Metals I: Fall 2014: Kulindros (Tin Plated Steel Project)
Metals I focuses on learning properties of metal materials through the process of making. Hence, the class encourages students to solve problems of joinery and form through trial and error.
The objective was to make a multiple forms out of sheets of tin plated steel which could be easily manufactured. Then, committing to one form, reiterations were made to improve the form into a finalized piece. Later, it had to be multiplied to create a final product and reveal other applications for the configuration .
PROCESS
Beginning Object
Multiple forms were fabricated and one was chosen to be reiterated
Selection Criteria:
-easy to manufacture
-simple and elegant
-shows potential joinery without manipulation of form
or additional materials (i.e. soldering, rivets,etc.)
-movement when multiplied into one configuration
Reiteration
Objective:
-stable connection
-emphasis on center fold
-equal rolls
The tubes were rolled in same direction to emphasize center fold.
For a more stable connection, I started with a shorter length of flat pattern for tighter and more equal rolls.
A slight 90 degree starting form the center fold was added for refined quality.
Problems:
-forms tend to slide out of each other after continuous handling
To achieve a more stable connection, additional material by bending one side with finger brake
The length of the flat pattern was also decreased.
Problems:
-irregular rolls
-irregular distribution of tension
Additional material (double layers) were made by bending both sides of the edges with the finger brake.
-increased height of flat pattern
Problems:
-decrease in manufacturabilty
-loss in movement flexibility due to irregular rolls
-decrease in level of quality from too much tension when rolls are doubled and connected to one another
Final Design Selection
[final flat pattern]
There was exessive tension when two pieces were connnected in the previous designs which created rigid movement and inconvenient disassembly.
By removing some material from the edges of the right side of the flat pattern before manufacturing, the tension is balanced between the single layer side and the doubled edges of the other side.
Thank you!
