Geek Craft: Lorenz equations chaos theory in crochet form
Most people who knit or crochet don't realise the mathematical principals behind each of the patterns they undertake, but that doesn't apply to Dr Hinke Osinga of Bristol University's Department of Mathematics Engineering. A keen crocheter, Dr Osinga was posed the question by partner and engineering collaborator - Bernd Krauskopf "why don't you crochet something useful?".
In a 'Eureka' moment they both realised there was only one thing for it - to create a crochet version of the Lorenz equations, which describes the nature of chaotic systems (such as extreme weather or a turbulent river).
Both scientists had been studying the system for years, and quickly realised that a set of computer algorithms which they had created to visualise a 2D version of the surface could easily be interpreted into a crochet pattern.
It took Dr Osinga 85 hours and over 25,511 stitches to create the 3 dimensional version of the equations, which they named 'The Lorenz Manifold'. The model stands around one metre tall, and over 25 centimetres wide, and hangs in the couples home as a decoration. It's not just a simple adornment however, as it helps scientists to valuable insights into how chaos arises.
If you would like to make your own Lorenz Manifold, just in time for Christmas, you can find the pattern here.
