The value of Iteration and Prototyping.

Iteration:  As it relates to design, iteration is a sequence of sketches or models, with each intentionally a little different than the previous one. The iterative sequence continues until one reveals a functional solution not previously discovered or imagined.  A useful iteration may then become the base for a new iterative sequence that looks to solve an additional problem or add a new function or simplify the basic detail. Aesthetics may also be the goal of iteration, with each step seeking a better aesthetic. A refined composition or shape.

Prototyping:  Making a sample of an initial idea often reveals something about the idea that could be simplified or improved.  A sample may reveal flaws that can't be deduced from a sketch.  Prototyping iteratively, compared to sketching iteratively adds testing and interaction with and manipulating the design at each step. While not every product needs exhaustive modelling the best way to discover an unconsidered function or flaw is through iterative actual (not virtual PC) modelling. 

3D printing is one way to produce samples of a product idea.  I've had an idea for a jig that could be used to help install another hardware product I invented.  My initial idea was for a jig with a critical variable fixed in position.  Once 3D printed I was able to test the initial jig idea, and it revealed to me the value of making that fixed detail into an adjustable detail.   A new prototype was designed and printed that allowed the position of the detail to move.  It revealed that a way to lock the detail into position would eliminate the need for an accessory clamp to hold it in position.  A third prototype was printed to stiffen up the back plate of the jig.  It also modified and simplified the insert end to ease insertion and get out of the way of the drill bit being used.  It is not unusual that it takes 3 or more prototypes before homing in on the best solution. Often the early prototypes reveal opportunities for improvement that weren't obvious or initially considered. 

Base Drawing:  If whatever you are designing has some known, fixed properties that won't change through iterations, then a sheet of copies of just those properties drawn can help you iterate though variations efficiently without accidentally changing a fixed property.   This base drawing can be copied many times before starting to draw over one.  In an array of sketches an accidental line may be the spark that reveals the path to a great solution.  One danger of NOT using such a base drawing is that one or more fixed details may be forgotten in an iterative sequence. Another danger is that a concluding solution may no longer work when adjusted to account for the known fixed properties.  I like to sketch on graph paper as the uniform grid lets me maintain the same scale and dimensions of each iteration for accurate comparison.

Elevations views are a good place to start with iterations of a table design.  As a table will have height, width, and depth then 3D perspective or isometric views are recommended for final aesthetic refinement.  Minimally you should work with orthographic front, side, and top views of a design at the same time.  I've seen many furniture designs that looked great in one elevation, but looked awkward in perspective reality.  Design continuity breaks down when the shape of a table top looks unrelated to the base beneath it.   In life we rarely see just a direct elevation view of a product.  Try to anticipate how a design will be viewed when approached and iterate through perspective views from that approach viewpoint. 

4D

Comments and questions are encouraged and appreciated!

Just a Prototype

Often I sit with a sketchbook iterating little drawings of table designs.  A table after all is just a horizontal plane held above the floor with a structure. The structure's only purpose is to support the top and whatever it might be used for securely and reliably. Something to span the gap between floor and top and resist gravity. This can range anywhere from a solid block to a spindly center post with spindly feet. 

Iterate.

Occasionally I come to a design that appeals to me more than usual. If it looks even better a day later  I'll do a digital drawing of it. If the digital design is still appealing I often make a prototype. 

This little table is one outcome from such a process. The prototype leg shape is CNC cut from 3/4" thick MDF.  

MDF

The top is solid walnut.  The leg design I envisioned to be made from walnut pieces joined together.  No need in a prototype to use expensive material and labor though.   

Walnut Wood

I painted the MDF legs with red primer with the intent to then paint them with a final color.  The primer color looks good with the walnut top.  This is just an aesthetic prototype and once walnut legs are made the MDF versions will be discarded. Good enough it is. 

Underside

Overside

The legs dovetail into a triangular center post. Screws through the top hold tight to the post and legs.  Screws are counterbored  and covered with walnut plugs.

Comments welcomed.

4D