Dylan Morgan Student Number: 587256
Semester: 1/2012
Group: 7
Initial digitisation: Simplifying the concept
Through module one I developed a design that was complecated. This was dictated by my desire to incorporate the following observations I made in regards to the metamorphosis of the Sauders’ Case Moth. I noted that the lantern should act like a growth and demonstrate the characteristics of a cocoon. In addition I had hoped to create a fluid like form inside the rigid outer case, to represent the contrasting states of the moth before and after pupation (i.e. existing within the harsh cocoon is a vibrant insect, and as it emerges it is free to fly). Also significant (while it didn’t overly influence the shape of the lantern) was the idea that light is involved differently at each stage of the cycle. These factors, as I mentioned, resulted in a complecated form which posed problems when trying to digitise. It was therefore nesessary to simplify the design, while wtill taking into account the above characteristics of the natural process.
Option 1
Form developed in module 1. Seen as overcomplicated.
Option 2
Initial digitisation: modelling option 1 on Rhino Method 1: At first I attempted to model the geometry by tracing profile curves and then generate contours. This was made difficult by the continuous curve of the model, especially underneath.
The end result was relatively accurate but required a great deal of manipulation, and even then it was not up to the appropriate standard Method 2:
I then changed approaches by lofting the curves traced on top of the section cuts, this achieved a better result. However the shape did not fulfill the goals I had layed out through module 1. It doesn’t allow for an emerging form, and in addition, it does not give the impression of a growth like form. I therefore moved onto the second proposed model.
Initial digitisation: modelling option 2 on Rhino
As I had already discovoured the preferred method of modelling was to trace the cross section pieces and loft the resultant curves. Following this it was necessary to simplify the shape by using the smooth function. This achieved a far better result than option 1, as it adressed the observations I had made of the natural process in module 1.
As I had planned prior to slicing the option 2 model, I needed to create an opening on the surface from which the fluid form would emerge. The easiest way that I could find to do this was to first plot the paneling points, and then remove those that fell inside the area i had outlined. I was then able to develope the paneling further.
Digitisation: experimenting with paneling
Simple 2D Paneling using a diamond.
I then began custom 3D paneling the surface. This example shows strips that curl aroud the form (created by moving the custom panel 1 space over)
Lofted surface with points removed from required area to create opening
Initial 2D paneling demonstrated the effectiveness of the opening created
Digitisation: experimenting with paneling
Digitisation: experimenting with paneling, specifically the filtration of light
Experimenting with filtering light through paneling with openings: These experimentations demanstrated the possibility for me to further explore the possibility of controlling the light throughout the lantern. While these could not be fabricated they provide room for refinement
Digitisation: experimenting with paneling, specifically the filtration of light
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
In order to fulfill my desire to reflect the involvement of light throughout the process in the final lantern, I felt it was appropriate to draw ideas from module 1. As shown above, filtering light differently at points on the lantern, the observations I made about light can be demonstrated. Firstly figure 1 shows the partial presence of light during the initial stage of the natural process (the caterpiller is living in the cocoon for protection, but is able to create an opening, for example to find food). This gives the impression of life existing inside a cocoon like form. Figure 2 demonstrates the pupation stage, and the lack of light during this process, as the caterpiller spends an extended period (2-3 months) inside the cocoon. Finally, figure 3 excellently conveys the emergence of life from the cocoon as the male moth leaves to find a mate.
This same effect can be easily translated onto the digitised form by paneling the lantern with separate sections that demonstrate the three phases I have identified. I began to incorporate this into my design, and it quickly developed (shown to the right)
Sections were separated and paneled differently to fully explore the concept
Digitisation: adapting the observed concepts to the final model
The pyramid panel with cut out sections was chosen as it allowed me to properly filter the light. Another benefit of the small opening in the triangular panels was that the contrast between the sections was minimised.
Precedents: Motril Footbridge
The parametric design of this Spanish footbridge (located in the town of Motril) links well to my design. Built in 2011, the bridge was designed to close the gap between the gardens of the Explanadas and the Park Pueblos de las AmĂŠricas. The differing heights of the two areas allowed the architects who designed the bridge (Gijon Arquitectura) to create a curved structure, linking it more closely to my model as it is a continuous curve constructed with rigid shapes. I am particularly interested in the use of glass as well as the lighting underneath. The glass is inserted in each panel, similarly to the paneling on my design. In addition LED lights are used to link the panels underneath the structure to those with the glass in them. The glass incorporates the natural light, while the LED create artificial light. This precent is therefore particularly relevent, and also provides me with an understanding of the potential of using openings in panels to filter light.
Precedents: Digital Origami
Digital origami by Laboritory for Visionary Architecture (LAVA) was a window installation created for the Italian department store la Rinascente. LAVA’s window installation is an origami coral reef using 1500 recycled and recyclable cardboard molecules that explores the intelligence of natural and architectural systems. The sculpture plays with space by climbing up walls and arching over to create coral caves. Based on the geometrical structures of sea foam and corals, the colourful reef comes to life through dynamic lighting and sound. This reflects one of my objectives well. To create a growth like form, representing the encompasing nature of the Case Moth’s cocoon. Similarly light is accompanied by sections cut out of the panels to create a similar effect to what I hope to achieve. It was constructed using ‘current trends’ in parametric modeling and digital fabricration, highlighting the possibilities of what we are creating.
Digitisation: final model
Top
Perspective
Back
Right Side
Further Development: achieving initial complexity
I had hoped to model the flowing form outlined in my module 1 assignment, however I had little success. It may be possible to loft individual segments, but I was unable to do so up to this point.
Reflection
References
http://www.evolo.us/category/design/