Have Your Tried Additive Machining? The Ideal Harmonic Transformer

Last modified: February 18, 2024

For a long while, I've been captivated by articles on the domain of Additive Machining. This technique involves augmenting materials to create a component, rather than the traditional approach of machining that takes away material by transforming it into bits. Not long ago, I came across this exquisite project aimed at constructing an "Ideal Harmonic Transformer", essentially a mechanical analog computer for trigonometric functions. Avid readers will have noted my longstanding fixation with astronomical analog computers, particularly those built into intricate clocks with orreries that display the celestial bodies' positions in the nighttime sky. I find several aspects of this project captivating. To begin with, it's a captivating project, at least concerning my interests. Additionally, it boasts a delightful Victorian charm, demonstrating that machines aren't only about functionality—they can also represent exquisite artistry and decoration.

Lastly, I think this project shows how powerful additive machining can be. I wouldn't trade my lathe and mill in for a reprap machine, but I would definitely like to add a 3D extruder to my arsenal of tools. Click through the link above for more on the project. There are lots of intermediate photos as well as photos of the finish device, but alas, I haven't found any photos showing the plastic extruder making parts.

A photograph of an ideal harmonic transformer with a candle on top, sitting on books including "Visual Explanations" and "The Art of Explanation".

A lovely staged picture of the Ideal Harmonic Transformer after it had been painted...

A screenshot of the Alibre Design software interface showing a 3D model of a mechanical device with yellow components and green measurement lines.

A 3D CAD model showing the extensive ornamentation...

Intricate scrollwork designs on a circular object.

A view of some of the ornamental scrollwork on the backpiece. This part came out very clean...

White 3D printed objects with cylindrical protrusions arranged in a grid-like pattern on wood.

"Fixturing" for the set of screws needed for the Harmonic Transformer.

The extrusion process creates the fixture along with the parts. It's primary role is to support the parts.

Today, these sorts of extruders are largely hobby toys. I wonder whether a well-equipped prototyping shop might find one handy for various one-off plastic parts? I also wonder whether they can they be used to make gaskets and o-rings or other flexible parts? What uses can you think of for one in your shop?

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