. Making Prototypes

Подпись: Figure 6.29 Mock-up for the Eames lounge (1945), fabricated by Charles and Ray Eames. Courtesy of Eames and Herman Miller, Inc.
. Making Prototypes

Detail studies can be modeled or drawn at full scale and are useful in resolving difficult or complicated aspects of design. When the opportunity arises, making a working prototype at full scale can help test and analyze aspects of the design. A working prototype allows one to refine design ideas before committing to production. Charles and Ray Eames were renowned for making working prototypes of their designs. Figure 6.29 shows a rough but effective full-sized mock-up fabricated in 1945 to help resolve the dimensions and angles

of the classic Eames lounge. These efforts were absolutely necessary. Through their contin­ued efforts in fabricating prototypes and making models, the Eameses were able to design and produce many classic furniture pieces. In this regard, modeling efforts in the process of design can be seen as a collection of explorations and tests. These explorations not only improve the current project, but also carry over to the next series of projects.

Updated: October 1, 2015 — 1:45 am