The Soft Pendant represents a unique approach in lighting design, shifting from traditional metallics to a more neutral aesthetic with a focus on warm, diffused light. Here's a look at the innovative materials, the manufacturing process, and the key product specifications.
Innovation in Materiality: Why TPU?
The Soft Pendant is constructed from a coated steel frame that is then sprayed with Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). This material was specifically chosen for its superior properties, which contribute to the pendant's distinctive look and performance:
- Flexibility and Elasticity: Allows for the smooth, near-spherical surface inspired by celestial bodies.
- Durability: Ensures the longevity and resilience of the shade.
- Transparency: Creates the signature warm, diffused, and flattering glow.
Manufacturing Process: The Cocooning Spray
The process involves precision welding and an automated spraying technique, with meticulous attention to detail at every stage:
- Frame Construction:
- The core is a coated steel frame made from welded steel rods.
- The number of circular rods varies by size: 32 circles on the 45cm shade and 72 circles on the 60cm shade.
- TPU Spraying:
- The steel frame is attached to a motor and rotated.
- A robot arm precisely sprays the TPU material onto the rotating frame, creating a seamless "cocoon."
- It takes approximately 1 hour to produce 1 shade entirely.
- A 60cm shade requires a rotating time of up to 38 minutes, completing an impressive 2280 rotations.
- Curing/Drying:
- Each finished shade is hung for a full 24 hours before any further handling or assembly.
Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Welded steel frame sprayed with TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) |
| Glow | Warm, diffused, and flattering |
| Sizes (Shade) | 45cm and 60cm |
| Cable | New 350cm / 137.8in White fabric cable |
| Ceiling Rose | White gloss cone ceiling rose |
| Lamp Base | E27 |
| Max Wattage | Max 15W (Light source not included) |
| Dimmability | Mains Dimmable |
| Environment | Indoor, IP20/Dry Location |
| Customisation | The user can customise the feeling of the product by choosing the colour temperature and brightness of the light source. |
Design Benefits
The SOFT Pendant offers several design advantages:
- Large-Scale & Lightweight: These are large-scale and space-filling pendants that are surprisingly lightweight.
- Clustering: The 45cm and 60cm sizes are designed to be hung together into striking, large clusters.
Would you like more information on installing the SOFT Pendant or details about compatible light sources?