163: Syringes That Give You Cake
Nadya Peek, a research scientist at the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms, explains her PhD thesis on 'making machines that make,' which applies object-oriented software principles to modular hardware. She details the development of the cardboard machine kit and MTM Snap, discussing how distributed control systems and open-source software like mods.cba.mit.edu enable users to reconfigure machines for various tasks, from milling to cake decorating. Peek contrasts these agile, low-volume fabrication methods with rigid industrial manufacturing, highlighting the importance of user experience and accessible software in digital fabrication tools.