Experiment 2 - Volume & Porosity

In experiment 2 I sought to identify the same concepts explored in experiement 1. The idea that a detonation or single explosive can set off a series of explosions. The influence of previous explosions affect the next, creating a chain reaction of explosions in porosity. I wanted to illustrate in the cactus model how this type of explosive movement would react inside a building like the cactus model. Experiment X and Y discuss two varying elements of "a series of explosions" but have a singular concept in that in a controlled environment an initiated explosion sets to create further developed blast that are interconnected to each other. The setting or space commands and directs the movement of explosions.

X% Experiment

X% Experiment: This was my concept that I tried to illustrate into the Cactus Model. A series of explosions that connected in a way that moved vertically through the building. The explosion gains momentum and carries through the building like a chain reaction.

Y% Experiment



Y% Experiment: A central or main explosion rippling to areas of the building, to where it can release itself from the structure. Most significant explosions are situated furthest away from the starting explosion ie. at the apex and footings of the Cactus model.

Experiment 2 - 3dsMax Models

Y% 3dsMax Model

X% 3dsMax Model

3dsMax Cactus Model

Experiment 2 - Solidworks Models

Y% Solidworks Model



X% Solidworks Model



Solidworks Cactus Model

Experiment 2 - Videos

X% Experiment - Pan Animation


Y% Experiment - Rotate Animation


Cactus Model - Zoom Animation

Experiment 2 - Solidworks Volume Calculations

Y% Volume Explosion

Y% = 28% = 28702.28 cubic meters retained


X% Volume Explosion

53% = 54329.32 cubic meters retained


Cactus Model Mass Properties














Total Volume: 102508.15 cubic meters
X% = 53% = 54329.32 cubic meters
Y% = 28% = 28702.28 cubic meters

Experiment 2 - SolidWorks Tutorials

Revolves & Sweep Tutorial
This tutorial oulined how to create a mass by first sketching a profile, then using revolve and sweep around a centrline axis to complete the model. This function is similar to Solid Sweep and Solid Revolve in Revit in creating solid forms.












Parts Tutorial
This tutorial coverd the basics and use of the SolidWorks interface. Sketching with lines, extruding, cutting and dimensioning are some of the elements used to create this model. I found that unlike some other design programs, you have to dimension a line to accurately assign it its size.

Loft Tutorial
Planes are used in this tutorial and it seems a vital feature in SoildWorks in creating any object. Creating a solid by connecting the profiles is what defines lofting in this case. An interesting technique to bend the hammer end was produced by adding a flex feature.