Created by Jin Lee, Liminal Ring visualizes humanity’s obsession with controlling nature while exposing the limitations of such interventions. By introducing laminar flows—artificially directed streams—into naturally occurring turbulence, this project explores the boundary between certainty and uncertainty. It highlights the tension between the order imposed by human technology and the chaotic complexity inherent in natural systems.
Humanity divides the world into domains of certainty that can be understood and controlled, and vast domains of uncertainty that lie beyond. Civilization has advanced by expanding the sphere of certainty through science and technology. Yet, the unpredictable forces of nature remain an expansive and uncharted territory.
Liminal Ring employs 384 laminar-flow-generating fans to regulate the airflow in each section, attempting to control the uncontrollable. In this meticulous intervention Jin exposes the delicate balance between human intent and nature’s resilience. Similarly, the installation reveals the inherent limits of human engagement with natural systems, as even the finest interventions are ultimately met with the indomitable forces of nature.
In fluid dynamics, turbulence symbolizes the realm of uncertainty. Representing chaotic and disorderly states—whether in air currents, weather patterns, or even planetary movements—turbulence embodies the intricate complexity of nature. It resists complete control and precise prediction, challenging human attempts to impose order. Efforts like chaos theory and climate modeling reflect humanity’s philosophical endeavors to comprehend the unpredictable facets of nature.
Liminal Ring was made using custom designed micro fan slit parts with a conventional micro blower fan to generate laminar flow (wiki). Jin relied on existing research to determine that slight changes in the “slit angle” and thickness of an airfoil (wing shape) impact the airflow and lift. Here, larger angles improve airflow efficiency, with 80° being the optimal angle for maximum discharge ratio (air movement efficiency). The design also relies on the “Coandă effect” (air sticking to surfaces – wiki) and extended flaps to enhance lift. Slit thickness also improves airflow speed and turbulence, being thicker produces higher velocities. Overall, these design adjustments significantly boost the airfoil’s performance of the installation. Each unit (ring) is composed of 24 micro fans controlled by a custom designed PCB. CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations (right) were conducted using the SimScale software.
Through its intricate interplay of order and chaos, Liminal Ring questions: Can humanity continue to rely on fragmented, technological mastery as a means to control nature? Or must we rethink our relationship with the natural world, acknowledging its irreducible complexity and our place within it?
Liminal Ring was exhibited at Unfold X 2024, Culture Station Seoul 284 Seoul, KR and ZER01NE DAY, S-Factory Seoul, KR in 2023.
