Solenoid-driven thread tensioner mechanism.
Over Jan-term 2018, I started working at the Media Lab with the Mediated Matter group. I’m working on an version 2.0 of the silk pavilion made several years ago [Vimeo]. While the previous structure was constructed from 2D panels assembled into a 3D shape, the current project fabricates a 3D tensegrity structure.
Things I worked on:
- Built and wrote code for a zero-ing mechanism on an applicator tool to selectively coat a string with some liquid. This was tested with a sharpie.
- Designed and built a string tensioner device to control the tension of the string while it’s being wound around the structure.
- Waterjetted an aluminum housing to mount device.
- Integrated it into the main fabrication device.
- Milled a PCB circuit, soldered components, and 3d printed an enclosure.
- Looked at alternative designs to a telescoping rod that was then used to guide the string around the fixed poles. The goal was to have a stiff yet collapsible tool in order to utilize as much space as possible in height-constrained rooms.
- Explored a pumped water thermal system as a way to control silkworm behavior with cold and hot temperatures.
Seiji Engelkemier 