VAESKO

During this research project called Vaesko (Liquid Shoe), the main goal involved the ultra-personalization of 3D printed shoes via a novel 3D printing process called "Rapid Liquid Printing" 

developed by MIT Self-Assembly Lab.

 

The printer could extrude any kind of 2 component material, such as silicone, into a gel vat that would act as a support structure until the material had cured and was ready to be taken out. The main focus was on the aesthetics of these air pockets, what they would look like and how they would influence the way people walk in the future. The project also explored what health benefits custom 3D printed air pockets would bring to people with diabetes or uneven feet.

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My main contributions to the project were in the actual physical making and stitching of the shoes themselves, as well as helping to custom reconfigure a store-bought 3D printer. The process was quite heavy on “doing by making”, as we were working with very little openly available information. 

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By the end of the project, I had learnt more about how 3D printers work, the G-code they use and what kind of possibilities and limitations lie in the technology.  and showed how important it is to closely involve the user in these design processes. 

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​The project was selected to represent the university at the 

"Mind the Step" exhibition during the Dutch Design Week 2018. Presenting and speaking to people from all walks of life, made me realize just how much of an impact and responsibility I have, as a designer of the future. The experience made me sure that I wanted to pursue designing in the domain of data-enabled design.

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