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.
Related Stories
| Oct 14, 2011
BD+C Survey on Building Information Modeling: The Good, the Bad, and the Solutions
In a recent survey conducted by Building Design+Construction, more than 75% of respondents indicated they currently use BIM or plan to use it. Respondents were also asked to comment on their experiences with BIM, what they liked and disliked about BIM, and what BIM-related advice they would give to their peers.
| Oct 12, 2011
BIM Clarification and Codification in a Louisiana Sports Museum
The Louisiana State Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the sporting past, but it took innovative 3D planning and coordination of the future to deliver its contemporary design.
| Oct 5, 2011
GREENBUILD 2011: Johnson Controls announces Panoptix, a new approach to building efficiency
Panoptix combines latest technology, new business model and industry-leading expertise to make building efficiency easier and more accessible to a broader market.
| Oct 5, 2011
GREENBUILD 2011: Software an architectural game changer
Interactive modeling software transforms the designbuild process.
| Sep 12, 2011
Geist opens European branch
The new branch provides the company’s international clients with additional support and services.