Kinetic sculpture for international automotive A-fair
With model cars, animated road, 6 axis robot and accompanying app
We developed an exhibit for BMW to demonstrate their four-wheel-drive technologies at the 2011 IAA (International Automobile Exhibition). To create a powerful but playful exhibit, we used an industrial robot to drive a model car on a screen. The exhibit joyfully simulates a high-dynamic drive on a dirty road to explain the BMW xDrive Technology. We created a mesmerizing effect by bringing together two independent movements: the robot playfully driving a car and the animated road on the display.
Robotic exhibit
Smart kinetics in sync with displayed content
The screen renders wheels exactly underneath the real wheels in motion. A slow-motion mode substantiates the user experience by explaining in which driving situation front- and back axis get which amount of force.
The screen renders wheels exactly underneath the real wheels in motion. A slow-motion mode substantiates the user experience by explaining in which driving situation front- and back axis get which amount of force.
To intensify user involvement we added a randomly appearing button, so that the user could “scare” the robot by sliding a massive sign onto its stage. Watch the video to see its reaction.
To intensify user involvement we added a randomly appearing button, so that the user could “scare” the robot by sliding a massive sign onto its stage. Watch the video to see its reaction.
Visitors can choose from 12 different BMW xDrive models for the demonstration. Together with MKT we developed a unique “bayonet” gripper, with which different model cars could be picked without using a traditional pneumatic robot gripper.
Accompanying public app
Interactive information design for touchscreens
We were asked to create an iPad-compatible adaption of the robotic exhibit showcasing the system behind BMW xDrive. Whereas the robot in the exhibition is in charge of driving the car in absolute routine, we handed the user the steering-wheel in the app. By tilting the iPad and choosing between ice, leaves, or rain, users can learn about the power distribution between the front and back-axle of the car.
Making-of
Behind the scenes
David Brüll and Nikos Machanezidis with the robotic prototyp in our old office
© MESO Digital Interiors
Curious about our approach? Feel free to get in touch!
Sebastian Oschatz Partner +49 69 24 000 321 sebastian.oschatz@meso.design sebastian.oschatz@meso.design +49 69 24 000 321
MESO Digital Interiors GmbH
Gutleutstr. 96 . 60329 Frankfurt . Germany
Team
David Brüll, Katharina Mayrhofer, Jens Anschütz, Katrin Schacke, Nikos Mechanezidis, Friedrich Söllner, Stefan Ammon, Mathias Wollin, Maximilian Lemke, Nina Dauer, Bogomir Engel, Claudius Coenen, Benjamin Baum, Jan Trüller