LANGUAGE OF TRANSLATION

References, referencing, and the referenced. This project demonstrates a systematic language of design translation through a series of accumulative research, raw prototypes, and finished furniture pieces exhibited at deTour 2026.

For deTour 2026, the project presents several test pieces that translate mechanical reference logic into everyday interaction, including the Ball Bearing Bench and a Cycloidal Drive prototype. The Ball Bearing Bench—our first piece of furniture translating engineering logic into active play—draws inspiration from the components of a traditional ball bearing. Accompanied by the captivating sound of timber bearings gliding, the design uses play to pique curiosity and invite visitors to probe the rationale behind everyday hardware.

The Cycloidal Drive prototype introduces precision engineering through a cycloidal rolling contact mechanism. Designed for robust load management and enhanced efficiency, it minimizes motion loss via near-zero backlash. Visitors can observe how it supports controlled rotation and compare raw manual input against mechanically assisted motion, leaving the ultimate form flexible for future refinement.