This object is based on the oloid, a geometric form discovered by German mathematician and sculptor Paul Schatz in 1929. An oloid is a convex hull formed by two identical disks intersecting each other halfway at right angles. When rolled, the oloid has a unique swinging, smooth movement. Practical applications for a single oloid are found in water purification and industrial-scale powder grinding.

I explored the effects of linking multiple oloids together and discovered they roll along each others surfaces in a continuous inward/outward mobius motion. Practical applications of this oloid quartet point to sculpture, toys, and turbines. The final object, made of acrylic mounted with photo gels and studded with neodymium magnets, evolved from numerous paper and wood prototypes. The videos show the working prototype and 2 kinematic studies.

The wheels treat color theory in a fun, kinetic way. When they slot together to form pairs, at the intersection a third color is formed. Pairs can be rolled in an undulating motion, and multiple pairs can be linked up magnetically and rotated to experience kaleidoscopic color combinations reflecting on the surface below. They appeal both as a teaching tool and simply as a mesmerizing object of curiosity.

Featured at ICFF 2010.