K’nex are enchanting in a way similar to chess; the rules and
constrained proportions are what make them much more difficult
to construct with than Legos, but it’s those same constraints
that make it fun.
For an Introduction to Computer Graphics programming class the
final project was very open, as long as it explored many of the
complex techniques of 3D graphics that we studied. Built in C++
with OpenGL, the program utilizes viewports, transformation,
complex triangulations, lighting and normals, mouse picking,
and more to create a homemade 3D modeling application for K’nex.
Studying the science behind computer graphics helps provide a much
deeper understanding of the drawing and modeling softwares commonly
used in the architectural practice, and makes one better equipped to
fully understand and use those tools to their best advantage; an
area I unfortunately feel that not enough design professionals fully
explore.
