CLOUD
OBJECTIVE
Research and develop an unconventional product design that challenges the current perceptions of a monitor
BACKGROUND
This project was under my TPV Technology internship. TPV Technology is a system integrator specializing in computer monitors. As a industrial design, I had no prior design experience, so I used this opportunity to showcase my skills I learned from the internship
DESIGN
SKETCHING
With only three months, there was limited time to do proper user research, so the user audience is based on the surrounding which was designers and creators. Testing user experience was based on discussions using sketches. These rapid sketches slowly evolve ideas into the design. Various cloud shape designs, height distances, angles, and rear cover were explored to create the best form. Most importantly, the rapid sketching phase allows for quick prototyping and ideating for discussion with senior designers.
3D MODELING
After the sketches are finalized, the sketch can be transformed into a 3D model in CREO / Pro-E. Constant prototyping and iterative designing continue as the design concepts transform into a 3D space. This added challenges for how the 27 monitors will stand using only one cable. The cable runs down and follows a path of a footprint that was calculated to stand the weight of a 27-inch monitor. The trajectory is modified so that it follows along with the original design language determined in the sketches. Two stands that hold the cloud hides the interior components for the LCD panel, so all the wiring is done through the two stands
In order to maintain the flow of a designer, the main function is the switching between two modes: creativity and work. The creative mode is at a higher height allowing more creativity and space underneath the monitor for designers to work in. The work mode is at a normal monitor height for regular routine work. The switching allows adaptability and a change in the environment to help creators avoid fixation and creative blocks.
Using Cinema 4D, the rendering of the product was created to introduce the product and enhance its colors. Raspberry blue highlights the clear blue sky, and the bubble gum is from the pink clouds during a sunrise. With these renderings, an animation was produced to highlight the different modes and height adjustments.
RENDERINGS
MOCKUP
The mock-up was manufactured locally in Taiwan. The cloud was created with a special paint that embedded pearl-colored powder. Determining the colors of the triangle stands was important because it needed to convey the light and comfort feeling of being on a cloud. Using knowledge of materials, the lighting effect from the cloud was tested to see how it transposes onto the transparent triangle stand. The tactile feeling of the cloud was tested in order to create a light-hearted and warm feeling when the lights are turned on.
RESULTS
The final design was approved by the head of the industrial design. It is currently undergoing further development in the engineering department to produce a working model, and the design is currently patent pending.