DESIGN NAME: Wave Light
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Bracelet
INSPIRATION: The wave is a force of nature, spreading energy around the world. It represents the profound strength needed to move through our darkest moments and find hope in the future. In science, it refers to a movement taking place in both space and time. The Wave Light bracelet is inspired by optical properties. As a metaphor for life, the bracelet is a reminder to remain steadfast in a changing world. Every choice, every step forward can be made with confidence and power as long as one is ready to bring a positive mindset and see the bright side in even the most chaotic situations.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Wave Light is a single piece of metal fused into the shape of a unique bracelet. Each fixed wave band is twisted at a precise angle to reflect light. It aims to mirror the surrounding environment and capture its brightness. The designers outlined the complexity of waves to give the illusion of movement with natural light. To get the right light reflection, a high level of precision in the band twists was required. The jewellery was precisely built with upcycled metal using advanced 3D metal printing technique. Polishing the printed design proved challenging due to the many fine details of the design, but this effort was well worth the trouble as it resulted in dynamic trompe l'oeil.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The bracelet is crafted as a single piece. However, the cascading, integrated bands give the impression of multiple bracelets seamlessly merged with each other. The wearer can find comfort by turning their wrist against the bracelet’s wave bands which will also throw light outward. Like a shield of power, this bracelet can complement a glamourous gala look or be worn with everyday outfits. Despite its complex design of twisted bands, the bracelet is both light weight and quite durable making it a very versatile accessory.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: This project started in December 2021 in Paris and the manufacturing of this piece of jewellery was completed in July 2022.
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Each waveband is continuous, and the ensemble is fixed together to balance the stability of twisted bands with the overall comfort of a large bracelet. This piece was designed with custom-made code in 3D-rendering software to precisely control the size, number and twist of the bands. Advanced 3D metal printing technology was used to produce the design which was lovingly hand-polished by an expert, French artisan. 2 versions are available: 925 Silver & 18k Gold.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Width: 40 mm x Length: 60 mm x Height: 47 mm
TAGS: Jewellery, Bracelet, Silver,925 Silver, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold, Wave, 3D, 3D Printing, Light, Reflection, Optics
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: The design of this bracelet is the result of a long study of light reflection and how to control the bands’ rotation in a 3D rendering program to generate the desired shape. The first prototypes were 3D printed using plastic to test the manufacturing feasibility. In order to test the ergonomics, the bracelet was worn in real life by a diverse user group who offered thoughtful feedback based on their experience.
CHALLENGE: The challenge is to combine scientific properties with jewellery in a wearable and ergonomic piece to suit any wearer. As our first manufactured product, the biggest challenge was to find the right balance between the size of the bands and the intrinsic limitations of the metal properties. We have no academic background in design and jewellery but starting the project from scratch and educating ourselves permitted us to express our creativity in conjunction with my strong scientific background.
ADDED DATE: 2022-07-09 23:37:30
TEAM MEMBERS (1) : Clément MOLINIER
IMAGE CREDITS: Clément MOLINIER
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: Patent is under process.
Copyrights belong to Clément MOLINIER, 2021.
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