newshape

Newshape is a term used in design and mathematics to describe geometric models that can change shape in a controlled way. In mathematics, a newshape denotes a family of shapes produced by applying a shaping function to a base form, allowing continuous deformation while preserving selected properties such as topology or volume. In design and digital fabrication, newshape often refers to parametric or morphing models whose geometry can be adjusted by input parameters or user interaction.

Origin and development: The concept gained prominence with advances in computer-aided design, computational geometry, and additive manufacturing. It is closely associated with parametric design, morphing, and free-form deformation, using tools such as Bezier curves, NURBS, B-splines, or lattice-based frameworks to interpolate between shapes.

Applications: Newshape is used in architecture for adaptive facades and responsive structures, in product design for customizable ergonomics, in automotive and consumer electronics for morphing shells, and in digital art for evolving forms. It enables forms to respond to performance data, user preferences, or environmental conditions.

Characteristics: Common features include smoothness of transition, controllable constraints (such as volume or surface area), and topological stability. Transformations may be linear or non-linear and can combine several operations (scaling, rotation, bending, twisting) into a single deformation function.

See also: Parametric design, shape morphing, free-form deformation, topological morphing, computational geometry.