During the final year of my education, I took the standalone course "InGenious," where interdisciplinary work is conducted with individuals from other programs in a joint project. Norrköping Science Park was our client, and the project involved developing a prototype for a solar panel installation consisting of organic solar cells.
From the brief and meeting with the client, we identified three main areas that were important for the prototype:
1. Social function: It should be a place where people want to gather.
2. Aesthetic value: A beautiful and organic appearance that reflects the origin of the solar cell.
3. Informative: An opportunity to learn and explore how solar cells can be used.
Design sketch version 1
I developed concepts and sketches for how the materials could be used in the form of a Bluebell, the floral emblem of Östergötland. This was to showcase both where the technology comes from and its origins, as well as an opportunity to present the infinite aesthetic properties of flexible solar cells, in the sense that they can assume any color and shape. A bench in the shape of roots was created to fulfill the social need.
At night, the flower folds up, and lights turn on, casting beautiful blue light around. During the day when the sun is out, the petals fold down and generate energy. Just like a real flower!
After the course ended, I had the opportunity to continue working with Norrköping Science Park and further develop the design and prototype together with RISE. The prototype is now at the newly inaugurated HOPE - House Of Printed Electronics in Norrköping. The next step is to create a fully functional installation in full size.
(Keep an eye out at Laxholmstorget, Norrköping!)
