cellular biology & matrix design

ABSTRCT .
In a native environment cells gain stability from tensile forces which are exerted on them by the extracellular matrix and are expressed through their cytoskeleton. When stressed these tensile connections transmit contextual information throughout the cell and in so doing drive cell behavior. If there is a shift in the extracellular matrix those forces are distributed through the integrin receptors to the cytoskeleton. the resulting realignment of the actin Network within the cell’s cytoplasm triggers a response from the cell.

Therefore, information about connectivity can drive the condition of the cell, prompting it to respond by either growing, differentiating, moving, or dying. Just as chemical gradients in the environment stimulate behavior, so too can gradients in the organization of the extracellular matrix. The interrelationship between gradients of chemoattractants and the composition of the extracellular matrix can inform the design of nonlinear systems which have a similar dynamic relationship to their environment. Gradients of contextual triggers will spark local reactions which will reverberate through the tensile network. This research and simulation is the beginning of a framework for considering dynamically reactive building systems.

Above you see a couple of sketches that I did studying how cells communicate with one another. We identified two primary mechanism - though there are many. On the left you’ll see a simulation of cells emitting a chemical attractant into their environment. Each cell identifies the region with the greatest density of these attractors within a certain range and is attracted to it. This leads to a bundling of cells over time. This only tells half the tale though because in reality these cells are bound together by matrix. The simulation on the right is an abstract representation of this matrix. The idea being that all cells are bound together by a network of tensile forces so local stimuli are capable of having global affects.

The challenge next was to find a way to synthesize these two systems. To allow the cells to emit chemoattratants but to bind them together in a matrix. This matrix would not only restrict their mobility but would allow them to communicate with other cells through the tensile connections. The result is field of interactions withe the chemoattractants influencing the matrix and the matrix influencing the chemoattractants.

n body problem

ABSTRACT .
Through sequential and continuous interactions built upon simple rules, complex form can emerge without the addition of outside input. An understanding of these principles of emergent design allow for a new type of creativity enhanced by the utilization of a fluid process and involving time as an integral and constructive tool.

Forces build upon themselves sequentially, yielding complex solutions which would be impossible to conceive by conventional means. Because of the dynamic nature of this process a finished end is not the objective. rather a continuously fluctuating landscape of solutions is generated resulting from bodies constantly shaping the behavior of one another while shaping the space that they occupy.

By recognizing the innately imbued potential for dynamism of matter, designers can employ time and force as constructive instruments to generate form. doing so will impregnate design with a performative potential and a heightened relevance which is a direct consequence of the manner of production.