Volumetric light deposition Demonstrating that matter is not the only printable feedstock, Light Printing is a method to create light volumes in space. A robotic arm drives a light source via prescribed movements in front of
Thermobimetal structural shell Exo is a vertical structure that makes use of the smart properties of thermobimetal, a coupling of two metal alloys that exhibit differing coefficients of thermal expansion. When heated, thermobimetal curls in a
Electrodynamic fragmentation-based concrete recycling Although it is possible to recycle concrete, the process typically involves breaking the material down into aggregates that are used as a crude material for roads and other infrastructure. This downcycling prevents
Bamboo and rope structural system Rising Canes is a structural system made exclusively of bamboo and natural fiber ropes. Developed by Beijing design firm Penda for Beijing Design Week 2015, Rising Canes is an entirely modular,
Color-changing microalgae dye Algaemy is a project that investigates the potential of microalgae as a pigment in textile printing. All patterns consist of living, self-harvested material. The result of a research collaboration between Blond & Bieber
Circular lens-based digital display The Discovery Wall is a display wall composed of circular pixels. Mini LCD screens are set in a grid pattern behind circular Fresnel lenses, which magnify the screen images. The screens broadcast
Fluid-filled tactile sensor BioTac emulates the sensory capability and physical qualities of the human fingertip. The design consists of a rigid core enveloped by a liquid-filled, elastic skin with sophisticated tactile sensing. Developed by SynTouch to
Fracture-resistant glass At McGill University’s Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Bioinspiration, Professor Francois Barthelat researches natural structures such as nacre and teeth to understand their inherent mechanical properties. Like many material scientists, Barthelat is intrigued by
Thermally regulated ventilation system The Air Flow(er) is an active ventilating surface. The zero-energy apparatus consists of an assemblage of flowerlike modules that open as the ambient air temperature rises. The Air Flow(er) references the principle
Municipal communications beacon The Crisscross Signal Spire is a twenty-first-century signal tower composed of internally illuminated vertical tubes. Situated in Boston’s historic Dudley Square, the sculptural beacon embodies the function and symbolism of clock towers and
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