SHEILD

A multi-utility workstation designed around real workflows from digital work to hands-on making.

Shield is a furniture design project focused on creating a multi-functional workstation tailored to my personal workflow. It explores how a desk can evolve beyond a static surface into an adaptive environment that supports digital work, electronics prototyping, and physical making within a single cohesive system.

problem

Most desks are designed for a single, fixed activity typically computer work — which makes them inefficient for workflows that involve multiple tasks happening simultaneously. My personal workflow constantly shifts between working on a computer, building electronics like Arduino circuits, and physically prototyping objects. This creates challenges such as lack of space, cluttered surfaces, and restricted movement. The core problem was to design a workspace that could support: * Multiple activities at the same time * Easy access to tools and materials * Storage without compromising leg space * Comfortable interaction across the entire surface The aim was not just to build a desk, but to rethink how a workspace can adapt to real usage.

solution

Shield was designed as a multi-utility workstation that integrates working surface, storage, and structure into one cohesive system. The solution focuses on creating a large, continuous tabletop inspired by the PS5 controller, allowing better reach and a more immersive working experience. Storage is integrated through drawers on three sides, ensuring accessibility without affecting comfort. Due to fabrication constraints, the original curved structural elements were replaced with modular 18mm plywood joints, maintaining strength while simplifying production. Key features: * Large, enveloping tabletop * Multi-side drawer system * Open leg space for comfort * CNC-fabricated structure using 18mm plywood * Adapted structural system for manufacturability The final design balances functionality, structural stability, and fabrication feasibility.

Story

Shield began as a response to a simple brief — to design a table for anyone. Instead of choosing a hypothetical user, I chose to design the desk for myself, making the project more grounded in real needs and actual working patterns.

Understanding My Workflow

My daily workflow is not limited to a single activity. I constantly shift between different modes of working — from digital tasks to hands-on making.

This includes:

Computer-based work
Electronics and Arduino prototyping
Physical making, assembling, and experimenting

Most conventional desks are not designed for this overlap. They often result in cluttered surfaces, limited space, and restricted movement. This became the starting point to design a workspace that supports multiple activities simultaneously without compromise.

year

2024

timeframe

2-3 Weeks

tools

Autodesk Fusion 360, CNC Router, Hand Tools, Sanding & Finishing Tools

Early Exploration & Form Thinking

The process began with hand sketches, where I explored forms that move beyond the traditional rectangular desk. The focus was not just on shape, but on how the user interacts with the workspace.

The final form direction was inspired by the top view of a PS5 controller, translating its ergonomic and fluid geometry into a functional desk.

Creates a more dynamic and immersive workspace
Improves reach across different areas
Allows the desk to wrap around the user

Prototyping V1

To validate the concept, I built a full-scale cardboard prototype. This was a crucial step in understanding how the design behaves in real space.

Through this, I was able to:

Test proportions and dimensions
Evaluate reach and accessibility
Understand how the form supports movement

This stage helped bridge the gap between idea and physical experience.

CAD Development & CNC Planning

The design was then developed in Autodesk Fusion 360, where the concept was refined into a precise and manufacturable model.

At this stage:

Dimensions and proportions were finalized
Material thickness (18mm plywood) was defined
Joinery and structural components were planned
Toolpaths and NC programs were generated

Challenge: Curved Structures

A key feature of the original design was the use of curved structural elements, intended to enhance both strength and visual identity.

To achieve this, I experimented with kerf cutting techniques to bend plywood. However, after multiple trials, the method did not produce successful or reliable results.

Adapting the Design

Instead of forcing the original idea, I chose to adapt the design based on fabrication limitations.

Curved structures were simplified
Strength was reintroduced using modular 18mm joints
The design became more practical to manufacture

This became a key learning moment —
design must evolve with constraints, not resist them.

Before fabrication, simulations were run to ensure:

Correct tool movement
No collisions or errors
Accurate cutting sequence

This ensured a smooth transition from digital model to physical production.

these were my NC Program setting which i did :

Storage & Functional Integration

To support real usage, storage was integrated directly into the desk through drawers on three sides.

Made using 12mm plywood
Hand-cut and assembled
Installed beneath the tabletop

This ensured:

Easy access from multiple positions
Organized workspace
Clear leg space for comfort

The desk was designed as a complete system, not just a surface.

Fabrication & Assembly

All main structural components were CNC cut using 18mm plywood, ensuring precision and consistency.

Due to the size and weight:

Assembly required assistance
Parts were joined using Fevicol + nails
Alignment and stability were carefully maintained

This phase brought the project from digital accuracy to a physical, functional structure.

Finishing & Surface Treatment

The finishing process transformed the desk from a raw structure into a refined product.

The process included:

Sanding all surfaces
Applying putty (chalk powder + water)
Re-sanding for smoothness
Applying color coating (thinner-based mix)
Final sealing with touchwood polish

This improved both:

Surface quality
Overall visual finish

Final Adaptation

The original design included integrated features like a bookshelf and pegboard system. However, due to execution challenges, these were reinterpreted.

A metal railing system was introduced instead: