Feels Like Roller-Coaster Ride
Objective
Almost every shape in the world, from polygons to circles are essentially constructed from lines. The Parabolic curve is an example of this aspect as it creates a curve using the intersection of straight lines. Using this principle, our objective for this project was to create a wooden structure that incorporated the Parabolic curve with wooden sticks and dowels.
Real examples of Parabolic curves.
These are some examples of a wooden structure constructed using the principles of the Parabolic curve. The first example is a combination of two parabolic curves that incorporated the theory of creating a circle with straight lines. The second example is a mix of two concepts — the Parabolic curve and the golden section. Each of the sticks abides by ratio 1: 618.
Process
Step 1: Making Prototypes
First, to understand the concept of the Parabolic curve and to get a sense of how this would look when made into 3D, we started by making a prototype model. Based on the practice drawings done in 2D, we composed a structure with coffee sticks and masking tapes. 
Step 2: 2D Drawing
For our final piece, we started by designing the curve on 18” x 24” drawing paper. For my structure I wanted to make something dynamic, therefore, I was mainly inspired by the structure of rollercoasters. Before drawing on the paper, to get a sense of how my piece would look like I designed my idea on photoshop.
Based on this drawing, I designed my final structure.
Step 3: Process
Because of the complex structure, I divided it into four parts to efficiently construct the piece.
1. The right part Parabolic Curve
2. The left circular structure drawn in black.
3. The small circular curve drawn in blue.
4. The final curve drawn in red
Final Curve Structure
I really enjoyed doing this project. While I have always wanted to work with wood, however, I feared to work in 3D. Mostly working on 2D works, transforming a 2D drawing into a 3D structure was a difficult process. Because this whole process was new to me, when I was first planning out the design, I did not think how difficult it would be to construct this. But I really liked my drawings and was eager to turn this into a 3D piece. At first, I had 70 pieces, but the perpendicular part on the left (from the picture) above seemed too clogged, so I took out the even numbers. And I divided the whole piece into 4 parts to construct it more efficiently. I am extremely satisfied with my final project and I am content that I was able to execute similar to my original drawing.
