Machine Project

A 2-day workshop with Doug Repetto
Sunday October 14th, 12-4pm
Saturday October 20th, 11am-6pm

Class is full. We might be scheduling a second session, check back for updates!

One of our favorite projects at Maker Faire this past spring was Douglas Repetto‘s “Foal”, a table with motorized legs that teeter-tottered its way through the crowd like an animal learning to walk. When we found out that Doug is going to be in town for a couple of weeks this month, we knew we had to get him to teach a class at Machine.

Please join us for an introduction to the wide world of motors and mechanical systems for use in kinetic and robotic artworks! We’ll cover basic motor and solenoid types, play with examples of each type of motor and talk about which ones are suitable where. We’ll look at some basic mechanical parts and systems like shaft collars, slip rings, gears, belts, and pulleys. We’ll also talk about sourcing components, creative reuse of found materials, material selection, and building for durability. This class will not go in depth on motor control or electronics but will be geared toward the electro-mechanical side of robotics.

Required materials: work clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, safety glasses (we can provide the glasses if you don’t have your own)

Recommended materials: an old electro-mechanical device (printer, scanner, fax machine, blender, something that moves!) for sacrifices

See Doug’s project for Maker Faire in action here