Functional Scale Prototype
A functional scale prototype developed by Roghen Lab to explore and validate the concept of a full-size rotating window shading system.
The model was intentionally built at reduced scale to test the core mechanical principle before considering a real-size implementation. It combines CAD development, mechanical design, 3D printed components and electronic control to turn the architectural concept into a physical system that can be observed, tested and refined.
Design Goal
The objective was to create a scaled working model capable of rotating a series of vertical slats through 90°, allowing the opening to transition between a closed and open position.
The prototype was designed to test the feasibility of the concept, including the movement, mechanical layout and interaction between the individual components, before applying the same principle to a full-size system.
Development Process
Concept → CAD development → mechanism design → FDM prototyping → assembly → electronic integration → functional testing.
Mechanical System
The slats are connected through a shared linkage so that their movement remains coordinated.
A motor-driven mechanism controls the rotation, allowing the complete set of slats to move together between the open and closed positions.
Functional Testing
The physical scale model allowed the concept to be evaluated in real conditions, including:
- movement and clearances;
- component fit;
- assembly;
- mechanical interaction;
- controlled rotation;
- overall proportions.
By testing the mechanism at reduced scale, it was possible to evaluate the core operating principle before considering the dimensions, loads, materials and manufacturing requirements of a full-size version.
Potential Applications
The same development approach could be applied to:
- interactive architectural models;
- automated scale models;
- kinetic façade concepts;
- movable partitions;
- shading mechanisms;
- physical demonstrators for presentations and design reviews.
From Concept to Working Prototype
This project demonstrates how Roghen Lab can use scale prototyping to test a mechanical concept before moving toward a real-size implementation.
Have a mechanism or interactive concept you want to develop?
Get in touch with Roghen Lab to discuss your project.