Gold Digital and Electronic Device Design · 2020
Black Hole Speaker
by Arvin Maleki and Ayda Mohseni
- A' Design Award 2020 Gold Winner in Digital and Electronic Device Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Futuredge Design Studio
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 134,685
- Verification code C214080956 · Verify this award
About Black Hole Speaker
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.
Arvin Maleki's Black Hole Speaker represents an exceptional synthesis of acoustic engineering and sculptural artistry, positioning itself within the contemporary tradition of consumer electronics that transcend mere utility to achieve the status of functional art objects. The work participates in an ongoing dialogue within product design concerning the elevation of everyday technological artifacts into objects worthy of aesthetic contemplation, a conversation that traces lineage through the organic modernism of mid-twentieth century Scandinavian design while embracing the computational possibilities of contemporary parametric form-making. The designer demonstrates remarkable sensitivity to material juxtaposition, pairing the crystalline transparency of the protective dome with the deep, speckled darkness of the speaker body to create a visual metaphor for cosmic phenomena that gives the work its evocative name. Technical achievement manifests particularly in the integration of the spiral vortex element, whose concentric geometry serves both acoustic function and symbolic expression, suggesting sound waves emanating from or being drawn into an acoustic singularity. The chromatic restraint exercised throughout, limiting the palette to variations of blue, cyan, and black with subtle warm accents, creates visual coherence while allowing material qualities and formal relationships to command attention. One observes particular accomplishment in how the transparent dome simultaneously reveals and protects, inviting viewers to contemplate the interior mechanisms while maintaining the mystique of technological complexity. The work invites consideration of how domestic objects might embody wonder and curiosity, transforming the quotidian act of listening into an engagement with forms that evoke celestial phenomena. How might living with such objects that reference cosmic scale and mystery influence our relationship with technology and our sense of connection to larger universal patterns?
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- 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.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Diameter 200mm, Height120mm, Wireless Portable Speaker, Synced-up mode
- Tags
- Wireless, portable, speaker, Nature, carved, black_hole, space.
- Production Technology
- Bluetooth technology has used for making Black Hole a portable device. Also, light ribbon and touch control panel are other significant features of it.
- Design Challenge
- Creating an appeal and useful device on the base of technology was so critical. Designing and implementing the form of Black Hole was the most challenging part of the process.
- Project Duration
- It started in Tehran, Iran in March 2019 and finished in May 2019.
- Operation Flow
- Black Hole could be connected to other devices like a mobile phone through Bluetooth technology — the media player control panel embedded in the body of it for controlling the media. Besides, a light pan has implanted in the center of it for providing environmental light.
- Research
- The necessary information about nature formation and specifications gathered through the internet and books. The resource of aesthetics aspects and design issues are books and experts' knowledge.
- Inspiration
- The essence of Black Hole is streaming freely in space — the Black Hole designed like a mysterious and immanent existence. The extreme hyperbolic form of Black Hole and embedded blue lights in the center of the speaker evokes the infinite space. Intelligent technology as Bluetooth connection is used to make it easy to use as a portable speaker.
- Image Credits
- Image#1: Creator Arvin Maleki, Black Hole, 2019
Image#2: Creator Arvin Maleki, Black Hole, 2019
Image#3: Creator Arvin Maleki, Black Hole, 2019
Image#4: Creator Arvin Maleki, Black Hole, 2019
Colors of Black Hole Speaker
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G0E3 ShopDesign Interview about Black Hole Speaker
A black hole is a mysterious entity in space. The beautiful and amazing image of the black hole brings to mind the flow of a fluid. In my opinion, sound and music are also fluid currents in space that are released into the environment. So we tried to combine the technology and the beautiful appearance of the black hole to create a creative speaker that reflects sound with much better quality.
Creating a new creative design with improved technology was our primary goal—design of a Bluetooth and portable speaker that can be charged wirelessly. The aesthetic appearance and the induction of the fantastic space of the black hole in the sky was the focus of the design. The significant usability of this product was essential for us.
We are going to improve it and make it to become produced.
Almost 14 months.
This concept was a creative idea. We have always been interested in combining new technologies with aesthetic concepts and creating usable products. The unique feature of Blackhole is that top control touchpad would be charged with wireless technology in which is embedded in it.
We are going to sell or lease the production rights. We prefer to design and create newer ideas.
I have a great interest in music. So, We tried to create a speaker with unique functional features.
Many speakers are designed in the world, but that is the result of my idea of a beautiful and functional speaker.
This is a product for all people. Everyone can use a portable Bluetooth speaker anywhere.
Unique appearance and technology. The use of various technologies such as USB, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and improved sound propagation technology are the special features of this product.
Blackhole. This name is derived from real black holes in space. Real black holes inspire the appearance of this product.
We have used many tools to design this product: manual sketching and 3D design and rendering tools.
Combining aesthetics in product appearance with technology is the essential feature of this design.
We designed this product as a team. Many types of research are done to develop this product.
Technology is one of the main features of this product. Uses of USB, Bluetooth, and touchpad control, and wireless charging are essential features.
This product is designed based on digital technologies.
Implementing a sophisticated concept and blending it with some technology in a feasible manner was the most challenging stage.
As A`design is a very prestigious competition, we decide to submit our design.
As harder, as more try; as more try, as more joy
Thanks for this great opportunity.
Grand Interview about Black Hole Speaker
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.