# Knots as ribbons

I’ve continued with my project to edit the 3D printed models my Fall 2014 Math 341 Introduction to Topology class made. Recently, I came across two of my favorite pieces. The first is a model that was designed by Emily Jaekle (’16) and is a ribbon version of the (3,5) torus knot.

This $$(5,3)$$ ribbon torus knot was designed entirely in Cinema4D. The curve was created using the Formula tool with parametrization $$x(t)=(2+\cos(5t))\cos(3t), y(t)=(2+\cos(5t))\sin(3t), z(t)=-\sin(5t)$$ for $$t\in[-\pi, \pi]$$. The trianglulated surface was created by first adding in a small rectangle, then using the SweepNurbs (without caps). The rectangle was also rotated 1800 degrees in the process. The small gap was fixed using the Bridge tool in Edge mode. This ribbon knot was originally printed in blue on the Projet-260 3D Systems printer. Later, I printed it on the FormLabs 1+ printer in black resin. You can find the model here on Thingiverse.

The second model was designed by Cathy Wang (’15) and is a ribbon version of the (3,2) trefoil knot with an amazing color scheme.

The entire model was designed in Cinema4D. The knot was created using the Formula tool with parametrization $$x(t)=(2+\cos(2t))\cos(3t), y(t)=(2+\cos(2t))\sin(3t), z(t)=-\sin(2t)$$ for $$t\in[-\pi,\pi]$$. The trianglulated surface was created by first adding in a small rectangle, then using the SweepNurbs (without caps). The width and height of the rectangle was adjusted so the band is not a constant size through the knot. The overlapping edges and small gaps were also fixed. Finally, the knot was colored with a beautiful rainbow-gradient. This ribbon knot was originally printed in rainbow colors on the Projet-260 3D Systems printer. Later, I printed it on the FormLabs 1+ printer in black resin. You can find the model here on Thingiverse.