!and yet it moves

a project-based class
exploring motion
through the interplay between
mathematics, physics, engineering and art Course Description
Instructor Bios

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Current Project
Distributed Flight Array

Past Projects
Balancing Cube (2007/08)
objective | conceptual models | simulation video | design documents 2008/2009 Project: Distributed Flight Array Objective

The goal of the 2008/2009 !and yet it moves project is to create a distributed flight array, where individual modules are capable of assembling, coordinating, and taking flight. The vehicles will hover in the air until they run out of power, and then they will break apart and fall back to the ground before beginning the process all over again.

Our aim for this year is to build the first prototypes and proofs of concept. By the end of the year we plan to have a minimum of four modules that are capable of the following:

1. Driving about on a plane. This can be demonstrated either through remote control or a predetermined routine.
   
   
2. Docking together. The modules must be able to create a physical and informational connection between each other, and their couplings must be able to withstand the stresses of flight. Couplings can be tested by moving the modules together by hand if necessary.
   
   
3. Hovering for a minimum of one minute. This demonstration must have a minimum of four modules and must be carrying the expected payload of the final design.
   
   
4. Withstanding a two-meter drop.
   
   
5. Flipping themselves over if they fall upside down.
   
   
6. Recharging themselves in one hour.

An individual module

Modules assembled into a hexagonal array

Random array