Mathematics for the Design of Variation: The “Nagashima!” Lamp Prototype

This paper describes the process for design, development and fabrication of a lamp prototype that worked as an experiment in “digital bridges” between different software, using Mathematica as the main source for design geometry that is passed dynamically to platforms for documentation, lighting analysis and rendering, as well as CNC machining for final fabrication. The process will be used as key for discussing the dynamic relationship between variation, design option and analysis, in relation to the richness of our design culture.