Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.
It’s the McLVDT, a linear variable differential transfomer, made from McDonald’s straws. The creator writes:
I made a primary coil on a normal sized straw, and made two secondary coils on the outside of the larger McDonald’s straw. Since the McStraw is large-bore (perfect for those thick high calorie shakes), the smaller straw with the primary winding fits nicely inside. The position of the inner straw can be determined by examining the amplitude and phase of the combined signals of the secondary coils, which is shown in raw form on the oscilloscope.
What will the next generation of Make: look like? We’re inviting you to shape the future by investing in Make:. By becoming an investor, you help decide what’s next. The future of Make: is in your hands. Learn More.
Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.
Our websites use cookies to improve your browsing experience. Some of these are essential for the basic
functionalities of our websites. In addition, we use third-party cookies to help us analyze and understand
usage. These will be stored in your browser only with your consent and you have the option to opt-out. Your
choice here will be recorded for all Make.co
Websites.
Allow Non-Necessary Cookies
Escape to an island of imagination + innovation as Maker Faire Bay Area returns for its 16th iteration!