ABOUT
THOMAS KNOEPFFLER
thomknoe@icloud.com

Thomas Knoepffler is a Design Technologist based in Miami, Florida. His work explores the intersection of materials, interactions, and environments using emergent technologies—such as AI, responsive systems, and digital fabrication. His work spans across mediums, ranging from parametric bio-hybrid products to ambient ergonomic devices to 3D procedural world builders.

He holds a MS in Design Technology from Cornell University and a BS in Integrated Design & Media from NYU, as well as professional experience in UI/UX design and product management for early-stage startups. He has mentored aspiring designers and volunteered with local creative communities alike, dedicated to making design matter for the tomorrows to come.

  • Rhino 3D, Grasshopper, Blender
  • Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma
  • 3D Printing, Laser Cutting
  • Arduino, Raspberry Pi
  • HTML, CSS, JavaScript
  • Python, C#


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HORIZON.JS DESIGN 6398

HORIZON.JS
DESIGN 6398

 Cornell University, AAP
 Design Physical Interaction II, Spring 2025
— Physical Interaction Design


DESCRIPTION

A diffusion frame displaying the gradient sky of any geo-cached location, complemented by AI-generated sounds that recreate the visual and auditory essence, offering a telepresent moment for user engagement.
horizon.js creates telepresence by bringing distant skies into everyday spaces through a responsive picture frame and interactive speaker. It fetches real-time location data via a geocaching API and renders dynamic sky gradients on a NeoPixel LED matrix behind diffused acrylic. AI-generated ambient soundscapes from ElevenLabs play through an external speaker. These elements transform simple sky observation into an immersive sensory portal that fosters mindfulness and connection across distances.

Development started with sketches exploring the frame’s form, followed by CNC-carved and 3D-printed enclosure prototypes. The NeoPixel matrix displays gradients calculated from sunrise and sunset data pulled from the web. A Python server manages API requests and coordinates ElevenLabs audio generation, while p5.js handles web serial communication and voice interactions. An Arduino Nano BLE controls physical buttons and the NeoPixel outputs. User testing drove key refinements, including loading indicators that signal processing delays and improved AI prompting that treats the model as a translator of visual cues into sound. Audio design shifted to ambient, nature-inspired soundscapes to create a calmer and more emotionally resonant experience. These changes make the system feel intuitive and satisfying.

Future iterations incorporate a more robust sound-recognition model and explore refined materials and form factors. The design would achieve a fully flush wall-mounted installation without visible cords through wireless charging or integrated batteries. Continued development of the AI soundscapes maintains the ideal balance between representation and abstraction, positioning horizon.js as a subtle tool for urban dwellers seeking moments of remote serenity.