Man and machine: Designers weave their magic

30 : 08 : 2011 Machine : Mischer'Traxler : Vienna

Vienna – Design studio Mischer’Traxler has created Collective Works, a machine that weaves and colours wooden baskets, but only when people are present.

Collective Works by Mischer Traxler Collective Works by Mischer Traxler
Collective Works by Mischer Traxler Collective Works by Mischer Traxler
Collective Works by Mischer Traxler Collective Works by Mischer Traxler
Collective Works by Mischer Traxler Collective Works by Mischer Traxler

The interaction is made possible through sensors inserted into the frame of the machine. When someone approaches the sensors are activated and the production process begins.

If more than one person is present the machine adds blue colour to the basket with a marker. The more people watching, the more markers are activated and the higher the intensity of the blue colouring.

This is a great example of how designers are becoming more in tune with consumers’ needs. For more on how consumers expect more intuitive relationships with brands, read our Intuitive Futures macro trend.

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