grasshopper

Grasshopper is a collaborative second-year design project, undertaken by a team of three, in which we were tasked with designing and building a working prototype of a 3-4 wheeled kart capable of transporting a single person using only muscular power. The brief required us to create a functional vehicle while balancing form and aesthetic appeal. With just four months from brief to completion, we worked closely together to tackle the challenge within the constraints of our developing skills, limited resources, and tight deadlines.

The central focus of the project was form as a design driver, combining structural efficiency with nature-inspired aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the lightweight frames of hill-climbing buggies, we aimed to create a vehicle that was both functional and visually striking.

This project marked a pivotal step in my development as a designer. It challenged me to balance creative ambition with practical constraints, pushing me to experiment while staying grounded in real-world limitations. Working closely with my teammates, I strengthened my problem-solving abilities and gained a deeper understanding of how collaboration shapes a successful design. Grasshopper helped me refine both my technical and creative skills, enhancing my ability to integrate form and function effectively.

To bring the Grasshopper concept to life, we moved through multiple stages of prototyping, starting with basic models to test and refine the vehicle's ergonomics, structure, and overall design. We used rapid prototyping techniques, allowing us to quickly iterate and adjust our approach based on practical feedback and testing. These initial prototypes helped us assess the vehicle's weight distribution, stability, and user comfort.

As part of the design process, we experimented with different materials and construction methods. By repurposing old bicycle components and custom-building specific parts, we were able to create a lightweight, durable frame that met our requirements. For more specialised fabrication, including metal bending and welding, we worked closely with professionals, effectively communicating our technical requirements to ensure the prototype's structural integrity. The final design integrated an alloy steel frame with a chromoflair coating and a nylon suspension seat.