Scribbling Machines
Scribbling Machines https://www.exploratorium.edu/tinkering/projects/scribbling-machines Days: 1 Mode: Pairs or individual Take-home: Motorized drawing made by machine; motor returned
Teaching & key ideas
Key concepts: Vibration, eccentric mass, balance, electrical connection, emergent pattern.
Hook: Run motor centered, then add off-center weight to show vibration.
Test / evidence: Machine moves independently and leaves a repeatable type of mark.
Variables to change: Weight position/mass; leg angle; body mass; marker count.
Lesson flow
Lesson plan:
Day 1: Build → run → rebalance/modify
Video:
Scribbling Machines
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF7Ww_j0G6s
Safety / cleanup:
Eye protection during fast spinning; secure eccentric weights; motors collected.