototype served as a canvas for innovation, providing us with invaluable insights and opportunities for improvement as we navigated the intricate interplay between form and function.

Diaphragm Hookah Purge System in a Portable Format

Inspired by the mechanics of a diaphragm, a distinctive purge system was developed. A ball functions as a barrier, floating as smoke is drawn in. Upon exhalation, the metallic ball settles back into place within the cavity, effectively containing smoke and debris. This innovation enhances both the functionality and cleanliness.

A technical diagram of a hookah purge system inspired by a diaphragm

Zook redefines the hookah flavor, elevating convenience and safety while setting new industry standards

Zook leaves a lasting mark on the landscape of electric hookahs, combining innovation and user-centric design to set new standards. Its impact extends far beyond the individual user, setting new standards of excellence in the e-hookah market.

In the fast-paced modern world, Zook stands as a testament to pushing the boundaries, ensuring relaxation and enjoyment remain accessible and hassle-free.

But did we successfully address all key pain points identified in the beginning?
Zook's stable, anti-slip base addresses traditional hookahs' risk of toppling, while its streamlined assembly and dismantling process, easy cleaning, and low-maintenance design solve further common challenges faced by traditional shisha users, allowing everyone to enjoy Zook with peace of mind.