IC.1 Digital Fabrication » Akhil Kapadia

Joints for eqilibrium

Akhil Kapadia — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 23:45:48 +0000

We part from the idea of recreating a structure that can move and stay in equilibrium as easily and as gracefully as a Calder Structure. These sculptures allow for a great deal of movement, and work perfectly in equilibrium, continuously stabilizing itself.

We devised a joint that allowed us to take the Calder system a bit further. Our new joint is able to hold as many as 18 rods at the same time. It rotates elliptically and vertically, allowing the structure to “find” its own balance according to where the rods are placed and where you apply force of movement.

Contouring valchromat

Akhil Kapadia — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 23:38:06 +0000

The concept behind the project was to exploit the 3 layer property of the valchromat panel, as well as to understand the tools being given and achieve an effect using the tool to our advantage. We wanted to do something which would take a lot of time to model in rhino but because of the rhinocam simulation would create a greater effect in a shorter time. We were inspired by the forms of layered rock and started analyzing how we could achieve a contoured layered effect whilst exposing the different coloured layers.

The modelling in rhino was done using the ‘heightfield from image command’. Some scaling and mirroring was required to fit in the model in the given constraints of 595 x 395 x 24 mm. The tool used was a 10mm diameter flat end tool. The stepover and offset controls were tweaked and played with in order for us to achieve the layered effect that we desired.

Considerations that we made for the material were that it might be fibrous and brittle inside so we were depending on the tool to be sharp and precise. This was not so and therefore our milled panel was a little hairy. We fixed this by finishing it with sandpaper.

We used only one milling strategy – horizontal roughing. We had no need for any kind of parallel finishing for the contoured layered effect that we wanted to achieve.

Project data:

Tool cutting speed: 20.32
Tool spindle speed: 6092 rpm
Milling time : 107 mins

Caterpillar lamp

Akhil Kapadia — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 23:09:59 +0000

The idea of this assignment was to use paper with the techniques of cutting/folding using laser cutting technology to create a lamp that was unique in its form and exhibited an innovative use of the laser cutting machine. We used an origami technique to create a folding pattern that was flexible but at the same time had rigidity due to its triangular geometry. We added holes for light to seep through and create different effects. The paper used was reflective (silver) on one side and white on the other and the arrangement of the lamp was done in such a way that both sides could be seen. The method of joining the papers together was a system of legs and slits which can be seen in the drawing.