the amphibian - interlocking system

In the second segment of our course, „Material und Technologie“, we were presented with the challenge of designing an interlocking system using two-dimensional components that could be assembled into a cohesive three-dimensional structure. This task required us to develop a thoroughly conceived concept, ensuring the entire structure could be constructed solely from the specifically designed shapes. This meant not only devising an innovative shape but also creating a detailed plan to turn this idea into a tangible reality, which all in all proved to be more complex than I initially anticipated...

Jannis Bletsos

Datum

Dezember 2024

Art des Projekts

Studienarbeit im ersten Studienabschnitt

Betreuer_innen

Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer

ABSTRACT

My first Idea

From the outset, my vision for this project was to create a dynamic interlocking system that would emulate an organic structure. My initial idea revolved around designing a shape that could bend, despite being constructed from medium-density fiberboard (MDF), a material inherently rigid and unyielding. Achieving this concept required devising an innovative approach to make an otherwise inflexible material appear flexible.

first sketchings

final first idea

To explore this first final idea, I first tested the concept using cardboard. The system worked to some extent, leading me to believe it could also be applied to MDF. However, during these experiments, I noticed small cracks forming in the cardboard, which should have served as a warning sign. Despite this, I remained optimistic, convinced that my concept would function exactly as I had envisioned.

This confidence was challenged when I attempted to translate the idea into the 3D modeling software Rhino8. The complexities of my design quickly exceeded my technical understanding of the program, and I found myself struggling to make progress. Furthermore, upon revisiting the properties of MDF, I came to the realization that the material simply would not bend. It would fracture and break instead. Faced with these realities, I ultimately had to abandon my original concept.

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new concept

Although my initial idea had failed, and time was becoming a critical factor, I was determined to maintain the organic aesthetic I had envisioned. I returned to Rhino8 and started experimenting with simpler shapes as a foundation. This approach provided a clear framework to ensure that the components could interlock successfully. As I gained familiarity and confidence with the software, I began to refine the basic design, gradually transforming it into a more intricate, alien-like scaffolding.

I added ornamental details and experimented with various tools within Rhino8, allowing my design to evolve organically. Each adjustment brought me closer to the final structure, and through persistent experimentation, I was ultimately satisfied with a design that balanced functionality and the unique, organic aesthetic I had initially sought.

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laser-cutting the final idea

Laser-cutting the components worked better than I initially expected. The slots of the components had the perfect width on the first try, so I was able to start laser-cutting as many components as possible without any further complications.

Concept Development - the final object

After laser-cutting all components, I startet to think about the final three-dimensional object using the interlocking system. Like I said since the beginning, the focus was on organic forms. Almost on its own, an object quickly emerged that, to me, gives the impression of growth. I was ultimately very satisfied with it because it perfectly fulfills the fundamental requirements I had set for myself right from the beginning.