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Polymorphic: A Kinetic Installation
Polymorphic, a kinetic installation. (Photo: Jennifer Chang) The bench reacts to pressure exerted by the occupant. (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Each of the 119 sections is constructed from 8 segments, totalling 928 unique pieces. (Photo: Jennifer Chang) With an intent to be a truly interactive design, Polymorphic's transforming shape consists of six programs and an occupiable interior. These functions allow for new means of interaction, breaking away from the typical uses of a 'bench'. From the cave to the surfboard, users are encouraged to sit, lounge, climb, jump, rock, or push the installation. Occupiable & Interactive Interior (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Two simple connections not only provide the stability of the bench, but moderate the movement of each individual section as it reacts to applied forces. The first is a sliding bolt connection, which acts as a restraint between sections, controlling the displacement allowed to be carried over from adjacent sections. The second is an elastic connection, which is a typical rubber band that gives the bench its 'springy' quality while providing lateral stability to the installation as a whole. The movement of each section transfers to its adjacent sections, allowing a fluid motion. (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Interior, rubber band connections. (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Data Output, converted pieces to be milled. Production, Milled Pieces on Plywood Sheet (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Production, Sorting Facility (Photo: Jennifer Chang) Photo: Jennifer Chang

Photo: Jennifer Chang
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Photo: Jennifer Chang