Breadvan_update_012: Clay frame development

Custom frame work of steel compound curves

Welcome back to the base car. These images are showing the car being prepared for clay modelling. The first step to prepare the car for its new shape is building a custom frame work of steel compound curves. The fact is that the measurements of this frame will be smaller than the actual design of the Breadvan Hommage dictates. On top of this frame a layer of synthetic automotive clay will be applied. Meaning this industrial plasticine will bring the surface of the car to the desired parameters.

Modelling clay

Based on the design work, which is ongoing during the stage of modelling the clay, we will shape the plasticine into the right volumes. Modelling the clay is a highly labour intensive process. The fact is a car is a complex and three dimensional object, which has to look great from all angles. We are also looking at it under different light circumstances. The modelling process is iterative and the car will be reshaped many times over. Only by doing this many times over the proportions and surfacing of the Breadvan Hommage will be exactly spot on.

Car design for coachbuilding

In this specific case we are working from the rear towards the front. It is because many sub-projects make this coachbuilt car. Whilst being worked on in parallel fashion, all design elements have to be monitored and directed. This narrows down the time frame needed for the complete coachbuilding process. However, in some cases we have to wait on bespoke items being engineered at our suppliers. Specifically elements like the unique headlights and windows have to be made first, so we can model the body fitting tight around them. This means at the current stage the sides and front remain untouched for a while. The team can focus all our attention to the design and development of the #BreadvanHommage rear end.