Research

The team visited the Atlanta Beltline to study the terrain, neighborhood and usage. We interviewed a lot of people as well as did observations of the users.

As part of research an online survey was deployed to gather more insights from the Atlanta Community.

Ideation

We collectively ideated and came up with around 100 thumbnails.

The team voted on favorite designs and after elaborated discussion narrowed down to three separate directions.

We further analysed the three designs based on various factors such as manufacturing-feasibility, material availability etc.  We realized that Mobius's bridge-like structure uses contrasting materials to capture the harmony and culture of Atlanta while bridging the gap between the Old and the New.

3d Modeling - Ideation in 3d Space

After exploring forms and picking a final direction for design through sketches, we used parametric modeling in Solidworks for form exploration in a 3d space. Parametric Model enabled us to quickly ideate and come up with 70 different forms. Having a model in 3d space is also used to understand scale and material.

Based on multiple iterations, we decided the design which would be simple in form, enables group interaction and allow to sit facing in multiple directions.

Prototyping

We did a quick study model to understand the form and manufacturing. Further we made a 1:6 scale prototype using sign foam and wood.

Budget

Based on my experience as Project Engineer, I volunteered to estimate the budget as part of the proposal. I gathered the costs of material and resources through internet and through phone calls to vendors. I contacted a local Architecture studio to get the concrete casting cost. The rest of manufacturing was proposed to be done at the Digital Fabrication Lab at Georgia Tech, for which the estimated cost is included as well.

Introducing TranSit.