openMaterials

growth modeling device is an artwork by David Bowen which involves a system using lasers to scan an onion plant from one of three angles, which then creates a plastic model based on the information collected. The device builds a series of simulations of a growing onion plant by means of three-D scanning and printing, outputting [...]

Here are some great online resources, many in the public domain, for woodworkers. A favorite of mine is the classic “Machinery’s handbook for machine shop and drafting-room”; “a reference book on machine design and shop practice for the mechanical engineer, draftsman, toolmaker and machinist” Over at the Woodworks Library you’ll find a collection of over [...]

Conductive yarn is a great material to experiment with, but it is difficult to buy in small quantities. Hannah Perner-Wilson from ‘How to get what you want‘ has negotiated with the manufacturer Schoeller to place a minimum order of 30 kilograms, and is looking for others who may want to make a collective purchase. She’s [...]

foldschool is website with free templates for making cardboard furniture for kids. The template patterns can be printed out with any printer. The designs are not only stable and extremely useful, but pretty cool looking too. Currently the site offers three designs; a stool, a chair and a rocker.

bionic yarn is a ‘new fabric made of recycled plastic bottles’ (PET). I’m loving the great ‘process’ section on the website, explaining the extrusion process and how the fibers are spun together to make the yarn.

Tonight at dockbot I will be giving a short talk about openMaterials and show some paper and wood based electronics projects I have been working on. The night starts at 8pm @ dock18 which is at Rote Fabrik, Zurich. Other presenters include members and friends of SGMK (Swiss Mechatronic Art Society). You can also [...]