input : form

Scope

2019

Apex Art Exhibit Participant

Team: Jacob Gasper, Lauren Stokes

Disciplines

Digital Fabrication

Architectural Design

Premise

Using a fabrication machine called the Potterbot, our project’s research focused on the numerous variables that could be placed on a clay 3D print, both internally and externally.

Translating this to architecture, we were challenged to think about how these processes could be used in construction or the design process. Seeing as how construction happens in an uncontrolled environment, we found this experiment to be relevant.

The Experiment

The Potterbot works like a low-tech 3D printer. Setup steps include pressure loading a clay of correct consistency, working with a Grasshopper or other 3D modeling software to achieve a g-code, choosing an exturusion nozzle size and shape, and running the machine.

Per vase, we determined that there would zero computable variables changed, only physical variables. The physical variables include three sizes and shapes of extrusion nozzles: 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, star, triangle, and circle. Additionally, to ensure the successful finish of a vase, manual adjustment of the bed and nozzle speed were necessary.

The purpose of our experiment was to see how included physical variables affect the output of the vase. By keeping consistent g-code variables, layer height, vase size, and vase pattern, we are able to see a result that concludes the importance of the g-code and its variables.

The three extrusion diameters and three extrusion shapes created nine vases, three of which, as seen in the top most image, were glazed with the help of Integrated Studio Arts student, Bre Engelhardt, and were accepted into the 2020 Apex Art Show as "input : form."