Project #2: Eggs in Space
Purpose
Develop and make a 3D design that possesses aerodynamic form and design elements that enable it to carry an egg safely to the ground from the third floor level of the music building and it must include impact engineering. The egg must not break. The form must be original in concept.
Objectives
• To explore aerodynamic form, construction methods, and materials.
• To consider scale, weight and shape of an egg and to design a project that fulfills formal design and functional issues.
• To create a dramatically new form with whatever materials you deem necessary as long as the final form does not exceed 8 ounces.
Process
Make 10 sketches (concepts) including scale and plan drawings from all views in your sketchbook. Your form needs to be informed by the function that it will perform and the shape of the egg. Use creative, elegant and/or subtle ways to address the problem instead of obvious stereotypes or cute clichés. Be sure to create a strong overall form rather than focusing only on decorative aspects. Develop a form that integrates the egg as part of the visual design. Remember that you are designing a new object that includes form and function.
Make a model of one idea from your sketches that you like the best. Try out your models before making a final version that is well fabricated. Have fun with these and really experiment with the material.
Tips
Think about how natural forms have influenced designers in the past. How is an unborn infant protected in its mother’s womb? How is an egg yolk supported within the shell? Why do seeds from maple trees spin? Why do certain seeds float on the breeze? Do research on the web and in the library. Check out aerospace and mechanical engineering resources. Consider nests, balloons, gliders, kites, helicopters, bubble wrap, gelatin, insect wings, air bags, etc. Think outside the box for your design.
The elements of evaluation for this particular project are:
1.) Time Management and Professionalism: meeting all deadlines and being prepared to work in class.
2.) Process and Research: building upon initial ideas in a manner that shows progression of ideas.
3.) Presentation and Craft: is the quality of the production and workmanship of the project superior in quality?
4.) Design and Layout: the conceptual, formal and overall effectiveness of the project.
5.) Did the egg break: there will be three possible grades of A, B or C. If your egg breaks on the first attempt from the 2nd floor you'll receive a "C", if your egg breaks on the 2nd attempt from the third floor you'll get a "B", if your egg survives the 2nd attempt you'll get an "A".
Project Timeline
Tue 1.27 - OP 1250
critique project #1
review project #2
Thr 1.29 - OP 1250
continue initial drawings/designs
Tue 2.3 - OP 1250
finalize drawings/designs
Thr 2.5 - OP 1250
build final composition
Tue 2.10 - OP 1250
build final composition
Thr 2.12 - OP 1250
drop/critique project #2
review project #3
