To determine the best abstraction level of the problem to solve for my project I used the 5 Why's methodology. Starting with my initial gap statement I asked a series of why's to abstract away and create new problem statements. I also asked a series of How's to create a further hierarchical list from most broad to most specific.

In what ways might I:

    Improve mental alertness in the morning

    Gain a caffeine boost before starting the work day

    Have more time to drink coffee on busy mornings

    *Enjoy fresh, hot beverages on the go

     Create a more effective travel mug

     Use better thermally insulating materials and spill proof seals.

In this case my original statement is about the right level of abstraction without being too narrow such as to limit the scope of the design options. Moving further in either direction leads into chemical and material science fields which I do not have the expertise to solve the problem within. However I do think that a minor modification is required tot eh problem statement to include the possibility of cold beverages:

'How might I enjoy fresh, hot or cold beverages on the go'