It seems we have the first proprietary name for an application of “4D Printing” — Kinematics. Coming from Nervous System, a generative design studio, which was founded in 2007 by Jessica Rosenkrantz and Jesse Louis-Rosenberg.
Nervous System describes Kinematics as “a system for 4D printing that creates complex, foldable forms composed of articulated modules. The system provides a way to turn any three-dimensional shape into a flexible structure using 3D printing. Kinematics combines computational geometry techniques with rigid body physics and customization. Practically, Kinematics allows us to take large objects and compress them down for 3D printing through simulation. It also enables the production of intricately patterned wearables that conform flexibly to the body.”
The video highlights the process:
The team behind Kinematics has also released a consumer app that allows for the creation of a range of jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Users can sculpt the shape of their jewellery and control the density of the pattern. Designs created with Kinematics can be ordered in polished 3D printed nylon in a variety of colours, which will be produced by a 3rd party.
