4.1 Introduction
After considering information gained during the research phase, the creation of a suitable solution can commence. This section of the documentation will record that process.
4.2 Morphological analysis
Evaluation of design constraint analysis and research data can help in creating solutions that can be fine tuned to produce a single design that is most suitable and ultimately, successful.
4.3 Possible solutions
4.4 Selection of the most appropriate solution
As the design constraints set the boundaries of the project, consideration should be given to how important a particular constraint is, and how that importance may affect and influence design direction. For example, maintenance concerns should have less of an influence than safety, as the solution will ultimately hold a lit candle.
Constraint |
Weighting |
Manufacture location |
2 |
Size |
2 |
Material |
1 |
Safety |
2 |
Users |
1 |
Maintenance |
1 |
Production Methods |
2 |
Finish |
1 |
Table 5: Constraint weighting
Key |
Heavy Weighting |
Light Weighting |
- |
2 |
1 |
Formative evaluation
In selecting the most suitable solution, it is evident that certain design constraints have more of a bearing on design development that others, and as such, the solution that best represents the closest adherence to the constraints should be selected.
In selecting the most suitable solution, it is evident that certain design constraints have more of a bearing on design development that others, and as such, the solution that best represents the closest adherence to the constraints should be selected.
4.5 Solution selection
After evaluating numerous design factors, it has been determined that the design seen in sketch 2 will be selected. The combination of large and small radii, in addition to the directional changes, make the design quite unusual and interesting to look at. It necessitates the use of a weld, in line with the design constraints, and will also require a minimal amount of material.
Workshop drawings
Drawings were prepared for the production of solution. A 1:1 template was also drawn up to aid in the accurate bending of the frame component.
Drawings were prepared for the production of solution. A 1:1 template was also drawn up to aid in the accurate bending of the frame component.
The inclusion of a large 'counterweight' piece can be noted - a Ø115mm cast iron disc, supplied from the author's personal workshop. Although not strictly necessary, it adds a unique visual feature, and serves as a central point of the design.
4.6 Further action planning
Time Management
The project will continue to follow the time plan laid out in the Gantt chart in Section 2.5.
Operation Sheets
The project will continue to follow the time plan laid out in the Gantt chart in Section 2.5.
Operation Sheets
4.7 Solution construction
Image 8: CAD Render of solution
Photo 6: Completed solution. Author: Simpson, A.
4.8 Solution testing
At the conclusion of the construction process, the solution was subjected to function testing.
On initial inspection, it can be noted that the solution is finished to a relatively high standard. The bends are neatly formed, and the weight component is held securely without the need for additional fasteners or fixing methods. The quality of the painted finish is quite nice, and is reminiscent of traditional wrought ironwork. The candle cup, base and dish components are nicely finished, with a brushed finish that complements the satin paint.
Further assessment revealed that the solution suffers from a stability issues, which can ultimately be traced to the cast iron component used as a weight. Initially believed by the author to be perfectly cylindrical, examination revealed it to have a slight taper, approximately 3° from base to top. On a perfectly flat and level surface the solution is stable, but on an uneven or unsecured surface the instability becomes apparent, with the solution falling to one side if sufficiently disturbed.
On initial inspection, it can be noted that the solution is finished to a relatively high standard. The bends are neatly formed, and the weight component is held securely without the need for additional fasteners or fixing methods. The quality of the painted finish is quite nice, and is reminiscent of traditional wrought ironwork. The candle cup, base and dish components are nicely finished, with a brushed finish that complements the satin paint.
Further assessment revealed that the solution suffers from a stability issues, which can ultimately be traced to the cast iron component used as a weight. Initially believed by the author to be perfectly cylindrical, examination revealed it to have a slight taper, approximately 3° from base to top. On a perfectly flat and level surface the solution is stable, but on an uneven or unsecured surface the instability becomes apparent, with the solution falling to one side if sufficiently disturbed.
4.9 Conclusion
In concluding the Solution Generation phase of the design process, it is apparent that the solution is moderately successful.
The entirety of the development was undertaken without issue. No modifications were required, and the solution and accompanying documentation were completed within the required timeframe. The author's familiarity with tools, machinery and production processes was an invaluable aid during all phases of the construction process.
Although the solution suffers from stability issues, it does fulfil the design requirements, and the author is moderately satisfied with the outcome.
The entirety of the development was undertaken without issue. No modifications were required, and the solution and accompanying documentation were completed within the required timeframe. The author's familiarity with tools, machinery and production processes was an invaluable aid during all phases of the construction process.
Although the solution suffers from stability issues, it does fulfil the design requirements, and the author is moderately satisfied with the outcome.