MITOCHONDRION

The mitochondrion is designed as a mobile sleeping unit, suitable for an outdoor environment. The inspiration was taken from the mitochondrion, a double-membrane organelle that is found in most eukaryotic organisms, such as in the human body. The mitochondria, also called the ‘powerhouse’ of the cell, generates most of the cell’s supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of energy. ‘The Mito’ begins with a flat form with lobes on either side, similar to the shape of a mitochondrion. When it’s folded a convex shape is formed by pushing these lobes together. It becomes an aerodynamic structure.


The objective of the design is to attain for a mobile and light construction, that can be easily used for camping and festivals. Furthermore, this design provides a solution for the many plastic tents that are left behind on festival sites, nowadays. This more sustainable approach, lets the organization taking care of the sleeping facilities.

To achieve this goal, the solid shape is designed as a transportable structure which is completely waterproof, due to the use of giscolene (EPDM) and small gutters as hinged elements. Both having a dual function by connecting the lobes while draining rainwater.


Prototype 2.0:
Prototype 1.0 is clearly heavier than the design objective allows. The intention is that fiberglass reinforced polyester will be used for the whole unit, each part made with a mold so that the profiles are fabricated and the design has a lighter weight. The aerodynamic structure stands on a floor unit, which consists of different segments, so it is partly removable. The floor unit of the next prototype will also be a foldable shell construction.


(2020, university of Hasselt, Belgium) - published

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