Surface Graphics

This project is an exploration of maximized surface complexity. Each of the following 3 surfaces were developed in 3-dimensional space to have a high level of control in the form design of a thickened surface, then to puncture that surface design with conflicting geometry/holes so that the surface gains new planes of geometrical complexity. Basically, make it as busy, as heavy, as detailed as possible but to not lose control of the form. Bend it, don't break it.

These surfaces were jointly 3D modeled in Rhino and Maya to achieve the sequence of nurbs surface building, smoothing, and puncturing (booleaning); followed by geometric line extraction and projection for graphic representation.

PICTURED: Surface #1 Plan

Beginning with poised wave patterning, this surface went from a naked edge nurb to a composed solid. The "bottom" face is not a replica offset of the "top". The dominant seams telegraph through the lower faces, but the design is individual. Sections were chosen at representative instances of complexity and pleasantness of shape.

PICTURED: Surface #1 Sections

Powder printed portion of Surface #1 shows scalloping wave forms and edge treatment.

PICTURED: Surface #1 Powder Print, elevations, approximately 6"x11"x4"

PICTURED: Surface #1 Powder Print, plan, approximately 6"x11"x4"

An array of perpendicular undulating pipes was designed parametrically then used to carve out from the first surface's solid form. In the first iteration, the piping is aligned with the z-axis, so the plan representation appears two-dimensional. When drawn in section, variation is more easily illustrated.

PICTURED: Surface #2 Plan

PICTURED: Surface #2 Elevations

Detailed image of holes puncturing the surface. A thicker segment of the surface was selected for printing to capture complex instances of the solid boolean operations.

PICTURED: Surface #2 Powder Print, detail, approximately 8"x8"x6"

PICTURED: Surface #2 Powder Print, detail, approximately 8"x8"x6"

The graphic plan drawing illustrates the second iteration of holes in the surface in addition to the segment seams (dashed). This graphic plan serves as a diagram of the solid operations that yield complexity in the surface - and that are becoming too intricate to read clearly in the topographic plan.

PICTURED: Surface #3 Plan Diagram

Topographic information and transparent plan layers.

PICTURED: Surface #3 Plan

Holes in the surface are variable in size, depth, and axial orientation.

PICTURED: Surface #3 Sections

The model of the final surface iteration is constructed of CNC milled 25lb foam, post produced with sanding, joint compound, and paint.

PICTURED: Surface #3 CNC Milled Foam Model, 13"x20"x7"

PICTURED: Surface #3 CNC Milled Foam Model, 13"x20"x7"