Grounding

Lately i have been having some difficulty with the train, in particular the gears getting stuck, the current not getting to the motor, the wheels slipping and the motor torque. Fabricating the trains has been tricky, because of the necessity for accuracy, a lot more than the typical architectural world. But anyways here are my solutions:

Motor will have to remain the same, but a second motor will be added to the chassis on a few trains, to see if it works, and it add a variety to the bunch. I thought i could remedy the slipping wheels, with pieces of plastic intended to wrap the wheels, but the size is wrong. Unfortunately can't find the right size anymore. But if i use either wrapped electricians tape, or epoxy on a thin rubber band, that should provide adequate traction. In regards to the power to the motor, connecting to the rail is the issue. I need to redo the grounding strip and added another strip that connects to the side rail. With the use of copper wrapped in a spool, a spring like surface is created, allowing some inconsistency with the track.

I have tried this with one train, and it seems to be working. With the Arduino hooked up, it works well. Another thing i noticed was the motor is getting really hot. The voltage is to high, so i might just reduce the voltage through resistors

Pneumatics Studio Application

Evan and i discovered the use of syringes as a device that mimics hydraulic, pneumatic application within our studio project. The assembly is quite simple, 1/4 inch tube just fits onto the end of a oral syringe nozzle. The manipulation of the device will be addressed through exploration in valves, electro mechanical or manual. The use of different syringes also explores the use of minimal push distance on one end to result in maximum extension on the other end: playing with the multiplication of force through the different syringe diameters.


Here are some other examples of pneumatic application:

Pneumatics technology

Abstract:

The following technical study looks into the use of pneumatic devices: exploring a method of physical movement within our architectural studio application. Fluids are a malleable substance that can be controlled: used to direct movement and force. Our interest lies in the direction and redirection of fluids, in this instance air: using compressed air to actuate a device. Research includes multiplication factors and pneumatic principles: to serve as a guide in the extension and contraction of a piston in a linear direction. Further exploration, and research includes the manipulation of this pressurized system, specifically the control and switching of the airflow and speed. Our research also includes a demonstration model, where further exploration into switching, through mechanical, pinch, and electrical valves can be pursued later.


Our intent is to develop a proof of concept in the form of a lever mechanism that will be actuated by a pneumatic cylinder. One such device will be a folding stair: exploring the use of ‘architectural switches’ through the activation of electrical / pneumatic means. Redirection of a fluid becomes the uncanny entity within the architectural studio exploration. The second device, a pneumatically actuated drawbridge, similarly explores the notion of an architectural switch in that a door opening or closing causes the bridge to unfold in front of the user allowing them to enter into a building.

Mechanical switches

Switching has changed a bit, here is the latest schematic. Tilt switches are being used at the top of the posts. Also the posts have been simplified. I didn't want the focus to be this articulated posts, but more about the articulation of the space above and below.

hydraulic/ pneumatics research

Device to spray water
Bent Siphon


Here is some preliminary research for the hydraulics/ pneumatics applications. Evan and i came across the treatise on pneumatics bu Hero of Alexandria and some of the following devices that explore the principles behind it. The vacuum becomes the main principle in the manipulation of the fluid.

Symbols of Automata Behavior

Hobo Signs incorporated into behavior of the train Automata

This is the Place

Here is a sketch of a beginning to the space below. The hobo symbol is used as a guide for spatial structuring, with train activated movement through the 'walls' . The intent is to repeat the rib like structure to create a cavity, and vary its height , perhaps extending it above the train plane to create a continuous space above and below? I have also started to create connection fitting to the bottom of the platform structure to allow extension below. I hope to have some extension done by the end of day, to allow for a base to build off from. Next laser cut job will be stairs and some other kind of transportation space method/ corridor or whatever.

Lever posts

I have been playing around with contact post for the trains to interact with. With overhead contacts in mind, i am also interested in using contact points mid height of the posts. The lever started to emerge as a mechanism that would respond to the switch: it may be a movement of the post itself or changing space below. The lever is just a start to attempt to transfer the movement of a hydraulic piston into motion of a lever.

Automata

The train is starting to change into something different. With the chassis staying the same, the rest of the frame is either being removed or replaced with Automata mechanisms. The trains are working, and the contact posts are starting to emerge. I am just currently drawing out the mechanisms that will respond to the switching of the trains and address issues of space above and below the train plane.

Switch contacts

Here are some schematic drawings and sketches of the overhead contact posts for the extensions off of the train to brush against. The overhead post has been designed in a way to allow modification for a moving lever within its assembly, perhaps activated by a hydraulic cylinder.

Autonomous switches

The trains are starting to progress, a few more mutations are needed for them to be just right. I am currently drawing out contact points for the structure to meet with the extensions off of these trains. One contact spins within the frame. This was to allow a train to pass through the narrow corridor but still have the capability of extending outwards. When the arm hits a adjacent structure, it will just spin inwards and maybe to the other side. A spring loaded bumper has been introduced to allow for train to train collisions. The arm extensions have been designed so they can be fitted on almost any element of the frame. The intent is to have a series of autonomous devices move along the tracks, and trigger contact switches which will activate moving devices above and below.

A couple issues i have been running into:
1) Acrylic is not forgiving, easily cracks when joints are tight, and tolerances needs to be tighter.
2)Grounding strip catches onto the rail line, needs to be smoothed out on the bottom.
3)Trains still need to be fine tuned and tweaked to be more consistent in movement.
4)Wheels spinning out, need to get tires for wheels attached to gear and motor, or use a rubber gasket.

I came across this video clip of the mail bag retrieval of the trains.

Spatial associations towards a program

Here are some of the symbols i chose for program exploration. The intent is to analyze each symbol through word association and drawing of each spatial quality.


How do you define 'you can camp here' spatially. What actions and reactions are associated with that statement? Exemplifies nomadic lifestyle of Hobo, free of commitment to a place or thing: unsure of his/her exact destination from day to day. For many (but not all), Point Douglas is a temporary inhabitation, until something better comes along.

Action- an invitation to inhabit, acceptance, safe, someones experience confirms inhabitation, lent out space

Reaction- settlement, rest and relax, feelings of relief, temporary use

Spatial considerations - temporal inhabitation , the spatial qualities of the symbol signify a semi enclosed space, protected, open to public
It makes me wonder why an r is used to signify a place for healing. The symbol seems to portray some kind of protection or shelter. But why the r, unless it isn't a r. Obvious reaction to this symbol is healing, rejuvenation. A act of kindness and compassion from others, something that exists within the Point Douglas community.


I like this one. Its like some guy met a lady with a house full of cats. The cat lady signifies another aspect of acceptance within the hobo culture which seems to be a big part of there survival. Hobo's survive off of the kindness of strangers. There are actions of invitation, approachability, and security associated with these symbol. Space would be open to strangers, calm and comforting.

Obviously danger and caution are affiliated with this one. The image reminds me of a crazy man waving a gun in the air. Avoidance and fear could be a reaction to this space. Maybe its about perception as well, the man appear dangerous, just like parts of Point Douglas does, but when you get to know them they are harmless. Ambiguous spaces that are changing location.
If there were any rich people in Point Douglas they would probably live on the north end. What is that symbol saying, free handouts, possible money to be had or taken. It almost feels as though this symbol alludes to the survival instinct, if the opportunity arises then take it: take advantage of wealthy people. But what would this space be like, always changing to avoid having to give handouts, or perched up on a isolated, high location, hard to approach by others.
What is this place? Is this our final destination? Or is it referring to this place being the spot for everything a Hobo would need. Perhaps its a meeting point, a place for communal activity. The site is the place, or at least once once in the context of country trade, and city immigration. How does the site become the place again?
Danger , Danger, Hobos might be accused for wrong doing of someone else. Avoiding the space seems like the typical response, or caution and temporary use of the place. If stranger not welcome, then is this place safe for people within that community already. Perhaps a scapegoat is sought after. What makes this place safe for residents? Is it knowledge, proximity to certain elements involved? This symbol is quite similar to other warning signs, with a Criss-cross pattern, resembling a fence keeping someone out.

Doubtful of what. Perhaps this is suppose to be used with a another symbol. Doubt is always a troubling feeling, especially when you are in unfamiliar place. The element of surprise could arise. The existence of resources for the Hobo not certain in this location. The space could be ambiguous, and uninviting. Does not display signs of benefit for the hobo. What does that mean if a a place is doubtful, do we just avoid it in fear of wasting resources to inquire and experience the unknown. Point Douglas is doubtful to the outsider, not sure if its worth getting involved. How do you make something less doubtful?
Available communication source, other than the symbols. Maybe this refers to ties somewhere else: wanting to call a loved one. This space could signify a connection to other spaces, and ties within other areas. Seems like an integral part of the ecology, for the hobo, because of the use of communication for their livelihood. The duck image is interesting, maybe an expression of 'quack quack quack' is to resemble someone talking on the phone for a long time.
A strong sign, signifies immediate action from the viewer. It reminds me of some Pirate's hook from their hand, yelling halt: like someone has trespassed. If you go further you could be in danger. Space may be fenced of but can still enter into its interior but with risk.
Signify silence or use of clean language. Is there a tendency for Hobos to speak with great vulgarity? The logic behind the symbol i am not sure about? Is it suppose to resemble a kite, the presence of kids. Or maybe just don't complain and you will be rewarded.

I came across this pic of a hobo sign with symbols: