Task /1/ - platonic solids patterns

This task included:

exploring platonic solids, researching historical, cultural, and biological patterns, developing and designing details and ornaments on the surfaces of the solids, modeling the solids using the CAD software Rhino 3D, implementing the models through lasering using two-dimensional sheet material, constructing the models as aggregates by assembling multiple solids into more complex structures.

I drew inspiration from organic forms and conducted several experiments without limiting myself to a specific pattern. I aimed to add another dimension to the ornaments by incorporating folds. Variations in the cut and fold edges resulted in different versions and effects.

Among other things, a very open and airy structure emerged, reminiscent of a skeleton or bones; a curved and folded line evolved into a feather-like structure; and sharp triangular cutouts created spikes, almost like a cactus.

For the continuation of the task, however, I decided on a specific pattern — the 'breathing structure,‘ as I called it. The cut and fold edges, as well as the folding technique, are inspired by a skin-like structure that, through the opening and closing of the elements, evokes a sense of breathing.

After refining this pattern, I laser-cut it several times and assembled it into a larger, unified structure — an aggregate reminiscent of a living, growing, and transforming organism.

About the Process

After brainstorming and searching for inspiration, I constructed the icosahedron in the CAD software Rhino 3D and unfolded its surfaces to enable designing them. I translated my initial thought experiments into tangible tests using scissors and paper, trying out different ideas. The concepts I liked, I refined further and transferred onto the unfolded surfaces of the icosahedron in Rhino.

Next came the laser-cutting tests. I prepared myself for potential setbacks, but to my surprise, I was already pleased with the first results.

I continued refining the patterns and improving aspects that didn’t work yet. Since the task required assembling the solids into a large aggregate, I also experimented with various connection methods. My idea was to create a system where the solids could be connected in a way that allowed the aggregate's form to be continuously altered. I didn’t want the elements to be glued together, making the structure entirely static. The form should be able to move, like a living organism.

Unfortunately, my experiments only succeeded up to a certain point, so I had to pause them and forego this approach for the final submission.

I folded the chosen models and assembled them into an aggregate.

After that, I returned to the CAD software Rhino 3D to transfer my pattern onto the 3D model of the icosahedron. This task was tricky because I was working with folds, and my pattern wasn’t flat. However, with the help of Prof. Manuel Kretzer, I was able to implement the pattern in the software and construct the aggregate.

Task /2/ - Elements

This task included:

analog preliminary studies using cardboard and paper to explore possible combinations of interlocking systems, development, design, and production of an interlocking system made of two-dimensional elements, defining the essential (fixed) features of the elements: size, position of connection slots, angles, depth, etc., designing everything that happens in between, considering how the three-dimensional system functions / thinking within a spatial grid.

I wanted to use the second task as an opportunity to continue the first one. My interlocking system was intended to be inspired by 'the breathing structure' and to reflect its concept. I aimed to create a scale-like structure that could open and close, just like the elements in the icosahedron. I wanted a structure that, on one hand, forms a surface and, on the other hand, appears alive and, ideally, is not static but has an organic quality, capable of moving like an organism.

About the Process:

I had a clear idea from the start about the material I wanted to work with—I didn’t want to use the standard MDF board but rather a material that was less rigid and had some flexibility. I wanted to work with a type of plastic that felt high-quality and ideally contained a silicone-like component. In the end, I had to settle for an ABS sheet, which didn’t quite meet my expectations; however, it was sufficient for realizing my concept and idea.

I began by considering how to design the individual element of the interlocking system to achieve the effect I envisioned. I made a few simple sketches, which I further refined and transferred into Rhino. I printed out the elements, cut them to size with scissors, and initially tested the connections using paper models.

It took several attempts, trials, and adjustments, but in the end, I arrived at a relatively simple shape that, when assembled, produced the result I had imagined. It’s important to note that I decided not to connect the elements at right angles but rather to attach them side by side, allowing them to form a continuous surface.

The first variation of my design didn’t yet fully capture the sense of openness that was present in the icosahedron. In the end, I decided to laser-cut two different versions—one with a cross-shaped cutout in the center to emphasize the openness, and one without.

The final step was to determine the exact dimensions, such as the slot width and whether a notch should be added at the end of the slots, among other details. I only had one opportunity for laser testing, so I prepared multiple files for trial cuts and purchased two material thicknesses—0.5 mm and 1 mm.

Initially, I thought the slots would need to be relatively narrow for the interlocking system to work, especially since my material was thin. However, I realized this was a miscalculation. Because my interlocking system works as a surface, the individual elements needed larger cutouts to enable the movement I wanted to achieve.

This led to the final result — a breathing, planar structure inspired by my platonic solid.

Conclusion

I thoroughly enjoyed exploring patterns and structures throughout this project. I’m especially eager to continue working on the first exercise, further developing the individual elements of the series. It’s fascinating to see what can be achieved with simple folds.

Although I wasn’t entirely satisfied with my material choice in the second exercise, I’m still happy with the concept and the idea behind it. This project gave me a bit to think about, and I’m excited to build on these ideas and explore their potential even further in the future.