Group Project Light and Motion
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Anxin Lian,
M.S. DT, 2026
Bo Li, M.S. DT, 2026
Class
DESIGN 6151 Design and Making Across Disciplines IInstructor
Jenny Sabin
Laura Maria Gonzalez
Lawson Spencer
Inspired by the way disc corals elegantly form convex and concave shapes in response to water flow and temperature, this research explores new possibilities in 3D printing—achieving support-free, one-piece fabrication with controllable deformation and dynamic visual effects. By fine-tuning layering angles and thicknesses, the printed structure undergoes varying shape transformations after production, allowing for the creation of flexible, adaptive, and self-adjusting forms. Moreover, by manipulating cross-sectional geometries and incorporating transparent materials of different colors, the design influences how light interacts with the object, generating intricate shadow patterns and striking visual effects. This approach not only enhances the functional adaptability of 3D-printed structures but also opens new frontiers in artistic expression, architectural applications, and interactive design. The interplay of shape transformation, material properties, and light introduces a fresh dimension to digital fabrication, where engineering precision meets aesthetic sophistication. With promising applications in responsive architectural facades, kinetic installations, and innovative product design, this method redefines the relationship between structure, transformation, and visual experience.
Medium of physical object:
Polylactic Acid Filament