Speculative Thinking / Product Design

Vapour Vault

Services

Speculative Thinking / Product Design

Vapour Vault is a speculative drone-based design concept that combats global water scarcity using atmospheric water harvesting.

/ THe problem

Our research highlighted the urgent need for scalable, climate-resilient water solutions. Existing methods like rain harvesting and cloud seeding are unreliable due to weather dependency. Many regions face poor infrastructure, limited access, and rising water stress. By 2025, half the world may face water scarcity, demanding alternative, sustainable, and accessible technologies that go beyond conventional limitations.

/ The Challenge

We adopted a waterfall design process combining environmental research, speculative design, and future scenario planning. By identifying 2038 as the year of intervention, we crafted targeted briefs addressing carbon emissions and water shortages. Through SWOT analysis, concept testing, and business model exploration, we finalized a scalable solution—merging technology, sustainability, and speculative innovation for effective atmospheric water harvesting.

/ The solution

We designed the Vapour Vault Drone—an autonomous system that captures water from humid air using electrostatic field technology. Equipped with GPS, weather prediction, and a 500-gallon storage tank, the drone harvests and delivers water to drought-prone or flood-affected regions. Its storm-resistant build, smart flight patterns, and multi-purpose use support agriculture, disaster response, and clean water access, offering a scalable, sustainable solution to global water scarcity.