Harmonograph

This exhibit consists of a table that supports three built-in pendulums. Two pendulums connect and where they meet, a pen is connected with a clip. The third pendulum supports a platform where a sheet of paper can be placed and held on with a clip. Once the pen and the paper are in place visitors can manipulate the pendulums and watch the arms create an intricate geometric image.

This video shows the Harmonograph in action.  Each rotation of the pen describes the relationship of the timing between each of the three pendulums.

 

 

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