a search for kinetic function
a migration from mechanistic experiments to functional objects
mechanism -
an assembly of moving parts performing a complete functional motion
In most product design scenarios, a designer gets a challenge and does what they can to fulfill it using known mechanisms and materials. They assemble function and then apply form. Reversing that order, this project began with a series of form experiments which produced new ideas for mechanisms. Later, function would be applied to a selection of these based on the mechanisms’ inherent characteristics.
This project is about modular product design inspired by these experiments in pattern, geometry, and movement.
part one:
form experimentation
Part one is a series of experiments expiring mechanistic possibilities within three types of movement: paper folding, scored board, and the jitterbug.
Part one is about play without the fear of failure to allow for an uninhibited flow of possibility.
Part one is about repeating modules to create patterns, and using the geometry of these patterns to create consistent and controlled movement. Scale is irrelevant, however after part one, scale will play a large roll in dictating function.
The lines in the background make the grid for this basic fold pattern.
This is one of a series of variations stemming from the original grid, where one variable changes with each experiment. In this example, the zig-zag line alternates direction, creating a wave.
The zig-zag lines in this grid alternate every other inch, causing the paper to coil.
The paper folding experiments consist of planes and hinges. Paper works well because both are inherent in the material. Building some of these mechanisms in wood helped to more clearly define the movement.
The scored board movement consists of perpendicular axes of scored lines so that while one axis is folded, the other scored lines do nothing to hurt the structure, and vice verse.
In this scored board experiment, boxes with white and black walls are glued to each grid plane, so that when folded on each axis, either all white walls or all black walls are revealed.
The jitterbug mechanism is made by shapes that are connected on and swivel around four corner points.
If the shape fits with like shapes and has at least four corners, it can work as a jitterbug.
This is a three dimensional jitterbug made by hingeing triangles which rotate out and expand to create square-shaped negative space.
part two:
jitterbox
Part two is a continuation of experimenting with dimensional jitterbugs. It is about studying material and manifesting a product: a small-scale box which swivels open, revealing new compartments.
the mechanism:
The jitterbox is based off of the jitterbug motion where four-sided shapes swivel on their corners. Because the jitterbug inherently opens to reveal negative spaces, the jitterbox takes advantage of these spaces with vertical layers of compartments.
The second jitterbox mockup is two units, and also museum board and tape. The circular tins fill the compartments which are hidden upon closure, and they show how the box might be used to package small products such as beads, teas, or spices.
In manifesting the jitterbox as a product, a material needed to be found that would act like the board and the tape, but more permanent.
Channels created in the wood walls allow leather strips to act as hinges without compromising space between compartments.
part three:
jitterbed
This medium-scale design is a concept for a bed frame which is sold flat, sets up in one motion, and has built-in storage. The bed frame is easy to take home and set-up, and easy to move with.
the mechanism:
The jitterbed is a jitterbug mechanism which swivels on multiple axes so that in one position, it is strong and contained, and in another, it weakens and collapses to be flat.
Openings in the bed frame can come with or without shelves which would collapse with the structure.
The bed frame begins as a flat plane of ten squares.
The squares are lifted into cubes.
The cubes jitter in to create the strong structure of the bed frame. The mattress spreads weight evenly across the structure, simultaneously holding it in place.
part four:
jitterplay
Jitterplay is a large-scale playground design. Its elements are cut from or popped out of the walls. This collapsible, interactive space can be set up in a schoolyard for recess. It can exist in a park or central public space for people to play in, sit on, or walk through. It can be expanded within a hospital setting to create energy and play in a place of waiting and pain.
the mechanism:
Jitterplay comes from the jitterbug mechanism and, like the bed, swivels on multiple axes. However, the modules of jitterplay are shifted so that in one position, it is open, spacious, and strong, and in a more contained position, it collapses to be flat.
Jitterplay expands into six squares before the they are lifted into cubes. Popped-out elements of the playground come nestled in the wall from which they were cut.
