Aluminum Plate Project
Fall 2017 - Metal I
Assignment: Explore the properties of aluminum and incorporate a geodesic or isometric shape into the final product. Consider methods of manufacturing, such as repeatable parts and final connection points.
For this project, I explored the concept of tensegrity in aluminum plates' ability to retain its shape under a certain degree of pressure. The floral pattern in the center is the result of tension fitting repetitive check-shaped parts within a copper-plated steel rod ring. In order to satisfy the guidelines of the assignment, I fashioned a method to contain this 'flat' shape within a cube.
Repeated curved check-shape parts used to create the floral design held within a steel rod ring and supported by an aluminum inner ring.
Square plats with small slots cut out so that the inner ring can be held tight within the constructed cube. Long slots on the edges allows the cube to be slid together all at once in order to 'permanently' hold the flower inside.
