Xavier De Clippeleir
TRANSFORMING POLYHEDRA
At the 2010 Bridges Art Exhibition in Pécs I have presented 3 transforming polyhedra: the cube, the rhombic dodecahedron and the triacontahedron.
For this exhibition I would like to present three objects that show
their movement: from very slow to fast pulsating.
The edges of the cube are provided with 2 hinges, 24 in total.
By turning a lever a diagonal axis moves slowly up and down.
The cube open and closes.
The dodecahedron on the picture is suspended in the air with a thin wire. The wire is attached to a metal spring.The edges of the dodecahedron are provided with hinges, 48 in total .
Pulling the wire up and down opens and closes the form.
With the right frequency the form starts "pulsating". The change in volume reminds of a fast beating heart.
The situation can be reconstructed in the exhibition with simple means so that visitors can experience the fenomenon.
The sphere is divided in 8 parts. They are connected with 24 axes of rotation.
A diagonal spring connects oposite parts.
A vertical sliding action opens and closes the sphere.
The form is produced by rapid prototyping out of one piece, including the hinges.