Is there anything more annoying that an articulated lamp that won't hold its position? Over time the springs wear out, or the joints lose friction.

Mael Sandoz, an Industrial Design student at ECAL, proposes a different solution:

"Staccato is an articulated desk lamp with magnetic connectors. The connectors that make up the joints of this lamp operate through a system of notched wheels held in place by magnets, offering a wide range of motion."

"These magnets also serve to transfer electrical current from one end of the articulated arms to the other."

"The arms are assembled simply by magnetic attraction, so no screws, springs, or welding are required."

The base, on the other hand, is made from conductive plastic, which allows the lamp to be turned on and off with a simple touch. The result is a simple, sleek lamp that requires minimal assembly and offers solid, durable joints with no risk of breakage."

He also suggests the possibility of adding a third arm (though I imagine the base would need a significant weight inside):