Three Dimensional Modeling of Various Topological Surfaces
Authors:Taylor Allen, John Burns, Carlie Hutti, Echo Matthews, Paige Thibodeaux, Caleb Tureau, Walter Wild
The focus of this course was on the methods and strategies for distinguishing between surfaces. Different surfaces were introduced in class, then the surfaces were modeled using the computer algebra system, Mathematica. Finally the Mathematica files were converted into STL (triangulation) files to be 3D printed. A few necessary tools besides Mathematica and a 3D printer were used in the creation of the surfaces. The 3d scanner, which scans real world objects and represents them in the 3D Cartesian plane, was instrumental in creating the original STL files used by the 3d printer. The STL file was then transported to the Raspberry Pi, which is a credit card sized computer, that used Mathematica to enable editing of the 3D image. Once satisfied with the image, the STL file was sent to a 3D printer which brought the project to life.
The study of surfaces and topology is vast and detailed. There are many ways to analyze surfaces ranging from the use of only a pen and paper to precise 3D printing machines. While all the tools of analysis are useful, the higher technology modeling systems are preferred. They are simple, intuitive and allow rapid and accurate creation of computer and physical models.