Pounding out the Ideas

Working out the details

After calling it a day on friday, we regrouped and shared some of the design solutions that we've brainstormed over the weekend. The floor plan was fleshed out during our early conversations. With consideration to work flow and the dimensions of utilities, we were able to create a divided program where demonstrations are held on the right and supporting programs on the left.

Floor Plan Sketches - Nick

In the front of the trailer the brewing process will be displayed alongside the serving station.  We are still in debate about the location of the sink and the refrigerator within the space.  In order to resolve this, we will present both scenarios to the client with the pros and cons.

Roofing Detail - Ellis and Joy

The way we clad the structure really depends on how we arrange things on the inside. The main idea is to make something beautiful out of cheap or already available materials. The two long walls will be plywood panels. On the short sides the idea is to use corrugated plastic that is already on the existing metal frame. With an angled roof and these material selections, we want to focus on daylighting and ventilation.

Sink Test - Andrew and Shane

After crunching numbers, we realized that a gravity-fed water system might not be the best solution for the sink. With the our given hight, the faucet would only reach 1.5 psi (not accounting for friction). Since then other solutions have been pursued. The current test is of a pressurized tank system. Pumped by a foot-operated bicycle pump, the tank will be filled with air. When the faucet is turned on, the water will flow out of the tank and into the sink. This rig requires a little bit more activity from the user, but will also provide more water pressure and easier refill when the water runs out. The required activity also makes the process visible and easier to demonstrate as an energy saving process apposed to the 'hidden' gravity sink.

... Be on the look out for updates on the design proposal and fabrication.

We are in the middle of our schematic design period and we had a very productive charrette (part 1) on Friday.  We will follow up with part 2 this morning.  The final floor plan is coming together, as well as the outside envelope.  Nice work, Mobile Lab Team.