Overview
Danish design duo Oberdoerfer & Krebs have explored a novel approach to digital fabrication, integrating 3D printing with a post-printing hand-bending process to produce furniture. This method involves the reheating of flat 3D-printed forms, which are then manually shaped along programmed toolpaths.
Approach
The core of Oberdoerfer & Krebs's technique involves a two-stage fabrication process. Initially, designs are produced as flat 3D prints. Following this additive manufacturing step, these flat prints undergo a thermal process where they are reheated. Once pliable, the material is then subjected to a manual bending operation. This bending is guided by specified, pre-programmed toolpaths, ensuring the final form adheres to the intended design parameters. The combination of digital precision in printing and programmed toolpaths with the tactile process of hand-bending distinguishes this method.
This approach was applied to create seating elements, exemplifying the integration of digital fabrication with hand-shaping techniques.
Findings
- The integration of reheating flat 3D-prints enables subsequent manual manipulation of the material.
- Programmed toolpaths can guide the hand-bending process to achieve desired furniture forms.
- Seating elements can be crafted using this combined 3D printing and hand-bending methodology.
Why This Matters
This technique offers an alternative perspective on digital fabrication by reintroducing manual craftsmanship into processes typically dominated by automated systems. It suggests possibilities for designers to combine the advantages of precise digital manufacturing with the nuanced control of hand-shaping.