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Hivecell Hivecell
  • Timeline
  • 2017
  • Services
  • Product Development
  • Industrial Design
  • Mechanical & Thermal Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering Support
  • Design for Manufacture

Hivecell
A Modular, Stackable Computer For Cloud Computing

Ricker Lyman Robotic Company works on projects that aim to expand automation through the use of big data, blockchain and other cutting edge technologies. Now they have teamed up with Tomorrow Lab to create Hivecell. The Hivecell is a modular, stackable computer defining a new era of cloud computing: fog computing. In fog computing, the servers are closer to the ground (on your own desk) and can be scaled up and down quickly and easily. Safety tested AC Power and Ethernet pass-through connectors on the top and bottom of every unit allow more computing and storage to be added by simply stacking more hive cells together - up to 8 units tall per stack. This alternative to cloud computing will empower smaller organizations to retain control of their data, and become less reliant on larger corporations.

  • Timeline
  • 2017
  • Services
  • Product Development
  • Industrial Design
  • Mechanical & Thermal Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering Support
  • Design for Manufacture
hivecell
01

01 —Design Concept

Tomorrow Lab started work on the Hivecell project in 2014, when we helped Ricker Lyman develop the initial product concept, stacking features, and industrial design for their computer concept. 3 years later, in 2017, we re-engaged with Ricker Lyman to fully develop and prepare the design for manufacturing.

Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
01 / 00

Hivecell — Localized and Scalable Computing

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Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing

02

02 —Product Architecture & Engineering

In the course of the project, we encountered and solved several engineering challenges. First, we developed a thermal sink strategy to keep the unit cool. Using a computer model and empirical testing, we verified the addition of a small fan would suit the cooling needs and eliminate the need for exterior fins. Second, the pass-through AC power and Ethernet connectors on the top and bottom of each housing required rigorous performance and safety testing to validate safety and ensure functionality. Lastly, the internal architecture of the Hivecell needed refinement in order to maintain the design aesthetic but also house all the necessary components.

Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
01 / 00

Hivecell — Localized and Scalable Computing

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Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scalable Computing

As a low-cost, localized, scalable and modular computing solution, Hivecell is a strong alternative to cloud services.
03

03 —Rapid Prototyping

After completing product development, Tomorrow Lab delivered several rapid-manufactured looks-like works-like units for debut at the 2018 Strata Data conference in New York City.

Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
01 / 00

Hivecell — Localized and Scaleable Computing

Close
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing
Hivecell - Localized and Scaleable Computing