The Solution
The client had a graphical representation of the snow globe from an artistic point of view. It was then the job of our design engineers to convert the ideas of the client to a 3D CAD model in our software Solid Works. The first task was to scale the model plane down to the required size, with all the detail from the full sized model being included. Next was to design the base which was made from aluminium with constant consideration for the manufacturing techniques during the design stage. The outside profile of the base was machined on a large CNC lathe and then CNC milling was used to reduce weight on the underside. The base also has 4 feet that were turned on a CNC lathe. Laser engraving was then employed on the base top to add more detail to the snow globe.
The Finishing Touches
The plane was designed to sit on a central rod to secure the plane in a specific position, which is the exact angle as the original model. With the plane being scaled and the hole cut out for the rod all done within Solid Works it was then manufactured by SLA rapid prototyping. The globe was then made from clear acrylic to fit within a slot machined in the base and was glued in place to form a water tight seal. With 2 plugs on the underside of the base the process of filling the snow globes could start. With a specific combination of distilled water, snow, washing up liquid and bleach added.
The snow globes were then individually packaged and securely boxed to allow for secure and safe transport while being aesthetically pleasing.
