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DEN LAMP


DESCRIPTION

Den Lamp is an experimental project where I explore the interaction between biomaterials and light, discovering how these materials can emit different colors. 

TOOLS

• Adobe Illustrator, Lightroom 
• Industrial Sewing Machine, Pattern Making, Rapid Prototyping, Product Photography

TIMELINE

NOV 2024 - DEC 2024

CREDITS

• Model: Hanbyul Lee
• Photo Setup: Sanghyuk Seo







   







BACKGROUND

CONCEPT


How do biomaterials respond to light? How can I design a user-interactive night light featuring bold geometric shapes and the use of biomaterials as a vibrant color cover?

Through these questions, I aim to demonstrate how biomaterials could not only be a sustainable alternative for creating lamps but also showcase the aesthetic potential between biomaterials and light.  



OVERVIEW

PROCESS



CONCEPT SKETCH + SKETCH MODELS
MEDIUM + HIGH FIDELITY MODELS
CAD 
BIOMATERIALS EXPLORATION
TOUCH FUNCTION



STEP 1

CONCEPT SKETCH


I conceptualized three distinct ideas, each centering around a unique user interaction with the lamp:
1. Magnetic Lamp Cover (Push)
2. Adjustable Point Light (Pull)
3. Rotate Light (Twist)


STEP 1

SKETCH MODELS


I started rapid prototyping with various materials to determine the best form and function for a night light. This process led me to develop a removable lamp shade concept in the final version.



STEP 2

MEDIUM FIDELITY


Expanding on the initial concept, I considered user preferences for orientation. Based on feedback, wall placement emerged as a popular choice, offering flexibility beyond the bedroom. This option caters to users without bedside tables, providing a convenient alternative for a wide range of people.



STEP 2

HIGH FIDELITY


Exploring the wall concept, I focused on achieving pleasing ambient illumination. For user guidance, I designed an intuitively attachable and detachable cover with indented handles. Cork, selected for its sustainability and gentle feel, complements the biomaterial cover, presenting a sturdy alternative to wood.

I used a touch sensor that features three light levels (dim to bright), and connected the corresponding wires to an incandescent lamp.

During this time, I created the molds from scrap wood for vacuum forming. Each biomaterial exploration had unexpected results, which was different from my conventional product design approach. By having this unpredictability, the biomaterials took control over its own creation, resulting in unique textures and colors.



STEP 3

CAD


After prototyping, I began modeling the dimension of the lamp to house the inner components of the light. The exploded view shows all the components needed to assemble the lamp together.



STEP 4

BIOMATERIALS EXPLORATION


The collection features six biomaterial covers that all radiate a variety of colors with just a simple touch.

From avocado pits to dish soap water, I was intrigued with how each biomaterial reacted to light. Each biomaterial cover emitted a spectrum of colors, ranging from vibrant red and green to a warm yellow.

Here are the listed biomaterial ingredients that were used to create different lamp shades:
            1. Spirulina Powder Bioplastic
            2. Spirulina Powder Paper Pulp
            3. Avocado Pit Bioplastic
            4. Muslin w/ Gelatine
            5. Egg shell Bioplastic
            6. Dish Soap Bioplastic



STEP 5

TOUCH FUNCTION


Touch was a key component in this night light's development, ensuring easy light adjustment for user comfort at night.

Touch points are positioned on the top, sides, and bottom to offer users different interaction options.