It's π Day. The Internationally recognized day of remembrance for our irrational yet mathematically constant friend, 3.14159... So this time we looked for the models that reflected the best usage of π in CAD. That would nearly everywhere, sometimes hidden in plain view. Can you think of a moment when you aren't using π in some small way for a large, obtuse but very difficult Engineering proof?
Sudhir Gill created this Angle Calculator for a Design challenge we had last year. What an amazing idea. By combining the elements of a slide ruler and a protractor, Sudhir came up with an elegant way to calculate angles quickly. Sometimes you only need a little bit of π to do useful work.
So to how many digits can you memorize π? While you're thinking about that, the rest of us are going to ride around you in circles on this custom bike by Chanson to break your concentration....
This here is a Circular-Puzz by Alfredo Gallozzi for children to learn the importance of π. Well not exactly, but exposure to π at a young age is known to get them into Physics, Maths, Engineering and Design.
And while some might associate π with mathematics, it is the vital part of the circle of collaboration. When there's a problem, the best way to face up to it is to get together, to face each other and work as one to solve it. But the tough part is to avoid running in circles. (Circle Conference Table by Samad)
Speaking of running in circles. It may be a square bearing set, but it's the circular ball bearings that make it rotate. Spectacular idea Edmund Neumann!
This is the Raspberry Pi, modelled by bj, considered by some to be the latest and greatest of micro-controllers out there. Although micro-computer might be a better description - you can watch movies, dual boot multiple operating systems... the works. The Raspberry Pi is everything you want it to be: small like the π symbol, but loaded with endless permutations. Happy π day!
