Assignment#6.1 Alpha prototype

Problem statement

This work focus on the creation of a better base system for a sun-umbrella, easy to transport, resistant, stable, easy to use, that articulates more than one use, more aesthetically pleasant and built according to environmental standards.

The base is transportable;
The base is resistant;
The base is stable;
The base is  easy to use;
The base doesn't gather water;
The base does not hinder my space;
The base articulates several uses;
The base has an ergonomic shape;
The base is aesthetically pleasing;
The base doesn't get dirty easily;
The base is built according to environmental standards;
The base has good quality/price ratio.

The selected concept: Cork Base

The selected concept consists on the combination of two features: a base for a sun-umbrella and a vase with flowers or aromatic plants.

The stability is given by a system with four legs and the fastening by a tube with grip. This base system is made with wood and cork and it can be filled with ground or water to get heavier.

Shaping the concept: Studies

Maintaining the three main features of the concept (the combination of the vase-base, creating a greater relationship with nature, the use of natural materials and the aesthetically pleasing) there were studied alternatives to round shape, since this is more expensive and difficult to produce.

Triangular base

Square base

Although the assembly of these bases is simpler and less expensive, the edges make the aesthetics of the pieces too aggressive, giving the feeling of taking up more space.

Square base with round edges

Despite being more aesthetically pleasing and less aggressive (CUTE), this base becomes too expensive and difficult to build just to get the round edges.

Alpha prototype

So, the challenge was to create a base with a delicate aesthetic and smooth shape as, at the same time, it became more economic and easy to construct.

Hexagonal base

It had been previously presented a concept similar to the selected, and therefore not prototyped, which had a hexagonal base (Concept I: Vine base). Combining the best of both gave the following prototype:

This form makes the piece more fluid, almost rounded, seeming to occupy less space. However, it is easier to build and less costly.

The base is constructed of wood lined on the inside with cork. The cork is a material more resistant to water, which makes it suitable for contact with the ground.

The base has itself a cork base so that the wood is not in direct contact with the ground and therefore with water.