Jin Woong Lee's Polyhedron: A Revolution in Stool Design

3D Printed Stool with Height Adjustability and Unique Aesthetics

Jin Woong Lee's inspiration for the Polyhedron stool came from the desire to create a product that is simple to produce, yet offers a high degree of customization. The stool is designed to be easily produced not only by the designer but also by individuals, leading to multiple variations according to personal tastes. The Polyhedron stool is a perfect example of how modern manufacturing tools like 3D printers can democratize the production process, allowing for small-scale production with minimal restrictions.

The Polyhedron stool stands out for its unique way of controlling height. Except for one CNC processed metal component, every part of the stool is made through a 3D printer. This allows for a high degree of customization and individual production. The stool is composed of 20 different components, including one CNC processed metal part, three ready-made metal shafts, and sixteen 3D printed parts. The design allows for every part, from the leg's metal shaft to a small magnet of the lock, to be dismantled.

The interaction with the Polyhedron stool is as unique as its design. The stool's height can be adjusted by rotating the upper part, causing the pillars to gather and escalate the stool. The four gears inside the head convert circular movement vertically, making the pillar's end rise. A lock below the head, attached to a magnet, can be unlocked by simply pulling down.

The Polyhedron stool project started in June 2018 in Seoul, Korea, and ended in September 2018. After a major structural change, the project was revised from March 2019 to July 2019. The project posed several challenges, including achieving a stable and strong structure despite the inherent limitations of 3D printing technology. However, through multiple modifications and the use of minimal ready-made materials, Jin Woong Lee was able to overcome these challenges and create a stool that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

For his innovative design, Jin Woong Lee was awarded the Silver A' 3D Printed Forms and Products Design Award in 2021. The award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and the Polyhedron stool certainly fits the bill. With its unique design and innovative production method, the Polyhedron stool is a shining example of the potential of 3D printing in the world of furniture design.