nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
all images courtesy of nervous system 

 

 

 

‘floraform’ is a generative design project by massachusetts-based studio nervous system. combining science, simulation, and 3D printing, the system can be used to computationally craft intricate, nature-derived designs that can immediately be printed and worn, displayed, etc.

nervous system floraform 3D printed jewelry designboom
‘floraform hyphae’ sculpture in 3D-printed nylon

 

 

 

each piece emerges from a simulation of differential growth — the biomechanics that allows leaves to grow and flowers to bloom. expanding from the edge, the computer program can transform simple surfaces into flexuous forms that fill space with curves, folds, and ruffles. through developed mechanisms, nervous system is able to control, manipulate, and sculpt the process from start to finish.

 

video courtesy of nervous system

 

 

 

the studio’s collection using the technology now has 24 unique jewelry items and sculptures. all unique, the line explores how using different starting geometries can be used to create drastically different end results. ‘floraform’ works are made for the fingers, wrists, or neck, as well as the shelf or desk. pieces are printed using selective laser sintering, with sterling silver options available (printed in wax, molded, cast). for an in depth look at the technical details behind ‘floraform’, visit nervous system’s blog here

nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
sculpture detail

nervous system floraform 3D printed jewelry designboom
growth process of a ‘floraform’ piece expanding from its edges

 

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‘floraform ornata’ sculpture in 3D-printed nylon

 


video courtesy of nervous system

nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
‘floraform ornata’ detail

nervous system floraform 3D printed jewelry designboom
‘peloria’ pendant in pink 3D-printed nylon

nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
jewelry in silver

nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
sterling silver cast from 3D-printed wax

nervous system uses floraform to 3D print intricate wearable designs
closeup view of the textures and patterns

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many pieces are derived from naturally occurring flower structures 

nervous system floraform 3D printed jewelry designboom
some works draw influenced from the ruffled arms of jellyfish

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: nick brink | designboom