Guides for Flockbot Nesting

More Flockbot Animations

Rendered side view showing a person walking through the parting flockbots.

Wire frame view from top showing location of flockbots in plan.

View from top showing the layout of the flockbot paths. The advantage of this particular path design is that it allows the flockbots to create a type of swarming motion seen near the beginning of the animation. While the disadvantage is that it limits the number of flockbots that can cover the form.

Flockbots Animation

Motion Exercise

The idea here is to mechanically move the diamond 10 inches and rotate it 1/2 a turn. I decided a simple solution to this problem would be to move the the diamond along with a pulley and rotate it using the magnetic forces. Both the pulley for the diamond and the magnet, which are operated manually in the video, could be operated by a small motor. Also, with smaller stronger magnets the magnetic force alone would be sufficient to rotate the diamond and the pulley system currently in place for the magnet could be eliminated.

Design Idea of Flocking Object

Though the smooth lines of the form are reminiscent of a bird in flight, the exterior wrapping leaves what would be the internal motor slightly exposed as a reminder of is machine nature.


The motor could be in a transparent casing and highlighted with LED lights.
The flocking object is designed within an equilateral triangle boundary.





Triangular boundaries are butted up against one another to create an array on a single plane.
The equilateral triangle allows for a variety of arrangements, each creating a different looking field.


Linear Arrangement

Hexagon Arrangement

Design Ideas

Location Location Location

The central courtyard of the Santa Monica Public Library would provide an atractive and educational experience.

The newly renovated Santa Monica Place Mall will have an central outdoor courtyard and plans to host local artist and art installations.

The Santa Monica Pier would be a great seaside location with an active pedestrian life.