MY LAST TWO BRAIN CELLS¶

Digital Bodies¶

Research & Ideation¶

paint

Research on artists or projects that work with the human body

This week, I explored how artists integrate the human body into their work, from anatomical studies to abstract representations. I found inspiration in projects like Stelarc's "Exoskeleton" and Antony Gormley’s sculptures, which use body forms to question identity, space, and the relationship between technology and flesh. These works encourage me to reflect on how the body can be both a subject and a medium, blending science and art in ways that push boundaries.

Use of 3D scanner and software to acquire a 3D model

I experimented with a 3D scanner to capture intricate details of the human body, using software to process and refine the scans. The precision was remarkable, allowing me to obtain accurate digital models of physical forms. This technology opens up exciting possibilities for creating custom digital bodies or artifacts that can be manipulated further.

Repairing and/or manipulating a 3D mesh and slicing it After acquiring the 3D scans, I learned to repair and modify the mesh using tools like Meshmixer. Cleaning up imperfections, filling holes, and ensuring smooth surfaces were crucial for ensuring the model's integrity. Slicing the model in Cura allowed me to prepare it for 3D printing, segmenting the design into layers ready for fabrication.

References & Inspiration¶

meridian charts + the functionality of the human body. displaying the internal functions you dont see because of our skin. the pressure points to heal migraines & other issues head - migraine relief pressure points

Two images side-by-side

Top Head Face Head

MY LAST TWO BRAIN CELLS¶

Process and workflow¶

wanted - full body scan of my body tranisition to full body of human made tried - foot issue - cutting off body parts , always take the inverted got - head sizing issues to fit on pages , slicing was difficult

File preparation for laser cutting

Preparing files for laser cutting required precision and attention to detail. I converted my designs into 2D vector files, ensuring that paths were clean and all lines were closed. Choosing the right file format, DXF or PDF, is essential for compatibility with the laser cutting software. This step was vital to ensure the final cuts matched the design specifications.

Rhino Head Rhino Body Laser Cutouts Rhino Laser Cuts

Learning to laser cut: workflow, machine settings, material type and thickness

This week, we learned laser cutting, experimenting with different materials and settings. I worked with a 3mm acrylic sheet, using a power setting of **** % and a speed of **** mm/s. The workflow involved careful alignment, checking the focus of the laser, and ensuring material flatness. Each trial taught me more about how machine settings affect precision and edge quality.

Uploading 3D and 2D files

Once my files were ready, I uploaded the 3D models (STL and OBJ formats) along with my laser cutting designs (DXF and PDF). Keeping everything organized and accessible ensures a smoother transition from digital design to physical creation, and allows for easy adjustments if needed.

Building and assembling a mannequin or body parts The culmination of my work led to the assembly of a mannequin, built from laser-cut pieces. Each part, meticulously crafted, came together to form a dynamic representation of the human body. The hands-on process of assembling these elements gave me a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind 3D fabrication.

Creating a stop motion or step-by-step assembly process (with high-res picture)

For a bit of extra creativity, I documented the mannequin’s assembly in a stop-motion sequence. This process highlighted the gradual transformation from individual parts to a cohesive figure. I've uploaded a high-resolution image of the completed mannequin to showcase the final result, celebrating the blend of technology and traditional craftsmanship.

describe what you see in this image