Over the last week I've been searching for new projects to undertake, or maybe just add to the list of projects I hope to one day finish. I have a small list of projects that are underway or completed on my main site. A great source of inspiration for me has been a blog called MoCo Loco, the site specializes in the latest modern contemporary design. In about a half an hour I discovered five designs that have great DIY potential. I'm collecting materials to attempt some of them in the coming weeks. It looks as if owning a laser cutter or at least having access to one would be an immense benefit in creating some of these designs. In the meantime take a look...

Neko Design based in Mexico has created a unique bracelet called orbit that features silicone elastic threads woven inside an aluminum ring. When worn the bracelet appears to float around the arm. If I can find the elastic I may be able to use the concept for some other applications.

http://www.nekomexico.com/html/producto-orbit.html



Furni issued a design challenge in June 07, asking for submissions of an innovative placement, case or modification of their alarm clock kit. You had a choice to either buy the electronics in a kit from their site or print out a PDF of the various parts. The concept for this kind of design challenge is relay interesting. I have a feeling it could be used in an educational setting to introduce electronics systems to design students who want to incorporate complex systems into their art.
http://furni.myshopify.com/pages/show-us-your-skills


The table here is created by I-Beam Design and Architecture of New York. Mounted inside the table are RGB LEDs capable of a full spectrum of color. Controls on the table allow the color to be changed at will. Frosted polycarbonate and honeycomb form the light diffusing surface that gives the table a smooth glow.


I really can't show you a single picture from this site, so you'll have to check it out yourself... I particularly like the LEDs embedded in acrylic disk, they for a sort of constellation within the piece and provide ambient lighting at the same time. I have the acrylic on order from McMaster Carr right now, I can't wait to start this one.
http://www.luminicdesign.blogspot.com/


I'm a bit of a Star Trek fan and the piece to the right looks like the best Borg fashion statement ever conceived. The ring was created by a SLS rapid prototyping machine. LED's, batteries, and a reed switch on the inside of the ring project through a cut pattern creating a light design on the wearers skin.
http://www.kyeokkim.com/