The Machine Paradox
In the Machine Paradox course, we dive into the hidden workings of everyday machines and reverse-engineer them using open-source tools.
Last updated
In the Machine Paradox course, we dive into the hidden workings of everyday machines and reverse-engineer them using open-source tools.
Last updated
By taking apart and modifying devices, we explore how technology functions and how we can repurpose it creatively. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, bridging gaps in digital fabrication and physical computing.
Our team, composed of Vitti, Auxence, Kevin, and myself, focused on two primary projects: a DIY plastic extruder and a commercial video intercom system. The forensic exploration of these machines was an essential part of our process, revealing both the potential and limitations of each.
The extruder we salvaged from IAAC was built with a DIY approach, using both 3D-printed and repurposed parts. We disassembled it, focusing on cleaning and testing components like the heater and motor. I spent the bulk of my time working on testing the stepper motor, which is crucial for driving the worm screw that pushes plastic through the heating system. After numerous trials with different Arduino codes and drivers, I successfully got the motor running, a significant step in reactivating the extruder.
Key conclusions:
I gained deep insights into how plastic extruders work, including the role of temperature control and motor calibration.
The simplicity and repairability of the machine. It requires few components but remains highly functional, and the experience showed how easy it can be to build an extruder for recycled plastic.
The heater and stepper motor are still functional and can be reused for future prototyping projects, especially in controlling plastic extrusion for recycling purposes.
Complete Forensic report for the DIY Extruder
We then dissected a commercial video intercom system to compare it with the DIY machine. This device was more complex, with a microcontroller, LCD screen, and various sensors. Unfortunately, we couldn't get the screen to work due to a likely power surge that had damaged its circuits. However, we successfully tested the speaker, using Arduino to play a simple melody. The microphone was more challenging, and while we didn’t get it fully operational, it remains a viable component for future experimentation.
Key conclusions:
The project deepened my understanding of consumer electronics, particularly the wiring and coding involved in making the system's components functional.
The intricate design details, such as foam in the receiver to reduce noise interference, and how complex systems are layered over simple functionalities like communication.
The speaker and microphone can be used for audio-related projects, and the microcontroller could potentially be repurposed with further troubleshooting.
Complete Forensic report for the VDS Video Intercom System
Using components salvaged from the DIY extruder and the VDS video intercom system, we set out to build an entirely new machine that, while “useless” at first glance, would convey a strong symbolic message.
To bring this idea to life, we designed the machine’s base structure in wood and metal parts to hold the motor mechanism. This blend of repurposed parts and new fabrication allowed us to construct Fortuna: a machine that functions visually while also prompting deep reflection.
Our initial idea for Fortuna was complex. We envisioned a marble game in which each marble would leave a unique sound footprint, symbolizing its fleeting impact on history. But as we began the design and technical setup, this approach proved too intricate to execute. We adapted the game to have two outcomes, with one hole representing privilege and the other representing struggle.
Adjusting our concept, we simplified both the game and the process of building it. For the machine's base, we initially planned to use a CNC machine, but the thickness made this challenging. So, we opted for 3D printing and divided the base into four parts, assembling them afterward. These adjustments taught us to find alternative solutions to technical limitations.
To play Fortuna, you drop a marble into the starting point, representing a person entering the world. As the marble rolls down, it encounters various obstacles and splits along random paths. Finally, it lands in one of two possible outcomes: luck and privilege, or lack thereof. The simple yet random nature of the machine illustrates the unpredictability of life’s circumstances. The machine has no built-in bias, so each marble has an equal chance of landing in either outcome. It’s a playful yet serious reminder that, much like in life, the path is often outside our control.
Creating Fortuna was an exercise in both design and reflection. The project taught us about the challenges of translating complex ideas into tangible forms. By simplifying our initial concept, we kept the core message intact while making the machine functional and visually engaging.
