3D Printing in Architecture depends on Tessellation - Essay Example

? 3D Printing in Architecture depends on Tessellation Introduction In older days, architecture was known as a field which was highly dependent upon the manually made three-dimensional models and designs. Today, thanks to technology and development, these models are made with the help of software and executed using modern techniques. Many of these techniques help the architects to present their ideas through designing software and programs such as the CAD techniques. As the trends have changed, the architecture processes are now more dependent upon techniques such as tessellations. However, many architects today believe that 3D printing in architecture mainly depends on tessellations. Tessellation refers to the placing of shapes repeatedly to form a pattern. These shapes are repeated again and again to cover the spaces and overlap one another. Tiling is another word for tessellation which refers to the filling of spaces with tiles such as on floors, ceilings or walls. The tessellation technique is widely used in the world around us whether it is in mathematics, natural world, arts or architecture. It is known as a technique which enables the architects to create structures and interiors1. The process is closely related to architecture as there are many aspects which need the process and application of tessellation such as the facade of the building, the material used or the interior walls. Figure 1 shows a form of 3D tessellation. Figure 1. TurboSquid, 2013 This essay addresses the need of tessellation in CAD and 3D printing used in architecture. 3D designs in tessellations are greatly used in architecture nowadays, and the modern methods rely on tessellation techniques and materials. The essay discloses how this is applied and what the critiquing views of this process are. Tessellation is used mainly because of its application in many processes. The methods are easy and useful for many procedures in architecture. However, this essay will assess the methods, procedures and problems of using tessellation in architecture identifying why it is the most important factor. Literature The architecture today has a different meaning than it had several years ago. Today, the 3D printing and designing is a huge part of the architectural industry. The designs are made and executed through computer programs and 3D models. From the initial stages of building the structure till the last stage, 3D designing is used. On the initial stage, when the architect is told about the space and size of the structure, s/he uses computer programming to build diagrams and illustrations of how the building will be structured. There are special programs that automatically measure and illustrate all calculations and measurements. These programs build 3D blocks and diagrams which present the structure and how it will be organized2. 3D block diagrams are the most commonly used programs for the initial stages. Many architects use these 3D tools to build graphics for their structures. These computer models show all graphics and details of the structure including rooms, walk ways, lifts, etc. and all from different angles and perspectives. CAD applications are used for the clients so that they can easily understand the 3D design. The use of these programs does not only make the work of the architect easier, but it also saves a lot of time of the planning, executing and applying. Figure 2 shows a 3D model made using computer programming. The figure shows how the structure includes various aspects that will make it easier for the constructor as well as the client. These models give a clearer picture of the building than ledgers and spreadsheets. This is because the data and information is delivered using graphics, pictures and 3D designing rather than coded information in rows and columns3. Figure 2. 3D Printing in AEC, 2011 The nature of the architectural design requires many creative and technical aspects which can be fulfilled by the CAD software which is the computer-aided design program. CAD programs allow the architects to tackle those problems which were previously solved after the building was ready. The use of CAD also allows the clients to take part in the design process as it is easier to handle and comprehend. Figure 3 shows a model of a building created with CAD program and executed as a model using 3D printers. Figure 3. Solidsmack.com, 2012 The research methodology used in this paper is action research where I have researched about different methods, procedures and problems in 3D tessellations using different buildings and architects. This information helps to carry out the 3D printing models and designs using different procedures. However, through action research the research projects can be easily assessed including their outcomes. Moreover, this method also allows to research and take action on it at the same time. Tessellations are important for many aspects of life in the world today. Tessellations are shapes repeated more than once and are packed together without any gaps. These shapes and patterns are used in various ways in architecture. They have methods, processes and applications that are needed in architecture designs. These tessellations can be easily made through CAD programs and other 3D design programs4. Tessellations have been widely used in architecture, and architects believe that the method is perfect for the kind of designs used in buildings. Buildings mostly use geometrical shapes whether regular or irregular packed together in different patterns. Many modern buildings use tessellated shapes for their exteriors as well as interiors. Methods: As tessellations consist of methods which allow shapes to be repeatedly packed together, the CAD programs can easily allow these through computer designing. Tessellations can be formed through graphical implications and color-coded designs. Repeated shapes and patterns allow the architects to apply them to various places of the structure. Tessellation helps the architects to build complex shapes and geometries without consuming a lot of memory. Tessellations are used in tiling as they are a pattern of the same shape being repeated and packed together without any gaps. When it is used in tiles, the architects can use various designs and patterns to join the tiles together. The tiles are joined together side by side or at times overlapping one another forming tessellations. Tessellations in tiles can also be used using two or more shapes which are known as semi-tessellations. Any shape can tessellate making it easier for the architects and for clients to choose form a variety5. Procedures and applications: In architecture, there are a number of applications of tessellation. Some of them are in tiling, the facade of the building, the interiors or the ceilings and walls. These are some of the most important parts of the building structure without which the building will not be able to stand. This is also because of the wide use of 3D designs and shapes as tessellations allow 3D shapes and patterns to be executed as well. Tessellations also form optical illusions from different shapes and patterns that add to the beauty of the building walls, ceilings and facade. 3D shapes and designs form illusions that are used in many parts of the building. These illusions are unique as they are formed with special shapes and geometrical patterns. With the help of ceramics, concrete and other materials such as plastic, the 3D architectural designs can be created. The 3D printers help in making the models for the structures. These printers are able to print the models made of plastic with proper fabrication. The 3D models with tessellations and fabrications are useful for the architects, clients and the constructors. As many tessellations are found in the nature around us, they can be depicted and used in artistic and creative ways as well. Tessellations have now become a part of architectural designs and models. 3D tessellations are not only used to create interesting patterns to add the value to the building structure, but they are specifically used to consider volume6. Problems: At times, tessellations might loose the original CAD design when it is printed and structured because of the various shapes and patterns involved in making the designs and then executing them. Errors in gaps or overlaps may be often given as there is no topological information given for these tessellations. If such errors occur, the architect will need to use the verify and repair software of the CAD program which requires time and more human intervention7. The art work of visual practitioners Many theorists and architects have concluded that tessellations are a necessary aspect for architecture. Figure 4 shows the interior of The Blue Mosque in Turkey showing the beautiful visual impact that it has on the eyes of the viewer. This shows how tessellations can be used for the exterior and the interior of the buildings and provide a new look to the structure. The Islamic art is related to the modern day tessellations in many ways as many new buildings have added this type beauty in their designs. Figure 4. Origami Blog, 2009 Benefits of tessellations which motivate modern architects to use it in their structures include creative and beautiful designs that can be made to create illusions. When tessellations are used for the facade of the building, they help the structure to be strongly packed together to cover up the space. The exterior of the building can be made through tessellations in the construction methods using different materials, and over that, glass or other tiles can be used to make it interesting and attractive. Many kinds of material are used for tessellations; some of them include glass, mirror, iron rods, wooden tiles, etc. Figure 5 shows the famous Louvre in Paris which is designed by I. M. Pei. Figure 5. Young Scientists Journal, 2009 Sir Norman Foster is an inspirational British architect who designed the London City Hall. His techniques gave a radical rethink to the modern architectural forms. Foster has used modern computer techniques because of which the shape of the building maximises the shade and minimises the surface area that is exposed to direct sunlight. Foster is an example of how modern architects should work with advanced technologies and saving energy, space and being environmental friendly8. The London City Hall is shown in figure 6. Figure 6. Foster + Partners, 2013 The studio research method and processes of making the work From my research I have found out that tessellations are unique as they enable the architects to manage the area and volume measurements as well as the different patterns. They are understandable by clients and use less memory. There is a variety of shapes and patterns that can be used for tessellations. This enables the architect to be more creative and the clients to take part in the designing process. For my work, I will use facrication processes such as laser cutting which is used for creating tessellated objects and illusions from shapes. Visualization will be an important factor for my design. The CAD software will be used as it helps in designing models, their physical value and the way they interact. This includes tessellations too which are shown on the 3D model and improve the visual element of the model and design. However, I have to ensure that some non-visual aspects are also to be considered such as the material to be used, the cost, the use of the building and the way of construction9. With the knowledge and application presented above, it is clear that my design will include tessellation in 3D designing as it is a necessity now. Hence, my project will focus on tessellation methods and materials using 3D printing for architectural designs. Since 3D architecture depends on tessellation, methods and strategies will be set to suit the processes used. Tessellations will not only support the beauty and creativity of my project but also the area and volume measurements. The design will be made using the computer programs such as CAD, and then 3D printing will be used to prepare the plastic 3D model of the design. Conclusion Hence, today the architecture world is incomplete without 3D printing, designing and tessellations. The technology advancement has brought us to a situation where nothing can be done without the use of computer software. Thus, the ideas have become more complex and creative while the execution has become faster and easier. Tessellations provide many benefits to the architects as well as the clients and the new designs such as the London City Hall and the Louvre in Paris show that tessellation can contribute in creating landmarks. These buildings have their own importance and beauty which is loved and commonly demanded nowadays. These buildings save space and energy consumption by the advanced techniques used. If all modern architects start using these techniques, many benefits can be enjoyed. References 3D Printing in AEC. 2011. Web. 5 September, 2013 http://3dprintinginaec.blogspot.com/2011/11/3d-printing-ultra-thin-architectural.html “3DMTP makes it easy to 3D print architectural models”. Solidsmack.com, 2012. Web. 5 September, 2013 Ciabota, Nastase Dan. Standard Tessellation Language In Rapid Prototyping Technology. The Scientific Bulletin of VALAHIA University – MATERIALS and MECHANICS, 2013 Foster + Partners. Web. 16 September, 2013. http://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/city-hall/ “Origami Tessellations and Islamic Design”. Origami Blog, 2009. Web. 5 September, 2013 “Voronoi Tessellation”. TurboSquid, 2013. Web. 5 September, 2013 Walrath, Josh. The Importance of Tessellation. PC Perspective, 2010 “What are tiling and tessellations and how are they used in Architecture”. Young scientists journal, 2009 What is 3D Printing? www.3ders.org, 2013. Web. 5 September, 2013 Projects/City Hall London, UK 1998-2002. Foster + Partners, 2013 Standard Tessellation Language in Rapid Prototyping Technology. National Institute of Research and Development for Mechatronics and Measurement Technique, 2012 Read More