The prototyping phase was the most fun part of the project for me, as the challenge was to bring our design vision to life using the limited time and resources available. Our aim was to produce a high-quality prototype with a realistic look while keeping costs as low as possible.
To achieve this, we focused on readily available materials and paid special attention to the finish to closely match our intended design. For the spherical component of the stand, we repurposed two metal salad bowls from Ikea. Using professional help, we welded three metal tubes to the larger bowl, creating a sturdy frame that adhered to the initial design. To align and secure the two bowls, we fabricated custom MDF parts. Inside the bowl, we installed an LED strip to produce a soft, calming glow. Although this prototype does not include additional functions, the design is equipped to accommodate essential fish life support systems, such as aeration, water filtration, and heating. A semi-translucent plastic ring was added to the exterior to conceal internal components and enhance the design’s sleek appearance. The metal construction was then carefully airbrushed, giving it a polished and professional finish.
Finally, we placed a round fish tank of the appropriate size inside the completed structure. Despite our limited resources, we were able to create a prototype that exceeded our expectations.
