Our final model came about through an extrnsive design process in which we had to decide which features were most important in a modular shelter. We ended going with a design that maximized the space that could be used inside the structure while taking advantage of the shelves and beds we used to help bolster the shelter. The beds and shelves can be pushed outside the shelter to be used as storage for outdoor projects. Our goal throughout the process was to be able to assemble the entire structure sans tools or outside fasteners. Being able to stick to this idea in the end was one of the hardest challenges we faced in design. The 2nd was the roof design. We learned a lot about how important the roof can be in a building design in terms of weatherproofing. Our final roof design was adept at repelling weather and still being able to be assembled without tools.

We wanted this structure to be habitable for at least a 3­6 month period if not longer which means that some sort of long term amenities would be needed. There is enough space inside to store food, clothing, etc. and still plenty of space to slide out shelves and have plants on the outer shelves or whatever else you may want. There is a huge amount of customization and personalization available with the system that really makes it comfortable to live in throughout a multitude of different warmer environments. The marine grade plywood construction allows it to be durable though multiple storms.

Our best design feature is the simplicity of the assembly process. Anyone with a CNC router can have this semi­permanent shelter in a matter of hours with nothing else needed. This ease of building allows for a huge quantity to be built for a relatively cheap price. Since the pieces can be laid flat, shipping is relatively easy as it only entails packaging the plywood out in flat boxes and having them set up wherever a truck can get to. This brings an enormous opportunity for real world use. If this can be implemented in a post disaster area for that limited period of time the disaster can be cleaned up or a better solution can be brought to the area. The Armahen serves as a fantastic way to shelter people for that transitional period of time, at which point they simply pack the wood back into the box and put it back on the truck to be used when another disaster strikes. More can always be cut out if the situation calls for it.