Research Results of Possibility of Using Non-Traditional Materials in Design of Furniture for Children

Abstract

The article considers the experience of studying the design capabilities of unconventional materials in the design process of children’s furniture. Polycarbonate has been known for a long time, it is produced industrially and is mainly used in construction. It has good consumer and aesthetic qualities, high ductility, and relative cheapness. All this prompted a team of teachers and students to experiment in studying the possibilities of using polycarbonate in furniture for children. Children are very active and “destructive” in their activities. Not all furniture objects can withstand such loads, and those that withstand are often very expensive, because for children’s institutions furniture is needed that would be durable and relatively cheap. The purpose of the experimental work is the design of children’s furniture, taking into account the capabilities of non-traditional material, which meets the complex of modern requirements. The experimental work was carried out in three stages, on the first - the test material was corrugated cardboard, on the second - polystyrene, and on the third - polycarbonate. At each stage, a prototype was made and tested in a child care facility through operation for one month. Of the three materials studied, polycarbonate gave the best performance, which withstood all the mechanical loads of operation, retained its original shape, structural strength and external aesthetic appeal. The reviews of educators and employees of childcare facilities testify to the above qualities of the material and products made from it.