About XMotility

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Motility is the ability of an organism to move independently, such as bacterial flagella that generates the movement of the whole system. We named this novel structural system, XMotility. Each structure built with XMotility takes on different shapes, depending on the location and direction of the internal and external forces. XMotility was inspired by Nature’s forms and dynamic, self-generated movement and the synergetic geometry of Buckminster Fuller. Fuller pioneered a whole systems modeling methodology that led him to the design of modular, mobile shelter systems and energetic forms. 

The XMotility system offers simple tools for structural exploration. Beginning with the basic structural system, Melodi’s Cube, and the BiO-ToL Structural Systems developed by Melodi Simay Acar. Gary Doskas’ rapid development of a four-component system amplified the complexity of new families of geometric form with torsional equilibrium. With the expertise of Joseph D. Clinton and Bonnie DeVarco, the Team developed the XMotility system with Melodi and Gary over the course of the last year.  

The Team’s approach was energized by Buckminster Fuller’s jitterbug, a transformational polyhedral vector system that introduced many new properties to the known families of polyhedra. Fuller pioneered a whole systems modeling methodology that led him to the design of modular, mobile shelter systems and energetic forms. 

Nature’s structures are always seeking balance, they are never static. Yet most physical models for vector, or wire-frame models often limit users to static structures with solid joints. The struts don't move (relative to each other) when external forces are applied. Structures made with these flexible joiners can exhibit motile behavior when external forces are applied. As the system transitions between different geometric configurations of transformational polyhedra, the flexible components can absorb and release rotational torque forces. With XMotility components, the movement within each structure demonstrates how the behavior of whole systems emerges from the interplay of constraints dictated by their structural and material characteristics.

Geodesics expert, Joseph D. Clinton introduced the “I Wonder” modeling process as a journey of curiosity and discovery. He draws inspiration from his personal interactions with Buckminster Fuller and his own application of comprehensive anticipatory design science. This iterative process prompts new questions and "what if" scenarios. This dynamic form of praxis takes us from concrete to abstract, abstract to concrete. Dynamic modeling nurtures our innate curiosity and childhood wonder, sparking new insights. The “I Wonder” process creates a feedback loop between the physical attributes of the materials employed in modeling and our cognitive processes.

In order to understand the complex behaviors of Nature in a concrete-to-abstract way, we need to experience structural processes through models that engage all of our senses. Through this, it’s possible to analyze the constraints and material propertiesof specific structures. We can ask "how and why" Nature uses strategies which employ symmetry transformations, structural order, spherical configurations, close-packing, expansion, contraction and resilience for efficient outcomes, innovation and discovery.