Reef is a responsive, kinetic installation by Rob Ley and Joshua Stein Which investigates the role emerging material technology can play in the sensitive reprogramming of an architectural space. Operated by Shape memory alloys (SMAs) it changes shape according the temperature and offers movement without the use of mechanized components. Based on organic reaction like a sunflowers fallowing the sun or a sea anemones on a reef this system has the characteristics of life without consciousness.
Muscle wire (Nitinol) was developed in the 50's and 60's but practical applications have only started in the last 20 yrs. Through the simple application of a small electric current Nitinol is able to contract up to 5% of its overall length meaning that a 100mm wire will contract to 95mm. This allows for fluid motion to be achived without the use of mechanized actuators.
