Computer gardening

Abstract

This report documents the initial development of a computer-controlled system for the production of three-dimensional forms. The project involved the design and construction of a carving device which was attached to an existing x-y plotter. The carving device was connected to a computer graphics system and various ways of using that system for three-dimensional design were explored. The material being carved is styrene foam in blocks, 4' x 4' x 1'. These carved blocks have potential use as sketches in exploring sculptural form, or as molds for the production of works in concrete fiberglass, or metal.