DESIGN TRANSLATION

Translating this story into a physical form required simplifying it into its most essential elements — form and motion.

Instead of focusing on realistic detailing, I focused on capturing the essence of the animals through clean silhouettes and dynamic posture. The idea was to create something that feels alive, even with minimal detail.

The motion was intentionally not realistic. Instead, it was exaggerated and rhythmic, designed to suggest running rather than replicate it. This allowed the mechanism to stay simple while still being expressive.

The entire model is built around one idea:

Let motion carry the story.

FORM DEVELOPMENT

The choice of animals was intentional and played an important role in both the narrative and the visual language of the model.

Both the cheetah and the leopard share a strong visual similarity, often making them difficult to distinguish at a glance. This overlap supports the story, where identity and truth are not immediately clear. At the same time, both animals are known for their speed and agility, making them ideal subjects to explore motion.

However, their differences are just as important. The cheetah represents raw speed and urgency, built for pursuit, while the leopard embodies stealth, strength, and control. This contrast, combined with their visual resemblance, made them perfect for depicting a high-intensity chase driven by instinct and survival.

To translate this into a physical form, I began by studying real references and tracing the animals in motion using Illustrator. Instead of drawing static poses, I focused on capturing key frames of a running sequence, breaking down the movement into simplified silhouettes.

These iterations helped me:

• Understand how the body stretches and compresses during motion

• Identify pivot points for joints

• Simplify complex anatomy into buildable forms

Multiple variations were explored before arriving at a final stretched running posture that felt both dynamic and mechanically feasible.

The goal was not anatomical accuracy, but to capture the essence of motion in its simplest form.

This tracing process became the foundation for the final model, directly informing both the form and the mechanism.

MECHANISM

At the heart of the model is a simple crank mechanism that drives the entire system.

When rotated manually, the crank converts circular motion into an alternating vertical movement. This creates a rhythmic bouncing effect, giving the illusion that both animals are running.

The legs are connected using pivot joints made from skewers, allowing them to rotate freely. However, certain points are fixed, creating constraints that guide the motion in a controlled way.

This balance between movement and restriction is what makes the system work.

• Rotary input → converted into oscillating motion

• Pivot joints → allow flexibility

• Fixed constraints → create direction and rhythm

The result is a continuous motion loop that visually communicates a chase.

BUILD

The fabrication process combined digital precision with manual assembly.

All the parts were laser cut from plywood, ensuring accuracy and consistency. These components were then assembled by hand using adhesives, with careful alignment of joints and pivots.

The mechanism was housed inside a custom-built box, with acrylic elements used to support the internal structure. This enclosure hides the complexity of the system, allowing the focus to remain on the movement above.

The build process was straightforward, but required attention to detail to ensure smooth motion and alignment.

ENVIRONMENT

Once the model was functional, it still felt incomplete without a sense of context.

To address this, I created a ground layer using a simple but effective technique. Small holes were made across the base, into which pins were inserted. Threads were then woven between these pins in an abstract pattern.

This created a textured surface that loosely represents grass, adding depth and visual interest without distracting from the main model.

It’s subtle, but it completes the scene.

OUTCOME

The final model captures a single moment, but does so continuously.

As the crank rotates, the chase repeats creating a loop of motion that keeps the moment alive. The viewer doesn’t need explanation; the movement itself communicates the story.

The project demonstrates how simple mechanical systems can be used to create expressive and engaging experiences. It shows that complexity is not always necessary — clarity and intention matter more.

REFLECTION

This being my first major project, it had a strong impact on how I approach design.

It made me realize that mechanisms are not just technical systems — they can be used as tools for expression. Even a simple movement, when designed thoughtfully, can carry meaning.

I also learned the importance of focusing on the right idea. Instead of trying to do everything, choosing one strong moment and developing it properly can lead to a much more powerful outcome.

Looking back, the project is simple in its execution, but the thinking behind it is something I still carry forward.

Design is not just about making things work.
It’s about making them communicate.