GMU:Computing with Thread/Part2

Computing with Thread: Part II

Levers and Cranes

In this class we will explore the potential of levers and cranes for kinetic machines

The fundamental law of threads

You can pull something with a string, but you can't push it.
That's common sense. And no computer knows it. (Marvin Minsky)

Threads between two points

Using a threads to transmit information:

• stick: symmetric with respect to push and pull
• thread: pull, yes. push, no.
• Can you build an anti-thread? (i.e. pull no, push no)

Sliders

Sliders are bars that connect transmit a motion by sliding back and forth

• Getting to know the concept of degrees of freedomn
• How can we make sure a bar only goes back and forth?
• What other constructions can you think of?
• What kind of constraints are imposed by your constructions?

Levers

Levers are bars that transmit a motion by rotating around a hinge

• What practical applications of levers can you think of?
• Explore different setups and their properties
  • How many points are involved, and how are they arranged?
  • How many different setups can you find?
  • How are the involved forces and distances related?
  • Which setups are suitable for which purposes?

Linkages

Linkages are bars that are connected via hinges.

• how would you create rotating hinges using bars of wood and screws?
• can you create a hinge using thread and what are the limitations?
• create a linkage that can draw interesting curves

Links

Levers

• The mighty mathematics of the lever

Linkages

• Mathematics of Linkages
• Folding (Eric Demaine's folding class including 1D-folding)
• Linkage Designer (Windows only)

Kinematic Models

• KMODDL Geometry of Pure Motion
• 507 Movements

Wheels and Pulleys

In this class we will explore the potential of wheels and pulleys for kinetic machines

Links

Cyclic Motion

• Mechanical Principles
• Studio NAND - unreliable Machinery

Combined Cyclic Motion

• Cycloid Drawing Machine
• Wheels on Wheels on Wheels
• Vignette Explorer
• Lord Kelvin's Harmonic Synthesizer
• Batman Curve Tracing
• Lissajous Music

Models and Tools

• Tool for designing Mechanical Toys
• Original Machines Thesis
• KMODDL Library
• 507 Movements

Looms and Logic

In this class we will explore the potential of looms for computing with thread

Links

Mechanical Calculators

• Mechanical Computers from the US Navy + Manual
• Mechanical Binary Calculator
• DigiComp II manual
• Open University Bobcat
• Nürnberger Schere

Unconventional Computers

• Computational Rail Road Tracks
• Turing Trains
• Domino Computer
• Pulley Logic Gates

Excursion

A trip to Kassel to visit the exhibiton + attend the talk of Ralf Baecker and Georg Trogemann