{"id":16117,"date":"2024-12-09T17:27:33","date_gmt":"2024-12-10T00:27:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/handandmachine.org\/classes\/computational_fabrication\/?p=16117"},"modified":"2024-12-09T17:27:34","modified_gmt":"2024-12-10T00:27:34","slug":"daniels-final-project","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/handandmachine.org\/classes\/computational_fabrication\/2024\/12\/09\/daniels-final-project\/","title":{"rendered":"Daniel’s Final Project"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For my final project, I explored the creative intersection of computational design and digital fabrication by creating 3D-printed jigsaw puzzles. Inspired by our class lesson on tiling, I aimed to design and fabricate jigsaw puzzles that would challenge and delight users while showcasing the potential of computational tools. Over the course of the project, I developed multiple jigsaw puzzle cutter designs, refined a partial algorithm, and fabricated puzzles that reflect both traditional and innovative approaches to puzzle-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This project highlights the use of computational design to create unique puzzle patterns and leverages 3D printing technology to bring these designs to life. Below is a glimpse of the completed work:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Background Research<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

My project builds on prior computational design research that explores interlocking and modular structures, directly influencing my approach to creating 3D-printed jigsaw puzzles. The \u201cDesign Jigsaw\u201d<\/em> framework by Chia-Hui Nico Lo et al. uses a jigsaw metaphor to organize complex ideas through interlocking visual elements, inspiring my use of parametric design to generate puzzle pieces that fit together cohesively. Similarly, the work of Gershon Elber and Myung-Soo Kim in \u201cSynthesis of 3D Jigsaw Puzzles over Freeform 2-Manifolds\u201d<\/em> provided technical insights into designing interlocking pieces on curved 3D surfaces, which I applied to my terrain map puzzle. These studies guided my computational methods and highlighted the creative potential of algorithmic tools in fabricating interlocking designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Links:
Design Jigsaw: Exploring a Computational Approach to Assembling Ideas in the Design Production Process<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Synthesis of 3D jigsaw puzzles over freeform 2-manifolds – ScienceDirect<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Computational Design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Puzzle Cutter Script:<\/strong>
I developed a grasshopper script to automate the creation of puzzle cutters by defining the cutter\u2019s dimensions (in mm) and splitting it into rows and columns. Although I was unable to complete the algorithm for interlocking \u201cteeth,\u201d manual design refinements (interpret curve, join, extrude, Boolean split) in Rhino allowed me to achieve functional results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Terrain Map Puzzle:<\/strong>
Using GeoTIFF data, I processed elevation information in QGIS and modeled a topographic map in Rhino and Grasshopper. The map\u2019s pixel brightness data was mapped to elevation values, generating a 3D surface that was then transformed into a puzzle. I used the same process that we learned during Week 7: Data-Driven Design<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabrication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Each jigsaw puzzle cutter design was extruded into a 3D solid and used as a cutting tool for the base geometry. The puzzles were 3D-printed in unique colors, and yellow holders were designed to keep pieces organized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Challenges included:<\/p>\n\n\n\n