FreeD

Abstract

In this paper, we present an approach to combining digital fabrication and craft, emphasizing the user experience. While many researchers strive to enable makers to design and produce 3D objects, our research seeks to present a new fabrication approach to make unique, one-of-a-kind artifacts. To that end, we developed the FreeD, a hand-held digital milling device. The system is guided and monitored by a computer while preserving the maker's freedom to sculpt and carve, and to manipulate the work in many creative ways. Relying on a predesigned 3D model, the computer gets into action only when the milling bit risks the object's integrity, by slowing down the spindle's speed or by drawing back the shaft, while the rest of the time it allows complete gestural freedom. We describe the key concepts of our work and its motivation, present the FreeD's architecture and technology, and discuss two projects made with the tool.

Integrated Workflows

“…Therefore, an efficient translation process (e.g., [83]), can be implemented to produce accurate fabrication-ready 3D models from physical prototypes. By combining the Grasshopper plug-in for Rhino 3D with a hand-held milling device, Zoran and Paradiso [105] achieved an integration between the detailed algorithmic model and fabrication process. Differently from automated fabrication approaches (e.g., [29,74,96]), an integrated workflow can initiate an embodied fabrication process that reintegrates the intimate human control within the fabrication process.…”

“…To strengthen the feasibility of our transitional method we will be implementing efficient scanning settings [93]. We also plan to enhance the algorithmic transition phase with accurate translation approaches [83,105]. Findings of these empirical studies can assist us for designing an iterative loop process between the physical and digital realities.…”

“…This limits the designer with annotations and makes it more suitable for the massing (a brain storming phase done by iterating mock-up models), rather than the formal exploration process. FreeD [105] is a digital milling device which increases human control in the fabrication process. FreeD reduces designers' mere dependence on CAD models and provides a direct engagement with the physical materials.…”

WraPr

“…Others utilize AR environments [29] or tangible tools [10,28]. Incremental modelling intertwines modelling and fabrication [18,21,31], while gesture interfaces [11,16,30] enable users to define objects with their hands. For WraPr we took inspiration from the light-weight, gesture-based, and object-centric modelling experience of these works.…”

Probing the Potential of Post-Anthropocentric 3D Printing

“…Researchers in and out of HCI have developed innovative fabrication technologies that allow makers to work with computationally specified instructions without compromising close engagements with materials [10,[26][27][28]35]. This paper analyzes one such technology, Redeform (previously named "Being the Machine" [10]), to provide a broader theoretical framework for thinking about how such projects shape relationships between makers, technologies, and materials.…”