Researchers at MIT are finding ways to make objects and buildings construct themselves, such as this rock-and-string structure MIT collaborated with ETH Zurich on display at the Chicago Biennial.
Another addition to the self-building portfolio is Kinetic Blocks. Developed by MIT’s Tangible Media Group, the shapeshifting display of computer-controlled pins can manipulate objects to take form.
According to Fast Company, Kinetic Blocks is a “flatbed ‘shape display’ with a Microsoft Kinect as an overhanging eye.” The device can stock, rotate, twist, and move blocks without any human intervention. “It can even construct preprogrammed structures,” the article says.
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10 Great Solutions
The editors of Building Design+Construction present 10 “Great Solutions” that highlight innovative technology and products that can be used to address some of the many problems Building Teams face in their day-to-day work. Readers are encouraged to submit entries for Great Solutions; if we use yours, you’ll receive a $25 gift certificate. Look for more Great Solutions in 2012 at: www.bdcnetwork.com/greatsolutions/2012.
