Material world
Most designers make small models to test out their ideas. These models are not full-size but ‘scale models’ so maybe only measure about 20cms in height.
They also want to find out whether their ideas about the structure or framework are correct. Some materials are stronger than others and are better suited to being outside in the rain, snow, wind and sun!
Now try making your own model.
Simple materials you have to hand in class or at home are paper, card and PVA glue. Paper is not very strong when it is just a flat sheet but if you roll it diagonally from corner to corner you will make a stronger tube. All tubes are good for making frameworks as they are light in weight and use less material as they are hollow.
Sketch out some ideas of what your bus shelter structure might be like and test your designs using simple paper tubes (you may have art straws to save time making your own). Use tape to join the straws together – you are testing the design idea not making the finished model at this point.
Are you having problems getting the corners to stay square – and is your model just a bit wobbly? Then cut some small triangles from card and glue them to the corners to strengthen the structure. Longer straws glued diagonally corner to corner (struts) will also help (triangulation).
What materials would be best for covering your shelter? What would be the most water resistant and transparent? You need to be able to see the bus coming along and the driver needs to see you.
Work out a ‘fair test’ for several materials you have chosen.
For your small scale model you could use cling film or clear acetate sheet (similar to the clear sheets teachers use with their overhead projectors).
How successful is your model or do you need to make some changes? Making small quick models saves time later when it comes to making a more permanent model.
Does it look good (does it need to?) and have you worked out how to attach the materials to each other in an effective way? Allow yourself some time to experiment.
If you have tried all the other activities you should now have:
- Sketches and/or photographs of existing bus shelters
- A list of all the ‘functions’ the ideal bus shelter should meet
- A series of small scale models
- A series of fair tests on materials to decide which ones are best for your model
- Some experiments to see how different materials can be joined together – and not with great wodges of sticky tape!
- A final drawing with lots of drawn detail and written notes to show how it can be built
- A final, beautifully finished model!
At this point do not worry if your model has not been as successful as you would like. Designers and builders find out more from mistakes and the bits that go wrong than if everything went well. Go through your designs and experiments and decide where you could change your ideas.
