From Geometry Nodes to Molds:
Procedural Patterns
One of the most interesting and challenging aspects of additive manufacturing is developing the design that needs to be made. More than 5 years ago, there was a strange request for a mold of a structure derived from hexagonal towers with two specific characteristics. Every tower has a different height, and each one has a different slope along the x- and y-axes. Back then, I designed several tower-like segments with various inclined top faces. The project finished, and the client was extremely happy.
Our Process
At that time, the result was correct, but finding the appropriate combination was difficult. Slope variety and proper height felt uncertain. Thus, this is one of the reasons MaterDome based the design process on computational methods and as automated as possible. Removing the friction of uncertainty from the engineer and the designer.
As I started using computational design, I had the opportunity to trial Nodi. I came across some really impressive examples, but unfortunately, they were not aligned with me. Then, a thought crossed my mind. Why not try solving the problem from the past?
Then, I started working on the problem. The first and vital step was to create an easy-to-manipulate grid. Using the hexagon shape as the base for the grid, I managed to create the basic topology. Then, took a step further and I made a fully parametric pattern based on edge dimension, number of edges, and number of hexagons. Additionally, I used instancing to control the pattern’s length and width.
The second step was to create a sequence that enables each hexagon surface to rotate and move along the z-axis individually and, most importantly, completely randomly using a statistical trick to ensure that no adjacent hexagons had the same attributes. In that way, it was possible to drive local variation and non-uniformity. In this node-based workflow, we solved the original problem by exposing the parameters as sliders, enabling us to iterate different patterns each time.
From that point on, it is simpler to create a unified surface into one continuous top surface of a watertight box. You can 3d print the final result and either use it as a mold core for your specific application or mount it directly on your preferred surface.
Considerations
Nonetheless, there are many things I had to consider during the process. Some of them were the draft angles, the printer resolution, and any surface “waves” that introduce artifacts during the additive manufacturing process, generating finishing implications that play a huge role in the surface and dimensional quality of the final result for any use.
- Using this workflow in similar projects improved our ability to:
- Explore design iterations quickly using pattern variants from a single node-graph.
- Mass customization with exclusive patterns without too much manual work.
- And provide productization capabilities using pattern families for interior designers and architects.
Why Functionally Graded Structures Are Essential
By revisiting an old request with MaterDome‘s new computational tools, I transformed a tedious, error‑prone workflow into a robust, repeatable process that still leaves room for creative exploration. What used to feel like guessing slopes and heights now becomes a controlled parametric study, guided by clear constraints such as draft angles, surface quality, and printer capabilities.
At MaterDome, this approach is no longer limited to one hexagonal mold. The same node‑based logic can drive custom wall panels, marine interior components, and other applications where unique surfaces and reliable fabrication must coexist. By exposing the key parameters and automating variation, we can collaborate with engineers, architects, and interior designers to develop bespoke patterns that are both manufacturable and visually compelling.
If you are exploring complex surface patterns, molds, or decor elements and want to move beyond manual trial‑and‑error, we would be glad to discuss how computational design and additive manufacturing can support your next project.