Module 1 – IdeationWeek One Tasks – Measuring Space

Stefan Bjelosevic – 640320

Virtual Environments – S2, 2013

EXPANDABLE RACK

ELEVATION VIEW

MEASURED DRAWING – 1:5 SCALE

PLAN VIEW

SECTION VIEW

Reference Point

Closed Rack

Half Open Rack

Fully Open Rack

Dotted lines indicate rack in fully open and closed configurations.

I measured the rack using a traditional ruler, which I then replicated onto the page. Due to

the innate symmetry of the design, replication is relatively straightforward once one diamond is drawn, and the internal angles are established.

In addition, when drawing the closed rack, I used a technique similar to that described in Miralles’ ‘How to layout a croissant’. I photocopied the rack and then drew the outlines of the material, hence allowing me to devise another practical means of mensuration other than that of simply

utilising a ruler.

All dimensions are in millimetres.

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EXPANDABLE RACKMATERIAL LOGIC BEHIND THE

Upon inspection, the expanding rack appears complex in nature, and is – but below the apparent cloud of complexity, there is a very simple pattern that gives rise to this larger

system.

The rack is composed of two differing lengths of wood, arranged in a diamond pattern that is repeated several times. The system is held together with hinges comprised of bolts, a small washer and a nut. As the entire system is interconnected, the movement of but

one plank causes a subsequent expansion or compression in the rest of the system.

When disassembled, the hinge system is composed of a plank of wood, a small screw about 10mm long, a

washer, and a nut that holds the part together.

Two larger parallel planks are bisected by a smaller plank, which

is fastened with screws.

Hinge system can rotate about the screw set into the wood, as the rack is compressed or expanded.

Component can rotate

The hook used in this particular rack is of antique nature – it consists of a large, sculptured elaborate knob set into a base which is then fastened onto the planks below. The

hook is quite archaic in appearance.

When removed from the larger system, a plank attached to another

can undergo practically unlimited rotations in any direction.

The plank and hinge are free to rotate in either direction when re-moved from the rest of the rack.

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