Form Equaliser: A Transformable Speaker

Redesigning Sound with Shape

With over 1,000 bat species in the world, each with distinct habitat and prey, their sensory tasks vary greatly. Through extensive research, it has been discovered that sound pertains to shape. Suyoung Song's concept for Form Equaliser is derived from this principle, showcasing the correlation between shape and sound.

The Form Equaliser speaker stands out with its biomimetic design, inspired by the echolocation mechanism of bats. The speaker consists of 8,000 small modules connected with rubber at the end, providing balance and flexibility. By simply pulling or pushing certain parts, users can change the shape and tune of the speaker, allowing for a personalized sound experience. This design is targeted towards sophisticated listeners who appreciate the ability to fine-tune the details of their sound.

The realization of Form Equaliser involves six main parts: an inner structure, the 8,000 small pieces that determine the form and sound, a rubber holder for balance, a bottom body with circuitry, and an upper lid. The small modules and upper lid are made from wood and plastic, while the inner structure is steel and the bottom body is plastic.

Technical specifications of the Form Equaliser include a diameter ranging from 160mm to 240mm and a height of 494mm. These dimensions allow for the transformation of the speaker's shape, providing users with a range of sound possibilities.

Operating the Form Equaliser speaker is straightforward. Users can use it like any ordinary speaker, with the added ability to control the tune by transforming its shape. Each small module is rectangular with a rectangular hole, allowing it to move along a circular rod within the spring-like inner structure. The rubber attachment at the end of each module prevents it from falling out while providing flexibility of movement.

The Form Equaliser project began in April 2014 and concluded in September of the same year. It originated as a dissertation project for Suyoung Song's Master's degree, focusing on biomimetic design and the optimization of auditory devices. Extensive research into sensory mechanisms led to the insight that shape influences sound. To validate this concept, a prototype was created and tested using LabView and Matlab code programs in an anechoic chamber.

One of the main challenges faced during the development of Form Equaliser was proving the feasibility of the concept. While the idea that sound can be varied by form was intriguing, it required expertise beyond the designer's capabilities. Collaboration with colleagues and supervisors specializing in auditory devices and sound physics was crucial in overcoming this challenge.

Form Equaliser has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Digital and Electronic Device Design category in 2016. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate exceptional expertise, innovation, and creativity. Form Equaliser's strong technical characteristics and remarkable artistic skill make it a truly remarkable and awe-inspiring design.