The Lantern Glider
The main idea behind this lantern powered glider was the use and experimentation of the physics of a flying lantern, combining it with our orignial week 4 research on hang gliders. The two combinations allowed us to create a dystopia non-renewable form of transport, that could physically lift and ‘float’, but still give the users in the glider a sense of adrenaline and fear. The glider has two sides that are symmetrical, which hang two basket like objects which carry the passengers, while the whole glider is actually lifted by the lantern.
This enabled the experience of using this vehicle interesting, slightly dangerous and gave a strong sense of being swept through the air -similar to the qualities of a hang glider. This journey was more based on a ‘dystopia’ type of journey, as it used a non-renewable energy source to mobilise the vehicle (burning material to create heat lift). As well as the emotions, experience and feel of the passengers, when lifted up in the air, hanging by steel cables and a cradle for support.
The landing area
The shape, form and idea of our lantern-gliding landing was all influenced by one of our 123D catch models. We produced a warped distorted model of a hairbrush, and a coffee cup - using the hairbrush for the lantern landing. The distortion illustrated by the 3D catch model gave the form interesting patterns, textures and shape, which allowed us to further develop into a structure for the landing platform. It allowed us to use this model as a ‘starting point’ for us to explore interesting ways to portray this lantern/gliding landing on our hotel.
The shape and way the brushes on the hair brush are placed, gave inspiration for creating a warped, bent metal structure that would be lodged into the side of the hotel exterior - using a cantilever. The top part that curves outwards provides a place for the glider to hang on when it has landed, and the bottom section provides a softer place for the passengers to land on after they have finished their journey.
The boat
The boat landing
The map of those two sites
