Visible pinball @ Maker Faire

The visible pinball machine makes for some great still images – but seeing it function in person is an eye-opening mechanical learning experience. There’s a lot more action beyond the playfield –

This project started as most do; out of necessity. I was teaching classes in Interactive Kinetic Art (pinball) and I had a need to show students what was happening inside the machine while it was running. It was difficult to prop the playfield up and trigger various switches on the playfield to simulate play. I first thought a clear window on the side would be nice but it seemed so “hacked” I then thought of making a clear playfield and then the idea of a totally see through machine hit me. That way you could see the mechanical board and the scoring in the head.
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We have spent more than a year from inception to creation of the Visible Pinball and we hope it will stimulate an interest in Science, Electricity, Physics, Math and Art. We have many more exhibits on the planning board packaging them into groups for lease /sale to other museums around the world. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Check it out firsthand at this year’s Bay Area Maker Faire – and for more info check the visible pinball project page and see the Flickr photo set.

Maker Faire is a two-day, family-friendly event that celebrates the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) mindset May 3rd and 4th at the San Mateo Fairgrounds, CA (Upcoming.org). It’s for creative, resourceful people of all ages and backgrounds who like to tinker and love to make things. Buy tickets now and save, discount ticket sales end on April 25th, 2008.

If you’re in the Bay Area, or plan to attend Maker Faire add “makerfaire” to your Twitter, we’ll be giving away tickets and will have updates before and during Maker Faire!