Mesoglea Cup Concept

A Futuristic Cup Inspired by Deep Sea Creatures

The Mesoglea Cup Concept is a 3D printed cup made from food-safe translucent filaments. Its design draws inspiration from the body plan and metabolism of medusae, also known as jellyfish. The cup features a holder in the inside, similar to the animals' body plan, which can hold components of your drink, such as lemon pieces, providing a better dissolution.

Unlike traditional plastic cups, the Mesoglea Cup Concept aims to transform the drinking vessel into a sculptural appliance. The use of translucent plastic 3D printing filaments adds an artistic touch to the cup, making it a visually striking object.

The cup is made using 3D printing technology with translucent filament plastics that are polished on the outside and coated with a food-grade coating. This ensures that the cup is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe for use with food and beverages.

The dimensions of the Mesoglea Cup Concept are 85mm (maximal) in width, 85mm (maximal) in depth, and 90mm in height. Its unique design and functionality make it a standout piece in any setting.

The Mesoglea Cup Concept was developed by AT Schulz, a designer who started working on the project in 2013. The design process took approximately six months, and an earlier prototype was presented at Macef Milan in September 2013. The cup was manufactured in Germany, near Cologne.

AT Schulz's research for the Mesoglea Cup Concept involved studying deep sea creatures like medusae and their transparent exoskeleton called Mesoglea. The cup's design was inspired by the creatures' body plan and anatomy, as well as their propulsion mechanisms. The cup's equilibrium was achieved through adjusting the wall thickness, allowing it to be used in both upright and inclined positions, resembling a creature on the move.

The Mesoglea Cup Concept presented several challenges during its creation. One of the creative challenges was to produce a more intricate and complicated form that deviated from the typical plastic look and feel. This was achieved through 3D printing and by adding thicker walls in the lower part of the cup to provide stability in the inclined position. Another challenge was to create a surface reflection reminiscent of the bioluminescence of deep sea creatures, which was achieved through the use of consecutive grooves.

The Mesoglea Cup Concept has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design category in 2016. This award recognizes the cup's exceptional expertise, innovation, technical characteristics, and artistic skill.

The Mesoglea Cup Concept is not just a cup; it is a work of art that brings a touch of the deep sea into your everyday life. Its unique design and functionality make it a conversation starter and a must-have for those who appreciate innovative and visually striking objects.