Prime Link: 8_3_5

thingiverse

This prime link, modeled as 8_3_5, is displayed in two variations: thin and thick versions, both tied within tubes of constant radii. The tube's size is halved in the thinner version to enhance visibility at crossing points. These models are easier to print with minimal support material. For more information about this specific prime link, refer to its page on Knot Atlas (http://katlas.math.toronto.edu/L8a16). The knot's shape is a product of the freely available RidgeRunner software (http://www.jasoncantarella.com/wordpress/software/ridgerunner/), which employs numerical algorithms to minimize ropelength while preserving a tubular structure. This particular model represents just one possible configuration for this topological knot; alternative shapes may arise from varying the optimization function. To visualize the knot's tightening process, check out the movie available at (http://www.jasoncantarella.com/movs).