This fabrication seminar explored the different opportunities parametric software offer designers to create design solutions using generative algorithms. This particular parametric surface was generated through Grasshopper, a graphical algorithm editor integrated with Rhino 3d.

ComponentFab:
The main objective of the project was to developed a component based parametric fabrication with a minimum of 25 interconnected components.

The actual process was broken in two phases.

Phase1

Generate parametric component using Grasshopper/Rhino.

This surface was created using a Sin-Wave generator and A Diagrid Pattern. The Curves of the surfaces are controlled by a Sin/Cosine function which modifies the curvature of the surface. The penetrations of the surface are controlled by the Diagrid Pattern.

Once the surface is been defined in grasshopper the surface is "baked" or transferred to Rhino where it can be manipulated as a surface

Phase 2:

The fabrication process utilized the following tools and materials

Tools:

* CNC cutter

*Laser Cutter

*Plaster Form work

Materials:

*High Density Foam

*Casting Plaster
*1/8" Acrylic (translucent)

*Machine Fasteners

After generating the Surface in Rhino/Grasshopper, it was broken into components that follow the shape of the Sine Surface. Based from the surface six molds were mill in order to follow the shape of the curvature. These curved components where flattened and then laser cut out of acrylic.

Once the Acrylic pieces where laser cut, a heat gun was used to form the acrylic component into the respective mold.