10. Textile Scaffold

Research and Ideation

Textile scaffolds are structured frameworks created from woven, knitted, or nonwoven textile materials, often used in applications like tissue engineering, sustainable design, and architecture. They provide a supportive matrix for cell growth in biomedical applications, mimicking the extracellular matrix to aid in tissue regeneration or wound healing. These scaffolds can also be incorporated into fashion, wearable tech, or architectural designs, offering lightweight and versatile solutions. Made from materials such as natural fibers, synthetic polymers, or biopolymers, they are valued for their porosity, strength, and sometimes biodegradability, enabling eco-friendly and innovative uses across industries.

Inspiration

Textile scaffolding offers a world of creative possibilities, inspiring innovative designs across multiple fields. In fashion, it encourages modular clothing systems where pieces can be assembled and reconfigured, much like building blocks, offering both customization and sustainability. In architecture, it sparks the development of lightweight, eco-friendly structures like tensile fabric pavilions or temporary shelters, blending flexibility with durability. The concept also extends to medical applications, where textiles serve as biocompatible scaffolds for tissue engineering or wound healing. Additionally, textile scaffolding inspires the creation of interactive art installations, sustainable home décor, and even performance wear that integrates structural support. With digital fabrication techniques, the principles of textile scaffolding can be applied to produce intricate, customizable designs, merging fashion with technology. The modularity and adaptability of textile scaffolding also open up new avenues for circular fashion, where garments are designed for easy repair, recycling, or repurposing, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

An example of textile scaffolding in action is the Tensile Fabric Structures used in architectural design. These structures, like those found in sports stadiums, exhibition halls, or temporary pavilions, are inspired by the principles of scaffolding. The fabric is stretched over a framework of metal poles or cables, creating a lightweight yet strong canopy that can support large loads while being flexible and adaptable. One well-known example is the Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest), where textile scaffolding principles were used in the design of the roof. The lightweight and modular nature of the fabric allows for quick assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration, making it perfect for temporary or modular spaces. This combination of textile flexibility with structural engineering showcases the innovative potential of textile scaffolding in architecture.

CNC Milling Machine

A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machine is a highly automated tool designed for precision machining of materials like metals, plastics, wood, or composites. By using computer-controlled commands, it guides a rotating cutting tool along multiple axes—commonly X, Y, and Z—to shape, cut, or drill materials into specific forms with exceptional accuracy. Widely employed in manufacturing industries such as aerospace, automotive, jewelry, and prototyping, CNC milling machines are essential to modern production. They combine flexibility, precision, and automation, significantly enhancing efficiency and enabling the creation of complex designs with consistent quality. For more information about those machines click here Review on CNC

Key Features of CNC Milling Machines:

1. Precision and Repeatability: They produce complex parts with high accuracy and can repeat tasks identically.
2. Multi-Axis Capability: Machines typically operate on three axes (X, Y, Z), but advanced models include additional rotational axes (4-axis or 5-axis) for more intricate shapes.
3. Automation: Operated via programmed instructions (G-code) generated from CAD (Computer-Aided Design) models.
4. Versatility: They can perform various operations like drilling, tapping, cutting, and contouring.

Advanced Shopbot 3D milling (6/7)

Warnings:

The milling machine operates using X, Y, and Z axes, and it can replicate human errors, so careful setup is crucial.

• Always ensure the area around the machine is clear, and it has enough space to move freely.

• Tie back your hair and remove any loose accessories like bracelets or necklaces to avoid accidents.

• Never place your hands on the machine while it’s running.

• The hose manifold should be connected to the bag in the small room and turned on before starting.

• Avoid placing iron or metal on the table, as contact with the machine could create sparks, potentially causing the bag to catch fire.

• Stay attentive while the machine is operating—you are the emergency stop, activated by pressing the space bar.

VCarve Pro software

• put USB into pc, save file as .stl .obj

• Open VCarve shopBot edition Pro and open the file

• Job size X and Y > to measure with the Caliper (but write smaller measures to the material we have) | Material (Z) > Z zero (measure the thickness with the caliper) ! XY Datum Position: it is used to understand in which position the pivot will be located

• Model > Import Component/3D Model

• (we can orient our model) Initial Orientation > Bottom | Interactive Rotation > XYZ | Model size > (check on) Lock XYZ ratio | Units > mm | Zero plane Position Model > Discard data below zero plane | Initial orientation > bottom. (Use the zero in fist point of the foam. note: if you have positive and negative mould you should make different files and mill in 2 times).

Milling Machine

• Start the machine with the red switch on the side (you cannot load the software otherwise)

• Open Shopbot3 on your computer.

• The green dots indicate the limit switch of the machine

• Press K to work with the machine manually, the yellow box comes up. Bring the tip close to you and move it up on the Z axis (Pg up command)

• clean the surface as much as possible (sand if necessary)

• put the material on the plane after covering the surface with double-sided tape

• clip the material using two pieces of wood nailed to the sides of the material.

• lower the skirt by turning the butterfly on the back of the machine head.

• Collet and Bid should be fitting tight. The nut is the piece that goes into the machine.

• Connect first the nut with the collet and click and then put the bit inside and attach to the machine.

• Connect first the nut with the collet and click and then put the bit inside and attach to the machine.

• Measure the size height of the drill.

Molding a christmas tree using CNC

Steps to Mold a Christmas Tree:

1. Design the Tree Model 2D Design: Create a symmetrical tree outline, including branches and other decorative details. Divide the design into interlocking segments if you want a flat-packable or modular tree. 3D Design: Model a full 3D tree in CAD software, including layers or contours for a realistic appearance. Add slots or holes for assembly if making a modular design.

1. Generate Toolpaths Import the design into CAM software. Choose the appropriate cutting operation: 2D profiles for flat designs. 3D carving for realistic, contoured shapes. Set tool parameters: Feed rate and spindle speed based on material. Depth of cut and passes to prevent tool breakage. Simulate the toolpath to check for errors.

2. Prepare the Material Secure the material to the CNC machine’s bed using clamps, double-sided tape, or vacuum hold-down. Ensure the surface is clean and flat.

1. Calibrate the CNC Machine Zero the machine at the material’s starting point (X, Y, Z coordinates). Load the cutting tool and tighten it securely.

1. Start the Machining Process Upload the G-code to the CNC machine. Start the machining process and monitor for errors or issues. Pause the machine if necessary to clear dust or adjust the setup.

2. Finish the Tree Remove the material from the CNC machine carefully. Sand edges and surfaces for smoothness. Assemble parts if it’s a modular design. Paint, stain, or varnish the tree for decoration.

Tree Tomato-Based Leather

Creating bio-leather from tree tomatoes (tamarillo) involves using its pulp, peels, or waste materials. The process usually includes combining the biomaterial with natural binders, plasticizers, and additives to form a durable, flexible sheet. Here’s a recipe and process you can try:

Ingredients

• Tree tomato pulp or peels - 2 cups (strained to remove excess liquid).

• Glycerin - 2 tbsp (acts as a plasticizer for flexibility).

• Gelatin or Agar-agar - 2 tbsp (as a natural binder).

• Vinegar or Lemon Juice - 1 tbsp (to balance pH and preserve).

• Water - 1 cup.

• Optional: Natural pigments (e.g., beetroot or spinach powder) for color.

• Human Hair: A small amount, finely chopped (reinforcement for texture and structural strength)

Equipments

• Saucepan or double boiler.

• Mixing bowl.

• Baking sheet or flat surface for drying.

• Parchment paper or silicone mat.

• Blender or food processor (if needed).

Process and Workflow

Prepare the Tree Tomato Base:

Blend the tree tomato pulp or peels into a smooth consistency. Strain the mixture to remove seeds or large fibrous pieces, ensuring a uniform paste.

Create the Gelatin Mixture:

Heat water in a saucepan and add gelatin or agar-agar. Stir until fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps.

Combine Ingredients:

Slowly add the tree tomato paste to the gelatin mixture. Mix well over low heat. Add glycerin and vinegar. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes a uniform paste.

Add Optional Enhancements:

If desired, mix in natural pigments for color or essential oils for fragrance.

Pour and Spread:

Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, aiming for a thickness of 2-3 mm.

Dry:

Let the bio-leather air dry in a warm, well-ventilated area for 24-48 hours. Alternatively, use a dehydrator or an oven set to a very low temperature (~40–50°C).

Finishing Touches:

Once dry, peel off the leather. Trim edges and smooth the surface if needed.

Tips

Durability: To increase durability, add natural fibers (like cotton or hemp) into the mix during Step 3. Water Resistance: Apply a thin layer of beeswax or carnauba wax once the leather is dry to enhance water resistance. Experimentation: Adjust ingredient ratios to achieve the desired thickness, flexibility, and texture. Let me know how it works for you or if you'd like to troubleshoot or refine the process further!

Basic Crystallization Recipe

Materials Needed:

1. Saturated Solution: You can use common substances like borax, salt, sugar, or alum.

Base Material: Fabric, yarn, or any surface you want to crystallize.

Container: A jar or bowl for immersing your material.

Water and Heat Source: To dissolve the substance.

Process:

Heat water and dissolve your chosen substance (e.g., borax) until no more can dissolve, forming a saturated solution. Suspend or place your material in the solution. Let it cool undisturbed, allowing crystals to form as the solution stabilizes.

Tips for Experimentation:

Fabric Preparation: Pre-soak fabrics in the solution to encourage even crystal growth.

Shape Control: Use molds, weights, or wireframes to shape the material during crystallization.

Color: Add food coloring or dyes to the solution for colored crystals.

Timeframe: Crystals typically form within 12-24 hours, but longer durations can yield larger, more defined crystals.

Useful links

1. What is Computer Numerical Control Technology