Wagashi Created by 3D Food Printers

Cyber Wagashi are innovative traditional Japanese sweets created using 3D food printers and unique algorithms based on weather data. Their shape and color adapt to factors like wind speed, air pressure, and temperature, offering a sensory experience that allows you to taste and connect with the weather of the day.

Issue

Rooted in a deep connection with the changing seasons, Japan’s culture gave rise to the artful tradition of Wagashi. Now, climate change and urban living have distanced people from nature. Cyber Wagashi explores the connection with nature by allowing people to experience the changing seasons through traditional sweets shaped by weather data. This project offers a new way to reconnect with the natural world through taste and tradition.

Creation

Collaboration with Wagashi Artists

Special Wagashi materials were developed for 3D printing, balancing strength and stability. Through collaboration with Wagashi artists, we created optimized formulations and printing algorithms to ensure both beauty and structure.

Designed to reflect seasonal weather patterns, the Cyber Wagashi's shapes evoke intuitive connections to nature. Visuals, videos, and a website were also created to support the project’s communication.

Technology

Custom Dashboard Development

A specialized dashboard with proprietary algorithms was developed to retrieve weather data and preview 3D models and color combinations. The dashboard also generates the necessary GCODE for 3D printing. By setting the printed materials based on the GCODE and formulation data, Wagashi can be created with precision.

Future

Wagashi from "That Day"

Historical weather data and climate forecasts up to 100 years from the Japan Meteorological Agency enable creating Wagashi representing specific "days" from both the past and future.