Lunar New Year Chess Set
Identify
Duration
Discplines
6 wks.
Product Design
Skills
Prototype Modeling
Laser Cutting
The goal of this chess set to be inspired and referenced by the Lunar New Year. This chess set will use elements of Chinese spiritual culture that can be used as decoration and for a logical game.
Ideal Audience
Anyone interested in learning more about Chinese culture. The purpose of this set is to bring people together to enjoy a mind engaging game. The design of this set has elements of abstract and movement that can be used to uplift social environments.
Research
The Lunar New Year is the most significant traditional holiday in Chinese culture. Chinese spiritual culture is deeply rooted in a blend of traditional beliefs, philosophies, and religious practices, such as Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and ancestor worship. It is the beginning of the lunar calendar year, and it usually occurs in the middle of February or late January. Not only is it celebrated in China, but also in numerous other East Asian nations. Its importance goes past simple party, as it conveys profound otherworldly, social, and familial significance.
The sharp curves on the bridge are symmetrical and have sharp edges.
The bridge curves are more soft but dramatic compared to the others. The curves have more flow than sharper corners.
The helmet has an U shape symbol on top that shows how they reflect each other.
The lantern has more raw shapes then curves. The corners are sharp and stagnant.
Focus Study
The temple has the most curves. The shop edges stand out, making it a crucial part of the design.
Sketch Ideations
Preliminary Models
While using the laser cutting machine, I created several prototype models out of plywood. Unfortunately, these prototypes encountered several issues. Firstly, the plywood burned during the cutting process, compromising the integrity of the models. Additionally, the designs failed to stand on their own, which affected their stability and functionality. Lastly, the models were prone to crumbling apart, further undermining their durability. Given these challenges, I realized that I needed to thoroughly reassess and revise my designs to address these problems and improve the overall outcome.
Prototype Redesigns
Sizes are all different
The cuts didn’t represent family form
The smaller pieces broke off
Pieces are correct in scale
The cuts fell off in the models
Final designs for the architecture
The Bishop broke off
Sizes are more consistent
The new element of motion to the final design
The cuts at the bottom are all the same
Fusion 360 Renders
Conclusive Physical Model
Wood used were red brick wood and oakwood
