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Zinnia – A dizzying spring-driven kinetic sculpture

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Clayton Boyer’s Zinnia spring-driven kinetic sculpture is an optical treat as its two 24 inch (61 cm) diameter wheels change speed and direction. Watch as he briefly winds it for a dizzying quick spin demonstration.

On a full wind, it can run quietly for up to 40 minutes, creating a variety of shapes and patterns. Bonus: Boyer sells plans online, which allows makers to design their own wheel displays. Here’s a colorful variation by Bill Miller:

Zinnia by Bill Miller 1

There’s more of Boyer’s work in the archives: Gears of all shapes + How to make organically-shaped wooden gears.

via Boing Boing

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