Cornell
AAP
Student Work

Departments

Search

Student Work

Light and Motion

Contributors

  • Anxin Lian (M.S. DT '26)
  • Bo Li (M.S. DT '26)

Class

DESIGN 6151 Design and Making Across Disciplines I

Instructors

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

Hand drawing of coral structures and a series of notes analyzing its details.
Hand drawn study of coral structures. image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li
A chart showcasing the design process.
Design process from hand drawn analysis to 3D printed models. image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li
A grid showcasing 9 different angles of shadows being cast by complex 3D-printed sructures.
Showcase of different light and shadow effects with different patterns: linear (first row), zigzag (second row), and hollowed-out (third row). image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li
A chart showing how structures from coral and turtle shells inspired different design iterations.
Design iterations drawing inspirations from corals and turtle shells. image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li
Complex 3D printed structure with a color gradient that goes from purple to golden hue.
Model 3D printed with gradient color material. image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li
A building covered by an external layer of coral-like structure.
Conceptual rendering of coral-like structures in architecture. image / Anxin Lian, Bo Li

More Student Work

View all

  • Green park with large leafy trees and a blue park bench.
  • An open book with circular diagrams spanning two pages.
  • An architectural model with staggered wooden landscapes and an angular white building.
  • Closeup of a clay sculpture with circular divots that hold various smaller clay objects.
  • Overhead view of a gallery with blue geometric sculptures on the wood floor.
Elemental Beings: Drawing Machine

Selin Cebel (B.Arch. '21)

Design Connect: Community Playscape and Park Redesign for Savannah, NY

Group Work

Work by Maya Kamaeva

Maya Kamaeva (B.Arch. '21)

Willard Dwelling

Ting Wei Fan (B.Arch. '21)

How to Build an Ocean

Group Work

Work by Christine McDonald

Christina McDonald (M.F.A. in Creative Visual Arts '22)