François Chambard, the designer and mind behind UM Project, has once again fused furniture and technology in his latest Patch project. Designed as a line of interconnected furniture, this new collection features pieces that can easily be connected together and feature small batteries. These batteries turn the furniture pieces into mini power stations that can be connected to one another to form a microgrid. The power outputted by the pieces in the Patch project is powerful enough to run a micro apartment and can even produce motion, light and sound that users can interact with.
The collection currently features various different pieces, each of which are designed to work with one another. The materials used in the Patch project range from recycled HDPE plastic to enameled glass, but all of the materials used are all sustainable and fit into a unique modern-looking aesthetic.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Interconnected Furniture
- The Patch Project demonstrates the trend of creating furniture pieces that can be easily connected together to form a microgrid power station.
- Microgrid Technology
- The use of small batteries in furniture pieces to create mini power stations is a disruptive innovation opportunity in the energy industry.
- Sustainable Materials
- The Patch Project showcases the trend of using recycled and sustainable materials in furniture design for a unique and modern aesthetic.
Where This Applies
- Furniture Design
- The concept of interconnected furniture opens up opportunities for designers to create innovative and versatile furniture pieces.
- Energy
- The integration of microgrid technology in furniture presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the energy industry.
- Sustainability
- The use of recycled and sustainable materials in furniture design aligns with the growing demand for environmentally-friendly products in the market.
