The Orrb (also known as Oculas or Ovei pod and has been referred to as a "wellness device"[1]) is a precision-engineered monocoque structured physical device fabricated from 100% recyclable glass-reinforced plastic[2] with dimensions 3 feet by 6 feet that allows users to sit inside, fostering a sense of calmness with a 5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes wellness session. It facilitates experiences from relaxation, brain entrainment, and entertainment to engender a focused work culture. Beyond its structural innovation, the Orrb was inspired by the concept of sacred spaces—places designed for deep reflection and inner calm.[3] The first Oculas Pod was designed by British designer and innovator Lee McCormack in 2002. McCormack reported in 2015 that he received positive feedback about the device's effectiveness from the wellness training industries in the US and UK.[4]
History
In 2002, McCormack named the device ‘Oculas’ as the prototype, later in 2008 he worked on an engineering partnership with McLaren Applied Technologies, culminating in the all-new “Ovei” which enhances personal and professional spaces through technology and comfort fusion. F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Damon Hill used the pods to help with relaxation and focus.[5] Inspired by the compact efficiency of the Japanese Capsule Hotel, the Orrb has evolved to become a multifaceted platform which was commercially released in April 2015 with each design step meticulously shaped by geometric precision and mathematical principles for timeless appeal and adaptability in varied settings. In 2023 McCormack began creating the Orrb XR model, collaborating with Beckhoff and the Veterans Affairs (VA) in the US.
Founder
Lee McCormack, a British designer, is known for founding Orrb, a venture blending technology with architectural design. Born in 1971, McCormack introduced the Oculas in 2002, a precursor to Ovei, showcasing his early commitment to integrating technology into immersive environments. Ovei, developed with McLaren Applied Technologies, enhanced personal and professional spaces through technology and comfort fusion. The latest designed version is named Orrb. McCormack's expertise extends to smart city designs, emphasizing sustainability, collaborations with industry leaders like Apple, and contributions to platforms like MyGlobalHome and Propcode underscore his impact on transformative design and technology.
Technical Specifications
- Power Requirement: Standard USA Outlet
- Material: GRP (fiberglass)
- Color: Customizable
- Mobility: Wheels fixed in place during use (no removal required)
- Seating:
- Reclining seat
- Anti-bacterial vinyl fabric
- Door:
- Electronic operation with foam seal
- Magnetic catch and lock
- Designed for soundproofing with a large opening for easy access
- Audio System: 5.1 Surround Sound speaker system
- Visual Display: Extended Reality (XR) Integration:
- Virtual Reality (VR): Orrb features fully immersive VR experiences, providing users with engaging environments for wellness, training, and meetings.
- Augmented Reality (AR): Future updates will include AR capabilities, allowing users to overlay digital information onto the physical world for enhanced training scenarios.
- Mixed Reality (MR): Orrb is designed to support MR experiences, blending real-world and virtual elements to create seamless interactive environments.
- Computing: Beckhoff
- Ventilation: Air intake and expel electric fan system
Notable Appearances
Orrb's innovative design and multifunctional capabilities have led to its presence in various high-profile settings, emphasizing its appeal in diverse fields:
Film and Entertainment:
- In the 2005 science fiction film The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Orrb made a striking appearance showcasing its futuristic design and appeal to the sci-fi genre. Disney purchased 25 units to promote the movie to deliver an interactive experience for global marketing within cinema venues and shopping malls, Directed by Garth Jennings.[7]
- It was also used in promotional activities for the fantasy films Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006) released by Walt Disney Pictures, Directed by Gore Verbinski.[9]
- In the 2008 science fiction film WALL-E, released by Walt Disney Pictures and directed by Andrew Stanton, Orrb named ‘Escape Pod’ was used in promotional activities.[8][9]
- In the 2005 film Chicken Little, released by Walt Disney Pictures, Directed by Mark Dindal, Orrb was used for marketing purposes.
- In the 2005 film Flight Plan, released by Touchstone Pictures, Directed by Robert Schwentke, Orrb exemplified its versatility and appeal in entertainment marketing.
Further reading
References
- ^ "Launchpad Directory Tech City 2011" (PDF). Directory of Digital Products: 38.
- ^ "What are composites - EuCIA". eucia.eu. April 4, 2023. Retrieved May 27, 2024.
- ^ O'Callaghan, Jonathan (January 14, 2015). "Need a break from work? Step into the secluded Orrb pod". Mail Online. Retrieved May 27, 2024.
- ^ McCormack, Lee (2005). Designers are Wankers. About Face Publishing. ISBN 978-0-9550968-1-5.
- ^ "If It's Hip It's Here | The latest in global design and creativity". www.ifitshipitshere.com. Retrieved May 27, 2024.