Abstract: A three-dimensional surface shape is produced from input numerical data. The shape of an elastic surface is determined by the positions of a first matrix of memory rods. The position of each of the memory rods is determined by a flexible sheet which is contoured by a second matrix of control rods and is computer-controlled. After control rods transfer the contour data to the memory rods, the control rods are reset to receive new contour data. Both the memory rod and control rod are fitted with two pneumatically controlled locking mechanisms, one for the X-coordinate and one for the Y-coordinate. When both locks on a particular rod are released the rod is free to move to a new position determined by an elevator. Once all of the rods have been adjusted, they are locked in position and the surface has been configured.

Abstract: A three-dimensional surface shape is produced from input numerical data. The shape of a sheet elastic material is determined by the positions of a matrix of control rods. The position of each of the rods is determined by a computer-controlled system. Each rod is fitted with two pneumatically controlled locking mechanisms, one for the X coordinate and one for the Y coordinate. When both locks on a particular rod are released the rod is free to move to a new position determined by an elevator. Once all of the rods have been adjusted they are locked in position and the surface has been configured. In one application, the surface can be used as a mold for casting a replica or in another application can be used as the screen in an image projection system.

Abstract: A three-dimensional surface shape is produced from input numerical data. The shape of a sheet elastic material is determined by the positions of a matrix of control rods. The position of each of the rods is determined by a computer-controlled system. Each rod is fitted with two pneumatically controlled locking mechanisms, one for the X coordinate and one for the Y coordinate. When both locks on a particular rod are released the rod is free to move to a new position determined by an elevator. Once all of the rods have been adjusted they are locked in position and the surface has been configured. In one application, the surface can be used as a mold for casting a replica or in another application can be used as the screen in an image projection system.

Abstract: A three-dimensional surface shape is produced from input numerical data. The shape of an elastic surface is determined by the positions of a first matrix of memory rods. The position of each of the memory rods is determined by a flexible sheet which is contoured by a second matrix of control rods and is computer-controlled. After control rods transfer the contour data to the memory rods, the control rods are reset to receive new contour data. Both the memory rod and control rod are fitted with two pneumatically controlled locking mechanisms, one for the X-coordinate and one for the Y-coordinate. When both locks on a particular rod are released the rod is free to move to a new position determined by an elevator. Once all of the rods have been adjusted, they are locked in position and the surface has been configured.