Refinement

After discussion with MMU staff, we further developed our concept in terms of protection and lighting issues. We proposed to employ glass canopy to prevent unexpected damage, and also to use LED lighting at the nodes to out-stand the structure in the environment.

Perspective

We got our final position at a high level staircase, behind which there is a balcony, so that people could observe the stool either from bottom or from the top side.

1:1 Prototype on site

We took the prototype to site we chose after we managed to assemble it in studio. During the period of reassembling, we fixed and modified some parts in order to better fit it on site.

1:1 Prototype Making in studio

Plan and measurements

The proposed position is marked on plan before we actually assembled on site. Also, we worked out the measurements of the 1:1 prototype before we start to make:
4mm diameter dowels @ 300mm
50mm diameter styroform balls

Final test model

Test Models

Based on the initial concept, we created a series of models to test the geometry and structure. Materials chosen to use is tiny wooden sticks, which measure 60mm, and blue-tack as connection bits. Additionally, we did a 1:5 scaled staircase to help understanding how the object could properly fit on site.
So far, we came to an agreement to leave an opening on top as a viewpoint, and to make the 'cage' flowing down over several stairs.

Precedent & Initial concept

Employing the samba wood with Styrofoam ball as connection, the molecular structure is a good representation to the bone-shaped microstructures inside the core of the stool, as well as its polygon surface. Therefore, we had our initial concept to create such light-weight structure to protect and display the femur stool.

http://arnoldgoron.com/window-display-isabel-marant-2011-2010

MMU special collection - femur stool by assa ashuach

The collection we chose to take is a 3D-printed chair. The stool is aimed to generate maximum load-bearing capacity with a minimum of materials, and is designed to mould itself to the weight and posture of whoever is sitting on it. The maximum load it can bear is 120KG.

http://assaashuach.com/portfolio/femur-stool/

Site visiting - the Brooks building.

It is a new campus building for Faculty of Education and Faculty of Health of MMU. The most impressive part is the spacious public space on the ground floor, facing a large open outdoor garden. With plenty of chairs and staircases, students can enjoy an innovative communicating and learning environment.