From Bones to Bricks: Design the 3D Printed Durotaxis Chair and La Burbuja Lamp

Abstract

Drawing inspiration from the variable density structures of bones and the self-supported cantilvers of corbelled brick arches, the Durotaxis Chair and the La Burbuja lamp explore a material-based design process by responding to the challenge of designing a 3D print, rather than 3D printing a design. As such, the fabrication method and materiality of 3D printing define the generative design constraints that inform the geometry of each. Both projects are seen as experiments in the design of 3D printed three-dimensional space packing structures that have been designed specifically for the machines by which they are manufactured. The geometry of each project has been carefully calibrated to capitalize on a selection of specific design opportunities enabled by the capabilities and constraints of additive manufacturing.