Tele Echo Tube: Acoustic Interaction with Nature

Bringing Mythological Awareness to Modern City Life

Tele Echo Tube, designed by Hill Hiroki Kobayashi, is a unique speaking tube installation that acoustically interacts with a deep mountain echo through a lampshade-like interface. This interactive system allows users to engage with the mountain echo, known as Mr. Yamabiko, in real time, creating an augmented echo sounding experience that transcends cultural and imaginable boundaries.

In ancient times, interactions between nature and human societies were deeply rooted in cultural and mythological beliefs. Japanese farmers would pray to gods for favorable weather conditions, and the general population held a deep respect for the gods residing in the mountains. However, with the advent of modern technology and the decline of belief in mythological creatures, the connection between humans and nature has diminished.

Tele Echo Tube seeks to bridge this gap by providing a tangible and immersive experience of interacting with a mythological creature. By singing out a lively "YO-HOOOOO!" into the local speaking tube, users initiate a loop back call at the remote site, where the playback sound from the speaker is re-captured and transferred back to the user through a networked microphone. This process creates an echo sounding effect, allowing users to experience the distant mountain forest soundscape in an immersive and ambient way.

The design of Tele Echo Tube is not only unique but also technologically advanced. The system consists of remote and local speaking tube systems with one-way echo canceller through a full duplex audio I/O system over the network. The remote system, equipped with weather-resistant microphones and speakers, is placed in an uninhabited mountain forest in Japan, while the local system allows users to interact with the echo from their own location.

This innovative design has garnered recognition and accolades in the design community. Tele Echo Tube was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interface, Interaction, and User Experience Design category in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes the practicality, innovation, and professional quality of the design, highlighting its contribution to a better world.

Tele Echo Tube is not just a design, but a testament to the power of art, technology, and imagination. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining a connection with nature and embracing the mythical elements that enrich our lives. Through this interactive installation, Hill Hiroki Kobayashi invites us to rediscover the wonder and awe that can be found in the depths of an echo.