EP Designs (Erik Purkey) began with initial hand sketches of custom motorcycle designs without much knowledge of how these machines are fabricated. Upon Erik’s introduction to Pat Woods, where they were enrolled in a multi-process welding program, Erik decided it was time to take these rough sketches to the next level. With Pat’s knowledge and skills of fabrication, Erik began creating sheet metal fabrication templates with the aid of 3D modeling.

Erik’s design background was primarily established while obtaining his degree in Landscape Architecture at Purdue University. Although he has a passion for custom motorcycles, it is the craft of designing, modeling, and constructing any real world application that not only functions well, but simulates the visual sense.

While learning the 3D interface, Erik began by modeling individual parts from a previous design he sketched. As each part was tweaked to fit and flow with the overall design, an assembly of all the parts was created, producing the image you see here. Many designers present their clients with rough sketches and assure them that it will be quality craftsmanship but there is nothing that can compare to putting an image in front of them that represents what the final product will be.

As Pat and Erik mesh design and fabrication tools together, they begin to create a seamless process of modeling these organic shapes to output a paper template. This template is then used to produce an accurate “buck” for metal shaping.

Once a rough overall sketch is defined, the general idea is scanned and referenced into a 2D drafting application. Here, an elevation view of the bike is produced. This aids in the smoothing of lines and pushes the design closer to a real proportioned product. Upon completion of drafting the major design elements, color is added to fulfill the intent.

In the future, Woods Metal Shaping hopes to work with EP designs to develop and bring to life quality craftsmanship to potential customers. Our first project is the tank that EP designed. We are currently in the process of the shaping the tank.