Aisle AssistThe Grocery Store Step Stool
A portable step stool that makes every shelf reachable.
Created By: Isabel Traywick and Kissimmee Thomas
Protective barrier: Raised side rails support and guard shoppers as they climb.
Interlocking joinery: Plywood pieces slot together without hardware, so it assembles and comes apart in seconds.
Portable and compact: Breaks down flat to carry in a cart or basket through the store.
The Process
Ideation
Designing a step stool that is safe for every age, breaks down easily, and travels compactly.
1:4 Scale Sketch Models
Kept the overall chosen design consistent while testing joinery options and step heights.
Fusion Modeling
The twist joint proved sturdy and evoked a shopping-cart wheel, while the flared horizontal pieces added visual interest.
Cut from One Sheet: CNC-cut plywood pieces, the constraint was that they must be sized to fit a single 2×4 ft sheet.
