GMU:Computing with Thread/Part1

From Medien Wiki

Computing with Thread: Part I

Thread Geometry

We explored what kind of geometric constructions we can do with thread, chalk and the help of several people...

We found out...

  • how to draw a line
  • how to draw a circle ( d = const.)
  • how to draw an ellipse ( a + b = const.)
  • how to draw multifocal ellipses (a + b + c = const.)
  • how to draw egg-shaped curves (3 * a + b = const.)
  • how to measure the circumference of a circle
  • how to calcualte pi using only thread (See also here)

3D thread geometry

We explored how our thread-based drawing tools could be used to identify points on the surface of shapes in 3 dimensions.

  • We discovered the 3d ellipsoid (a + b = const.)
  • We found that multifocal 3d ellipsoids have a doughnut-topology.
  • We found two different ways to create ellipsoid shapes:
    • the polygon method, where the thread forms a polygon going through the focal points and the drawing point
    • the star method where the thread is alternately visiting each focal point and the drawing point

Observations

  • Geometric knowledge from school only got us so far ...
  • There is a whole universe of "new" shapes and forms

Questions raised

  • Questions regarding surface of different shapes popped up
  • We discussed different methods of measuring the surfaces using thread

Homework

  • What could an Experimentier-Baukasten / a kit / a sandbox for computing with thread look like? Do some research on other kinds of kits!
  • Do some thread-based geometry at home. Pick a parameter such as the thread-length and vary it systematically
  • Document your thread-art in the wiki

Links

Ellipses

Educational Kits

Sewing Boxes

Tool Boxes

Knots and Splices

Links

How are threads made?

Self-Assembly

Knotting

...

Splicing

...

Knot Theory

...

Braids

Networks