DESIGN - SPAN THE GAP - IDEAS
Idea 1) Based upon the principle of arches.
We designed the ends with cut out segments so that it would hug the edges of the table for support.
Card supports were added in-between the main frame to prevent twisting and collapse of the structure.
To prevent deflection there would be string attached from one end of the structure to the other. Although we realised this might cause substantial tension which could break the string depending on the weight applied.
In theory it was a good idea but we had to discard it because we would have been left with minimal string to join the main frame together as well as trying to stretch the amount of foamboard we had. The design overall was unpredictable.
Idea 2) Based upon the principles of roof structures
We knew it would be difficult to make an arched structure with the limited amount of materials. Therefore we diverged to roof structures.
To get around the trouble of limited foamboard we had to have the join in the middle. However to support this join there would be support beams stitched into the main frame on either side.
To avoid the two main frames collapsing in together there would be foamboard connectors in between the frames whilst string attached from one frame to another would hold the frames together. Both would work in unison so that collapsing or buckling of the structure is prevented.
The above two pictures were drawn by 1st year, Suzi. They represent the structure we had made. This idea originated from idea 2 on the day of making.
