We create our designs through an iterative and expermental process. After brainstorming an initial concept we write a pattern generating algorithm in the
computer through which we further explore our ideas and ultimately create the finished product. You can use the applets we share here to create
your own one of a kind jewelry designs or just to play and learn.
Please note that the code provided on this page is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial Share-Alike License. It cannot be used to commercial purposes. If you publish your creations we require that you link back to this page and credit Nervous System.
Cell Cycle - 3d + subdivision surfaces
This is the applet we used to create the 3d printed cell cycle pieces. It uses the same technique as the radiolaria applet, but in 3D. It also employs Catmull-Clark subdivision surfaces to make the smoothed shape.
Clicking inside of a cell will subdivide it in both the 2D + 3D views.
The control panels on the left allow you to modify the basic mesh in many ways.
You must click the regenerate button to see the effect of the controls in the mesh structure panel;
however all of the other controls will update the mesh immediately. Using the 2d view may give you a finer level of control
of the cellular patterning. The smooth preview view allows you to see the mesh smoothed out as it would be printed.
For more information:
Detailed directions and a video of the application in use can be viewed here
The code makes use of two third party libraries. The controlP5 GUI library by Andreas Schlegel and PeasyCam, a camera library by Jonathan Feinberg.
Links
Radiolaria - particle systems
To create the radiolaria line, we used a particle system to simulate a hexagonal mesh of springs. A particle system is a physics
simulator which works with point particles and forces. You can do a surprisingly large amount without thinking about rigid bodies.
The applet allows you to play with the same system we used to create the radiolaria line and make patterns by distorting the mesh.
The applet currently has five tools for distorting the mesh. There are tools for creating and deleting attractive and repulsive forces,
and there are tools for cutting and healing springs.
Radiolaria are microscopic organisms that exhibit beautiful structures often featuring hexagonal patterns.
See this video for a quick tutorial on how to use the applet
Login on the right so you can save your work.
Links
Dendrite - diffusion limited aggregation
In this applet we experiment with an algorithm called diffusion limited aggregation or DLA which models dendritic growth.
DLA simulates the movement of particles undergoing random motion, and when particles collide they stick.
Over time the particles aggregate into organic, branching forms similar to those seen in corals and dendritic crystals.
When playing with the applet, you can access various parameters through the control panels and use them to change the overall
form of the aggregation.
Designs you create using the applet can be ordered as custom, one of a kind jewelry.
Login on the right so you can save your work.
Links
