What it does
Azure Prism reimagines the Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) furnace with a bold hexagonal structure and ambient azure lighting. It solves the problem of industrial equipment's harsh appearance by enhancing visual clarity, safety, and maintenance efficiency.
Your inspiration
I noticed that industrial furnaces, though essential, are often hidden and visually neglected, creating cold, intimidating environments. Inspired by crystalline forms and aerospace design, I wanted to change this perception. My goal was to create an AOD furnace that not only performs efficiently but also stands proudly as part of the workspace. By combining geometric clarity, better accessibility, and lighting feedback, the design improves safety, maintenance, and visual experience.
How it works
The Azure Prism is a steel refining machine that removes carbon from molten metal using a controlled mix of oxygen and argon gases. Inside, these gases react with the molten steel to make it purer and stronger. My design keeps this process efficient but rethinks how the machine looks and works from the outside. The body uses a strong hexagonal shell, which gives the structure stability and makes it easier to assemble. Panels are arranged to allow quick access for cleaning and repairs, reducing downtime. Cold grey surfaces resist heat damage and wear, keeping the furnace clean and safe to touch. Azure-colored lights are added to show the machine’s status—whether it’s heating, reacting, or cooling—so workers can understand the process at a glance without needing to check complicated screens.
Design process
The design process began with observing industrial environments where AOD furnaces are often hidden due to their harsh, mechanical appearance. I sketched early ideas inspired by crystals and space engineering, aiming for a structure that felt strong yet refined. I built basic 3D models using CAD software to explore geometric forms. Early versions were too complex, making maintenance difficult, so I simplified the structure into a bold hexagon, balancing aesthetics with ease of access. Next, I 3D-printed small-scale prototypes to test panel fitting and surface texture. I used matte grey coatings to simulate industrial finishes and tested how light interacts with different surfaces. For the lighting, I experimented with LED strips to create subtle azure accents, testing how light could show machine status without being distracting. Through feedback from engineers, I adjusted the panel layout to allow faster opening for repairs and refined the angles to reduce dust accumulation. The final prototype combines strong form, safety, and clarity—ready for further testing in real environments.
How it is different
Most AOD furnaces focus only on function, with little thought for how they look or how people interact with them. Azure Prism is different—it transforms a heavy industrial machine into a visible, approachable part of the workspace. Its bold hexagonal shape offers structural strength but also gives the furnace a clear, recognizable form. Unlike traditional boxy designs, it turns the furnace into an architectural feature, not something to be hidden. Integrated lighting shows the machine’s status at a glance, improving safety and reducing the need for external monitors. Modular panels make maintenance faster and easier, lowering downtime. Azure Prism redefines industrial design as something both functional and beautiful, creating a better working environment.
Future plans
The next step is to build a full-scale prototype and test it in real industrial settings. I plan to refine the material selection, optimizing for heat resistance and durability while reducing weight. I will also improve the lighting system, integrating smart sensors to show more detailed machine status and improve safety feedback. In the future, I hope this design approach can influence other industrial equipment, making factory spaces safer, clearer, and more human-centered. My goal is to shift industrial design from purely functional to something inspiring, where machines reflect both their purpose and the people who work with them.
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