This model was made from wood. It shows how the mechanisms I designed in my first models, isometric drawings and CAD models would actually work. The production quality is generally good, I have used a combination of wood, foam board and card to create the hinges and folds that are necessary to make the mechanism function.
I am pleased with the final design. It fulfils the specifications I made for myself, and aids in the sense of comfort in the interior. The multifunctional nature of the bed is easy for the user to understand, as it physically changes its shape for each different function. I think that in real world locations where space and comfort are precious commodities this multifunctional product could help to really improve the quality of life of a person using it. The bed’s simplistic design would also aid in manufacture.
There are some flaws in the design that I think could be improved upon through more prototyping and CAD. The legs in particular are fairly thin, and may not be the most stable solution to the problem of support. The hinge system, though a very good way of allowing for changes in shape and form, presents an issue with the strength of the finished bed. Obviously a load (the occupant) will be placed on top of the bed, but the hinges in the middle would tend to buckle under this kind of pressure. The final bed would have to solve this problem
Overall I think that this project has been successful, and that I have produced an apartment that, though held back by the very cramped interior of the building for which it is designed, is a good attempt to create a more comfortable and entertaining living space.
