Zine Machine – A Tinkering Kit Involving Math and Making
Khushbu Kshirsagar, Kristen Bethke Wendell · 2021
This interactive demo presents Zine Machine, a paper-based math tinkering kit that uses two-dimensional mechanical movements to enable physical sense-making about mathematical functions. Zines are made by folding paper into the form of a pocket-sized story-telling magazine. Zine Machine presents automata, moving mechanical devices, in the format of a zine that sets a narrative between math and motion. With Zine Machine, learners can represent the mathematical concepts of functions, inputs, and outputs embodied in mechanical movements. The goal is to tinker with arrangements of the static and dynamic pieces in the zine to drive one or more outputs using a fixed input. The zine provides instruction as a folded booklet and opens up to a flat sheet to serve as the maker canvas. Zine Machine facilitates new thinking around math and making, offering an accessible and creative tangible medium of interaction.