Black Hole Speaker

Arvin Maleki

Interview about Black Hole Speaker, winner of the A' Digital and Electronic Device Design Award 2020

About the Project

Black Hole designed on the base of modern intelligent technology, and it is a Bluetooth portable speaker. It could be connected to any mobile phone with different platforms, and there is a USB port for connecting to external portable storage. The embedded light could be used as a desk light. Also, the appealing look of Black Hole makes it so appeal homeware could be used in interior design.

Design Details
  • Designer:
    Arvin Maleki
  • Design Name:
    Black Hole Speaker
  • Designed For:
    Futuredge Design Studio
  • Award Category:
    A' Digital and Electronic Device Design Award
  • Award Year:
    2020
  • Last Updated:
    November 8, 2024
Learn More About This Design

View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.

View Design Details
Your innovative approach to merging cosmic aesthetics with audio technology in the Black Hole Speaker is captivating - could you elaborate on how the concept of streaming freely in space influenced your design decisions?

The concept of streaming freely in space inspired the Black Hole Speaker's hyperbolic form and embedded blue lights, symbolizing the vastness of the cosmos. By drawing on the mysterious nature of black holes, we designed the speaker to appear as if it is floating, seamlessly blending aesthetics with functionality. This concept aligns with the idea of limitless streaming, where audio flows effortlessly, just like waves in space.

The hyperbolic form and embedded blue lights in the Black Hole Speaker create a striking visual metaphor for infinite space - what were the technical challenges in achieving this balance between form and functionality?

Crafting the hyperbolic shape while ensuring optimal sound quality was a major challenge. The embedded blue lights not only enhance the visual appeal but also required precise integration to avoid affecting the acoustics. Balancing these elements involved multiple prototypes to achieve the perfect harmony between the cosmic aesthetic and the speaker’s functionality.

The Black Hole Speaker seamlessly integrates multiple functions, from portable audio to ambient lighting - how did you envision this convergence of features enhancing the user experience in modern living spaces?

Our goal was to create a multifunctional device that complements modern living spaces. By integrating a desk light with a portable speaker, we designed the Black Hole to serve as both a functional and decorative piece. This convergence of features transforms it into more than just a speaker; it becomes an interactive part of the user’s environment, adding both ambiance and practicality.

Your background in Persian carpet design brings a unique perspective to electronic devices - how has this cultural heritage influenced the aesthetic and philosophical elements of the Black Hole Speaker?

Growing up surrounded by Persian carpet designs, I developed an appreciation for intricate patterns and symbolic storytelling. This influence is evident in the Black Hole Speaker’s design, where the hyperbolic form and embedded lights create a narrative of cosmic exploration. Just as Persian carpets tell stories through motifs, the speaker evokes the mysteries of space, blending tradition with modern technology.

The Black Hole Speaker earned the Gold A' Design Award for its innovative approach - could you share some of the unexpected discoveries or pivotal moments during the three-month development process in Tehran?

One of the key discoveries was realizing how the shape of the speaker could enhance sound projection. Initially, the hyperbolic form was purely aesthetic, but we found that it also improved the acoustics, creating a richer sound experience. Another pivotal moment was optimizing the touch control panel for intuitive interaction, which significantly enhanced user satisfaction.

The touch control panel and light ribbon features of the Black Hole Speaker suggest careful consideration of user interaction - what inspired these specific interface choices and how do they complement the overall cosmic theme?

The touch control panel was designed to be seamless and intuitive, mirroring the smoothness of space. The light ribbon adds an ethereal glow, enhancing the cosmic theme and providing ambient lighting. These elements were inspired by the idea of making interaction with the device feel natural and almost otherworldly, aligning with the theme of exploring the unknown.

Environmental sustainability is increasingly crucial in electronic design - how does the Black Hole Speaker address these concerns while maintaining its sophisticated technological capabilities?

Sustainability was a key consideration in the design process. We used eco-friendly materials for the outer casing and energy-efficient LED lights. Additionally, the device is designed for durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements. These efforts ensure that the Black Hole Speaker aligns with sustainable principles without compromising on performance.

The Black Hole Speaker's compact dimensions of 200mm diameter and 120mm height house multiple technologies - what were the key considerations in optimizing this space without compromising on performance or aesthetics?

Optimizing the compact space required innovative engineering to fit all components without sacrificing sound quality or aesthetic appeal. By carefully selecting materials and integrating Bluetooth technology with efficient sound chambers, we were able to achieve a balance between compactness and high performance, ensuring the speaker’s sleek design remained intact.

Looking at the future of audio devices, how do you envision the Black Hole Speaker's design philosophy influencing the evolution of portable speakers and home entertainment systems?

The Black Hole Speaker sets a new standard for combining art with technology. As consumers increasingly seek products that enhance their living spaces aesthetically and functionally, we believe this design philosophy will inspire future audio devices to prioritize both visual appeal and user interaction. The focus will be on creating immersive experiences rather than just providing sound.

The synced-up mode feature of the Black Hole Speaker adds a social dimension to the device - could you elaborate on how this functionality transforms the traditional concept of a portable speaker into a more collaborative experience?

The synced-up mode allows multiple Black Hole Speakers to connect wirelessly, creating a unified audio experience across different spaces. This feature encourages social interaction, turning music listening into a collaborative event. It transforms the traditional portable speaker into a dynamic tool for shared experiences, making it ideal for gatherings and enhancing social connections.

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