Elements

TASK

The objective was to create an interlocking system using two-dimensional components that could be assembled into three-dimensional structures without any tools, relying solely on the parts interlocking or meshing together. We began with initial analog studies, sketching various versions of our concept. This involved defining and designing key features of the elements, such as their size, connection slots, angles, and depth. Ultimately, we had to evaluate how the system would function in three-dimensional space and determine the shapes that could be constructed from it.

PROCESS

First I built a few different prototypes out of cardboard.

I quickly realized that I wanted to work with triangles because I think they are very interesting geometric shapes.

Once my idea was clear, I started implementing it in the Rhino 3D program. We built the connector systems from a 2D view and then lasered them out.

While building in Rhino I realized that I would like to add ornaments to my design.

I am very interested in deep sea plants and animals and found close-up photos of various plants on the internet, which I used as inspiration for the ornaments.

I used organic and non-geometric shapes in the ornaments to create a contrast to the very angular and symmetrical triangle.

My plug-in system can be put together in many different ways and can be used as a mini sculpture, for example.

CONCLUSION

The project was really fun and I learned a lot of new things about the Rhino 3D Programm. It was challenging figuring out the right measurements for the plug-system and it took me a few tries before I figured everything out. I still enjoyed the project and am very happy with my system and exited to try other stuff using Rhino 3D.