Making a Mardi Gras-Inspired Patch Using Algorithmic Design

Review the more in-depth Algorithmic & Computational Thinking in Design presentation.

Can you write an algorithm to re-create this design?

Start with a 2D shape. Then, write the steps you would use to create a pattern using the shape. You might organize your shapes into categories: “triangle”, “square.” Use math to describe the size and position of the shapes (ex. on a coordinate grid). Indicate the colors of each shapes. The algorithm might looks something like this:

• Draw a 4 x 4 grid (16 squares)
• Draw a light blue square at 100% scale in grid blocks 1, 4, 13, 16
• Draw a dark blue half square triangle in grid blocks 6, 7, 10, 11… and so on

Algorithms like this example can be used to create colorful patchwork such as the ones worn in the costumes of Black Masking Indian performers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCxGIh9IKcE&feature=youtu.be.

In the Black Masking Indian community, children learn basic costuming skills by drawing patterns on simple pieces of cloth. As their skills increase, community elders continue to expand the children’s talent to more elaborate challenges – sometimes to create a headband or mask. Eventually, they become skilled artists with unlimited capabilities and challenges set before them.

Students should research more examples of algorithms in everyday life and choose one that inspires them. Then, using paper (preferably graph paper) they can sketch their own version of their chosen design and keep it simple. Graph paper simulates the Tinkercad “Workplane” and the Cartesian coordinate system grid.

After sketching their 2D designs, students will need to write simple algorithms that can be used to re-create their designs. They can do this using a computer/laptop with writing software (ex. Google docs). For example, with the design posted above the algorithm might look something like this:

• Draw a green fan shape for the base
• Draw a red circle in the center of the fan
• Draw a blue teardrop shape above the circle
• Repeat the blue teardrop shape 5 times
• Rotate the blue teardrop shapes 360 degrees around the circle

During a peer review, students can “test” out their algorithms by having others try to create designs just using their text documents… but this step is optional.

A visual programming language or VPL is any programming language that lets users create programs by manipulating graphics rather than text (scripting). Some examples include Scratch, CSnap!, Culturally Situated Design Tools (CSDTs), and Tinkercad Codeblocks. For this lesson, students will learn how to design using Codeblocks.

 In traditional Tinkercad, you build models by dragging basic shapes like a box, cone, or wedge onto the workplane. Codeblocks is similar, but rather than dragging a shape out to the workplane and then resizing it, you drag a block of code for an object whose parameters you can adjust.

Visit the Codeblocks Quickstart Guide and learn basic design and coding principles. The software is online and free to use.

Explore the process for creating designs in Codeblocks: Select, Stack, Run, Review, Adjust.

Use this checklist to create the 3D design in Codeblocks:

• Click Modify > Create New Object and drag two blocks for a “base” and a “pattern” (see below)
• Drag and stack shape blocks to the base and pattern object blocks
• Add other modifiers to rotate, scale and position the shapes on the base object (see below)
• Create variables to make the script more efficient (see below)
• Run the script and review/modify as needed

Use this script to create the base for the design.

Use this script to create the pattern for the design.

You can create variables that can be dragged and dropped onto the blocks.

Once the 3D design is complete it can be exported for 3D printing or laser cutting. Click on the “Export” button in the top right corner of the window.

Click .STL for 3D printing, or .SVG for laser cutting and other fab processes.

Here is more information on Tinkercad filetypes:

https://tinkercad.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360034615794

After exporting, the 3D model (.STL) can be imported into Tinkercad 3D design for further elaboration. For example:

3D printing refers to processes used to create a three-dimensional object in which material is joined or solidified under computer control to create a physical object (see example below). Tinkercad allows just about anyone with a computer and Internet access to create a 3D model that can be 3D printed. Codeblocks bridges coding or programming with digital fabrication to make this happen.

In order for this to work, a machine called a 3D printer heats a part called the extruder that “extrudes” melted plastic onto a hot plate in layers to build up the physical object. Most 3D printers have screens that can alert the user that things are heating up to print (see below). As a general rule, students should take care not to touch the machine when it is preparing to print, during printing and when the machine is cooling down.

Another task to watch out for is removing the 3D printed object from the hot plate, which is often done using a chisel. Students need to take care when using sharp objects and push the tools away from their faces and other body parts.

More information about 3D printing can be found here: https://ultimaker.com/learn/code-your-3d-designs-with-tinkercads-new-codeblocks-app

Students can use a laser cutter to subtract material from cardboard, wood, acrylic, etc. Safety measures need to be taken before, during and after using the machine. Here are some general rules:

• DO NOT remove material from the cutting bed before it has cooled.
• DO NOT leave a laser cutter operating unattended.
• ALWAYS clean up clutter, debris and flammable materials in the laser cutter after use.
• ALWAYS keep a properly maintained fire extinguisher nearby.