[MOC] PsyCloid Drawing Machine

[SevenStuds]

Hello!

This time I'd like to share my latest project: a drawing machine that is inspired by Joe Freedman's Wooden Cycloid.

The LEGO version uses freestanding boxes that can be moved around the turntable. A slight change in position creates a different pattern. Further adjustment is possible by placing the drawing arm onto the different pins on either drive box or changing the position and distance of the pen. Placing one end of the arms further from the center can create a pattern up to 20cm in diameter. The variation possible with this setup makes it almost impossible to repeat exactly the same pattern.

Now since I'm a huge fan of psychedelic music and digital art, I wanted to make the video resemble some of the artwork we always see at the outdoor parties. Without giving too much away, I'll let you grab a drink, turn the volume up and enjoy the video!

Full write up with more images here.

Thanks,

Mik

[BusterHaus]

Very good work, I really like the results. The pen holder and the paper clamps are well done, too. How long does it take to draw an average full pattern?

[WvG_853]

Impressive! Also love the eye for detail such as the red decoration tiles and the chrome start handle.

An ideal project to build with children during the summer holidays!

[braker23]

Awesome MOC, very cool implementation, the edited drawings are amazing!

[SevenStuds]

Thanks for the comments.

How long does it take to draw an average full pattern?

The simple patterns take about 3-5min and the more dense layouts about 10min. When I was checking the gear ratios online, the slowest setup had the turntable geared down 1:1778.489, so the theoretical output speed of the turntable was 0.1rpm. Once the turntable did a full revolution, the pattern was done.

[nerdsforprez]

This is terrific..... I love to see non-vehicle machines/creations out of technic. The designs are superb, and video creative and nicely done.......although if I hear the phrase "paradigm shift" once more I think I will throw up in my mouth.......

[DoomedACE]

Awesome!!!!

Would love to rebuild for my kid. Can you share more details of the inner workings?

Many thanks!

[GI_Jack]

That is a very interesting machine! It is incredible it produces such amazing results. Very inspiring.

[SevenStuds]

if I hear the phrase "paradigm shift" once more I think I will throw up in my mouth.......

Hilarious! But seriously, it could be worse. I could have used

in the sound track! :laugh:

Awesome!!!!

Would love to rebuild for my kid. Can you share more details of the inner workings?

Many thanks!

Sure, here is a folder with all the photos of the disassembly. If you are going to build it, I would say try to redo the gear setup, especially for the turntable. If you look at the drawings created, there are some that did not complete where they started around the loop (like this one). That happens when the slower oscillating motor (with the slider) doesn't complete its cycle by the time the turntable makes one revolution. It takes some gear calculations to figure out, and if I build a V2, I will have to start with that to improve the results.

Also, if it's just something for the kids, you could get them started on this one by JK Brickworks.

[arshiaIQ]

Great

I think I can call it a spirograph, yes?

Btw, those drawings with black background look fantastic

[DoomedACE]

Thanks a lot! No special parts in this - like it very much!

[davidroberts01341]

What a great machine. A simple concept, cleverly designed and implemented. I especially like the neat & strong holder clips for the pen and the paper. Excellent!