888 Matrix
2nd Year Design-Build
In this project, five group-mates and I created a matrix of smaller cubic subdivisions within a larger whole that measured exactly 80 cm in all dimensions. Several solid cubes within had to be placed strategically to boost the aesthetic and integrity of the system.
Through this design-build, we learned how to organize and simplify a design through mass production of components; long, grooved horizontal strips that intersected and connected to each other, and vertical components that bridged the horizontal planes of long strips. Within in the superstructure of poplar strips, we built 64 solid cubes—symmetrical from all 6 faces—to boost structural integrity. As a group, we had to fabricate jigs and form-work for assembly that ensured mass production without aberration.
The group started by trimming Poplar boards as efficiently as possible into nearly 600 strips (top left). Next, we relied on custom-made jigs to create uniform grooves and drill holes on every strip.
Next, we threaded dowels through these drilled holes (top right), which would add a second layer of structural integrity on top of the fitting together of pieces through interlocking the grooves.
We assembled nine planes of 64 strips each, and rooted the vertical pieces on the remaining length of the dowels poking up through the strips. Drops of wood glue were applied in the grooves and on the faces of the strips that would bear the solid panels of the cubes. Two planes would be connected to each other(bottom left), creating one of the eight stories of the matrix.
This process was repeated until the full height was achieved, with breaks taken between every layer so that bricks could be placed to keep warping in check as the glue dried (bottom right).
The matrix is a perfectly symmetrical system, with even the solid cubes on the interior being the same from all directions. The picture below is of the top face of the cube, yet all 6 faces of the Matrix are identical.
Re-purposing a Mock Model
(Personal Project)
As a group, we had created a mock-up of the final product—a singular row of what would be a nine-layered cube—to test the sturdiness of the matrix and the dowel connections that kept it together. After the whole cube was assembled, the mock-up was obsolete and thus I decided to keep it for myself, when other group-mates agreed to trash it, knowing that I could use it for a future project.
Here, I decided to use the single layer of the cube as shelf on the wall. Switching it to a vertical orientation, applying black coloring and gold accents to match the color scheme of my bedroom, and filling it with succulent planters, the matrix becomes a stimulating and lively decoration to the room that doubles for storing knick-knacks, such as the belt, wallet, sunglasses, etc. pictured above.