small worlds: exercises in simulation
Harmony
A simulation of the ‘graphic harmonies’ installation. Every time the simulation is reset, the rotational speeds and starting angles are given random values. The ratio of the two main rotational speeds must be in close but not perfect harmony for a good pattern. Written in javascript using the Raphaël JavaScript Library.
Swinger
A different approach to simulating the ‘graphic harmonies’ drawing machine. This one calculates the forces and accelerations produced by user interaction with two suspended weights. The range of possible patterns is similar to the physical machine. Written in javascript using the Raphaël JavaScript Library.
Enigma
A simulation of a puzzle similar to a Rubik cube. The challenge is to scramble the pieces and then return them to the original configuration. It‘s a lot harder than it looks. The challenges in creating the simulation were firstly to create smooth movement by ‘engineering’ the pieces in Adobe Illustrator to an accuracy of a fraction of a pixel and then to model the complex rotations of the pieces in ActionScript. Requires Flash.