Thymio Holographic Bubble Spinner Illusion (Gear Ratio Exploration Project)

Bubble Spinner Illusion Lesson Key Concepts

Create a spinning visual illusion with Thymio and explore how gears, speed, and design work together! This lesson focuses on motion, gear ratios, and creative effects:

• Build a spinner design using reflective or patterned materials.
• Use Thymio to rotate the spinner and create a glowing circular illusion.
• Learn how gear ratios increase speed using large and small gears.
• Advanced: Test different gear combinations to change spin speed.
• Advanced: Design new patterns to create unique visual effects.

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, students will:

1. Build a spinner using craft materials.
2. Connect gears to increase rotation speed.
3. Test how fast spinning creates visual effects.
4. Modify designs to improve the illusion.

By the end of this lesson, students will understand how motion and gear systems can create visual illusions.

Important Notes:

The effect depends on speed and balance. Make sure the spinner is centered and spins smoothly.

Tips for this Lesson:

1. Use lightweight materials for better spinning.
2. Start with a simple gear setup before experimenting.
3. Keep the spinner balanced to avoid wobbling.
4. Try different patterns to see how the illusion changes.

Products/Materials

The following products and resources can be used in this lesson:

FUN FACT!

Did you know that similar spinning illusions are used in toys and art displays? Fast motion and patterns can trick your eyes into seeing glowing shapes and effects!

Download the Lesson PDF Files Below:

Check out the video tutorial/solutions below: