Exploring some ideas for flexible elements. This one was produced with three modules, bound together with dowel and rubber.
This week we are working on structures that combine materials and component parts. Each should be assembled without tools or adhesives.
The Designers Open event showcased a variety of companies and schools working in the former Eastern states. Leipzig's convention center is a great place to spend a cold but sunny afternoon.
http://www.designersopen.com
The current designs are for a much larger light fixture. They are much more complex than the others and employ CAD functions (duplicate / array) to create shapes that we otherwise could not imagine (or even draw).
These examples are made from three overlapping shapes. This allows one object to connect to plug into the other.
We want to be able to re-purpose existing materials with minimal processing. Therefore the next step in developing 'fastenings" that hold profiles cut down from discarded lumber. The goal is to combine materials with very few tools. The fastenings are all made with up-cycled materials and made locally. These are laser cut at the FabLab.
We now wanted to develop a brief to guide our design work this year. The Social Impact application was a great way to get our ideas down on paper and develop a "pitch" to explain why, we think, our design fit this category. The initiative offers support on launching socially responsible companies. You can find more info at:
http://socialimpactstart.eu
