Furnio
Furnio
As smart devices blend into daily life, the line between furniture and technology continues to blur. This project, under the brand Furnio, presents SideDock—a side table that discreetly integrates a robot vacuum dock. Designed for both function and aesthetics, SideDock enhances home organization without disrupting visual harmony.
Theme/ Research
This project explores the potential of integrating home appliances, particularly robot vacuum docking stations, into furniture designs. The goal is to create functional, space-efficient furniture pieces where the appliances become an inherent part of the design—either seamlessly invisible or as aesthetic elements that complement the overall look of the furniture.
“How can home appliances be integrated into furniture in a way that they are either seamlessly invisible or serve as aesthetic elements of the furniture?”
Begining with Key Questions
“What if home appliances could be transformed into furniture?“
“Which appliances and which types of furniture could be meaningfully combined?”
These initial questions led to a series of conceptual sketches exploring various appliance-furniture combinations. Among them, the robot vacuum docking station was selected for further investigation and development due to its strong potential for functional and spatial integration.
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“Let’s integrate the Robot Vacuum Docking Station into a Side Table.”
“Why a Side Table?”
Problem
Robot vacuum docking stations take up space in a room.
They often look out of place and can cause people to trip over them.
Solution
A side table optimizes the space used by the docking station.
It conceals the docking station while providing storage.
The table’s surface is functional for everyday use.
The design can be customized to match the surrounding decor.
Ideation Sketch
From concept to final design, these sketches illustrate the development of SideDock and the robot vacuum, focusing on form, function, and seamless furniture integration.
Key Included Features
Integrated charging station for convenience and easy access.
The table top and main base are designed to be detachable.
The table top can be used as a seat in case of urgent need.
The tank storage area is accessed via a pull-down door that opens downward.
The space for storing the robot vacuum features a sliding door that opens and closes vertically.
Prototyping
A full-scale model was first built using cardboard to test key elements. A final quarter-scale version was then created using a 3D printer.
To verify usability and scale, a series of physical prototypes was developed and tested for key interactions.
Tested detachable tabletop by lifting it manually for intuitive use.
Observed structure and noted areas for design improvement.
Built a full-scale cardboard model to assess size and spatial presence.
Prototyped two handle designs to test grip comfort and usability.
A 0.4-scale physical model was built to represent the design. 3D-printed parts were finished with spray paint for the SideDock base and robot vacuum, while a woodgrain sticker was applied to the tabletop to mimic natural wood. A foam board human figure was included to illustrate the product’s overall scale.
Final Design
SideDock
A robot vacuum docking station designed in the form of a side table. At first glance, it appears to be ordinary furniture, only revealing its true function when the vacuum is in use. Its molded plywood table top is detachable and can be repurposed as an additional seat, enhancing its multifunctionality in everyday spaces.
Features
This highlights the five main features of the design.
Table Top
A detachable top designed for multifunctionality. It can be used as an additional seat when needed, with integrated grip zones and a sliding insert mechanism ensuring secure attachment and effortless handling.
Core Compartment
The front panel opens with a downward motion to reveal a neatly hidden space for the dust bag and water tanks. Everything stays tucked away, helping your room feel more organized and clutter-free.
Smart Glow
A soft LED light appears only when it’s time to empty or refill the dust bag or water tanks. This gentle notification helps you stay on top of maintenance without interrupting the clean look of your space.
Vacuum Port
The robot vacuum enters through a sliding door that opens when it’s cleaning and closes when it’s done. While not in use, it stays docked and hidden inside, keeping your home looking neat and uninterrupted.
Touch Charge
Place your phone on the marked area of the table top to charge it wirelessly. There’s no need to search for cables or outlets because charging happens naturally while you go about your day.
Color Options
SideDock is available in six thoughtfully curated base colors, designed to blend seamlessly into contemporary interiors while expressing distinct moods and personalities. The palette ranges from soft neutrals to bold accent hues, offering users the flexibility to mix and match according to their personal aesthetic and interior style. The table top is available in two finishes, oak and walnut, which add a layer of warmth and natural texture to the overall design.
UI
This visualizes the app interface designed to operate the product.
App
Furnio’s robot vacuum connects to a dedicated app, giving users control over cleaning schedules, tank status, and device settings. The Home menu provides an overview of key functions, while additional pages allow for easy scheduling and real-time monitoring of the water tank and dust bag. With an intuitive interface, the app makes smart living effortless.
