3D Printing in Architecture depends on Tessellation Essay

3D Printing in Architecture depends on Tessellation - Essay Example In older days, architecture was known as a field which was dependent upon the manually made three-dimensional models and designs.Today, thanks to technology and development, these models are made with the help of software and executed using modern techniques Many of these techniques help the architects to present their ideas through designing software and programs such as the CAD techniques. As the trends have changed, the architecture processes are now more dependent upon techniques such as tessellations. However, many architects today believe that 3D printing in architecture mainly depends on tessellations. Tessellation refers to the placing of shapes repeatedly to form a pattern. These shapes are repeated again and again to cover the spaces and overlap one another. Tiling is another word for tessellation which refers to the filling of spaces with tiles such as on floors, ceilings or walls. The tessellation technique is widely used in the world around us whether it is in mathematic s, natural world, arts or architecture. It is known as a technique which enables the architects to create structures and interiors1. The process is closely related to architecture as there are many aspects which need the process and application of tessellation such as the facade of the building, the material used or the interior walls. Figure 1 shows a form of 3D tessellation. Figure 1. TurboSquid, 2013 This essay addresses the need of tessellation in CAD and 3D printing used in architecture. 3D designs in tessellations are greatly used in architecture nowadays, and the modern methods rely on tessellation techniques and materials. The essay discloses how this is applied and what the critiquing views of this process are. Tessellation is used mainly because of its application in many processes. The methods are easy and useful for many procedures in architecture. However, this essay will assess the methods, procedures and problems of using tessellation in architecture identifying why i t is the most important factor. Literature The architecture today has a different meaning than it had several years ago. Today, the 3D printing and designing is a huge part of the architectural industry. The designs are made and executed through computer programs and 3D models. From the initial stages of building the structure till the last stage, 3D designing is used. On the initial stage, when the architect is told about the space and size of the structure, s/he uses computer programming to build diagrams and illustrations of how the building will be structured. There are special programs that automatically measure and illustrate all calculations and measurements. These programs build 3D blocks and diagrams which present the structure and how it will be organized2. 3D block diagrams are the most commonly used programs for the initial stages. Many architects use these 3D tools to build graphics for their structures. These computer models show all graphics and details of the structu re including rooms, walk ways, lifts, etc. and all from different angles and perspectives. CAD applications are used for the clients so that they can easily understand the 3D design. The use of these programs does not only make the work of the architect easier, but it also saves a lot of time of the planning, executing and applying. Figure 2 shows a 3D model made using computer programming. The figure shows how the structure includes various aspects that will make it easier for the constructor as well as the client. These models give a clearer picture of the building than ledgers and spreadsheets. This is because the data and information is delivered using graphics, pictures and 3D designing rather than coded information in rows and columns3. Figure 2. 3D Printing in AEC, 2011 The nature of the architectural design requires many creative and technical aspects which can be fulfilled by the CAD software which is the computer-aided design program. CAD programs allow the