Mathematicians have long suspected that hexagonal tiles are the most efficient way to fill space, but a new paper by Thomas Hales and Koundinya Vajjha reveals the worst shape to pack. The researchers focused on convex and centrally symmetric shapes, and their findings have significant implications for the field of mathematics.
Forecast for 6 months: Mathematicians will continue to refine their understanding of packing shapes, leading to breakthroughs in fields such as materials science and computer graphics.
Forecast for 1 year: Researchers will develop new algorithms for packing shapes, enabling more efficient use of space in industries such as logistics and manufacturing.
Forecast for 5 years: The discovery of the worst shape to pack will lead to a greater understanding of the fundamental limits of packing efficiency, driving innovation in fields such as architecture and urban planning.
Forecast for 10 years: The study of packing shapes will become a key area of research, with applications in fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and data storage.
