Design Study
My goal in this project was to gain insight into what makes certain ubiquitous objects uniquely popular. I love cooking, so kitchen appliances seemed a perfect set of tools to explore.
I drafted by hand and modeled in Solidworks two iconic industrial designs: the KitchenAid Mixer and the Juicy Salif juicer by Phillipe Starck for Alessi.
Structural Analysis
I used my Solidworks model of the Juicy Salif (shown above as a rendering) and finite element analysis to simulate the load created when juicing an orange.
First, I measured this force by juicing an orange on top of a scale to measure the typical force applied during juicing. Then, I simulated this applied force in Solidworks, leading to the following result. The juicer can easily support this force, even with its delicate three legs.
Iteration
Finally, to play with the design, I designed another version of the juicer, this time one which would rest on the top of a glass, rather than extending over it. This version could be used across a wider range of vessels, including those with wide mouths, such as measuring cups.
This study was completed as a final project for two courses I took, Drawing Architecture and Computer Aided Design, which allowed me to combine my interests with the skills I had learned in each.