TENS - Steven Dahlinger, 2025

Diploma Universität für angewandte Kunst, Wien
- realised with SHRINX 4903

TENS is a revolutionary prototype of a worktable that deliberately dispenses with classic plate constructions and instead utilises the load-bearing capacity of SHRINX textiles instead. The diploma thesis uses the design to analyse the constructive and creative potential of self-supporting textile surfaces beyond their usual field of application.

As the first prototype of a modular system for flexible, digital working environments, TENS is designed for light to medium workloads - such as workstations, for hot and shared desking, for stationary work with a mouse and keyboard as well as for conferences, presentations and use in libraries. The desk is also suitable for educational institutions, creative offices, temporary workstations at trade fairs and events, consultation zones, business lounges and the home office, for example

The basic construction consists of a lightweight aluminium frame system into which two identical frames are inserted. These are each clad with SHRINX and together with a centrally integrated aluminium console form the work surface. Round profiles on the outer edges ensure a pleasant feel and a comfortable armrest, while the minimal suspension of the textile ensures a familiar yet independent user experience. The slightly translucent and air permeable textile gives the table a surprising lightness despite its striking and graphic form language.

The construction of the two table frames opens up a new dimension in designing with SHRINX textiles.

The centre post and the outer elements are joined using a plug-in system. The controlled shrinkage of the textile fixes the individual parts without additional connecting elements - the construction stiffens itself.
The enormous tensile strength of SHRINX is utilised not only aesthetically but also statically.
The design is based on the principles of circular design: all components are pure, easy to separate from one another and can therefore be repaired, replaced and recycled. Only aluminium profiles, SHRINX-textile, stainless steel screws and a few plastic connectors. By deliberately dispensing with traditional composite panels, the variety of materials is reduced and recyclability is significantly improved compared to conventional products.

As an object study, TENS is part of a fundamental examination of the design of work surfaces, shelves and storage space in public, professional and private environments. The design questions why these are often designed for very high loads, even though they are rarely used to this extent in everyday life and whether this always has to be the case. This raises the question of the appropriateness of the material used - be it through excessive weight or the use of ecologically questionable lightweight materials. TENS is looking for alternatives that are functional and at the same time conserve resources and sees itself as a contribution to a differentiated, future-orientated design in the sense of a circular economy.