LavVibe
A Lava Lamp-Inspired Ambient Desk Light
Industrial Design · SolidWorks · 3D Printing · Arduino · Physical Prototyping
LavVibe is an interactive ambient desk light inspired by the playful forms and colorful illumination of traditional lava lamps.
The project challenged me to transform an initial concept into a fully functional physical prototype, combining organic form development with 3D printing, mechanical assembly, and programmable lighting.
Using SolidWorks, I developed the lamp's geometry and components before fabricating the enclosure through 3D printing. Heat-set inserts were incorporated into the assembly, while an Arduino-controlled RGB LED ring and push-button input brought the lamp to life through a programmed rainbow lighting effect.
The final result combines a sculptural physical form with dynamic lighting, demonstrating the integration of industrial design and interactive technology.
From Sketch to Form
From Digital Model to Physical Prototype
After developing the digital model, I worked toward translating the design into a functional physical prototype.
Moving between digital modeling and physical development helped me better understand how design decisions influence the final product.
Once the design was modeled, I fabricated the physical components using 3D printing.
I incorporated heat-set threaded inserts into the printed parts to create secure mechanical connections and support assembly.
This stage required translating the digital model into physical components while accounting for the practical constraints of fabrication, fit, and electronics integration.
Final Design
The final LavVibe prototype brings together a custom 3D-printed enclosure, mechanically assembled components, and programmable RGB lighting.
Its lava-lamp-inspired form creates a playful desk accessory, while the animated rainbow illumination adds movement and visual interest.
The project demonstrates my ability to carry a design from early sketching through CAD modeling, fabrication, assembly, and functional programming.
Reflection
LavVibe strengthened my understanding of the relationship between digital modeling, physical fabrication, and interactive electronics.
Designing the enclosure required me to consider not only the external appearance of the product but also the internal components and assembly methods needed to make it functional.
Integrating the Arduino and RGB lighting was especially valuable because it challenged me to think about the product as both a physical object and an interactive experience.
Electronics & Programming
To make LavVibe interactive, I integrated an Arduino-controlled neopixel ring and a physical push button.
I programmed the LED ring to produce a colorful rainbow lighting effect, transforming the static lamp into a dynamic ambient light.
Combining the electronics with the 3D-printed enclosure allowed me to explore how physical product design and programmed behavior can work together to create a cohesive user experience.
Form Exploration & CAD Development
I translated my initial sketches into a detailed SolidWorks model, refining the lamp's shape, proportions, and component geometry.
Beyond its exterior appearance, the model needed to accommodate the internal electronics and provide a practical method for assembling the enclosure.
I developed the components with 3D printing and assembly in mind, incorporating space for the neopixel ring, Arduino electronics, push-button input, and mechanical fasteners.
Inspiration & Concept Development
Inspired by the nostalgic aesthetic of lava lamps, I wanted to create a contemporary desk light that captured their playful personality through form and color.
I began with concept sketches exploring the lamp's silhouette, proportions, and overall appearance, considering how its physical design could complement the lighting experience.
My goal was to develop a product that felt visually engaging both when illuminated and when turned off.