Folding Pattern: Folding Experiments (3)
This is the continuation of the physical prototyping project of a folding pattern from 9 years ago. I simulate the folding pattern using the Rhino Grasshopper Kangaroo. As seen in the video, this is possible thanks to the pre-set hinge positions on the Rhino model. Thus, the folding motion can be animated on the screen. You can download and try the Grasshopper code. I often use this code in my ARCH 362 Parametric Modeling course. I think it is possible to design different patterns similar to this. This pattern is based on a project we worked on earlier. Unfortunately, the website where we got the pattern design is no longer available. It’s a good exercise to design such patterns that include angled hinge arrays this way.
Today, folded structures are not as popular as they used to be. Because they are difficult to manufacture and actuate realistically and reliably. However, in terms of design education, this topic remains pedagogically relevant. In the parametric modeling course, that’s why it’s still the topic of the week. Students are excited about making a design that can animate. They are also investigating the geometric rules that make this animation possible. But as with any digital production exercise, this becomes a homework assignment that must also include physical production in the real world. Therefore, in the future, I can do workshops where such designs and simulations are carried out with digital production techniques. For now, we will be in Grasshopper and Kangaroo only. Here is a video from 2014:
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