THE IDEA
A light that fits into the Gemini hammock system and can be used as a handheld directional light, expanded into a lantern, or hung from a hammock ridgeline for area illumination
INSPIRATION
EXPANSION CONCEPTS
The expanding parts of the lantern needed to be durable and easy to use while also compacting as much as possible. Origami, inflatables, and tent structures informed the engineering of those pieces.
ERGONOMIC SKETCH MODELING
Because the lantern's form was inspired by science fiction aesthetics but meant to function in the real world, it was important to build a series of sketch models in order to test usability. Multiple forms were examined for effectiveness in compactness and expansion, as well as comfort in grip and button interaction.
PROTOTYPING
Laser cut acrylic and 3D printed hinges were laminated to create the form of the display model, which was then surfaced with sandblasting, body filler, and sanding. The model was then primed and painted. A carved foam handle and LEDs were added for visual accuracy.
Because the Castor light was developed concurrently with the Gemini hammock system, more research can be found on the Gemini research & development page.