Design a “Thing” that makes a thing

The main learning objective for this assignment was to understand the relationship between tools, techniques, and technologies. We designed and fabricated a system consisting of a tool, technique and/or technology that enables the creation of a unique object. The final product was the fabricated “thing” (an analog 3D mandala machine), an example of the product of the system (sand structure), a vision statement, and a two-minute video showing the process and the product.

Vision statement

In our ever-changing world, it is important to us to keep some activities from becoming automated – in essence, keeping things “human-powered”. However, embracing technology is a natural part of our evolution, and younger generations will continue to adopt new machinery to create novel solutions. For children who want to join in the 3D printer movement, we developed an analog 3D mandala machine that utilizes sand and water to create experimental abstract sculptures. And much like a traditional mandala, once the masterpiece is created, it is destroyed. Although recognizing the Buddhist doctrinal beliefs might not be the intention of our target end-users, building things up and knocking them down is a favorite pastime of many children; one that we feel is essential to childhood and is something we aim to preserve. These activities can create confidence in the exploration of building, while simultaneously creating a level of non-attachment to the material world, embracing the natural flow of creation and retraction of the natural world.