Logical Engine No. 1 Demo

Demonstrates the computing of three basic logical functions (and, or, xor) through mechanical means. See halfbakedmaker.org for lots more information. This model will be displayed at Maker Faire NYC 9/25-26/2010. The model demonstrates that logic can be performed mechanically, and the next step is to build an arithmetic logic unit (the Logic Mill) using rod logic. The ultimate goal is a computer (the Logical Engine) which is powered by steam, and programmed using Jacquard-style cards.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• rod
• logic
• mechanical
• maker
• faire
• steam
• steampunk
• analytical
• engine
• babbage

[autophile06]

@santiontanon Thanks, I appreciate it. Rod logic isn't new, but it's also not very common. Eric Drexler (father of nanotechnology) developed it in the context of how a nanocomputer might work. I just scaled it up :)

[santiontanon]

@autophile06 Indeed I just voted for you. I also built a small test rod logic logical OR gate using LEGO, and it works wonderfully. Is the idea of rod logic your own, or is it a well known thing?

[autophile06]

@santiontanon Thanks for the comment! NextFab Studio (the maker space where I build these things) is running a $1000 contest for "best project" -- if you or anyone would like to vote for it, it would help me build bigger machines. It's at award and then a dot nextfabstudio and then another dot, and a com after that (fooling YouTube's link censor is FUN!).

[santiontanon]

Loving all of your "Rod logic" ideas, I think it's really neat.

[autophile06]

Damn, I didn't realize that I "um" so much!