Pontoon Console
The goal of this project was to design a new fiberglass pontoon console that would be smaller than the current one, while still displaying all the same buttons, controls and accessories. To help save on cost, the console needed to be manufactured using only one mold with no undercuts.
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Sketching
I started by sketching out some initial ideas like the overall shape and the dash area. I also took measurements of our current console to get an idea for size. I wanted to make sure my concepts would fit in the same footprint while adding form strategically to make it look smaller.
To improve functionality, I designed a slanted console so that the mold would pull easily. This slanted form meant there was already an angle for the backrest of the lounger in front of the helm. I went through many rough SolidWorks models to get a feel for overall size, shape, and accessory placement.
The process of making this console required a lot of iterative designing. I kept going through different designs trying to make the console look and function better while still keeping the initial design requirements, such as the small size and one pull mold.
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Iterations
The process of making this console required a lot of iterative design. I kept going through different designs trying to make the console look and function better while still keeping the initial design requirements, such as the small size and one pull mold.
Final Concept
After numerous concepts and iterations, the console project came to an end. The initial design had originally removed the sink but it was added back in. Doing so, however, would increase the cost and difficulty to manufacture.
The culmination of this project ultimately ended with three final similar designs. Two of them are one pull molds with sinks on different sides and the other is a two-part mold. Due to time constraints and a more economical console option becoming available, this project did not make it to production. Although the pontoon console was not realized, the design did inspire a new upcoming fishing boat console.
