Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines: How to Make Crazy Contraptions Using Everyday Stuff--Creative Kid-Powered Projects! - Paperback

by Paul Long (Author)

With Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines, you'll create 13 zany and awesome mechanical contraptions using stuff from around the house.

Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines invites you into the wonderful world of crazy contraptions inspired by the amazing artwork of renowned cartoonist, engineer, and inventor Rube Goldberg, whose wacky, imaginary machines accomplished a simple task by taking a hilariously complicated route.

In this entertaining and instructive book, mechanical engineer and educator Paul Long gives step-by-step instructions for making low-tech devices using everyday objects in inspired and ingenious ways. Each of the 13 projects demonstrates how to build the machine's various elements and explains how they work together to make a mind-boggling mechanism that delivers hours of fun and fascination.

• Machines for Your Room. Be the master of your domain with the Door Knocker, Light Switcher, and Door Opener.
• Machines for Around the House. Get your chores done (and improve your personal hygiene) with the Plant Waterer, Toothpaste Squeezer, and Soap Dispenser.
• Machines for Fun and Nonsense.The Flag Raiser, Marble Launcher, Music Maker, and Balloon Popper are guaranteed to both amaze and amuse.
• Machines for Food. With the Vending Machine, Candy Dispenser, and Cookie Dunker, snacking has never been so fun!

You'll also find interesting sidebars on the science behind each gadget, plus tips and tricks for success.

Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines gives you the know-how to create your own incredible chain reactions!

Author Biography

Paul Long is an engineer and educator. He received his Master's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Louisville. He teaches an inventions course for kids at Jam.com and spends his spare time tinkering with cardboard and sewing the perfect backpack. Paul strives to inspire people to create things for themselves by using random objects to build interactive and kinetic sculptures. He is fascinated with all things moving (especially gears and the wings of birds), and gets a kick out of combining natural elements with mechanical and man-made items. He lives in San Francisco.