The lathe bed of [Figure 22] shows one of innumerable examples of space violations in the industrial arts. A slight lowering of the cross brace would add materially to the appearance and strength of the casting. [Figure 23] is a copper box with the following more or less common faults of design: commonplace ratio of length and width (2:1) partially counteracted, however, by a more pleasing ratio of the vertical dimension, equal spacing in the width of cover of box and box body, and equal spacing of the hinges of the box from the ends of the box and from each other. By applying the two and three horizontal division rules these errors may be avoided.
Freehand Curves
[Figure 24] shows a low bowl with a compass curve used in designing the contour. This has brought the widest part of the design in the exact center of the bowl which makes it commonplace. In addition to this the top and bottom are of the same width, lacking variety in this respect. Correction is readily made by applying a freehand curve to the contour, raising or lowering the widest point (F), at the same time designing the bottom either larger or smaller than the top.
INSTRUCTION SHEET
[Plate 7] is a sheet suggestive of the application of Rules 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b, with an indication of the type of problem to be required. The steps of the designing processes in either wood (class 1), clay (class 2), or metal (class 3), are summarized as follows:
SUMMARY OF DESIGN STEPS
(a) Construction of the rectangle representing the vertical or horizontal character of the primary mass with desirable proportions. It is better to select a typical view ([Plate 6], D), preferably a front elevation.
(b) Subdivide this rectangle into two or three structural sections; horizontal in character. Make two or three trial freehand sketches for varied proportions and select the most pleasing one in accordance with Rules 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b.
(c) Translate the selected sketch to a full size mechanical drawing or at least to a reasonably large scale drawing. The structural elements: i.e., legs, rails, posts, etc., should be added and other additional views made.
(d) Dimension and otherwise prepare the drawing for shop purposes.
(e) Construct the project.
SUGGESTED PROBLEMS
Design a nasturtium bowl, applying Rules 1a, 1b, 2a. Design a writing table 2 feet 6 inches high with three horizontal divisions.
SUMMARY OF RULES
Rule 2a. If the primary mass is divided into two horizontal divisions, the dominance should be either in the upper or the lower section.
Rule 2b. If the primary mass is divided into three horizontal divisions or sections, the dominance should be placed in the center section with varying widths in the upper and lower thirds.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1. State two methods of subdividing the primary mass.
2. Define the nature and need of horizontal space divisions.
3. Give five steps to be used in designing a foot stool or piano bench.
4. What point constitutes a horizontal division in the contour of a simple clay bowl?
5. State the rule governing two horizontal space divisions and furnish illustrations in wood, clay, and metal.
6. Give the rule governing three horizontal space divisions and supply illustrations in wood, clay, and metal.
7. State five steps in the designing of a project in the industrial arts involving the use of horizontal structural divisions.
Plate 11