The goal of this project was to create a chaotic pendulum with motorized initial actuation and an LED to trace its path on a photo-reactive material. 

Requirements

• Motorized initial rotation with a click of a button

• LED on end of 2nd linkage 

  • Power transmission from Arduino to LED

• Wall-mountable

• 3D printable components with standard hardware 

• Sleek & simple appearance

The resulting product includes a button-actuated motor allowing for an automated initial full revolution, resulting in chaotic motion that is visually captivating. The LED, powered wirelessly, adds an aesthetic element in lower-light conditions. 

Materials

• Arduino Nano (powered LED via 3.3V output)

• Perfboard for custom circuit 

• 4 wireless transmission coils

• 1 LED

• NEMA-17 motor (commonly used in 3D printers, highly available)

• 12V power supply (for motor)

• 3 ball bearings, various hardware 

• 3D printed custom components

[Project inspiration]