Naai-Jung Shih's Moon: A Table Light with a Twist

Winner of A' 3D Printed Forms and Products Design Award in 2020

Naai-Jung Shih's inspiration for the Moon table light came from the moon itself, a symbol of human imagination. The design reflects the moon rising from a mountain or sea, departing from the surface to light up its surroundings. The Moon table light is not just a light source, but a piece of art that adds depth and texture to any space.

What sets the Moon table light apart from other designs is its dual function. During the day, it serves as a sculpture, adding aesthetic appeal to the workspace. At night, it transforms into a light device, easing the tension of work. The light can be connected to a laptop, making it a practical addition to any workspace. The moon's metaphor is created by a linear pattern used as a landing guide in the Apollo project, and the moon's shape is made from three-quarters of a circle, symbolizing a rising icon.

The Moon table light is made using LED strip lights allocated on the peripheral ring. The stainless frame, collected from a flea market, adds a touch of vintage charm. The moon is created by applying a thicken function to a thin layer of surface, with the curvature modified by a mathematical equation. This design paradigm shift opens up a new set of vocabulary during the creation process, and the complicated pattern can only be made by a 3D printer. This design process highlights the strong connection between the order of mathematics and the aesthetics of a moon icon.

The Moon table light measures approximately 37 by 33 by 19 cm in width, height, and depth. The materials used include photosensitive resin for the moon and stainless steel for the supporting frame. The light functions as an installation in daylight and illuminates as a table light when night arrives. The skin acts as an interface, allowing people to see through the double layers and interact with the background with enhanced depth. The light is turned on or off using a USB hub with buttons to control four devices. It can be connected to a power plug or even a notebook computer, making it a versatile addition to any workspace.

Naai-Jung Shih started this project as early as 2018 in Taipei. After exploring various configurations through several on-and-off tests, a particular setting was determined. The specific set was finalized in 2019 after about two months of intensive work. The design was awarded Silver in A' 3D Printed Forms and Products Design Award in 2020, a testament to its outstanding design and innovation.

In conclusion, Naai-Jung Shih's Moon table light is a unique blend of aesthetics and practicality. Its design, inspired by the moon, serves as a companion from morning to night, transforming from a sculpture in daylight to a comforting light device at night. With its innovative design and practical features, the Moon table light is a worthy addition to any workspace.