DESIGN NAME: blue
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Lamp
INSPIRATION: Air is an indispensable element for human beings, and yet it is visible only in water. After having some experiments with materials and research about the four important elements in our lives; focusing on air and water inspired the use of acrylic for lighting design. This lighting design is based on a paper-like sheet of acrylic, which is extremely flexible under the heat and allowing creating various shapes.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This lighting design channels light through bubbles on the lower part of the lamp shade and creates a relaxed and calm environment, whilst also giving a strong physical and emotional impression through the unique texture and light diffusion. Acrylic is a flexible material under the heat and leading to further exploration and variation within this concept. This project can be developed even more in different shapes and colour scheme.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The unique design of the bubbles mean that light is diffused and the lampshade makes the space calm and relaxed by giving good balance of the intensity of the light. As acrylic is a flexible material when heated, it can be changed into any shape. In terms of the shape, the next development aims to improve the daily use properties (Cleaning, installing the item and etc.) The material is transparent, so blends in to a variety of environments.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: Started in later 2012 and the first prototype was exhibited in salone Satelite 2013. Then it was exhibited at several exhibitions. Finished in later 2014. (It is still under the examination for the coloured acrylic.)
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Lighting Products and Fixtures Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Although it is a simple process to , many attempts were made to create unique light properties. Tests were carried out to find the optimal bubble size, location. The process requires heating a sheet of acrylic to 200 degree for 15 - 20 minutes to create bubbles, it is then cut to size, polished, and reheated before placing it into a mould to ensure consistent design. . A wooden mould was used, however, in future a metal mould could provide extended durability.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Large size: 450mm x 350mm x 200mm 5mm cast acrylic.
Medium size: 250mm x 250mm x 370mm 3mm cast acrylic.
To ensure consistent design moulds are required. A wooden mould was used, however, some sort of metal mould may be tested due to its extended durability.
TAGS: lighting, textured acrylic, minimal, simplicity, smooth effect, paper-like, Japanese
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: This project is inspired by thought of four elements and material examination. Reading Japanese novel "the Praise of the Shadow" by Junichiro Tanizaki helped me to outline the theme for the project. Exploring different types of acrylic, colours, tested a variety of temperatures and the length of heating to create the desired effect. Further experimentation into different thicknesses of the material and the best location for the bubbles helped to define the best procedure for a successful result.
CHALLENGE: Exploring the use of acrylic for lighting was a challenge. Discussing the project with acrylic makers helped to understand how the material results as different kinds react differently. Various temperatures, heating times, and environment: humidity were examined. If the temperature is too low, bubbles do not form. if it is too high it melts or bubbles could appear on both sides of the surface loose clear line of the edge. The procedure was refined to give and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
ADDED DATE: 2016-02-28 22:59:56
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Main Image:designer Sayoko Shibuya 2015, optional 1 photographer Graham Turner 2015, optional 2: photographer Yolanda Y Liou 2013, optional 3: designer Sayoko Shibuya 2015, optional 4:photographer Yolanda Y Liou 2013
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: Patanted no: 2013-13933: year: 2013 holder: Sayoko Shibuya jurisdiction: Japan
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