DI: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
RP : The core behind this project lies in the field of electric mobility, a sector with a huge development potential that, in the coming years, promises to radically revolutionize the way we move daily.
The term "revolution" is appropriate because we are facing a paradigm shift in social structures, driven by the transition to electric mobility.
This transformation is not simply limited to replacing traditional vehicles with electric ones, but will also profoundly affect the architecture of our homes and our approach to energy.
Electric mobility, therefore, is not only a matter of transport, but represents a real change of mentality that permeates different aspects of our daily life.
DI: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?
RP : The main objective is to satisfy a growing need found during the research: to guarantee and expand the charging network in a capillary and flexible way.
This would allow users to overcome the limitations related to the transition to electric vehicles and to support the ongoing electrification of the circulating car fleet.
The idea is to achieve a bold solution, which could even be innovative, by acting as a starting point for a series of crucial reflections regarding the switch to electric vehicles.
This would not only solve the current challenges, but could also pave the way for new ideas and opportunities in the field of sustainable mobility.
DI: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?
RP : The time devoted to the design of this concept has been structured into several stages that constitute the overall process.
The research started in November 2021, followed by the actual design phase, which was based on the information collected during the previous phase.
During the design process, a preliminary vision of the concept was developed, which was subsequently refined both aesthetically and technically. This finishing work led to the conclusion of the entire process in September 2022.
DI: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?
RP : Echos is a project born in the context of the realization of my master’s thesis. During the whole period of work, I received the supervision of the architect Alessandra Rinaldi and the engineer Alberto Reatti, who provided me with technical, aesthetic and design support.
The discussion regarding the project took place during my graduation session, held in September 2022 at the Design Campus of Calenzano,
within the University of Florence.
DI: Who is the target customer for his design?
RP : Research shows that there is widespread interest in electric vehicles across different age groups, involving different generational groups.
In particular, Millennials and Generation Z (Zoomer) show a positive propensity towards electric vehicles, suggesting a favorable trend towards this emerging technology.
It is important to consider that these younger generations play a key role in shaping the future of electric mobility,
therefore the electricity grid must be adequately prepared to support this growing demand.
On the other hand, even the Baby Boomer and Generation X show a growing propensity towards electric vehicles, especially after overcoming preconceptions and barriers related to various aspects of electric mobility. This more mature part of the population, once it has understood the advantages and opportunities offered by electric technology, it is open to embrace this form of sustainable transport.
These findings underline the importance of educating and informing the public about all the positive aspects and solutions available in the field of electric mobility.
DI: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?
RP : The name of this project, Echos, is the result of a creative process that involved a series of brainstorming sessions.
The goal was to find a name that captured the essence of the product itself. Echos is an acronym for "Electric Charging On Demand Station". This choice aimed to clearly reflect the nature and objective of the project: to provide an electric charging solution on demand, which is convenient and easily accessible for users.
Echos embodies the idea of an electric charging station ready to meet the needs of electric vehicles efficiently and timely.
DI: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?
RP : For the design of this concept, I used two main modeling software: Rhino and Autodesk Fusion 360.
Through these platforms, I developed the 3D model in all its components, ensuring a detailed and precise approach to design.
Next, to create realistic visualizations of the project, I used an advanced rendering software, Keyshot.
This tool allowed me to apply various textures and materials to the model, allowing me to get high quality renders that illustrate the design in an engaging and realistic way. Finally, regarding the graphics and presentation of the project, I used Adobe Illustrator. This software provided me with the tools needed to create eye-catching diagrams, charts and layouts, which helped to communicate the concept and features of my project clearly and effectively.
DI: What is the role of technology in this particular design?
RP : Technology plays a crucial role in this project, being one of the pillars on which the operation of Echos is based.
The system design uses advanced devices that give Echos considerable operating autonomy.
As a technology and innovative device enthusiast, I believe it is vital to explore and exploit the full potential of these emerging technologies.
Echos is conceived with the aim of integrating the latest technological innovations in the field of electric mobility,
ensuring a state-of-the-art charging service in line with the needs of its users.
DI: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?
RP : I chose to participate in an international prestigious competition like the A' Design Award because I felt the desire to confront and test myself with this project. This work represents for me not only the conclusion of my academic career, but also the transition to the professional world.
Participating in a competition of this importance gives me the opportunity to gain international recognition and to compare myself with other professionals and creatives in the field. This experience not only allows me to showcase my skills and my work, but also to grow personally and professionally, opening new doors in my career path.
