CYCLA – Design in Motion
The name CYCLA comes from the Greek word kyklos (κύκλος), meaning “circle” or “cycle.” This term carries a dual meaning: on one hand, it refers to the circular movement of the rotational molding production process, while on the other, it evokes the Earth's cycle and the concept of environmental sustainability, emphasizing the importance of circular economy in contemporary design.
The CYCLA chair is designed to be manufactured using rotational molding, a production process that utilizes heat and rotation to evenly distribute material inside the mold, resulting in a seamless monocoque structure. This method, widely used for producing kayaks, outdoor furniture, and industrial tanks, enables the creation of large-scale products while maintaining high durability and strength.
Depending on specific application needs, CYCLA can be produced in different thermoplastic materials such as PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), Polyamide, and Polyethylene, all of which are suitable for outdoor use due to their resistance to weather conditions, UV rays, and impact. The use of recyclable materials helps minimize environmental impact, promoting a sustainable approach to industrial production.
Rhino + Keyshot
The design of CYCLA originated from a conceptual sketch, later developed through computational modeling techniques in Rhinoceros.
By leveraging QuadRemesh and SubD, the chair’s geometry was optimized to ensure smooth surfaces and a thickness distribution suitable for the manufacturing process. The 3D model was then imported into KeyShot, where a photorealistic material simulation was created, accurately reproducing textures and finishes to preview the final aesthetic and functional outcome.
To make the product more realistic, a surface imperfections texture was added, simulating the micro-irregularities found in real materials. This detail, applied in KeyShot, replicates small surface defects such as scratches, molding imperfections, and subtle variations in reflection, enhancing the authenticity of the final look. The goal is to emphasize the material quality of the chair, making the rendering more accurate to the actual manufacturing outcome.
Also, several composition effects were added to make the product visually more engaging.