The Problem + Research

 The problem:  Design a 3d printed piece of jewellery using a tinkercad or fusion (or any other 3d printing platform) to fulfill the design challenge and impress judges with its unique design and comfort.

Brainstorm + Design

Build + Feedback + Redesign

Final Product

My Design:

This design was printed to show the delicacy and intricacy of the lotus flower. The design process was unique as it focuses on the natural aspect of the design. The fine details from the thickness of the petal to the shape mimic the features of lotuses in real life.  The edges are round and thin, giving grace and sensitivity to the design. Additionally, the smaller flower inside the larger one adds more detail and highlights the 3d printing design process.  This second design feature is meant to enhance the durability of the design so it doesn't break easily. Lastly, the colour of the pin is aesthetically pleasing and appealing to look at. All of these features not only add to the jewllery but also fit within the criteria of the design.

Elements and Principles of Design:

Colour and Texture: The colour of the final print is gold, which enhances the elegance of the design. Gold is a staple colour for many types of jewellery in the world and is used for its boldness and shine. Overall, the colour of the pin is aesthetically pleasing and appealing to look at.

Shape: The shape of the design is the most intricate and crucial factor of the design. The fine details, from the thickness of the petal to the shape mimic the features of lotuses in real life.  The edges are round and thin, giving grace and sensitivity to the design. 

Pattern and Harmony: The petal pattern is repeated several times. This principle of design also shows harmony as the flower feels complete and whole through the repeated pattern.

Balance: The symmetrical design creates an impression of equality- showing balance to the design

Form: The 3d form of the petals enhance the natural feel of the lotus. The 3d and organic design are a type of form and create curiosity.

Reflection

My experience:

Along the design process I encountered several challenges I had to overcome. During the brainstorming phase, I spent majority of my time looking for design ideas but none of them sparked an interest. However, this research phase inspired me to reflect my design off of natural aspects in our daily lives, including flowers. This idea allowed me expand my viewpoint and brainstorm design ideas based off of a lotus flower. During the design phase, the lotus flower had to many sharp edges and too bulky to 3d print at once. As I experimented slight modifying the design in fusion, I realized by softening and thinning the edges it would compact the design, making it easier to print.

What this experience taught me and what I learnt:

I enjoyed how this project allowed me broaden my views and research not based off of ideas online but to take inspirations from things around you. These things often go unnoticed, even though they hold great inspiration powers. I built positive relationships with the people around me as I was able to give and take support/help. I also further developed my skill at 3d designing in fusion 360. Although I have used this platform before, by doing this project I learnt of new features(pattern, shell,etc) and strengthened my overall skill in fusion. With the intricate design, it was challenging at first, however as time progressed and my skills in fusion reinforced, my design started working out. 

Why this matters to me:

My journey in 3d printing and the design process began last year at junior high, but they are still developing. Each time I encounter an issue and methods of solving it or changing altogether, I subconsciously use the design process to solve it. The risk with this project is balancing between an unrealistic and realistic idea. Your ideas have no limit but when it comes to resources you are not completely familiar with, like 3d printers and CAD, it can be a risk to start designing within the limits. However, although a risk can bring challenges it also teaches you how to approach them and I have no regrets for brainstorming my design and watching it become a reality. 

Applications:

Throughout this learning experience I was able to take inspiration from nature and the things around me as well as igniting my creativity. The challenges I encountered enhanced my problem solving skills and critical thinking skills, both of which are essential in academic subjects as well in real life situations. Although I have 3d printed before, each time I do so,  the satisfaction felt when seeing your completed design is a inexpressible feeling. If I would change anything, I would create a 3d printed clip for the lotus that works on all hair types.