Self-Assembling Platonic and Archimedean Solids: Innovations and Advancements
Proceedings of Bridges 2023: Mathematics, Art, Music, Architecture, Culture
Pages 307–312
Regular Papers
Abstract
Previous studies have employed 3D-printed spherical models inspired by the geometry of the dodecahedron to demonstrate the mechanism of self-assembly of viral capsids from free-floating capsomeres. This research builds on these studies by constructing a complete set of 3D-printed self-assembling Platonic solids. These objects not only serve a functional purpose but are also aesthetically pleasing as they showcase the duals of each solid. Additionally, we expand upon the complexity of previous methods by creating three self-assembling Archimedean solids; the truncated tetrahedron, truncated octahedron, and truncated icosahedron.