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Email:
chanshaokaye@gmail.com
Inyo
2023 Aug - Nov
In collaboration with Wang Yixian and
Chloe Chong Wen Jing
Inyo is a pair of connected diffusers that uses the power of fragrance to allow individuals to stay connected with their loved ones in an intimate yet subtle way, despite the physical separation.
Using a resist-blasting technique, we are able to embed functional circuits into the form of the ceramic objects. This integration between organic material and technology allows the diffuser to look like unassuming decor pieces when not in use, seamlessly integrating into your living space.
Using a resist-blasting technique, we are able to embed functional circuits into the form of the ceramic objects. This integration between organic material and technology allows the diffuser to look like unassuming decor pieces when not in use, seamlessly integrating into your living space.
Functioning as a pair
Inyo functions as a pair of connected scent diffusers. Each half holds an essential oil bottle with a chosen scent that reminds them of their partner. One person can tilt their essential oil bottle, allowing a drop of their partner's scent to fall onto the ceramic plate. On the other side of the world, Inyo's sister device will respond automatically, mirroring the gesture by tilting its oil bottle to create the familiar experience of sharing a physical space.
Moisture sensor and heating element
The scented oil droplet that falls directly onto the plate acts as a conductor of electricity, completing the moisture sensor circuit embedded on the plate’s surface. This activates the heating element at its base. Leveraging on ceramic’s excellent thermal properties, the plate uniformly and efficiently heats up, accelerating the diffusion of the scent in space.
As the scented oil evaporates over time, it will eventually dry up, turning off the moisture sensor. The system will then deactivate the heating element, making the whole experience effortless and worry-free.
Inner mechanism and complementary stand
Alongside the ceramic plate, we’ve designed a complementary stand that houses the electronic components. Its soft and simple form harmoniously blends with the ceramic’s minimalist aesthetic, while the use of wood of the arm and base adds a touch of warmth, evoking a sense of comfort. A rack and pinion mechanism rotates the arm when activated.
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Alongside the ceramic plate, we’ve designed a complementary stand that houses the electronic components. Its soft and simple form harmoniously blends with the ceramic’s minimalist aesthetic, while the use of wood of the arm and base adds a touch of warmth, evoking a sense of comfort. A rack and pinion mechanism rotates the arm when activated.
