This week, architecture section decided to make a block grabbing machine.
We initially wanted to make a machine that plays a 3d tetris, but we pivoted to start with uniform blocks and make the blocks more interesting.
This is the sketch from the first brainstorming session. (I was part of Block and Grabber team)
During office hour Jake and Quentin helped us to plan how the pulley system, grabber, and block could work.
One method was using three pulleys, but we would be limited to triangular playing field. We also discussed about how the blocks could attach to each other (using some sort of magnetic system).
Quentin suggested getting an electromagnet that would allow blocks to be attached and detached through PCB.
This was the first sketch that block and grabber team drew for parts.
We came up with a simple box form with embedded magnet. We soon realized magnet would not be applicable for our use since the magnet would attach itself to the electromagnet even when the magnet is off.
We decided to go for embedded steel in the block.
Reishan designed a few iterations of the block shape, and we decided to go for rounded corners to make it feel friendlier.
Nour was able to cut steel pieces to embed in the cubes using Fab Light metal cutter. I designed ways to integrate steel into the block. The steel pieces could be press fit into the cubes, but we decided to add a bit of super glue in the back for extra support.
We mass produced the blocks afterwards.
As we were designing blocks, Gert was able to design and print the grabber part. Once we attached the grabber to the pulleys we realized we need the weights to create tensions.
We added weights and initially wrapped them with masking tapes. Using zip ties and makeshift design tools, we were able to get the grabber to work. We created a "ponytail" with wires to keep the movement less wobbly.
This is how the grabber looked after better cable management.
Here is an image of the finished version of the blocks.
After figuring out the mechanical part of grabber integration and electromagnet operation, we moved on to more fun designs of the blocks.
We decided to pay an homage to the last year's Architecture group by continuing the toilet paper theme. We embedded steel plates to the toilet papers rolls.
