My name is Wei-Hwa Paredes. Throughout my years studying industrial design, I’ve discovered my purpose and what it truly means to be a designer — to create solutions and interventions that benefit both humanity and our planet.
Design is about bridging technology and humanity, hence the creation of Bio-Pag. A device that simplifies the making of bio-composite materials to provide new opportunities for people and close the gap in circular design.
Introduction
Bio-Pag is an appliance aimed to ease the making process of bio-composite materials. It is developed for easy production and uses recycled electronic components, which not only help reduce e-waste but also keep manufacturing costs low.
Research
This project was developed as a response to the ongoing issue of food insecurity in my home country, the Philippines. My research drew from primary sources such as official records, media interviews, documentary footage, and personal experiences, complemented by secondary sources including articles, journals, and academic readings.
Design thinking
With each new insight I gained, I took a step back to retrace and explore it fully before moving forward. The use of mapping allowed me to see the bigger picture — helping me break down complex findings into recurring and overlapping patterns that revealed new connections and opportunities. This reflective approach embodies Kees Dorst’s idea of Design Beyond Design, where reframing insights becomes key to solving complex, societal problems.
Renders
This breakdown of the appliance highlights its key features, including the custom linkage mechanism designed to achieve linear pressing motion. The renders also communicate the design’s colour, material, and finish (CMF) choices.
Final prototype + In-context
This section showcases the final prototype, highlighting its key functions and refined form. It demonstrates the ergonomics of the appliance and how its mechanical motion operates in relation to the user.
'Story of Bio-Pag' (2025
A short video summarizing the project, providing context to the problem while showcasing the device’s purpose and key features in a visually engaging format.
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
