Surface Ornamentation as By-product of Digital Fabrication

The paper describes series of experiments directed towards devising methodology on utilizing 3D printer as a generative constituent of the design process. A method to manipulate G-code, as an interface between digital and physical, was developed in order to instigate emergence of textural patterning out of fabrication process. The idea of heterogeneous surface ornamentation as a negotiation of internal and external forming forces was translated into a design of controlled production process, in which specific surface topology was informed by printing parameters, such as variated speed of material deposition, tool path and disabled retraction and actualized in the material medium of plastic. Surface ribbing, as a technique to add or subtract mass from a surface, was programmed in G-code, allowing for iterative process and a range of effects to materialize. These effects, while designed, are not entirely uniform or pre-determined, which translates into pattern heterogeneity and unexpected deviation. While spontaneous variation is encouraged, the research seeks to develop a system of control. The value of presented experimentation is seen in the potential applicability of methodology for the enrichment of surface ornamentation apparatus and as a contribution to the work on the integral involvement of manufacturing machines in the design process.