Turning Shugarman's architectural vision turned into reality |
Making a concept palpable The vision was in place. Now it needed to be made real. The first tasks was to conceive a way to make such a thin object sufficiently robust to withstand wind loading and daily stresses, yet leave some movement so it could gently sway in a breeze, much like a stalk of wheat. Structural and fabrication concepts were explored as computer concept models. When designing on a computer screen, it is difficult to judge the actual size of an object. Because everything lives in the same 21" window of computer desktop space, when on sees the actual object often small things end up feeling smaller and big things seem bigger. Because of the large scale of the prosed monument, we needed to get to a full-size mock-up to validate the concept before going too far down any road. Nothing is better to evaluate reality that a full-size, physical model. |
Real scale models the cheap Know we knew the size was right, but what about surface finishes and materials? Will everything feel right? Will the end product measure up to the vision? Advanta fabricated a 1/5th scale model with the right stainless materials and finish. A quality photorealistic image can communicate a lot – and we use them frequently to help with product visioning. However, sometimes touching and feeling makes for believing and confidence. The scale model allowed the Society to see a "real" monument before the full-size versions were made. The models were used in composite images to validate the design in context. These images have been excellent fund raising tools that are still in use today. |
Can you tell it's small?
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The environment a product lives in makes a difference Interior Version Exterior Version |
Finite Element Analysis Using the 3D CAD to develop the design, we engaged an engineering resource to conduct a computer simulation called an FEA, or Finite Element Analysis. FEA is a little like a virtual crystal ball that allows us to simulate stresses on a design and then make modifications to optimize performance. This allowed an engineering resource to ensure the stalks could meet the same wind loads outlined in the standards for light poles, making them ready for the great outdoors. |
Light Box the revolution Sealed Ultrathin Custom Signage Lightboxes Extra durable Glass Light Box |
Give us the Mandate; Get the Goods! Advanta provided a production design, and coordinated production from multiple vendors. For the opening celebration of each field, we ensured the monuments were completed on time, and on budget. From defining every nut, weld and screw to ensuring all the units were packed and shipped to site; Advanta has handled every detail of each installation. Our concentration on design and production has permitted the Alberta Champion Society to focus on building the next fields, fund raising, and community involvement. We are very pleased to be working with them on the fourth Field of Fame which is to be unveiled in Calgary in 2014. |