For this assignment I learned how to use a laser cutter, where I made a topdown phone stand for recording. With this lofi prototype I was solely focused on testing for usability, seeing how effective this simple prototype functioned. By only having access to two 18"x24" sheets of cardboard I started by sketching out my design and carefully planning out my dimensions.
Sketching
As I started sketching this prototype I had a good idea of how I wanted it to look, but I wasn't sure on the dimensions. Because my design is intended for phone use I decided to base my measurements off of the iPhone 14, acting as an average phone size.
Prototype
The first prototype I made, showing needed adjustments in the slits.
When I first got ready to laser cut I was unsure on how to account for the kerf, so I over exaggerated the slit holes. Because of this, however, the prototype wouldn't properly stand up, which led me to add filler pieces of cardboard to compensate for the additional space.
In addition, the hole cut in the middle was too big,
which buckled under the weight of the phone. I needed to find a balance in order to allow for both camera access
and stability.
My final design made in Cuttle, ready for laser cutting.
I then went back to my svg file in Cuttle, where I narrowed down the slits and shrunk the camera hole by half. After making said adjustments I transferred my file, laid the cardboard on the laser cutter, and started cutting.
The final prototype assembled and in use.
After printing the final prototype I conducted a usability test with a friend's phone. This time around the prototype held strong and all attachments were secure. However during printing I struggled with the laser cutter power and speed settings, as it failed to consistently cut clean through the cardboard. I continually upped the power and lowered the speed, yet I remained frugal with these changes, worried that the cardboard would burn.
Analysis
After an in depth critique with my classmates I gained some insights as to what I could aim for in further iterations. While the customization in height was nice, the fixed width prevented what could be captured by the camera above. It was also mentioned that the prototype could utilize additional support, possibly by angling the two support panels to form a triangular structure. Overall, I feel as though this prototyping process was successful for me, as my main goal was to ensure its usability. Creating several iterations was key to this, as the factor of tangibility allowed me to best observe strengths and weaknesses.
All work created under the guidance of Professor Brock F. Craft