IDEA GENERATION & DEVELOPMENT

Due to a delay caused by illness, I had to ask my classmates for help initially. After some detailed inquiries, I gained a better understanding and started to develop my first ideas. My goal was to create a shape that could be connected not only at the corners but also internally. I decided on a hexagon, as it offers many connection points at its corners. I spent a long time considering how to design the internal surface in a way that would allow for these connections. Through trial and error in the design software, I chose not to incorporate organic shapes but to focus on elements with corners and edges. Eventually, an arrangement of triangles emerged.

CREATION & LASER CUTTING

My first laser cutting results showed me that I needed to reduce the millimeter spacing for the fitting and refine the internal connections. After making these adjustments, there was still a considerable gap between the arrangement of triangles and the edge. So, I extended the group of triangles, which provided an ideal way to make internal connections. After several laser cutting iterations, I finally achieved my twenty-piece end product.

EXAMPLE ASSEMBLY

With my now 20 finished pieces, I initially wasn't sure how to arrange them. I experimented and created a connection system that rose upward and stood steadily on the ground due to the internal connections. After some assembly, the structure reminded me of a kind of trophy. The name of the project is also reflected in the final product. The name „Chimera Clasp“ references the mythological Chimera – a hybrid creature composed of different animals, known for its unique combination of elements. „Clasp“ signifies a fastening or clasp, highlighting how the individual components of the Chimera hold together. These terms are a perfect fit for my connection system, which also combines various geometric shapes into a hybrid, flexible, and creative unit.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

This exercise highlighted the importance of experimentation and precise adjustments. Through discussions with my classmates, I was able to quickly develop my concept and optimize it through testing during the laser cutting process. What was particularly exciting was designing the joints to be both stable and flexible. The creative process unexpectedly resulted in a trophy shape, which showed me how valuable playful experimentation can be. I learned that small adjustments can have a big impact, and I will continue to use this iterative approach in the future.