Eva Puchades
Introduction: In this project, I embarked on a journey to design and develop a groundbreaking 360° star projector, aptly named "CNIT," that not only immerses users in the wonders of the night sky but also prioritizes environmental sustainability. This project served as my final thesis, encompassing comprehensive market research, conceptual design, prototyping, and meticulous technical documentation.
Project Objectives:
Celestial Representation: Faithfully depict the constellations and celestial bodies of the night sky, fostering a sense of awe and wonder for the universe.
360° Projection: Create an immersive experience by projecting the celestial panorama onto all surrounding surfaces, replicating the true grandeur of the night sky.
Ludo-Educational Purposes: Serve as a dual-purpose tool, combining entertainment and education, allowing users to learn about astronomy and celestial phenomena in an engaging manner.
Environmental Sustainability: Minimize the environmental impact throughout the design, manufacturing, and usage phases, prioritizing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient operation.
Design Process:
Market Research: I conducted thorough market research to understand the existing landscape of star projectors, identifying consumer preferences, market trends, and potential gaps in the market. This research informed my design decisions and ensured I addressed unmet user needs.
Conceptual Design: Inspired by the celestial sphere concept, I explored various design iterations, focusing on creating a compact, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly projector named CNIT. I considered factors like ergonomics, portability, and the integration of sustainable materials.
Prototyping: Utilizing 3D modeling software, I created digital prototypes to refine CNIT's form and functionality. I then translated these digital models into physical prototypes, using a 3D printer.
Technical Documentation: I meticulously documented the entire design process, including detailed technical drawings, assembly instructions, and user manuals for CNIT. This documentation ensures the projector can be easily manufactured, assembled, and used by consumers.
I developed a cohesive brand identity that encompasses a unique logo, color palette, and typography, reflecting the product's innovative, sustainable, and educational nature. This brand identity is seamlessly integrated into the eco-friendly packaging, utilizing recycled materials and minimizing waste to align with CNIT's commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, I designed a companion app that enhances the user experience and provides additional educational content, allowing users to control the projector, learn about constellations, identify celestial objects, and plan stargazing trips. This app not only complements the projector's functionality but also strengthens the overall CNIT brand experience.
CNIT embodies the culmination of my design expertise and unwavering commitment to sustainability. It stands as a testament to the power of innovation to create products that not only enhance user experiences but also contribute to a healthier planet. I am confident that CNIT will leave a lasting impact on the way people connect with the cosmos and inspire generations to come to explore the wonders of the universe.