2025 STEAM EXPO

PROJECT SUMMARY

This project envisions a machine capable of drawing geometric patterns (spirographs), modeled after the "Wooden Cycloid Drawing Machine" designed by Mr. Joe Freedman, to be used as educational material for art classes. The primary goal of this project is to explore design as a means of problem-solving, and to learn how to create educational tools for students using materials provided by the school.

WHY?

The reason I chose this project is to help children discover the joy of learning both science and art, and to cultivate their creativity. Additionally, this project was selected as an opportunity to become more proficient in using the digital design software "Rhino," which is utilized for creating a wide variety of design elements.

HOW?

The process began with creating multiple simple sketches in order to determine the basic form of the machine. Additional drawings were then made to illustrate the mechanical features to be incorporated. Based on these sketches, I used the software Rhino to design the shapes of parts such as gears and the arm that holds the pen. These parts were then cut using a laser cutter, assembled with screws and adhesive, painted, and finally tested for proper operation. Once all parts functioned as intended, the prototype was considered complete.

WHAT?

Although the prototype is operational, it is not yet as refined as it could be. In particular, the gears tend to jam at a certain point, requiring significant force to continue movement—thus, further improvements are needed. After the construction is fully completed, I hope to allow children to try using the machine and observe their reactions, as well as gather their feedback. At this point in the project, I believe I have gained considerable knowledge about how to use Rhino effectively.

SO WHAT?

Through this project, I was able to learn a great deal about various tools and how to explore design using Rhino. Additionally, I came to realize the importance of time management, which I should focus on more in the future.

WHAT'S NEXT?

At this stage, the next step for this project is to improve the machine. In order to do so, I plan to complete three main tasks: enhancing the components (particularly the gears), adjusting the screws at the connection points, and polishing the gears. By completing these steps, I believe the machine could function more smoothly and avoid any gear jams. Ultimately, I intend to deliver the machine to the teacher and children, and observe how much they enjoy it.

REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Celeste for her invaluable assistance with this project, and to Ms. Mie for her thoughtful advice. I am also deeply grateful to our school for providing both support and a workspace for this project. The following reference was consulted during the course of this project:

ABAKCUS (November 9, 2020). “Joe Freedman’s Amazing Cycloid Drawing Machine.”

https://abakcus.com/article/joe-freedmans-amazing-cycloid-drawing-machine/

JUDGES FEEDBACK

It takes a lot of precision to make a system like this work smoothly. I can see that you put a great effort into making of both the physical and digital component of the project, and really like that you made multiple sketches to better understand the mechanics behind the prototype. It turned out great, I would've loved to see it working!

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