December 2020
Phase 1: Exploration
1.3 Fabrication from Parametric Pattern
Objective: Create a physical prototype using patterns taken from digital visualization model
Digital parametric models not only provide a visualization, they also provide blueprints for creating their physical models. This section will explore creating a physical demonstration model using a simple rectangular patch, based off the rendered image on the right.
The shape of this model is not intended as a candidate for the underwater structure; it was chosen to highlight the connection between the digital and physical models without complicating the design with altered geometries.
Diagram of a woven patch
Cells populated by the stitch
Pattern lines for bobbin lace weaving
Paracord tied around dowel (macrame starting technique)
Two colors make strands easy to follow
Model Notes:
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Bottom edge tied off onto second dowel, finished with snake knot chain
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Floatation elements interwoven (copper)
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Thin clear plastic to hold to structure in shape and approximate effects of floatation forces
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Fabrication process was simple, no scaling problems
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More stiff than digital model, but able to rest in a similar configuration
Follows parametrically-driven grid
Some stretch in vertical and horizontal directions
No stretch in diagonal directions
(along strand paths)
Closing Notes:
The same parametric mesh grids that allow simulating a structure digitally can be used as precise blueprints for how to create a physical model of the same configuration. This opens the door to designing more complicated configurations with the same quadrilateral grid framework, knowing that the blueprint can lead the physical fabrication process.
Section 2.1 will reshape these variable elements and integrate further requirements of the project into a more cohesive concept.