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GEOMETRIC JELLYFISH

Geometric Jellyfish is a design to fabricate a boundary that defines space while utilizing folding methodologies to consider form, material, and construction. The group was tasked to identify an application for folding that considers performance and expression in relationship to technologically driven fabrication techniques. Beyond developing a physical manifestation of design, the goals for this project were to demonstrate a synthesis of formal, material, and construction techniques, competence in machine operations, and the ability to work collaboratively.

Status: School Project
Location: New Orleans, LA, US
My Role: Student; Group project with Katie Nguyen & Charles Weimer
Additional Credits: Tulane University, Digital Fabrication (Fall 2014)

_Early Process

Initially, the group took inspiration from origami and folding triangular templates to achieve a folded sheet-like quality. These templates were chosen because they accomplished folding in a very expressive and beautiful way, but the triangle also provided an easy aggregate. The group decided to develop a foldable aggregate over folding one large piece of material because it was important to have the freedom to add, reconfigure, and adjust as needed.

_Aggregate + Milling Development

After experimenting with small paper templates, the group came up with a series of larger component templates to mill and fabricate out of clear Lexan and Komatex (an opaque plastic material). Lexan was chosen for the foldable component because it was the most elastic and durable material to etch and fold (and refold). Different etching and pocketing techniques, depths, and widths were experimented with to get the fold desired.

_Materials

Lexan (Clear)
Komatex (Orange)
Threaded rods
Springs
Wing nuts
Screws w/nuts
Cable Ties

[ Folding Diagram ]

_Milling + Assembly

After many iterations and material failures, the final working component was fabricated multiple times and assembled.

_Final

When considering context, orientation, and material effect, the project could be applied as a pop-up tent structure that can be temporary or long-term. It could also be added onto or repaired easily.