LOTUS - 3D Printed
BY J.WU x WOOJ - 2025
A 3D printed lamp as an evolution of the typology of the Lotus Pendant Light. The shade, designed in using Rhino SUB modeling allows a complex form to be 3D printed in one piece. The intent of this form was to push the capabilities of my own modeling practice and explore complex geometry in free form modeling that can be 3D printed and manufactured.
The shade can be positioned in both orientations allowing the user to have the choice in how the form is displayed. The two compositions change how the structure is perceived. The psychology of the classic interpretation of Kiki and Boba. Each name resonates with a either a sharp rigid form or a form with smooth and rounded curvature. This can be displayed with the Lotus shade as one orientation seems to work with gravity, draping organically (Boba) while the other form feels rigid and acts as a supportive structure (Kiki).
IMAGES BY MATHEW GORDON
IDEATION
With a complex form, prototyping and sketching becomes much more of a rigorous process. The form finding exercise began with VR modeling in Gravity Sketch. Through this approach while using augmented reality, visualizing different concepts became easier allowing to see scale and shape in real time quickly exploring exploring more variations expediting workflow.
PROTOTYPING
Once the general form was identified, I proceeded with more intentional modeling in Rhino 3D printing out scaled prototypes visualizing how the different forms diffuse light and interplay with shadows. This stage explored both modeling and 3D printing capabilities with these more complex forms.
FINALIZATION
Landing on a harmonious form, that diffused the light while being able to direct it as well, ten stages of iterations, prints, and models proceeded to ensure printing capabilities considering the overhangs and draft angles
