SeaLegs A Squid-Based Modeler for Digital Fabrication

SeaLegs, a responsive environment for “Mollusk-Aided Design”, harnesses the power of a simulated virtual squid to generate baroque and expressive spatial forms. Specifically, the project uses “chronomorphology” — a 3D analog to chronophotography — to develop complex composite forms from the movements of a synthetic creature. Within the simulated environment the creature can be manipulated for formal, spatial, and gestural variation. Internal parameters (the number of legs and joints per leg) combine with external parameters (such as drag and repulsion forces) to create a high level of control over the creature’s responsiveness and movement through the virtual space. As the creature’s movements are traced through space and time, its familiar squid-like motion aggregates into unexpected, intricate forms. The resulting forms are immediately ready for fabrication, and can be exported to high-resolution 3D printers. 

Initial software interface:

This demo explores self-correcting modeling strategies for outputting to 3D printers. The tentacle-ly form is made from polygonal profiles that are constructed around spines of repulsive particles. As you drag the model through space, the particle system preserves the formal integrity, eliminating self-intersections within the digital model. **made with Processing and Toxiclibs

You can find additional high resolution images here.