Vera Jansen




3D mechanical prototype, student work for WdKA (2024)

Brief
Explore the notion of the home through a critical and innovative lens, leading to the design, prototyping, and branding of a novel SMART product or service.

Insight
In today’s hyper-connected world, the increase of stress and anxiety cause a longing for the comfort and safety associated with the womb. 
This desire is exploited by technologies that minimize our need for reflection and decision-making, infantilizing us and placing us back in a metaphorical womb. 


Concept
The WOOMB transforms this passive regression into a conscious experience. It is as human-sized cocoon that mirrors the breathing pattern of the occupant, slowly rocking back and forth, mimicking the protective comfort of the womb.
Externally, it’s breathing pulse is also visible, creating a shared understanding between the user and the observer. The constant, rhythmic movement associated with breathing is fundamentally linked to life and presence, fostering an intimate connection between the WOOMB and its viewers.








    



Various animations were made to demonstrate the concept, function and design of the WOOMB.









 Animated instruction of how the WOOMB moves in a ‘breathing’ rythm, influenced by the breathing pattern of the occupant.








Functioning and programmed prototype of the internal mechanical system.

Animation showing the internal mechanical system.








Testing how lights influence and interact with the WOOMB.


A 1:1 scale model of the WOOMB was built to explore stability, proportions, and ways of sitting within it. Interior lighting was tested in different patterns to examine how shifts in atmosphere influence the overall experience. The prototype served as a tool to evaluate both the physical presence and emotional impact of the design.














The logo is inspired by mitosis, the natural process in which a single cell divides to form two identical cells.