BIM and Information Technology

MIT develops ‘river of 3D pixels’ to assemble objects

The Kinetic Blocks can manipulate objects into shapes without human interference.

By Adilla Menayang, Asistant Digital Editor | October 29, 2015

MIT develops ‘river of 3-D pixels’ to assemble objects — The Kinetic Block by MIT's Tangible Media Group

Researchers at MIT are finding ways to make objects and buildings construct themselves, such as this rock-and-string structure MIT collaborated with ETH Zurich on display at the Chicago Biennial.

Another addition to the self-building portfolio is Kinetic Blocks. Developed by MIT’s Tangible Media Group, the shapeshifting display of computer-controlled pins can manipulate objects to take form.

According to Fast Company, Kinetic Blocks is a “flatbed ‘shape display’ with a Microsoft Kinect as an overhanging eye.” The device can stock, rotate, twist, and move blocks without any human intervention. “It can even construct preprogrammed structures,” the article says.

In a recent survey conducted by Building Design+Construction, more than 75% of respondents indicated they currently use BIM or plan to use it. Respondents were also asked to comment on their experiences with BIM, what they liked and disliked about BIM, and what BIM-related advice they would give to their peers.

| Oct 12, 2011

BIM Clarification and Codification in a Louisiana Sports Museum

The Louisiana State Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the sporting past, but it took innovative 3D planning and coordination of the future to deliver its contemporary design.

| Oct 5, 2011

GREENBUILD 2011: Johnson Controls announces Panoptix, a new approach to building efficiency

Panoptix combines latest technology, new business model and industry-leading expertise to make building efficiency easier and more accessible to a broader market.

| Oct 5, 2011

GREENBUILD 2011: Software an architectural game changer

Interactive modeling software transforms the designbuild process.

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MIT develops ‘river of 3D pixels’ to assemble objects

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