About the assignment: mechanical design / machine design

Do the mechanical design for your final project.

The concept

For my final project I want to keep the initial concept, but I want to use new methods I learned and new materials.

My first concept was to create a wall system able to change shape and from a vertical surface changes in a sort of sculptural wave (with the ability to create different seating positions).

Instead of working with single movable elements in wood (it is too complex to control the movement) I am planning to change the system using a modular 4'x8' tempered board.

I can make a horizzontal pattern of milled cuts in a flat tempered board to fold it and create the curved surface I need.

To change the surface from flat to curved I will need to move up and down parts in the board.

 

the parts

I will start from a 4' aluminum U frame that can be connected to the wall in one side and to the board to the other side.

On the top of the frame I will connect a motor (DC or stepper) connected with a rigid shaft coupler to a threaded rod. When the rod is rotating a platform nut connected to the board is moving up or down forcing the board in changing shape.

The curve created is connected to the number and distance of the cuttings in the board.

I will control the movement of the motor and connect it to a movement sensor so when people will be close enough to the wall, it will change its shape and make a seat available.


the design

You can download the design here.

© 2014, Davide Prete, Washington DC