Prompt

Today, we'll dive into the fascinating world of mechanical engineering by exploring various mechanisms made entirely from cardboard. From cams and linkages to pulleys and gears, we'll learn how these mechanisms work and how they can be applied in real-world applications.

Duration: ~3 hrs

Materials: Cardboard (various thicknesses), Scissors, Craft knives, Rulers, Glue, or tape Markers or pens

Instructions

1. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the different mechanisms we'll be exploring: cam & linkage, scissor lift, gears, pulley, lever, fan/expanding, waving/bending, curving, grabbing, and tentacle motion. 
2. Take some time to research and understand how each mechanism functions. 
3. Choose two mechanisms that you find most intriguing or relevant to your interests. Using the provided cardboard and craft tools, start prototyping each chosen mechanism. You may want to sketch out your designs first to visualize how each mechanism will work. 
4. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and configurations to optimize the performance of your cardboard mechanisms. 
5. Test your prototypes to see how well they function. Make adjustments as needed to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.

Deliverables

Take photos of your prototypes and post on the Response Tab.

Purpose: Introduce basic 3D modeling strategies. 

Description: We will begin by covering some of the most commonly used 3D commands used in Rhino and seeing how they apply to different scenarios. 

Materials: Rhino 3D, Measuring tools (caliper/rulers), Pen, Paper

Homework Instructions: After completing the practice commands, you will be tasked with modeling a component or basic form related to your Open Innovation project. Try to choose a form that requires multiple types of 3D operations (i.e. extrusions, revolutions, booleans, sweeps, lofts, etc). After planning and sketching, translate this object into 3D. These forms should be modeled at 1:1 scale in Rhino. Challenge yourself and push beyond simple forms. Remember, most objects that seem complex can be modeled through a combination of very simple shapes. You can reference the Rhino training manuals found here. If you get stuck, the help tab within Rhino can walk you through various commands. Please post your screenshots and .3dm files in your documentation folder. 

Best of Luck!

Deliverables: 

1. Screen shots of your final model
2. An uploaded Rhino file (.3dm)

The 5 cardboard techniques that I used were scoring, slotting, tabs, notching, and the butt joint. 

These are 5 small projects i made, each of them a different cardboard construction method, so that I could improve my skills with cardboard. I have layering, brads, a butt joint, scoring, and folding.

Scoring, Brad, Tabs, Slot + Tab, Slotting

I didn't learn much from this practice because we have already done a class on cardboard connections.

I do this a lot so no new insights came to me. The strongest connection is the triangle. Can and should be used for anything.

Prompt:

In this workshop, you will focus on mastering various cardboard manipulation techniques demonstrated in the presentation. Instead of creating a prototype, your goal is to recreate 3-5 techniques learned during the session.

Duration: ~1-2 hrs

Materials:

• Various types of cardboard (corrugated, chipboard, etc.)
• Scissors
• Utility knife
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Cutting mat
• Tape
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. Introduction to Cardboard Techniques:

• Review the presentation on cardboard manipulation techniques, paying close attention to the demonstrations and explanations of each method.

2. Technique Replication:

• Select 3-5 techniques from the presentation that you would like to recreate.
• Gather the necessary materials listed above.
• Using the provided cardboard and tools, attempt to replicate each chosen technique following the instructions provided in the presentation.
• Take your time to ensure accuracy and precision in your execution of each technique.

3. Experimentation and Refinement:

• As you work on replicating the techniques, feel free to experiment with variations or combinations to enhance your understanding.
• Seek guidance from the instructor or classmates if you encounter challenges or need clarification on any aspect of the techniques.

4. Documentation:

• Document your progress by taking clear photos or videos of each technique you successfully recreate.
• Write brief descriptions or notes alongside each documentation to explain the process and any insights gained during the replication.

5. Presentation and Reflection:

• Prepare a brief presentation to showcase the techniques you have recreated.
• Share your documentation with the class, explaining the steps involved in each technique and any observations or lessons learned during the process.
• Reflect on the experience of replicating the techniques and discuss how you can apply them in future projects or creative endeavors.

Deliverables:

Documentation (photos or gifs) of 3-5 cardboard manipulation techniques successfully recreated