Abstract
Assemble is a contemporary lighting project that explores different means of production while preserving key design principles such as design for disassembly. The outcome utilises many manufacturing processes that span handwork to CNC and manual machining. The design solely uses mechanical fasteners to ensure that the item can be disassembled into its based components whether that be for repairs, further design iterations or for it to be recycled. The lamps visual design references the iconic Banker's lamp from the early 1900s while its means of manufacture and design bring it well into the 21st century.
Assemble
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Exploded View/Components
The Assemble lamp consists of both machined and hand formed aluminium and brass. Each component makes use of different finishes such as clear powder coat, polished and anodised aluminium.
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Product Dimensions
The footprint of Assemble allows it to be placed on bedside tables, bookshelves and desks. while its height retains its ability to be functionally used as a reading light.
Ideation & Experimentation
During ideation, concepts were generated from natural formations, alterations of current designs as well as original concepts. These were then investigated to further understand their design and feasibility regarding their function, narrative and means of manufacture.
The secondary goal of the project was to explore methods of metalworking, forming and finishing that I had little experience with. This included annealing and working brass/copper to riveting and engraving non-ferrous metals.
Development & Fabrication
The development of Assemble consisted of furthering its design for disassembly while identifying key manufacturing limitations and refining its interaction method, whether that be through a tactile switch or capacitive touch.
In its revised state ready for fabrication, multiple methods were used to produce the final prototype. These methods include water-jet cutting the stand profile to then be formed using a brake press and anodized. The light/shade mounts were CNC machined and sealed with polish. While the brass shade was cut from sheet stock to which the internal grooves were manually machined. The shade was subsequently annealed, rolled into its final form, before being polished and powder coated.
Outcome
Assemble’s final form is a highly refined function desk/bedside lamp suited for a range of spaces. Its primary construction consists of non-ferrous alloys such as brass and aluminium. The design achieved its goal of being completely disassemblable into its components and sub-components while only using mechanical fasteners to secure the lamp together.