Remote Prosthetics
The project Remote Prosthetics was designed and constructed by Michael to investigate ideas of communication between machines and human beings. The project looked at the potentials of machine-human being communication through sound and motion (microphones, touch-sensitive lashes, speakers, movement) but also at machine-machine communication (hydraulic network for communication of movement patterns between machines).
Thus the design methods developed for the physical components took into account the inherently dynamic condition of two machinic entities in constant exchange with each other as well as with their environment. In other words, the machines needed to be able to adapt and respond to specific input. In the physical gestation of the machines Michael sought for their adaptive/ responsive behaviour to be reflected in the materiality and morphology as well.
Despite a different appearance, the Remote Prosthetics project is highly influenced by Soft Machine Dementia in that MichaeI strived to decrease the use of standardised components and increase the level of customisation.
Materials
Reinforced epoxy resin, rubber, brass, steel, aluminium, hydraulic oil, plastic, electronic components