LANTERN TREE
Assigned to create a plant-like low-polygon paper lantern for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Art Walk "Alien Garden." A system of custom-designed 3D printed connectors and dowels was devised to form the structure of the tree. Addressable RGB lighting illumined the lantern and was subsequently synchronized to music (see video below).
Prompt
Construct a low polygon, plant-like paper lantern using 3D printing, dowels, and rice paper for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas annual Art Walk. Use addressable RGB lighting to illuminate the lantern.
Solution
Used Autodesk Inventor to create the model used for 3D printed dowel connectors. Connectors were created in an assembly and exported individually for 3D printing in groups of 6 to 8. PETG was selected for the 3D prints due to its durability and resistance to higher temperatures found in the desert. Dowels were cut to size and glued into the connectors. A baffle system was made from cardboard to allow the RGB lights to illuminate individual facets of the tree. Rice paper was glued onto the frame. A light show set to “Endless and Artificial” by City Girl was programmed to complement the movement and feel of the music.
