Weighted vest that aids in creating calmness in the body.
Project on the 2nd semester of design school, where the brief was to create an object that relates to the body, considering ergonomics and aesthetics. The result is RO - Weighted Vests with an organic design, which, much like a weighted blanket, instills calmness and aids in being present by gently applying pressure around the abdomen and back.
Design motivation:
We are constantly exposed to numerous sensory stimuli throughout the day. For some, it can be challenging to filter them out, leading to stress and inner/outer restlessness that manifests as bodily hyperactivity.
We are constantly exposed to numerous sensory stimuli throughout the day. For some, it can be challenging to filter them out, leading to stress and inner/outer restlessness that manifests as bodily hyperactivity.
fase 1 - initial inspiration sketches
with inspiration in mussels and stones on the beach. I experiment with abstract shapes and take inspiration from pictures of seashells I have found on the beach.
fase 2 - further development and design
selection of interesting shapes, conversion to gravity vest and shape development
fase 3 - material experiments
to add weight to the vest, I fill it with rice. In order to avoid the rice gathering in one big pile, I study how rice behaves in different materials. The conclusion was that elastic material does not work optimally. I also experiment with natural dyeing of fabric using onion
fase 4 - prototyping
I create prototypes using various materials, such as repurposing an old curtain for my final prototype. The curtain is a rigid material that shapes around the rice without stretching and maintains its form when carried by the user.
