Our next prototype had to fulfill the critical function of allowing the shelves to move and be lowered using the track/pulley system.
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Critical Function Model - Storage Position
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Bottom Shelf Extended
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Top Shelf Lowered to Counter Height
Our prototype fulfilled its critical function - but there were still adjustments to be made:
  • The rear tracks were undersized, and stuck out on the bottom. We would need custom tracks to get the full height range and clean lines.
  • The pulleys attached to the top shelf caused clearance issues when lowering past the bottom shelf. Either the top drawer needs to be smaller or the pulleys need to be attached differently.
  • The pulley system currently has the user physically grabbing the rope and hoisting like a sailor, then tying off to a rope cleat. The alpha prototype should have a more refined system of operating and locking the pulleys.
Up until now, the quality of construction on prototypes hasn't been a priority. As we start to build the alpha prototype, we delve more into manufacturing processes to ensure that the cabinet is made well.