Making, Embodiment, and Reconstruction
This project, in collaboration with CMU's Situated Computation + Design Lab and professor Vernelle Noel, explores Trinidad and Tobago's traditional wire-bending craft from carnival traditions since the 1930s. Our goal is to revive and understand this cultural practice using a reconstruction approach inspired by archaeological methods. Key to our study is the Baileigh Universal Bender MPB-15, chosen for its versatility. By digitally modeling and fabricating this tool, we seek to uncover the deeper knowledge behind wire-bending, study how artisans interact with their craft, and innovate new techniques for its future development and preservation.
See below for my research poster and a more in-depth view of my project, process and outcomes. The following poster presents preliminary research findings that have not yet been published. The content is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to change as the research progresses. Please do not cite or distribute this poster.
Skills
Research, Tool design, Rapid protoyping, CAD
Timeline
6 weeks - Summer 2024
Materials
3D printing filament, Wire, Pliers, CardboardTools
3D printer, SolidworksProcess
Key Insights
- Designers can iteratively improve upon existing designs, considering factors like ergonomics, weight distribution, accessibility, and functionality
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The project provides insights into how users interact physically with tools ensuring that tools are not only functional but also intuitive and comfortable to use
- The abstracted tool design also offers insights into how tools can be simplified and still remain to perform the same function
- Questions of portability highlight considerations for accessibility and usability in different contexts
Educational Context
The exploration of new kits and tools for children in wire-bending focuses on educational methodologies. These tools can not only teach practical skills like wire-bending but also foster creativity and problem-solving abilities in young learners. Designing tools that are accessible to children can show them that novel materials such as wire can be used in many contexts. Featuring an intuitive stamp mechanism, children can easily shape wire into various designs by placing it in a slot and stamping it into different curves and angles. Additionally, a built-in straightening hole allows kids to pull the wire through to correct and refine their creations. Tool has an emphasis on safety, durability, and ease of use.
Looking ahead, I envision enhancing tool by including it in a comprehensive craft kit paired with an instructional pamphlet. This pamphlet would feature step-by-step guides and inspirational images of various wire-bent structures, offering children a range of creative possibilities and design challenges.
Infrastructures of Digital Fabrication and Localized Making Knowledges
In this project, we explore how digital tools like CAD and CAM can work alongside craft techniques through wire-bending. We design and build two lightweight structures: one made with digital design and fabrication, and the other using those components as templates for hand-crafted construction. One is rigid and static, the other flexible and dynamic.
We question how digital fabrication can support local craft traditions by reflecting the values and resources of a place, rather than relying on standardized, imported technologies.
Skills
Research, Protoyping, Analyzing
Timeline
6 weeks - Summer 2024
Materials
3D printing filament, Wire, Pliers, Fiberglass tapeTools
3D printerProcess
My role in this project involved assisting with assembly, construction, and analysis.