Interview about Motion 1 Haptic Gaming Chair, winner of the A' Computers and Peripheral Devices Design Award 2023
Motion 1 will change the user experience of home audio, video and game content. By combining a fully functional desk chair with D-Box’s Haptic Engine, Motion 1 revolutionizes desk chairs on both sides of the work-and-play spectrum. Inspired by the hammerhead shark, Motion 1 blends predatory natural elegance into a unique form factor, which is easily recognizable front and back. From its cocoon-inspired chaise design to the enlarged head section, all aesthetic choices of the chair are geared towards making the user feel comfortable, safe and supported during the chair’s haptic performance.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsWe wanted a design that looked as dynamic as it felt. The hammerhead shark’s streamlined yet powerful form inspired the broad headrest and wraparound support of Motion 1. This shape isn’t just aesthetic—it enhances comfort and helps create an immersive cocoon-like experience.
D-BOX’s research showed us how precise motion could dramatically enhance immersion. We took that data and engineered a system that reacts in real time, delivering feedback that feels organic rather than mechanical. This shaped how we integrated haptics into the chair’s frame without compromising support or comfort.
The research with D-BOX showed us how haptics could amplify immersion and even heighten emotional engagement. We used those insights to fine-tune Motion 1’s feedback system, ensuring that every movement felt intentional and precise. It’s not just about adding vibrations—it’s about synchronizing motion with content in a way that feels natural, whether you’re deep in a game, watching a movie, or even working. This research shaped our approach to everything from the chair’s ergonomic structure to the real-time response of the haptic engine.
Long hours in a chair impact health, whether you’re gaming or working. We integrated seat notifications and relaxation features to promote better posture and movement. Haptics aren’t just for immersion—they can be used for guided relaxation and stress relief, making Motion 1 a smarter, healthier choice.
With teams in Bangkok, Montreal, and Taipei, we had to balance different perspectives and expertise. This global approach helped refine everything from aesthetics to ergonomics, ensuring Motion 1 meets the needs of gamers and professionals worldwide.
Haptics shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort. We designed a chaise-style seating structure that supports the body while allowing the haptic system to move freely. The result is a seamless blend of relaxation and precision feedback.
We made repairability a priority. The modular seat and connector system make it easy to replace parts instead of replacing the entire chair, extending its lifespan and reducing waste.
We wanted the software to be as intuitive as the chair itself. MasterPlus makes customizing haptic settings easy, whether you’re fine-tuning motion feedback or syncing it with games and media. The goal was full control without complexity.
Haptics have potential far beyond gaming. We see applications in fitness, wellness, and even workplace productivity—imagine real-time posture correction or immersive relaxation programs.
Integrating such a powerful system into a compact form was tough. We had to optimize weight distribution, reduce friction and noise, and ensure the system worked seamlessly across different use cases. Close collaboration with D-BOX helped us refine every detail.
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