Chaewon Lee‘s innovative approach to designing TUNO began with observing DJs in action. By meticulously tracking the hand movements of three DJs across a CDJ deck, Lee unveiled the organic shape that TUNO needed to embody. Developed through the Samsung Design Membership program, this wearable DJ controller condenses the capabilities of two professional decks into a compact ring, enabling mixing, scratching, and beat-matching without the need for a traditional booth.
From observation to creation
Lee’s process started with capturing professional sets on CDJ (RX-3) equipment. By overlaying these movements, he discovered two key insights: DJs’ hands display near-perfect symmetry, and their motions follow circular paths rather than straight lines. This data became the blueprint for TUNO’s ring-shaped design, built into plastic.
Innovative controls in a compact form
The TUNO features a single spring-loaded button that mimics the function of a jog wheel, providing the tactile feedback necessary for precise beat-matching. Surrounding this button, a click wheel and scroll button replace traditional knobs, enabling frequency selection and level adjustment with ease. These controls are seamlessly accessible, allowing DJs to focus on their performance without visual distractions.
Advanced audio integration
TUNO includes built-in wireless earbuds that connect automatically to a paired music app. A head-positioning sensor inside the earbuds monitors each track’s isolation, mimicking the professional habit of listening to one track with a single ear. The device also provides a wired option via a detachable strap, ensuring optimal connectivity and latency management.
Gesture-based interaction
Expanding beyond touch controls, TUNO incorporates gesture-based interactions for intuitive operation. Flipping the device cues the next track, while shaking it suggests a new song at a matching BPM. These actions enhance the user interface, adding an additional layer to the existing control scheme without compromising functionality.
Designed for portability
TUNO’s portability is evident in its ability to connect to any music app via Bluetooth, fitting comfortably in a bag. Lee envisions its use as akin to a sketchbook for musicians, facilitating spontaneous creativity wherever inspiration strikes, rather than being confined to a stage setting.
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Visual feedback in real time
The device features a lighting UI that provides immediate feedback on beat flow, enhancing visibility in low-light environments without the need for a traditional screen. This minimalistic approach maintains TUNO’s portability and ease of use, aligning with its research-driven design.
A concept with potential
Though TUNO remains a conceptual prototype at this stage, developed through clay modeling and 3D scanning, Chaewon Lee raises an essential design question: Can professional-grade capabilities be compacted into a conveniently wearable device? Even if it never reaches mass production, TUNO already suggests a compelling answer to this challenge.
Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of TUNO?
Chaewon Lee’s innovative approach to designing TUNO began with observing DJs in action. By meticulously tracking the hand movements of three DJs across a CDJ deck, Lee unveiled the organic shape that TUNO needed to embody.
How does TUNO mimic a professional DJ booth?
TUNO condenses the capabilities of two professional decks into a compact ring, enabling mixing, scratching, and beat-matching without the need for a traditional booth. It features a single spring-loaded button that mimics the function of a jog wheel and includes built-in wireless earbuds for track isolation.
What gesture-based interactions does TUNO include?
TUNO incorporates gesture-based interactions for intuitive operation. Flipping the device cues the next track, while shaking it suggests a new song at a matching BPM.