08.03 Tool Holder Ideation and Sketches Assignment

Assignment Deliverables

1. At least three distinct tool-holder concepts.
2. A developed sketch of your preferred concept showing:
   • At least two views and approximate dimensions based on measurements of the actual tools.
   • How the holder attaches to the cart, table, wall, or other location.
   • How tools are inserted and removed.
   • How someone identifies the correct storage location when the holder is empty.
3. A brief explanation, 3–5 sentences, describing why you selected the concept and what you would test before fabrication.

Label the file YYYY-MM-DD Lastname Firstname Tool Holder Ideation (.pdf,.jpg,.png,.docx)

Assignment Overview

Design custom tool holders for Sculpture + Expanded Media tools that could attach to the rolling table/tool cart being fabricated in class, or for tools and supplies in your own studio.

Study the actual tools and how people use, retrieve, and return them. Explore different arrangements and attachment methods rather than making minor variations of one idea. Sketch each idea and identify the tools, proposed materials, and fabrication techniques. Sketches can be quick and exploratory, but labels should clearly explain how each design works.

Design Requirements

Your proposed holder must:

1. Combine at least two different materials and two fabrication or joining techniques.
   • Materials might include:
     • steel
     • acrylic
     • wood
     • plywood
     • other(s)
   • Techniques might include:
     • welding
     • CNC machining
     • laser cutting
     • 3D printing
     • wood fabrication
     • acrylic heat bending
     • mechanical fastening
     • adhesive bonding
     • other(s)
2. Allow easy tool retrieval and return, with enough hand clearance and minimal interference from neighboring tools.
3. Make the correct location recognizable even when the tool is missing. Consider persistent labels, silhouettes, outlines, icons, or clearly shaped compartments so a new user can put tools away without prior knowledge.
4. Fit its intended location and keep tools securely stored. For a rolling cart, consider movement, attachment, and clearance.

Grading Rubric