Pattern vs. Surface

This module reflects the concept of manipulating the patterns of a surface through the 3D modelling program Rhino 6. The idea of representation is also explored as the virtual model is then flattened and built physically in real life. This is ultimately linked to the understanding of developable surfaces and digital fabrication explored in the module readings: 'Surfaces that can be built from paper' and 'Digital Fabrication.'

Process

First, I experimented with basic tools like ptShuffleGrid and Point Attractors in order to understand how to manipulate the direction and height of the modules.

Then, I went on to attempt slightly more complex features, such as tweaking the Attractor Points, and making the pyramids skew towards and away from the vertex. These experimentations have helped me accumulate ideas for what I wanted to include in my final design.

Before I decided on my final design, I tried replacing Point Attractors with Curve Attractors, and created custom 3D modules instead of using the default pyramid shapes.

Final Rhino Design

This design is created using five modules, all skewed in five different directions, sweeping along two curve attractors; one forming around a curved line around the corner; the other curving along the terrain in a wave. The curves are formed by drawing two curved lines of different sizes and shapes. The modules of different heights, skews and properties are skewed towards the curve attractors, thus creating an abstract, asymmetrical concept design. I wanted it to be anarchic and unpredictable, reflecting elements in nature, like a forest, a hay field, or the waves of the sea, depending on the viewer’s personal interpretation.

Physical Model-Making Process

The modules are unrolled in groups of two and three, each unique in shape.

The flattened geometries are organised in columns, with the first one starting on the bottom right corner.

Unrolled panels

After converting the files to Adobe Illustrator, the panels are cleaned up and organised into multiple pages for printing. Once they are printed out in A3, they are cut out and glued onto an ivory card, where they are cut out with a stanley knife.

The fold lines are scored, which are then folded according to the numbers and glued together with PVA craft glue.

A photo stage is set up and the model is photographed in various perspectives showing their form and the shadows they create.