Pneumatic Logic Powers a Soft Silicone Clock Display
By
Nils Janßen
A five-star bake. Worth schmearing, sharing, saving.
Summary
This article explores the emerging field of fluidics and pneumatic logic as an alternative to traditional electronic computation. It highlights a soft clock that uses pressurized air rather than electricity to drive its display, showcasing how fluidic circuits—first developed in the 1960s and later revived as microfluidics—can offer unique advantages. The piece discusses the history, science, and creative applications of air-powered logic systems, including this mesmerizing silicone display.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledElectrons are great. We use them to move vehicles, illuminate cities, and, of course, compute.
But computation is not confined to the world of electronics.
Another compelling alternative is fluidics, which uses pressurized gases or liquids to build logic circuits.
Pioneered in the 1960s but sidelined by microchips, the field reemerged in the 1990s as 'microfluidics.'
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