A group project designed and built while on the Erasmus program at the University of Applied Sciences, Bremen, Germany (2013).
This design explores the influence the material has on the design and construction process.
"Form follows Construction"
The main design principles were: achieving strength from the construction system itself and the sole use of one material, that is without the use of bolts, screws and glue while still providing an ergonomic functional design.
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Inspiration & Concept
The construction and consequent form was inspired by the build of a Carpenter's Wooden Folding Ruler and interlocking male-female joints.
By combining these two modes of construction, a system that derives strength from its own structure was attained. The 'ribs', based on the interlocking system, hold the main lateral support beams under tension when bent.
After various tests and research with different materials and models, strips of MDF were used, becuase of its material properties, namely its low weight, ability to bend and suitable dimensions of wood. As per the concept, the same material was used throughout.
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Drawings
The design was to be ergonomic to provide comfort for the seater and the carriers. A denser packing of ribs was provided where the weight of the seater is concentrated, spreading the weight over a larger area of material.
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Construction
Construction began by cutting the wood to size and cutting out the individual female joints in the ribs. After being placed on the main lateral supports, the joints in the supports were cut. All the parts were sanded down and then assembled to form the final sedan chair, requiring no glue or any other jointing methods.
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