Senior Year Capstone Project: a parametric and screw-less rocking chair with full lumbar support.
Preliminary Sketches: showing inspirations and ideation.
Preliminary Orthographic Sketches:
Laser Printer: After sketching the preliminary orthographic sketches I created an assembly file in SolidWorks to test the measurements. I then created a Vector file in order to send the files of my chair design to the laser printer. Using 1/4in plywood I am going to make a 1:5 model of my final design. This allowed me to test the center of gravity, support placement and overall sturdiness. Having this information before the scale model was crucial to my overall success. It allowed me to correct mistakes, fix unforeseen problems, and create a better overall design.
1:5 Scale Model: made with a laser printer from 1/4 in plywood.
Creating the full scale model:
Wood: Gathering two 4'x8' sheets of 3/4in maple plywood before sending the nested files to a CNC Machine to make the final cuts.
CNC Machine: After retrieving the pieces from the CNC machine, I used a bandsaw to cut them to scale. I then started the sanding process.
Sanding: Through hand sanding and the use of sanding machines, I spent 100+ hours sanding. Each piece was left baby smooth before conditioning and staining.
Staining: I used a Minwax pre stain wood conditioner, in a well ventilated area, wiping a layer on each piece of wood. Allowing drying time, I then applied the red mahogany Minwax wood finish to each piece.
Assembly: After staining each piece I went to the studio to start the assembly of my final chair design. Each piece has a hole that corresponds to where the corresponding support holds the chair together. Working from the middle out, I assembled this chair with rods, my CNC cut pieces, wood glue, and a lot of clamps. Below are my process pictures of the assembly.
Staining and Gloss: Once the design was fully put together and had the proper drying time, I tested sitting in it and its sturdiness. I sanded the rods off flush to the wood, re stained and then applied the top coats of sealant.
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