petebooth[iaac]

Based upon 3-dimensional “cellular automata”, m.any displays the concept and prototypical realization of a complete digital work flow from parametric design to production on CNC-machines. An irregular spatial structure generated by algorithms was controlled and manipulated through an especially developed software. In addition to the calculation of the complex geometry, the software also generated necessary parametrical construction elements for the realization.

java generation of form

A masters project for a group of postgraduate students of Computer Aided Design (CAAD) at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, m.any was realized during a three month period. Intertwined with the programming process, construction studies and fabrication systems were developed. Using construction data directly derived from the 3D-model, m.any variations could be explored and tested. Using a combination of JAVA and RhinoScript, the group were able to generate, test and prototype the design process ensuring that it met the assessment criteria. 3D printed models were created during initial visualizations, followed by laser-cut, component based models.

rhino3d generation and 3d printer tests.

The final and realized spatial structure consists out of 1500 individual parts all generated and produced in a seamless digital workflow. 111 main assembly frames were CNC milled, and precisely 1368 MDF connection pieces were laser-cut. In total 34 hours were spent in the workshop cutting all of the pieces, in addition to 16 hours of installation and construction time within the gallery.

rhino3d layout of cutting paths.

fabrication and assembly

The project represents a quite remarkable fusion of two different CNC techniques, highlighting the different capacities of each of the two machines.

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