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The two students developed the app as part of their bachelor’s thesis at Ravensburg-Weingarten University during the 2013/14 winter semester. Behind the automated 3D printing technology is a modelling algorithm they wrote. The app is compatible with Windows PCs and tablets equipped with Windows version 8.1 or later.
And this is how anyone can easily create their own artwork or piece of jewellery with the SimpSimm app: At the top of the screen, users first select from several basic shapes; the shapes can be adjusted in detail via parameters. The underlying algorithm is also programmed according to aesthetic criteria – hopefully these match those of the user. Once a satisfactory final result is achieved, the polygon structure can be exported as a 3D file and printed as plastic.
SimpSimm was developed with Windows 8 Metro, DirectX and C++.
The app is not currently available as a download, but for the future exchange of the 3D-printed art models created, the two students are also planning an open platform, “SimpSymm – open exhibition”. Here are some initial impressions of the SimpSymm works on Behance.
About deskriptiv GbR
Christoph Bader and Dominik Kolb work as deskriptiv GbR. Christoph Bader and Dominik Kolb came together while studying communication design. Their shared interest in processes and algorithms with which shapes and objects can be modelled is the origin of their company’s foundation in Kisslegg/Allgäu. Since then, they have worked for Nike, the Vienna Symphony Orchestra and “Wired” magazine, among others. They are currently working on methods for 3D printing clothing.
The two are currently working with the MIT Media Lab; more about the collaboration is available here.
There is also already a “follow-up” project for interwoven structures: “DoubleMesh”.
About the author
Redakteurin der Digital Production
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- Mirja Fürst
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