This concept evolved from equal parts function and whimsy. The simple idea of using the wings as a bellows and handle required only rotating the hinge to align with the cylindrical spine of the main body. After that, the bumblebee metaphor drove the design.
Features:
- A spiral wrapped aluminum heat shield allows safe handling while also decorating the body with stripes. Usage would darken the bee body in contrast to the heat shield's lighter color, reinforcing the motif.
- The Stinger hides the high side of the bellows that feeds the fire with fresh air. The stinger's angle also forms the third leg to offset the mass of the bellows.
- A Honeycomb hexagonal spout forms the proboscis.
- The legs contain a rolled bead for strength.
- The eyes form two loop handles containing drawn cutouts to reduce sharp contact with user.
- Using the sturdy construction of the original, this new design also utilizes simple formed metal for most parts. The bellows is the only non-metallic component.
- The transitions and end caps are common to reduce tooling costs.