Embrace
Inspiration
I wanted to make a chair that was comfortable and cradled the user. I enjoy reading comfortably and working on my bed, so I wanted to make something that was just as cozy.
Design & Redesign
I sketched chair designs throughout the quarter, redesigning from tube bending to 45 degree angle straight cuts. I maintained the wraparound feel while manipulating the framework of the base and back. I also explored structures for upholstering.
There were many considerations I had to make in order to create a load bearing structure. With a cantilevered design, bending stresses and moments on the chair parts came into play. I had to take into account material geometry and strength of weld points to ensure that the chair would be stable.
Prototyping
One of my biggest takeaways from this class was the importance of prototyping. I found it incredibly useful for figuring out dimension and proportions of the chair.
Manufacturing
The main process I used for manufacturing my chair was TIG welding. This required significant practice in order to make structurally sound welds. I also had to ensure that my parts were appropriately fixtured to avoid accumulated distortion that would unbalance my chair.
Prior to welding the tubes together, I milled holes to insert steel rods that would hold my chair pillows in place. I brazed the steel rods and tubing together with brass filler rod.
The last part of the main chair structure was the seat. I bent sheet metal and TIG welded it underneath the seat level tubing.
To create the pillows for my chair, I sewed three tubular pillows to weave into the back and a cover for a seat cushion.
