by Lauren Kilberg When art grabs the interest of children and adults alike then mixes in a little physics, the outcome is both fun and captivating. The Japanese have a more eloquent word for it—”Karakuri”, which translates literally to “mechanism”, refers to the art of creating paper automata. Japanese-designer Keisuke…
Re-posted from Cool hunting
This lecture, brought to you by the Harvard Graduate School of Design, explores the Metabolism movement of the 1960s and its influence on Japanese Architecture through today. Toyo Ito reflects on the life of Kiyonori Kikutake and the continued relevance of his works and ideas in today’s design culture.
Danish design student Massoud Hassani, who escaped war-torn Afghanistan when he was 14, has figured out a way to detonate the mines in his old hometown, where thousands of old Soviet landmines still lurk in the rugged terrain.
He has designed a GPS-integrated Mine Kafon Ball that rolls over mines at much lower costs than traditional methods. The ball is constructed of three parts: the spherical core, 70 bamboo legs that stick out from it, and black round surfaces that act as feet. The device is light enough that a gentle breeze can keep it rolling along, like a giant tumbleweed.The GPS chip installed can be used to monitor and record the location of mines.
Animals nestle among the trees so why shouldn’t we? This Cocoon Tree Tent is an alternative to the boring camping setup or awkward hammocks to which you may be accustomed. The sphere structure is made out of aluminum and covered with a resistant tarpaulin, with a small door for entry. With the attached rope system, it is designed for many versions of set-up, including suspended from any group of trees and secured by nets, attached to a floating ring, floating on a platform, and placed on the ground with its adaptable feet.