The Wave
Team: Nithya Duggaraju, Jennelyn Nguyen
My Role: 3D modeling and building sample models from cardboard
The Wave is a public bench that provides shade from above, with a slanted roof for plants and protection from the sun and rain. Taking ergonomics into account, the structure follows the natural curves of the human body. This allows for a more comfortable interaction and experience, whether it may be through sitting or leaning against the back panel.
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Ideation
Initially, we had a multitude of bench designs in terms of form, but we decided on one of the more simpler shaped ones. We conducted a study on the human body shape and seated positions without any structures to sit on. This wave design proved to be most comfortable and natural when seated. We also decided to incorporate some form of a roof for shade and plants to promote greener city life.
Process
Using Rhino3D, I modeled the bench and sliced it to demonstrate a visualization of the cross section. The small-scale model was created using in the makerspace at UC Davis using a laser cutter using matboard. We designed the large-scale model on Illustrator and used a CNC cutter to create the pieces out of cardboard. We assembled the large scale model in pieces and glued it together to showcase a sample section of our design in its actual size.
Final Product
