Why hide it?

Abstract

The title of this graduation thesis, “Why hide it? Reimagining the role of urban edge computing in an AI-inspired, human-embodied manner,” reflects the main focus points and results of this project. The client, HiroEdgeMicroDataCenters B.V. develops software and hardware solutions for edge micro data centers (abbreviated EMDC), came in with a speculative idea of rethinking the role of edge infrastructure in the environments they are placed in. Current technical infrastructure contributes to visual ‘pollution’ reinforcing discomfort and stress. The public is calling for alternative solutions to integrate technical infrastructure, focusing on enhancing the aesthetics and functional aspects of community environments. This call is timely and pressing as various technological developments necessitate large-scale introduction of edge equipment into data-generating hotspots, such as city centers. Hiro was in search of a timeless EMDC enclosure design that would not be perceived as visually disturbing technical pollution, but rather enhance the aesthetics and appeal of buildings and public spaces they are placed in while also serving as a statement of their brand identity.

The project consisted of two major parts: the Discover and Design phases. In the Discover phase, research activities pertaining to the original project brief led to reframing it into a problem and vision statements. Initial research also included an analysis of internal hardware, product interaction, and client brand identity, resulting in a comprehensive list of preliminary performance and aesthetics requirements. The project then moved into the Design phase, which consisted of two main design moments. The first moment focused on defining the macro form factor that would create a timeless design that reflects the identified brand identity. Perhaps the most distinctive element of the search for the desired macro form factor was its co-creation with the generative AI tool, MidJourney. The first moment resulted in down-selecting an inspiration image for the desired macro form factor aesthetic. During the second and final design moment, the shape from an inspiration image was put against various requirements and feasibility constraints to detail it and turn it into a Hiro EMDC. The result, consisting of a concept board and the CAD model, presents the first embodiment and iteration of the Hiro EMDC enclosure concept, accounting for its aesthetical and functional aspects respectively.