Prototyping is a vital part of designing products. How far can I develop a prototype of a lamp?
I started with quick brain storm sketches to exploring directions to prototype later on.
clip on desk lamp
interactive led boxes
multiple interactive led frames
Interactivity shined through in the first round of small prototypes. Bringing a playful lighting element to a workspace helps boost creativity and productive mental breaks.I landed on having a geometric shape that could be spun and moved along a flexible rail.
There is a balance missing. The light is playful and great for using during breaks, but how can it better at lighting up a workspace?
With having only one end clamped to the table or desk, the light can be positioned freely above the workplace within reach. This allows for focused light on whatever you may need through an unconventional and enjoyable avenue that makes your working experience more positive.
My final prototype before working with expensive materials. I choose a dodecahedron as the shape to move forward with because of it has a sort of curious complexity. The challenging shape adds depth to the workplace without becoming obtrusive.
Because of numerous limitations, the best solution I found was to connect a small portable charger onto a tube. I then wrapped a small LED strip around the charger and tube for the shade to be built around.
For the shade, I laser cut the faces of the dodecahedron and sanded the required bevels. After glueing all the faces to the tube or each-other, I left one open and lined with magnets and added magnets to the last face. This allowed for one face to be removed when the lamp needs to be charged.
The gooseneck of the lamp is a repurposed camera holder with a table clamp. I 3D printed soft stoppers out of Ninjaflex for the bottom and top of the rail to cushion and contain the light.
The tube through the dodecahedron shade allows for it to be moved along the gooseneck. The flexible nature can be used to lock the light into place and allows for the entire lamps shape to be change.
