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DIGITAL DESIGN + FABRICATION SM1, 2016 M1 JOURNAL - SKIN AND BONE: IDEATION

Patrick Dennis699033

Michelle James - Tutorial 9

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The umbrella was measured using generic and standard techniques - a rigid tape measure was utilised for the rigid, linear skeletal members. For the skin (i.e. the fabric portions of the umbrella), string and a flexible tape measure were implemented, as the rigid tape measure proved awkward to measure the flexible and curvilinear form.Caution was required within the more intircate portions of the inner mechanisms of the umbrella.

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Analysis

The umbrella appears a straightforward and practical tool from the outset, but on closer inspection, it operates under a careful equilib-rium of tension and mechanical manipulation forces.At left, the points of tension are explored on each individual mem-ber of the umbrella arm. These points, in conjunction with wires that are housed within the primary tube, hold the arms at full stretch and maintain structural rigidity.At right, the mechanism which allows the umbrella to collapse on itself is analysed. This function shows that a huge priority of umbrellas is their portability and practicality. This should be extrapolated into my own design.

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Digital Model

Figure 2 (below): Isometric view of underside of umbrella, complete with mechanical arms and membrane.

Figure 1 (above): Elevation of the completed um-brella with membrane still attached.

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Digital Model

Figure 3 (above): Isometric view above the umbrella. Membrane has been removed in order to view and understand the intrica-cies of the mechanical arms and each of their individual portions.

Figure 4 (below): Isometric view of underside of umbrella, with exposed mechanisms showing how the umbrella deploys. Elements become more complicated close to the primary tube of the umbrella, as can be seen.

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How does this respond to your personal space?

Sketch Design #1MEMBRANE, SHROUD, SHELTER, SECURITY, ENCLOSURE

This initial design focuses on the idea of the unknown in the context of personal space. While transgressions of personal space directly in front of an individual are confronting, encroachment outside of the visible range (at the back) can feel as significant violation of personal space. I have often found myself check-ing over my shoulder when walking down an alleyway as an example of this sensitivity. This is especially important to a sleeping person, where it becomes difficult to rest without an element of security. Security is established with this design, while giving a membranous curtain which can be manipulated to provide visual security.

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How does this respond to your personal space?

Sketch Design #2COMFORT, ENCASE, WRAP, CARESS, WOMB

This particular design attempts to achieve a more natural form to maximise feelings of comfort. Inspiration arose from an enclosing womb, the first of the ‘sleeping pods’ we encounter and find comfort in. This idea was augmented by an element from the reconfigured umbrella to synthesise into a pod which can be closed over for rest. Alternatively, it serves as a comfortable and er-gonomic chair. Feelings of protection and enclosure are evoked in using this as a chair, seeing as the head, back and sides are covered and protected. This should instill a sense of privacy, as it minimizes exterior visual and auditory intrusions.

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Sketch Design #3

How does this respond to your personal space?

SHELL, MODULAR, SPINE, PROTECTION, FLEXIBLE

This concept model attempts to address lessons learnt from real world examples of shelter which aim to establish and protect an individual’s personal space. In the military field, soldiers are often equipped with a swag (sketched at left), which gives an escape from the visual and auditory disturbances of the field. This token personal area gives some security and allows for effective rest for the individual. The collapsible and portable concepts from the swag and umbrella are carried through into this design. Absolute shelter from light and noise allow for effective rest, even in a crowded university or public setting.

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Appendix

Ronhamp provided an excellent experi-mentation and learning ground to es-tablish Rhino curve and surface creation tools. This was a relatively straightforward task, but was integral in the development of Rhino models of the umbrella above.

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