Topo

Name(s) of graduate(s):

Emil Frederking

2026

Burg Giebichenstein Kunsthochschule Halle

Industriedesign

Bachelor of Arts

Description

The project focused on the exploration of mold making. The goal was to develop a rapidly manufacturable, robust, and versatile mold system.

The basic idea is based on layered molds made of sheet steel. The stacked structure of the geometry creates resilient tools that can be manufactured with minimal time and cost. This construction method allows for precise mold definition without the complexity of classic industrial tools.

Topo is designed for quantities from 20 to 10,000 units, thereby closing the gap between artisanal and industrial manufacturing. The molds can be used for different processes such as casting, blow molding, injection molding, pressing, and stamping.

Compared to industrial molds, Topo is significantly more cost-effective and enables reproducible, semi-industrial manufacturing. As a result, design, engineering, and production seamlessly merge into one another.