U-KaseA combination carry/display case for ukulele
I started playing ukulele because I wanted to learn guitar, but given my available time, guitar seemed too complicated and cumbersome. Ukulele, though, was smaller, more portable, and easier to learn, and the sound that the nylon strings produced was calming in a way that guitar could never imitate. The ukulele's light weight, however, is also one of its drawbacks: it can be damaged easily if it is not taken care of properly. The U-Kase, as my product is called, is made out of sheet aluminum, which fills two needs. On the one hand, aluminum is light enough that the ukulele still remains portable, while on the other hand, the metal is strong enough to protect the ukulele from most hazards. The most unique aspect of my design, however, is the double doors on the front of the case. Most instrument cases open from the side; I realized, though, that if I made a case in this style, my ukulele would almost necessarily remain pent up in the case. My design solves this problem: while leaning against a wall, the case can remain open with the ukulele on display. |
Process
I manufactured the exterior out of sheet aluminum, cutting the metal using a jump shear, notch cutter, and bandsaw. I bent the metal using manual brakes.
I used a drill press to drill holes on each part and checked alignment using temporary Cleco rivets.
After many iterations, I had the parts anodized black and fastened everything together using steel rivets. I marked off the interior dimensions on thick foam and cut it using the bandsaw. I selected a cream-colored velvet for the interior.