Knit Programming Tool for Automatic Translation from Geometry to Fabrication Data
2018-2020
The translation from a designed geometry to a knitted textile used to be an arduous process, involving numerous trial-and-error tests. To solve this problem and create an efficient workflow from design to fabrication, a Grasshopper tool was developed to automatically translate a designed geometry into a bitmap image that the knitting machine software reads as fabrication instructions. The tool integrates simulation, 3D-2D mapping, pattern generation, visualization and stitch assignment into an efficient workflow. Tests were conducted on both nylastic with voronoi pattern and multi-material stripe pattern. The results indicate a significant improvement on both accuracy and efficiency for CNC knitting of complex 3D forms.

All work were completed at Prof. Sean Ahlquist's Lab, Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Michigan
Tool Development: Yingying Zeng
Textile Fabrication: Tracey Weisman