Designing a Novel Smart
Light Switcher Device

MY ROLE

Product Designer, 3D Modeler

MY RESPONSIBILITY

TOOLS

3Ds Max, Rhinoceros

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Luca is a project for 3D Modelling and Fabrication class during my first year in Design Computing. The concept for this project is a friendly robot that automatically switches your lights using hand gesture. It has a cute and approachable design to attract a wide range of audience especially the young ones. The name Luca means “bringer of light.” Like its name, it is designed with the hope of helping people’s lives.

Luca’s design concept was featured in the 3D modelling class as one of the best examples and was used in the new design brief as a guideline for new students taking the class. I was also recruited as a tutor by the unit coordinator for this unit in 2022 after my graduation.

Concept Development

When I was coming up with ideas for my 3D model, I wanted to make something that has a friendly and approachable design. Thinking back to my childhood, I watched a lot of Disney movies and was exposed to many of its characters. The character that resonated a lot with me was Mike Wazowski, an iconic character from the movie “Monster Inc”. Mike’s character is goofy, caring and loyal. He is outgoing and funny and is always willing to help his friends when needed (“I’m a match to Mike Wazowski from Monsters, Inc.”, 2019). Most people, typically children like him for his character. I want to give my product a personality to those of Mike Wazowski’s as I believe that it would attract a larger audience and make it look less robotic.

3D Modelling Process

Throughout the process of visualising my physical model, I thought about a variety of fabrication methods. Out of all the methods I explored, digital fabrication techniques, specifically 3D modelling and laser cutting stood to me the most. Following my initial design plan of having a friendly and approachable aesthetic, I wanted the material of my product to be made out rubber due because of the soft and elastic quality which would stimulate the senses. However, I find this process to be too advanced and elaborate, especially since I have no experience in 3D printing and fabrication beforehand. Additionally, I have contemplated doing this outside of the school facilities since this method is not provided and thought by the University. Hence, I decided to compromise with taking into account the alternative methods which I can take to fabricate this product.

3D Printing Process

The first printing methods which I was interested in was the Ultimaker printer. This was due to not only its efficiency in printing the model but also its accuracy to materialize my visualizations for this model. When it comes to the material, I chose PLA (polylactic acid) due to its stiff and versatile nature. Powder was one of the materials I considered using but it was not suitable enough as it is usually used for making abstract models. With this in mind, I decided to use the Ultimaker instead. To add a different fabrication method to my model, I decided to add a logo that was laser cut and placed on the underside of my model.

Final Product

To cover up the dents which was caused by the supports during printing, I used both spray and canned putty. I also used clear coating to create a smooth and glossy finish, similar to a ceramic. To promote the finished product, I made a 3D rendered poster with a minimalistic design. The elements used in the poster are mainly circles to match with Luca’s “friendly” concept.

Let's Work Together!

Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any inquires! I'm best reached through Linked In or email.

Designing a Novel Smart Light Switcher Device