PC DRAFT DESK
How might we design a high-quality piece of furniture that not only keeps a PC tower off the ground for improved accessibility and protection but also offers enhanced durability, robustness, and unique functionality beyond what is currently available on the market?
The goal is to create a PC desk or cart that elevates the user experience by incorporating premium materials, superior build quality, and innovative features such as an integrated cooling tray to ensure both performance and aesthetic appeal.
PROBLEM
These are my 20 initial iteration…
IDEATION
I was inspired by images online where furniture utilized plate steel flush to hardwood.
So ideation began with a focus on combining steel and wood with flush surfaces.
INSPIRATION
Initially, I was too fixated on my first idea. Pivoting to creating 3 very distinct concepts had me push my ideas. Each has different aesthetics while maintaining similar function and emphasis on flush joints.
CONCEPT REFINEMENT
The final design utilized design elements from my concept refinement ideas. The sled base, the cantilevered frame are both from different designs.
FINAL CONCEPT
COOLING
One issue I ran into is heat dissipation. Computer towers can create a lot of heat when being used for intense things like rendering. The wooden shelf above the PC could potentially disrupt airflow as heat rises. To assist with airflow I designed a cooling system that pulls air from above the PC.
DESIGN DRAWINGS
Manufacturing involved a combination of metalworking, woodworking, and electronics assembly.
The steel rectangular tube stock was cut, bent, welded, drilled, and powder-coated for durable and precise frames. For the wooden components, birch butcher block was CNC routed, drilled, sanded, stained, and finished with polyurethane to enhance its aesthetic and protective qualities. The cooling tray featured 3D-printed components for the electronics, which were carefully installed to ensure functionality. Finally, all elements were assembled using hardware such as bolts and wood-threaded inserts, creating a cohesive and functional design.
MANUFACTURING
