Introduction In the third year of my bachelor Industrial Product design I did an internship with a Furniture design company called DUM, a Dutch label founded by the design studio Dumoffice in 2008. DUM’s main objective is providing spaces with distinctive items; to embellish hotel lobbies, airports, business lounges, offices and waiting rooms with outspoken design with a domestic feel. DUM is playful, edgy, considerate and subtle. During my internship I mainly worked on two projects; New style exhibition stand and a new collection cabinets
Exploration stand During my internship DUM just planned to exhibit their work on the Orgatec fair KĂśln 2016. For this exhibition the brand needed a new stand which fitted their vision and style. At first I obtained overall dimensions (13,5m x 6m x 5 m) and plot schemes of Orgatec, this way I right away knew the bottlenecks, possibilities and feel of the space. As shown above I started sketching stand sections with humans and furniture included to understand the viewer perspective. I also experimented with dividing the wall and use it to guide visitors through.
Analysis On both of the projects I did research. To follow through on what was earlier mentioned about the stand; While analyzing the plot I discovered that the stand could be extended in front of the elevator to have more space to exhibit, for example stools( shown later on). Furthermore I found out there was a concrete support right in the plot, so I had to figure a way to use this instead of bothering visitors. Before exploring possibilities for the cabinet I mostly tried to capture the DUM form language and style. In addition, I had seen all sorts of cabinet knobs while searching for existing solutions.
Exploration cabinet In the beginning of my internship DUM had basic ideas for a office purpose cabinet. The DUM creators already made sketches and 3D models for exploration of the storing space layout itself. My task was to detail this storing space. Besides the storing compartments the cabinet needed doorknobs and a frame, all of these elements needed to be producible. Most importantly, I had to integrate the ‘DUM feeling’ in this cabinet. In the sketches above I tried to establish this feeling.
Purpose of 3D software Since DUM already decided on the basic measurements of the storage part, I started relatively early on 3D modelling this part. This way I could easily adjust dimensions and right away check the geometry. With a good base model in Solidworks I could explore all possible configurations and try out different ideas of doorknobs and frames. 3D Modelling is also a excellent way for detailing the product, For instance, how to fit and connect the parts, and making technical drawings for the factory to realize this design.
Specifications & unique features Shown above are three configurations. One storage unit is 348 mm high. The largest cabinet has a length of two meter, depth of 430 mm and up to three units high. The cabinet is constructed with a miter joint and the panels and doors are partly constructed inlay style. Especially unique features are the sound absorbing back panel and connecting cabinets, to divide spaces to make the office environment more pleasant. Finally, the cabinets design, colours and form language fits with DUM because of the playful and subtle knobs, frame and legs.
Process designing stand To design a ‘space’ it was necessary to make lots of scale models. So I went searching in Amsterdam for building materials like foam board and paper. Firstly, I made a 1:20 scale wall section, furniture and humans. Secondly, I experimented with lighting and focusing attention to the furniture. In addition, the colours and materials got involved in the process. As shown above, I made several configurations. Finally, I made a division by three colours, and diagonal stripes for cohesion of the whole stand. My aim was to create a subtle connecting space that embodies DUM.
Process & manufacturing cabinet Unique about this cabinet is that it is entirely made out of beech. The manufacturer of DUM furniture is BSM factory, it is located in Borculo, the Netherlands. BSM is highly skilled in making 3D wooden furniture. Furthermore, I visited the factory multiple times, on sight I talked to employees who worked heavy machinery and applied varnishes. Besides looking around I could test and feel parts like the door knob. Above all, DUM is aware of sustainability because it is important to them to contribute to society. Therefore, DUM has PEFC and FSC certificates.
Exhibitions As mentioned earlier, DUM wanted to exhibit their work on the Orgatec fair of 2016. Eventually my stand design has been realized! I was invited to Kรถln to see the stand myself, unfortunately I could not be present. In 2017 DUM was going to exhibit on the Design District furniture fair in Rotterdam. This was the moment they revealed their new cabinets I had worked on in 2016! DUM had retained the stand style and design, however the color scheme was adjusted to a typically used DUM yellow.
With this stand, DUM has won the Design District best stand award! See the award on top of the green cabinet in the right corner image. Fortunately, this time I had the time to visit the exhibition, it was a great experience! Finally, the stand design also has been used to represent DUM on the Stockholm furniture fair of 2018. Illustrated above, Orgatec on the left, Design District and Stockholm furniture fairs on the right.
Carice Cars For starters, Carice was founded by Richard Holleman. This Start-up company is located in Delft, in the YES building. Carice launched their first model MK1, in 2014. What makes their cars so unique? The MK1 is extremely lightweight and compact, fully powered electric! Even more unique are these characteristics combined with a classic appearance. As shown above the MK1 is a roadster, this car is meant for leisure and fun! And the most remarkable of all; This car is 100% developed, designed, produced and build in The Netherlands.
Introduction First of all, I wanted to do my graduation with an automotive related company because of my interest in car design. Reason for my assignment was the development of a new car. The exterior and chassis were already in development, while the interior was not. Therefore, I was excited to take on this task! My main focus was designing a cabin that fitted the chassis and exterior of the car. Next to the cabin, I was going to design the dash, mid-console and the inside door panels. Most challenging was the fit and assembly of these parts combined.
Analysis For my graduation project I wanted to intensively analyse all relevant aspects. Firstly, I researched how the MK1 was build, manufactured and assembled. After I had gained this basic information, I collected information on aspects such as: current development, target group, regulations, ergonomics and aesthetics. With the research findings I formulated the final requirements and a vision. My vision was: ‘Improve the experience by creating a harmonious interior coherent with the exterior’. Above all, the form and style had to match Carice’s. See illustrations on the left page.
Exploration & process Firstly, I continually explored the MK1 through sitting in the interior, feeling, looking and asking how it was ‘created’. Secondly, I looked up inspirational material of classic cars and started free sketching, because in this phase I was open-minded and full of inspiration. After ideation, I focused on problem solving and conceptualizing. Finally, I presented three design proposals to Carice and we collectively chose one proposal to develop in 3D software. During this project flexibility was necessary because of simultaneously development of interior relevant parts. See sketches above.
Confidential 3D model Since the car is still in development, my project is confidential. Nevertheless, In person I’d be happy to show the entire project in person! As mentioned, I designed in Solidworks, during my project I mainly focused on the cabin , door panels and dash. I worked in 3Dsoftware because the interior parts needed to fit with exterior and chassis, within certain tolerances. Besides the tolerances, it was important the parts itsself were producible. Most important, a 3D model gave Carice a visual impression of the interior design.
Confidential interaction model A 3D model would not give sufficient feedback on user interaction, feel and ergonomics. For this reason, I made a true scale model. I built it in a unusual way, with a wooden base, flexible wood strips and foams. Moreover, the model was finished with upholstery, piping, steering wheel, seat, stainless steel parts and even the gages. In the end phase of the project I presented my work and the interior model. During the presentation I invited the attendees to experience the interior and give feedback. Shown above is a preview image of the interior.
Introduction This project was in collaboration with Kanoepack, a start-up from Delft. Together with four students of my faculty, I participated in this project. The assignment was to conceptualize a high-end canoe that both had exceptional boating and portability properties. The given requirements were that the canoe design had to be suitable for hard-shell composites, however it also had to be worn easily, and function like a backpack. The most challenging was to keep the ‘canoe feeling’, maintain rigidness and making it compressible for hiking.
Analysis & exploration At first we did research on important parameters. For instance, the ideal dimensions of the combination canoe and backpack. Moreover, we interviewed hikers about the carrying capacity of the average hiker(m/f). Furthermore, we did a fieldtrip to investigate the market and canoeing properties, use and function. With this information and knowledge we started ideation through sketching, modelling and 3D printing. Several ideas were presented. To conclude, we focussed on making a steady floating, lightweight, ridged and an easy compressible canoe. See my ideation sketches above.
Process & prove of concept As mentioned in Analysis & exploration, we made multiple models, this was useful to try out many configurations and ways to make a compressible system. These models also served for figuring out the right proportions in relation to users. The first models were made out of cardboard and paper. Thereupon, we made 1:5 scale fibreglass models to try out three against four sections, and conduct buoyancy tests to find out whether a asymmetrical hull is more steady. Besides scale modelling, I worked in 3D software to experiment with using the bow as backpack base
and 3D printing nesting possibilities. Moreover, we reflected on the results and we chose to develop the concept with four segments, this because of smaller backpack dimensions. However, four sections also meant it was harder to construct and retain rigidness. Nevertheless, we made a 1:5 scale, four sections, visual and functional accurate model out of Carbon fiber. This model was also compressible to backpack format. After participating in the first phase of the project, Kanoepack continued developing and made a mould for their hull prototype.
Materialization Firstly, The hull of the Canoe is made out of Carbon fiber and Polyurethane, configured in a sandwich with Polyurethane as core material. Secondly, the hull shape is asymmetric like a droplet, because it works best for the hydrodynamics and stability. Furthermore, I engineered the canoe in 3D software because I wanted to boost my skills. The dimensions of the canoe are 300 x 66 x 40 cm and in backpack formation the height is 90 cm, more dimensions are shown in the technical drawing on the right. As mentioned, the canoe is divided in four hull segments to maintain portability.
The segments remain together through six integrated seals and tightening straps. The ledge of the canoe features a beautiful sturdy hardwood trim, for impacts and style! The ultra light Titanium backpack frame which carries the canoe four nesting segments, also functions as a seat while canoeing. This is an high-end professional canoe for adventures hikers. Finally, this was the the first stage of the project, Kanoepack was satisfied with our input, we visualized their ideas and created a foundation to work from. See illuatration of mentioned features above.
Technical drawings four segments canoe
Prototyping Firstly, development has not stalled, Kanopack made a true scale carbon hull prototype, weighing in at only 8 kg! As show above, the prototype is currently subjected to intensive testing. For instance, trials to test the handling characteristics, stability and keeping direction. Kanopack is collaborating with kayak instructors and the kanoshop.nl to further improve and develop the canoe. Besides boating characteristics, hiking tests with the compressed canoe were conducted.
Kanopack had decided to develop a three sectioned hard-shell prototype, because of better rigidness and handling characteristics, a disadvantage of three sections is a larger backpack. See the right side image. Currently, Kanoepack is busy prototyping and improving their product for releasing the product. See www.kanoepack.com
Introduction This is a project I did on own initiative. The motivation to design a portable audio system was the passion for music and sound systems. Moreover, the focus for this project was to develop a speaker which had special functionalities, a characteristic shape and look, a distinctive style and the power to play music outdoors. Most importantly, not a sound system to hide away in your bag!
Exploration Shown above are a variety of ideas for speakers and sound systems. For example, sketches of circular shapes, inside workings and portability. Furthermore, I focused on retro and classic aesthetics, besides I thought of more unconventional designs. More noticeable, in the designs parting lines/seems were consciously used as a contrast in material or definition of the designs look & feel.
Process First of all, I started out with some cardboard mock-ups to get a feeling for the proportions. Secondly, I used 3D software to give the concept dimensions to work with during prototyping the sound system. Moreover, in this process I decided to use mostly wood. This because it fits best with the style I had in mind, and manufacturability in the workplace at home.
To realize this design, I chose to make the sound system out of three main parts: A base and two sides give the advantage of a simple assembly. The base provides sturdiness for components like the battery, speakers and amplifier. The two sides made it possible to disassemble the system easily, and even swap the sides for other side panels. Finally, see the process of manufacturing the sound system illustrated above.
Materialization & realization The dimensions of the sound system are 65 x 20 x 9 cm. Because of these relatively long and thin dimensions the Bluetooth speaker looks slim and elongated. In contrast to other portable devices, which are usually a lot smaller. However, I purposely wanted the sound system to be noticed, not ‘tucked away’. Users will wear it with style! The product has a minimalistic appearance because of the plane sides views. The display, charging station and other buttons are out of sight.
Unique about the sound system is the retro style in combination with striking big speaker cones. As mentioned earlier the system is portable, the sound system features a guitar strap for carrying. Point for improvement is the acoustic characteristics, the depth of casing is minimal. The speaker cones power is not used optimally in this configuration. See illustrations of usage and product features above.
Introduction This was a project for the minor Product Realization. This project was commissioned by CQ international. Furthermore, the project was in collaboration with four students. The assignment was to design a innovative system for watering and maintaining plants, such as a hydroponic system. The main focus in this project was to design a feasible working principle and electronics lay-out. Besides, we had to look into the usage, lifestyle of the target group, special features and overall aesthetics.
Analysis & exploration Firstly, we researched functions and techniques of hydroponics. Next, we used tools like mind & market mapping to find out what sort of consumers formed the target group. Secondly, we dicovered the product had to be appealing to early adopters and urban people who were interested in health and ecological innovation. In addition, many of the available products were only focused on function and not on looks. Finally, it was important that the product fits in different style houses. See the analysis and ideation collage and sketches above.
Process & prove of concept After presenting our concepts and consulting with CQ, we chose to design a practical standalone table piece with decorative value. From that moment on, I teamed up to thoroughly explore form, proportions and practicality, through several mock-ups out of cardboard and MDF wood. Once we found the perfect proportions versus practicality, we made a 1:2 scale MDF model to try out the vacuum forming technique. This technique was most suitable because we had a simple geometry plastic shell cover in mind. After a successful first attempt we made a true scale model.
Moreover, we needed to drill holes in corners of the detailed parts of the geometry for the vacuum forming in order to work properly. At the same time, we looked into the working principle and prove of concept. Besides testing electronics and water flow, I did a FEM (Finite Element Analysis) to investigate the strength and stiffness of the cover when a certain force was applied. For instance, a person leaning on the cover, the stress applied by the plants and the force stress areas during moving/sliding the product. See the process illustrated above.
Materialization & realization This product had to be developed for realization ready stadium. Shown is the 3D model I made. The product dimensions are 52 x 32 x 150 cm. Furthermore, the hydroponic system is designed as a stand alone product, this makes it possible to place it anywhere the user wants to. In addition, the proportions are a perfect ratio between a good quantity of plants and a not taking much space. In addition, the product appearance is clean, minimal, tranquil. From top to bottom the products build up: standard net pots(14), injection moulded ( wear proof)
Polycarbonate top cover(1), acrylic waterfall window(13), water distributor pipe system(10), water pump(6), two injection moulded reservoir parts(2&3). Furthermore, a description of the working principle: Water is pumped up out of the 6 litre reservoir, to the water distributer which gives the waterfall effect( decorative and adding oxygen). Water runs down the slope on top(3), back into the reservoir(2). During this cycle the roots will suck up nutrients via the water on the slope and vapour in the air. See illustrated in the images above.
Introduction Firstly, this is one of my own initiative projects to improve personal skills. I wanted to explore my passion and interests for cars and automotive. On paper my sketches looked cool but it was not enough to satisfy this desire to design cars and explore the shapes and lines of the car exterior. Therefore, I decided to start modelling to create a usable RC body which would fit on a 1:10 RC chassis.
Exploration First off, I made lots of cars sketches over the years( roughly 8 years). At the beginning I went through all these sketches for inspiration and direction for this project. Searching through old sketches resulted in new ideas, which initiated adjusting and refining the sketches. Furthermore, I visualized my ideas and concepts on both paper and digital format. Strangely, I started with more classic Hot rods and I ended up with designing a modern electric car concept. Shown on this page are variations of modern electric inspired sketches.
Modelling process At first, I made a detailed preliminary study in Polyethylene foam. I started doing this purely based on my feeling for shape and through simply doing it. My approach was to cut the basic shape, after I shaped it to the correct form I applied marker silhouettes and contour lines to direct myself with removing material. Moreover, I kept adjusting these lines en removing material until I was satisfied with the result. In addition, this model formed the starting point for the final model. Therefore, I moved on to Polyurethane for the final model, this material is commonly used in product visualization
and modelling. This material is hard to manipulate and therefore not particularity suitable for freely modelling a car exterior. I chose to use it anyways, because I was experienced with the material and it was more expensive to obtain modelling clay. Finally, I deliberately chose not to CNC mill the model, the purpose of this project was feeling the forming process. Therefore, I hand carved a model out of the Polyurethane foam using saws, chisels, files, drills and all sorts of sandpaper to remove material.
Materialization & realization The final model has been used as a positive mould for the vacuum forming manufacturing process. In short, this process works through heating a strung sheet of Polyethylene, when the material reached a certain point of deformability, the platform with positive mould raised up and pulled a vacuum. In addition to the vacuum forming, I did post-processing by croping the cover and creating wheel arches. Furthermore, I finished the body with paint, stickers and Aluminium exhaust pipes. See the RC car body result in the images above.
What could be better? Firstly, the symmetry of the model was almost perfect, but could be better. Secondly, I would look up known techniques and consult professionals. In addition, I would use a more suitable material, so I could better manipulate the shape. Moreover, I would use better tools and more suitable equipment to achieve an even better result. Finally, I want to improve the finishing, to better compliment the lines of the car and mimic the head & rear lights, grill and air vents.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-voskuil33b63a154/
nick_voskuil@ outlook.com
+3155052375 (06 55052375)