The Plastic Injection Moulded Garden Fork and Trowel set
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The Brief:
This was the first year exam project. We were instructed to create a garden fork and trowel set that was appropriate to be injection moulded. Within the constraints of injection moulding, we had to design the set in a contemporary style and encourage interaction of the set in an appropriate manner. We also had to design for a particular brand, as this would further create constraints to the design.
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Ideation and development
The first step to creating the product, was of course the ideation of it. I took reference from previous models and different shapes, I thought appropriate for a fork and trowel.
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Mock-up Development
Whilst coming up with a design, I created clay models in order for me to visualize the product in a 3d context. The purpose of these models, was to see the design in 3D, see any problems that might arise, develops the handle to an ergonomic shape as well as the heads.
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Final 3D Mock - ups
Once I sorted out the design and ergonomic part of the part, I then took all the aspects I liked and turned them into a full 3d model, in its entirety. With this I could see the end product, or what the final would resemble.
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Final Drawing Development
Once I was finished with the rapid prototyping, I then went to complete the hand drawings, converting them into a style I am comfortable with. This allowed me to sort out further smaller issued, without wasting materials.
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Generating CAD models
Once I finalized the drawings, I then went onto generating a CAD model in solid works. During this process, I learnt allot about lofting, and took allot of time editing the heads, as they are the difference between the two parts, and had to ensure they matched my sketch accordingly and were strong enough that they did not break when digging.
I first started by creating the handle. first by creating the sketch, then lofting the various profiles. With the main shape done, I then smoothed out any edges that were too sharp. i then shelled the solid part and added ribs to give support to the part. I then created a thread so that my end spike could easily be attached to the part.
The next step in my CAD abilities was the heads of the 2 sets. Again, starting off with the simple shapes and then building them on.
Finally I then generated my end spike matching the thread on my handle.
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Engineering drawings
Once I finalized the CAD aspect of the process. I then went onto generating engineering sketches, these included, general assemblies, exploded views, and detailed views of the main parts. These drawings were then used in the making of the final prototype, as I had my prototype 3D printed. These drawings, as you can see, shows specific measurements which are crucial in the making of the final prototype.
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CAD Renders
In order for me to visualize my design and the product in a real life scenario. Thus I created 3 renders, the first showing the two products displayed on a table. The second showcasing the set in the ground and the final render shows the product while being used. All these renders allowed me to properly visualize the product without committing to any final prototype manufacture.
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Final Prototypes
Once I had my parts printed I then had to paint it and finish it to a style I though appropriate. The colours I used, black and orange, are colours I see many Fiskars product to be painted in.
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This project has taught me many things to keep and utilize in future projects. The first thing I learned is to manage my time well. Creating a design and product the night before simply will not work. I also learned a lot about ergonomics of a hand tool, with regard to handle size and width. I also learned a lot about 3D printing and its constraints.
Everything I have learned, I can most definitely use in the future with the rest of my design work.
Thank you for taking the time to view my project, and let me know what you though.
