Fade
Individual - MIT Undergraduate Student - February to May 2018
I created an abstract version of a clock inspired by Shishi-odoshi water fountains using only clear 3D printed parts and circuit components. The black areas were spray-painted. I modeled the clock in Illustrator and SolidWorks.
Shishi-odoshi water fountains were the inspiration for my design of an abstract clock.
I began the design process by sketching ideas and modeling components in Adobe Illustrator and SolidWorks, exploring how water could interact with both form and circuitry. My focus was on the juxtaposition of clarity and abstraction and the conductive properties of water.
The clock was fabricated using SLS 3D printing, which allowed me to create precise internal channels for water flow while keeping the aesthetic minimal and monolithic.
I tested multiple iterations of the top and bottom reservoirs to optimize the drip rate and ensure consistent conductivity across the water column. Spray-painted black sections were added selectively to highlight areas of electrical interaction and provide visual contrast to the otherwise transparent assembly.
I tested multiple iterations of the top and bottom reservoirs to optimize the drip rate and ensure consistent conductivity across the water column. Spray-painted black sections were added selectively to highlight areas of electrical interaction and provide visual contrast to the otherwise transparent assembly.
The design integrates a simple circuit using the conductive properties of water as a switch. Water is poured into the top chamber which completes the circuit. This activates an LED, which glows while the top chamber holds water. As the water level decreases, the LED gradually fades, ultimately switching off when the reservoir is empty.
This interaction creates a timer effect where the light remains on for as long as the top chamber holds water. Once the cycle is complete, the process can be restarted by refilling the reservoir.
This interaction creates a timer effect where the light remains on for as long as the top chamber holds water. Once the cycle is complete, the process can be restarted by refilling the reservoir.
Several rounds of peer user testing and prototyping were conducted to refine the flow rate of the drip and user interaction.
Feedback from testing influenced changes in chamber dimensions, nozzle size, and LED placement to achieve a balance between aesthetic clarity and functional performance.
Feedback from testing influenced changes in chamber dimensions, nozzle size, and LED placement to achieve a balance between aesthetic clarity and functional performance.