Explore Diatolumen, a unique lampshade inspired by AI-generated diatom forms. This project showcases the fusion of nature, technology, and design, resulting in a product that casts intricate patterns, symbolizing the harmony between natural forms and human creativity.
Abstract
Diatolumen is a lampshade model inspired by forms generated from the machine learning system, StyleGAN, using Runway software. Trained on 500 microscopic images of diatoms, the system generated new AI-created diatom forms. These forms inspired the creation of a 3D lampshade model, symbolizing the illumination of creativity through the co-design between nature, technology, and humanity.
Diatom shapes generated trough RunwayML - CC BY-SA 4.0
Concept
The user interacts with Diatolumen by turning on the light in the usual way. The light emitted through the lampshade casts intricate patterns onto surrounding surfaces, evoking a sense of unity between natural forms and human design. Additionally, users can utilize the Runway application to generate new shapes based on diatoms, offering an infinite number of unique designs.
Final diatom shapes a generated with RunwayML - CC BY-SA 4.0
Process Development
The creative process began with collecting approximately 500 images of diatoms. After aligning the style of each image, a dataset was created to train the machine learning model using Runway. The trained model autonomously generated new shapes inspired by diatoms. These shapes were then developed into 3D models using Blender and printed using a Prusa i3 mk3 FDM 3D printer.
Process of machine training with RunwayML - CC BY-SA 4.0
Note
The project was developed during the Machine Learning course of the Master of Arts in Interaction Design at SUPSI together with my collegues Anna Mueller, Giuseppe Piazza and Max Fonseca.
How to cite this page:
Subet, Matteo (2021). Diatolumen. Retrieved on 18 December 2025 from zumat.ch/projects/diatolumen.html