Aluminium Interactive Cabinet

Project Story

In a world where we produce things quickly and in an environment that emphasises pragmatism, the way humans interact with everyday objects is becoming more and more homogeneous. So I want to create spaces in the home where we can surprise people with the way we interact, and use everyday objects as a vehicle to give a sense of humour, freshness and something different to experience. I will balance the practical and the fun, the dynamic and the static, by incorporating mechanical structures and focusing on companionship. Creating the feeling that there are other creatures living in the house. When the user opens the door to the storage cabinet, a small door above closes. When the user closes the door and leaves, the small door above opens slowly as if the other creatures are trying to get out while the user is away. A ladder made of soft rope on the legs of the table below is the passageway for this unknown creature to leave. Also to break the seriousness of the whole metal cabinet, some soft details are added. Inspired by Hayao Miyazaki's anime The Secret World of Arrietty.

Project Production

The height and width of the work are based on the average height of the surveyed users to ensure smooth use. The proportions of the cabinet have been iterated many times, and the proportions have been verified many times through computer 3D modeling and laser engraving models. The thickness of the aluminum plate is carefully selected to ensure firmness while reducing the weight to the minimum. The processing technology required for the cabinet is metal laser cutting and CNC. As long as there is a source file, the aluminum plate can be quickly cut out, and it can be mass-produced after bending. The work is easy to disassemble and can be completed by one person, which is suitable for transportation.

Materials and Environment

Recycled aluminum products can be directly recycled using recycled materials without the need for smelting, which reduces energy consumption. According to statistics, the reuse of aluminum can save more than 90% of energy consumption, greatly reducing the demand for electricity resources. In addition, recycling aluminum products can also reduce carbon dioxide emissions. And aluminum is light, which reduces transportation costs. The bending processing method is also environmentally friendly and does not require more electricity.