Strong Wool Project - Manta Ray Gaming Mouse：MR RAY 2024
Mr RAY
Third-yea individual project
The design of MR RAY is inspired by my vision of users gliding through the internet as effortlessly as a manta ray moves through the ocean. True to its name, it aims to deliver a fast, fluid, and seamless experience. Its biomorphic form naturally aligns with the ergonomics of a mouse, making it both functional and visually striking. Additionally, as a representation of marine life, MR RAY serves as a constant reminder of our role in environmental conservation, encouraging more sustainable choices in design and technology.
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Title of workManta Ray Gaming Mouse
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Works Category
The Manta Ray Gaming Mouse (MR RAY) is a product I designed as my third-year independent project at university.
Our design philosophy revolves around the application of strong wool (fiber diameter < 28μm), a material that is severely underrated across various related industries. Due to its coarse texture, strong wool is unsuitable for clothing and most textiles that come into direct contact with the skin. As a result, it is often considered a byproduct or agricultural waste, typically disposed of through burning or direct burial.
From an economic perspective, the cost of shearing strong wool often exceeds its market value, making it more of a burden than an asset for farmers. However, shearing remains an essential practice for maintaining sheep health.
This project adopts a design-driven approach, aiming to transform strong wool into a product that is both highly innovative and aesthetically compelling, redefining its value and potential.
As part of my research and design exploration into emerging materials, I propose using strong wool for both the outer shell and internal components of a gaming mouse. This approach not only enhances the utilization and industrial scalability of strong wool but also expands its potential applications.
In today’s digital age, the mouse has become an indispensable everyday tool. Incorporating strong wool into the mouse shell can effectively reduce movement and clicking noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable user experience. Additionally, strong wool’s heat resistance, durability, and water-repellent properties ensure that it is as long-lasting as conventional plastic mice while being significantly more environmentally friendly.
Moreover, its soft texture offers a better ergonomic fit for the palm, enhancing comfort and grip. This improved anti-slip surface allows for more precise control, making interactions smoother and more efficient.
Manta Ray-Inspired Design & Innovative Features
The MR RAY gaming mouse takes inspiration from the manta ray and incorporates unique interactive elements:
- "Eyes": Two additional customizable buttons that enhance user control and flexibility.
- "Fins": Adjustable angles that provide better wrist support, ensuring a comfortable ergonomic experience in different grip positions.
- Touch-sensitive scrolling: Replacing the traditional scroll wheel, this feature offers a quieter and more customizable scrolling experience, allowing users to adjust scroll sensitivity to their preference.
The mouse’s streamlined form features smooth, flowing curves that naturally conform to the hand, optimizing ergonomic comfort. At the rear, a USB connector enables wireless functionality and can be neatly stored inside the mouse when not in use, transforming MR RAY into a manta ray-inspired decorative piece.
