Ribbon Edges: a New Impulse for Geometric Sculpture
Charles Gunn

Proceedings of Bridges 2010: Mathematics, Music, Art, Architecture, Culture
Pages 403–406
Short Papers

Abstract

This paper describes an algorithm for decorating the edges of a regular tetrahedron with helical ribbons to generate new forms. The parameters of the algorithm, which include amount of twisting and cross section of the extruded ribbon, yield a range of interesting phenomena. The link known as the Borromean rings makes a surprising appearance. The extension of these results to the compound of five tetrahedra is described, and examples are shown. Applications to 3D printing are discussed.

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