Spoonbill

how could we mimic a vortex creating bill to stir more efficiently?

Spring 2019

Spoonbill is a stirring spoon that mimics the hydrofoil shape of a Spoonbill (a large wading bird) to create small vortices that disperse spices stuck at the bottom of a pot more efficiently throughout what is being cooked.

Biomimicry

The Spoonbill uses its characteristic bill to sift through shallow water, dispersing and eating prey in this manner. The bill’s specific shape and motion creates small vortices along the bill’s edge that persist long enough to pull debris, and thus small critters, up from the mud just below the surface of the water. This makes it easy for the Spoonbill to eat prey both in the water and on the muddy bottom due to its efficient and lasting agitation caused by the vortices. My stirring spoon, also called the Spoonbill, directly mimics this vortex creating shape but adapts it for more efficient stirring and spice infusion. This unique shape will help mix soups and other meals more effectively with less effort while using its spice holding function to infuse bulky spices that would need to be removed before serving. Opening the “bill” transforms the stirring spoon into a serving spoon, with the top of the “bill” also able to fully detach for expanded cooking, serving, and/or cleaning purposes.

Multi Functional

Spoonbill saves space and time by incorporating multiple tools into one without compromising performance. Use it in stirring/infusing mode for the best cooking experience possible. Ready to change your spices, or serve your meal? Simply slide the co… — Spoonbill saves space and time by incorporating multiple tools into one without compromising performance. Use it in stirring/infusing mode for the best cooking experience possible. Ready to change your spices, or serve your meal? Simply slide the cover back. No need to stir or infuse? Push the cover over the lip of the bottom spoon and pull- now you have a small cooking set for most other needs.

Materials

Mesquite

Mesquite is as beautiful as it is functional. Mesquite is an incredibly stable wood that resists any noticeable shrinkage and expansion from moisture. This is perfect for a cooking utensil that uses fine fitting and mechanical elements. It is also dense and takes well to fine carving, allowing for elevated details and durability of those details over time.

Recycled PET

One of the few common plastics that are FDA approved food safe in their recycled form. Why not use wood for the entire design? Using recycled PET for the handle has structural benefits over wood, as wood does not work well as a tube. Using a distinct material also gives the user a clear area to grip and interact with the Spoonbill.

performance comparison

With a single stir, the Spoonbill mixes its contents more thoroughly and creates a longer lasting agitated state. Stir with less force to infuse the same amount of flavor.