The Task:
For this project we were assigned the task of creating designs for dividers that the library wants to put up. We had to create a design for a Plexiglas divider that had to be mostly frosted and we had to design a bracket that can hold the Plexiglass in place.
Presearch and Conception of my Idea:
After we were assigned the project I got straight to work researching current designs for brackets and got to work coming up with a similar but different design of my own. I first went to the library to take measurements of the table and all the measurements that I needed. After that I drew up a few concept designs for both the bracket and a few designs for my actual Plexiglas. Then I chose my favorite concept design and headed into inventor to start working.
Chosen concept compared to existing designs:
Chosen Plexiglas design concept:
Using Inventor:
After I chose my favorite design I headed into inventor and began to design my bracket to keep my divider in place. I went through many failed designs but eventually I came up with my final design. The design uses pressure alone to hold on to the Plexiglas , it attaches to the table using the lip on the underside of the table so that you can knock or pull it off of the table. After the design was completed and I double and triple checked my dimensions I opened up my file in maker bot and fixed up my settings to get it ready for the 3-D printer. After that was all finished I was finally ready to start my print.
Using Illustrator:
After I got my 3-D print started I headed into illustrator and started work on my design for the actual plexiglass panel. I went through a few prototypes that I didn't really like before coming up with my final design. it is a natural scene with mountains, clouds, and a shining sun. I thought this design was cool because it was peaceful and to me it felt calming as well. After I finished up my design in illustrator I headed down to the laser to start cutting out my design. When I got to the laser I loaded up my file, fixed my settings and the laser started the cut. After this was done all that was left was to test the bracket.
What did I learn:
Throughout this re-design project I learned a lot about many different things. This project forced me to learn how to use my time wisely and manage it well because of the short amount of time we were given to do this project. It also helped me learn the ins and outs of inventor better which helped me become faster and more efficient at inventor as well. I also learned about how to use resources online to help me come up with improvements and better ideas for my bracket design. I was never very good at this and so this project was super helpful. Overall I learned a lot while designing and researching this project and I am happy that I learned so much.