Students and teachers of the Faculty of Multimedia Communications UTB in Zlín together with MCAE Systems exhibit at BERLIN DESIGN WEEK 2025
"The FOCUS project opens up a topic that concerns all of us, regardless of age - the ability to concentrate." says the head of the Industrial Design Studio at FMK UTB in Zlín doc. MgA. Martin Surman, ArtD. "Students and teachers of the Industrial Design Studio of the Faculty of Multimedia Communications of the Tomas Bata University in Zlín, in cooperation with MCAE Systems, a company that has been dedicated to industrial 3D printing for thirty years, have designed a collection of products that help deepen our concentration. The designs address different aspects of concentration, some helping to calm the mind, others encouraging it to actively engage. But they have a unified goal, to allow us to slow down and focus on what is really important. It's easy to lose focus these days, but it's also possible to consciously direct it. And the FOCUS exhibition design project offers the opportunity to stop for a moment and rediscover what it is like to be fully focused," continues Assoc. Surman. "MCAE Systems has the widest portfolio of 3D printers in the Czech and Slovak Republics, suitable for both prototyping and mass production of functional parts. Additive technologies have opened up new possibilities for us, especially in the area of fast and highly individualised production, and have been able to turn our visions into real products. Personally, I very much appreciate the long-term cooperation of our studio with this Czech technology company, which has resulted in a joint exhibition project. It is a great honour and motivation for us to have such an important and enlightened partner by our side." adds doc. Surman.
"We are delighted to be part of the prestigious Berlin Design Week and to be able to show the general public how modern additive technologies enrich the world of art," said Jan Drápela, Rapid Prototyping Sales Manager at MCAE Systems. "Students and teachers made the most of all the possibilities that industrial 3D printing offers. The resulting artifacts have a unique charm and we are glad we were able to be at their birth."
"With the rapid advancement of technology, we are exposed to a multitude of distractions that negatively impact our ability to focus and usurp our attention. It shatters into small pieces and forces us to constantly jump from one thing to another. We can't even remember when we were truly focused, when we were fully and sustainedly immersed in one activity without our minds running elsewhere." says FOCUS project leader MgA. Ondřej Puchta, Ph.D. "The students approached the problem of the concentration comprehensively, the collection of products is complemented by the design of the exhibition furniture, the design of the visual identity of the project and product photography, all of which playfully work with the attention of visitors to the FOCUS exhibition project at BERLIN DESIGN WEEK."
About the FOCUS project
The FOCUS exhibition design project by students and teachers of the Faculty of Multimedia Communications at Tomas Bata University in Zlín and MCAE Systems presents a series of ten products promoting concentration.
The design proposals focus on areas that positively influence our attention and efficiency.
The chosen themes include CONCORDANCE - perception of the environment, interaction with the environment during work and singletasking, MOTIVATION and PLANNING - work organisation, productivity and brain training and RELAXATION - mind meditation, physical relaxation and stress relief.
The FOCUS project is a completely unique example of a complex design approach within the addressed issue of attention and concentration from the initial ideas, research of many other related aspects, through the search for concrete solutions and starting points to the development and implementation of design proposals for utility products, exhibition display and media. The complexity of the issues addressed is illustrated by a series of collaborations and workshops with leading experts in the field of 3D printing.
About the FOCUS products
The products of the FOCUS exhibition were made from a wide range of materials - 3D printed plastics in multi-coloured and transparent versions, metal, textiles and acoustic materials.
The exhibits were created in cooperation with the Czech company MCAE Systems, which supplies professional 3D technologies - industrial 3D printers for metal and plastic production, 3D scanners and CAD/CAM software Tebis. It also offers customers professional 3D printing and scanning, reverse engineering, vacuum casting and precision CNC machining.
In agreement with MCAE Systems, PolyJet additive technology, which works by applying droplets of photopolymer material cured with UV light, was chosen for the production of the products. The great advantage of this technology is the highly accurate 3D printing of more than 600,000 colour shades and the possibility to combine transparent, flexible and hard materials.
Another technology used to realize selected design proposals is 3D printing in metals, which allows printing in stainless steel, titanium and aluminium. The metal powder material is selectively sintered using a laser, safely and efficiently, so the operator does not come into contact with the material.
The application of these technologies enables the rapid production of products with specific material and visual properties and sophisticated details. For industrial design, these technologies offer new possibilities, especially in the field of realistic prototyping and in the production of individualised products.
About the FOCUS exhibition
The overall design of the FOCUS exhibition works with the motif of a circle, which symbolizes the point of concentration. The installation uses corrugated plexiglass panels in the space that act as screens and create a distortion and blurring effect on the exhibits, including the FOCUS sign on the back wall. A closer look at the individual exhibits hidden behind the glass reveals them. The circular morphology appears in the plinths, structures and the dot motif at the end of the logo.
The colour scheme of the exhibition is unified by turquoise blue shades in a monochromatic palette of black and white. The blue colour promotes concentration while evoking a sense of calm. The graphic design of the exhibition, including the logo, designed by a student of the Graphic Design Studio, corresponds with the optical effects of the corrugated plexiglass. The entire exhibition has a sophisticated and visually homogeneous effect and, thanks to its variability, it can be dimensionally adapted to any type of exhibition space.
About Berlin Design Week
The international design show Berlin Design Week 2025 provides an interdisciplinary platform for the presentation and discussion of contemporary design. With this year's theme "Common Sense", it emphasises the importance of a responsible and ethical approach to design practice in the context of current societal challenges. The event traditionally takes place in diverse locations across Berlin, focusing on the connection between design and science, research and technology, as demonstrated by the dedicated format DESIGN + SCIENCE. BERLIN DESIGN WEEK will include the hybrid format DESIGN POOL (17-18 May), focusing on small-scale production and unique materials, and BERLIN DESIGN NIGHTS (15 May), opening up design studios and institutions to the professional and general public. Tens of thousands of visitors attend this event every year and see the work of hundreds of designers from all over the world.
About the Industrial Design Studio
The study in the Industrial Design Studio, Faculty of Multimedia Communications, Tomas Bata University in Zlín is focused on the design of functional products, from furniture and interior accessories to electrical appliances, machines and vehicles. The studio continues the long tradition of teaching industrial design in Zlín and emphasizes the utility value of design, ergonomics, visual quality, manufacturability and environmental responsibility.
The Industrial Design Studio has long been active in presenting its work at international design shows, where it regularly wins a number of important awards. Through close cooperation with manufacturing companies, students are introduced not only to the current requirements of the industrial sphere, but also to the most progressive technologies and materials, which enables them to find innovative design solutions. Close cooperation with the manufacturing sector has resulted in a number of concrete product realisations and successful long-term partnerships with many companies.
Authors / products
Bára Kolondrová / Timer X1 / Industrial Design Studio
Elegant and intuitive - this timer is designed to promote deep work and efficient use of time. It offers four dynamic modes: Basic, Pomodoro, Sprint and Zen, which adapt to your rhythm and work habits. With simple one-button operation, you can easily switch between modes, trigger countdowns and stay in the flow of work without unnecessary distractions. Visual feedback and motivational rewards help you build better focus and productive habits.
The product is made with Laser Powder Bed Fusion technology.
One Click Metal MPRINT 3D Printer.
Material: Tool steel MS1
Kateřina Johanka Krahulíková / Beloo / Industrial Design Studio
The Beloo baby aid in the form of a playful monster helps improve concentration, perception and daily routine. It includes a timer function, ambient light and a sound player. It allows you to better manage daily activities such as morning preparation, hygiene, cleaning or homework. Its gender-neutral design encourages imagination and creates a personal connection that makes it easier to build healthy habits.
The product is made with PolyJetTM technology.
Stratasys J55 Prime 3D Printer.
Material: VeroVividTM
Kateřina Johanka Krahulíková / Senti / Industrial Design Studio
The Senti jewellery collection responds to the distraction and overload of today's times. It combines aesthetics with function and offers jewellery as tactile aids for concentration and calming. Delicate structures and shapes invite touch, helping to release tension and improve focus. Senti shows that jewellery can be not only beautiful but also practical - naturally present in everyday situations.
The product is made with Laser Powder Bed Fusion technology.
One Click Metal MPRINT 3D Printer.
Material: Tool steel MS1
Jan Kroulík / AR glasses Foculo / Industrial Design Studio
Augmented reality (AR) glasses with support for concentration, productivity and single-tasking. The product's main function is based on a variable field of view system, which allows to actively limit visually distracting elements in the immediate surroundings of the work environment. It also helps the user to regulate work intervals, reduce fatigue at work and subsequently analyse the level of efficiency and distraction. The design combines ergonomics, modern technology and functionality. The entire system works on the principles of electrochromic dimming, eye-tracking and other AR content display features.
The product is made with PolyJet™ technology.
Stratasys J55 Prime 3D printer
VeroVivid™
Jiří Sousedík / Focus Ring / Industrial Design Studio
You know the drill: you're standing in a café with friends, walking through town, waiting at a crosswalk or wandering through nature - and you automatically reach for your phone anyway. How many moments do you lose? And how many times do you unknowingly put yourself or others at risk? Focus Ring is a stylish smart ring that alerts you when you're reaching for your phone through a gentle vibration. Connected to GPS, it lets you know when it's time to pay attention to your surroundings - like outdoors, on the street or at a crosswalk, where safety can be an issue. LEDs display the time spent on the networks. Focus Ring helps you slow down, be more in the here and now - and get back to reality.
The product is made with PolyJet™ technology.
Stratasys J55 Prime
VeroVivid™
Ondřej Puchta / Arnold & Silvester / Industrial Design Studio
Arnold and Silvester products are designed to release mental tension and help focus, similar to the way people unconsciously click a pen. At the same time, the products can be used as a counter, where one click adds one unit, which is displayed on the top display. The products give the user a haptic and audible response when the switch is pressed, but can be switched to silent mode so as not to distract others. The Arnold is activated by the front pistol trigger, while the Silvester clicks through the press of the display.
The product is made with PolyJet™ technology.
Stratasys J55 Prime
VeroVivid™
Martin Surman / FUSIO / Industrial Design Studio
FUSIO's multifunctional product is primarily designed to calm the body and improve the ability to concentrate. The shape is designed to feel good in the palm of the hand while stimulating the relevant energy points in the palm. Alternatively, the product can be equipped with specialized diagnostic functions that monitor the human body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar, temperature, stress level, with the measured values subsequently viewable via a mobile app.
The product is made with PolyJet™ technology.
Stratasys J55 Prime 3D printer.
VeroVivid™
Kateřina Konrádová / Swing & Sing / Industrial Design Studio
Swinging has a positive effect on the human psyche and body and promotes concentration. It also helps reduce stress, creates a feeling of happiness and a momentary return to childhood. Swing & Sing is a net suitable for swinging while seated, outdoors or indoors. The main weave consists of a single piece of parachute cord with a minimum number of knots, which guarantees greater comfort. The knitting principle is inspired by the crochet technique with reference to traditional handwork. The mesh can be stretched to increase the width of the knitting.
Veronika Chovančíková + Johana Kania / Paravan Trivo / Industrial Design Studio
Trivo, a modular space divider, offers a variable solution for efficient space division. It consists of triangular parts that allow for different layout variations. The overall shape of the partition can be adapted to your own preferences and the character of the interior - from dynamic walls to quieter configurations or spatial objects. The acoustic material dampens sound and contributes to a pleasant atmosphere. The addition of a shelving system gives the screen an additional practical function and creates space for personalisation.
Vendula Kramářová / Kokon Mirno / Industrial Design Studio
Enjoy moments of peace and privacy in Cocoon Mirno. Its soft, sound-dampening construction made of high-quality felt creates a cosy space for relaxation, reading or meditation. Inside, a padded cushion ensures maximum comfort. The cocoon is lightweight, portable and easily portable so you can create your personal space anywhere. It can be accessorized with ambient lighting or handy pockets for books and other small items. Its elegant design also makes it a stylish addition to any interior.
Kamil Čech / graphic design / Graphic Design Studio
Elizaveta Marchkova, Viktor Pľuchta / photographic documentation of the project / Advertising Photography Studio
-
MCAE Systems, s.r.o. organizačná zložka
3D digital technology, rapid prototyping, 3D modeling, 3-D digitization and measurement, CAD/CAM software.
Students and teachers of the Faculty of Multimedia Communications UTB in Zlín together with MCAE Systems exhibit at BERLIN DESIGN WEEK 2025
21.5.2025 Students and teachers of the Faculty of Multimedia Communications at Tomas Bata University in Zlín together with MCAE Systems, a professional 3D printing company, will present an exhibition project called FOCUS at the prestigious design show BERLIN...