Bunny Chairs and Carrot Table - CNC Prototyping
Prototypes
CNC Prototyping is a class that covers CNC machining, and provides detailed instruction regarding its pros and cons, methods, and applications. This class taught us how to communicate design concepts using 3D modeling software, how to setup and use 3 axis CNC equipment, and understand basic CAD, CAD, and CIM processes.
The problem we were to solve during this class was creating a creative and functional piece from one sheet of plywood. This would be completed through the use of the CNC machine. The problem further developed as we were informed that these pieces would be given to an orphanage or donated to a family with little kids in the appropriate age range. This made the project infinitely more interesting. We had something to work towards on top of learning the new method of creation.
Machining and Assembly
The prompt the professor gave us was to create a furniture piece, a game, or something that a kid (ages 5-8) would enjoy using. This is where the ideation process began. Like all designers, we were to go through several weeks and assignments of ideation, sketches, prototyping and trying to land on a design that we want to move forward with. This is the most important part of any project, as this is where we make a decision on what direction we want to go, and we need to stick to it. This was one of the first projects I worked on after transferring into the program, so making a decision was hard for me, even just ideation was frustrating because I felt like I was wasting time or not picking the right thing to go with.
During the research phase, we investigated average toddler height and different dimensions to figure out the scaling for the project. This was super useful information in order to get the sizing correct the first time. This was important as we had a finite amount of material and had basically one shot to get it right. We also researched existing products to get inspiration from, but this also allowed us to create a unique product. During the sketching phase, I saw a lot of animal themes, so I decided to lean into that. I felt that toddlers related to animals as this is a big part of their education at an early age, and when I was that age, I was really into animals. This is how I ended up landing on the bunny idea.
Once I found the bunny chair idea, I thought having a carrot table would be super cute. This would also allow me to have little cup holders on the leaf of the carrot for crayons or markers. Since I was just starting out with design, I wanted to keep this project simple and make sure that I was able to assemble and finish the chairs and table. Once I was set on the idea, I got to work on the CAD modelling using Vetric Aspire and making sure to prototype often and make sure it all fit together. I also needed to make sure the ear backrest for the chairs were able to sustain pressure and actually be used as a backrest.
