Task B
In task B, based on the model generated from task A, by sectioning and lazercutting, more potentials in terms of forms and functionality are revealed. This module also demonstrates a balance between form and constructability.
Section & Waffle Structures
Study Area Development
Iteration 1
Iteration 2
For my task B waffle structure, I decided to use different models from task A. I select the first one to be considered for radial structure because although the huge box on the top is too heavy and simple for 3D print model, with the accomplishment of waffle structure, some interesting lighting effect may be able to produce by slicing, also the overlapping sphere at the bottom are possible for some different slicing techniques and also stables the whole structure.Therefore it will become a good piece of geometry for building shelter.
I choose the second one for section and waffle because the floating and connected boxes are perfect for sectioning, besides the model has a half open and connected structure, in which so many possibilities can happen around with interpretations of different scales. Although it is not a good piece for radial, I can see many possibilities of it as a sliced waffle structure.
Iteration Matrix
Iteration 1
Iteration 2
Parametric Script
Iteration 1
Iteration 2
Laser Cutting
Several constraints of creating the laser cut file of my models start to appear as I started to lay them out in grasshopper. I realized that there were few pieces which has edges less than 1mm, and could be too thin for cutting. Therefore I went back to the contour part to adjust the offset distance and piece numbers to avoid this as much as possible, at the same time maintain the structure of it that it will not appears to be thin and weak for supporting. At last I found a balance between constructability and form, and actually some really thin edges can be cut separately at the same time maintaining the overall structure.
When I started to put the cuttings into the template, I tried to put the shapes closely in groups in number increasing order possible so that I can find my pieces easily at the same time saving materials. The videos from the workshop recording and Fablab website is of great help in terms of what type of lineways are supposed to be put onto the board(find and delete duplicates) and how to do the layout and arrange objects into different layers(nesting methods).
Model Making Considerations
The key goal for my sectioning task is to make full use of the structure of the iteration, then enrich it by sections. In this way to zoom the interesting part of the iteration, and base on that to also generate new forms. Besides, the sectioning structure is also applied in consideration of supporting porosity and permeability, for example, bunch has more section parts in its structure than a wall, so that the bench is well supported and the wall does not block the whole view.
For digital fabrication, however, things become more complex to consider about. The constructability is a real big question with regards to how to bring the digital model into physical world. The intersections of cutting, too thin edges, not stable forms...can all lead to a fail in modelling it physically, also the material needs to be taken into consideration in regards to its thickness.
In my modelling process there are quite a few times when I was satisfied with the outcome and overall shape of my model, however when I lay the cuts out, some of the pieces are too thin for cutting, and the notches on the ring in my radial model are not possible to plug in, therefore I have to return back to my GrassHopper script and reconsider about adjusting the parameters. However, a change of one parameter in the script would change everything else, which leads to a long journey of exploring possibilities and minimize the possible errors.
A tiny change can change everything, which is the beauty and challenging part of digital fabrication I have learned about through the whole modelling process. For my future model, I would remember to always consider about the constructability when first building up my scripts, set up some values not to touch so that it will reduce my time of going back and seek the previous data to fix the mistakes.
Isometric Drawings
Iteration 1
For this model, the combination of sectioning and radial strategy is used. A part of the model is added with x contours in order to have a more stable and various structure, since the half openings at the bottom are a bit thin for supporting purpose when having the radial structure only. The x contours are cut from an angle so that the top part of the radial would not be affected as well as the radial rings.
One interesting fact about my model is that I actually make use of the rings to create space based on my model, also because there are semi sphere-like geometries in the middle, which is quite an enhancing and inviting structure in the model therefore I decide to put the space in the middle so that it can enlarge this feeling of enhancement. It is put at an angle so that it can generate some lighting effects onto the people in the middle.
Iteration 2
The sectioning strategy I choose for this model is axis contouring, x and z axis is chosen for contouring because for this model specially, I need the z contours for stability and to create the shadowing effects for the overhanging structures. In addition, by choosing the x, z contour, the height wave at the base part could be better presented because of the angle between x and z axis. The intensity of the waffle decreases as the center of gravity moves up so that it also ensures the stability of the structure.
Model Photography
Iteration 1
The scale was selected considering that it will be interpreted as a pavilion aiming to provide a place for gathering and relaxation, also based on its structure and appearance, its functionality will be enlarged as a place for around ten to fifteen people gathering at one time in all directions.
The radial contours disperses the light therefore soften the light onto the ground, creates effects of shadows. Wtih the support of the x contours, the supporting structure becomes more stable and also discrete the heart core to the left.
The opening in the center is a combination making use of the sphere-like geometry of my model as well as the radial circle, which turns out to have interesting outcomes and makes better use of the in-between space.
Iteration 2
The primary intend of the intepretation of this model is to use the overhanging blocks as planar surface such as bunches and tables, therefore the scale was selected based on the size of human sitting onto the bench.
The angled waffle structure enlarged the wave-like flow of the base part, and the intersections of pieces creates an half open view so that people from most directions are able to have a sight of the inside, which reflect its prorsity, also soften the sunlight in middays, therefore it can be a good choice for an afternoon tea.
The overall structure is mainly in three height levels, the base, the benches and the waffled wall, in which people can have a number of activities, enriches its functionality.