Senseware is a new exhibit that will be taking place from April 22-27 at the La Triennale di Milano. The exhibition is an attempt to visualize how the new artificial fibers developed through use of emerging technologies will spur a new wave of creation. These high tech fibers have unique characteristics — some are as fine as individual cells, some more pliant than rubber, and others electrically conductive— that can be translated into new types of products and experiences. A combination of architects, designers and media artists were invited to imagine the future possibilities — and some of the results are presented below.
Mist Bench by Gwenael Nicolas
One of my favorite pieces is Gwenael Nicolas’ “Mist Bench,” a woven fiber optic interactive sculpture that responds to human movement. Rhythms of light travel through the sculpture when it senses human presence.
Robot Tiles by Hiroo Iwata
Another wonderful and playful piece is “Robot Tiles” by Hiroo Iwata. Robot Tiles was created using a combination of sensors and new conductive textiles to detect foot positions. I’m not quite sure what the tiles do as the description of the project is minimal, but considering Iwata’s body of work it appears to be an experiment in creating a unique haptic interface that could be used to control virtual worlds.
Translucent Concrete by Kengo Kuma
I’m looking forward to the day when buildings are constructed from Kengo Kuma‘s translucent concrete. By embedding fiber optics continuously into the concrete and cutting across the fibers, Kuma developed concrete that light can penetrate through.
Nanofront by Panasonic Corporation
Panasonic Corporation developed a concept for Nanofront, a nanofiber “living” robotic pet of sorts that seeks dust and immaculately cleans micro-dust and oil films autonomously. Watch out Roomba!
Ultra-light weight backpack by Ross Lovegrove
Lastly, Ross Lovegrove, the visionary UK designer, created this beautiful ultra-light weight backpack. For the rest of the wonderful projects, please visit the Tokyo Fiber website.
