Algorithmic worlds

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2011-03-31 Karl Blossfeldt

2011-03-30 Algorithmic jewellery

2011-03-19 Piling Ducks

2011-03-06 Greco de Ruijter

2011-03-05 Fractal columns

2011-02-28 Kaleidoscopic IFS

2011-02-27 Ducks and butterflies

2011-02-18 Geological artwork

2011-02-17 Fractal expressionism

2011-02-13 Fractal Mondrian buzz

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March 5th 2011

Fractal columns

Michael Hansmeyer had already been featured on this blog for his presentation about the use of algorithmic methods in architecture. His latest project uses a "subdivision algorithm" to create very complex shaped columns.

Michael Hansmeyer, Subdivided columns (detail)

What is nice is that he decided to build them! Apparently 3d printers can't handle such complex shapes, so he had to slice them horizontally and cut each slice separately into panels. They won't be easy to dust.

Michael Hansmeyer, Column prototype - layered model (1mm sheet)

The subdivision algorithm consists in starting from a simple 3d model build of polygons, and recursively divide each of the polygon into smaller polygons according to a fixed set of rules. These algorithms were originally invented in order to obtain smooth surfaces out of polygonal surfaces, but some elementary modification allows to generate highly complex 3d fractals. Check also how this algorithm can be applied to platonic solids.