Coni is a 3D-printed shoe insole in which the geometric configuration interacts with the properties of the material creating a variable density area. The variability affects the rigidity which can be modulated to maximize the product performance. A 2D tiling pattern can be affected by little variations on the base shape of a module. These variations are designed to influence its mechanical reaction when it develops three-dimensionally. These 2D geometries are layered on many levels to give the 3D layout and it is possible to pass from more open and flexible forms to closed and rigid ones.  The various sections are connected by a network, giving regular trabecular structures. A system of attractor points manages the variation in the distribution of the number and size of the connections and a base for a variation on the verticals. The material is an efficient elastic resin able to bend, stretch, compress several times.

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For the model Miniba,  the research started with the study of a minimum surface, Batwing type (Triply Periodic Minimal Surface). We have developed a variant of this surface that presents 3 different geometries, each with different performance. We move from a more elastic cell to a more rigid one compared to the starting one. To detail the application of the surface we have subdivided the proposed block into XYZ cells. At this point, we have identified the curve that determines the selection of the nearest cells and applied the most rigid to these cells. Ultimately we have a linear distribution of cells of the rigid type and outside this line progressive structural flexibility given by the gradual transition to the more flexible cell configuration. To modify the sole, the resolution can be calibrated, the size of the cells, the path of the most rigid cells, and the thickness of the surface. Furthermore, the module is designed so that in the lateral part of the slab we see a model with diagonal bands. Proceeding inwards, the rigid parts are opposed by reversing the diagonal.

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Second prize, 2019 Global Innovation, and Application of Additive Manufacturing Beijing, China.

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Design:

Cristian Li Voi & Nyxo Visionary Design

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