K'nex Computer

This is a k'nex 3 bit "digital" computer that I made. The original design came from Digicomp I, a simple computer made in the 60s. Depending on how it is programmed, this k'nex machine can add, subtract, compare, multiply, divide, solve logic problems, and even play games.

For the video, I focused on one of the most complex processes the computer can handle: the game of Nim.

Here is a full decision chart of what the coputer has to think when playing:

Where three digit binary number = ABC
If A=0 and B=1, set B to 0
If A=0 and B=1, set A to 1
If A=0 and C=1, set C to 0
if B=0 and C=1, set B to 1
if (B=0 and C=0) OR (A=1 and B=1 and C=0), set C to 1

GOOD NEWS! I'm done with my instructions and report for the project! About time . . .

You can download the instructions here: https://sites.google.com/site/knexcomputer/knex-computer-downloads

Keep in mind that the model shown in this video is slightly outdated from the newer instructions (no blue grabbers in the back).

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• K'nex
• computer
• binary
• logic
• digicomp I
• boolean logic

[GrizzlyRecoveryZone1]

K'nex looks like crap next to LEGO!

[tbot7291]

@GrizzlyRecoveryZone1 Bold words my friend. Only Lego Mindstorms can really compare. Other than that, K'nex wins every time.

[grijsje23]

How exactly do u calibrate it?

Mine does not work at all...

[tbot7291]

@grijsje23 Did you read the report? It includes some calibration instructions and basic programming. If you can't figure it out, try to gain an understanding of what has to happen for the machine to work, and move critical pieces till it works.

[nko97]

and the intructions?

[tbot7291]

@nko97 They are done now, look at the description

[tbot7291]

good news!

I'm done making instructions, for a slightly improved version of the design in the video. I just have to finish up the rest of the report (calibration and programming), then I will put up a pdf online

[Lichmeep]

Wow this is awesome - you have inspired me to build K'nex computers!

[Sneak4000]

Pfft, K'Nex are so much better than legos. If you want to make a lego computer you must use - dare I say it - marbles!

[scoobydoorocks10]

@GrizzlyRecoveryZone1 Next time you meet a leggie, tell them this:

Legos are outdated.

if they ask you why, say this:

legos equal building with bricks, knex equal building with steel girders.

KNEX FTW!!!

[scoobydoorocks10]

@thesupercreater not really, it shows what happens in those binary pieces. look up k'nuter

[warif4]

How do you make it. It might need 1,000 pieces.

WOW!!!!!

[killcon985]

NERD!!!!!!



[xshalludiex]

You can make a computer with mechanical parts!? Wow I guess that's what they did before the transistor. Excellent work there!

[thesupercreater]

ummmmm i think this is FAKE no knex carries things that hold binary or scripts it's justa plastictoy piece

[cspruce427]

3-bits thats great for knex, you sir are a genius.

[GrizzlyRecoveryZone1]

@tbot7291 Look at Lego Technic (or any other style)-- rigid, precise... sets possess an almost 'machined' quality. K'nex-- flexing, loose tolerances, Made in China, while resembling Lincoln Logs much more so than their European-made counterpart. I'm going to Legoland, my friend. Good luck finding K'nexland. (Great machine though!)