I love it when Lego geeks create something out of the bricks that can actually perform a task. All I have ever created using Lego are cars or other simple objects that are unable to move under their own power. A Lego builder named Jason Allemann has taken Lego creativity to a whole new level by creating a Lego construct using Mindstorms EV3 hardware that is able to build using Lego bricks.
The Ingenious Bricasso
The Lego creation is called the Bricasso, and it is a marvel of engineering and creativity. This innovative machine is capable of scanning color drawings made in Lego scale using the EV3 color scanner and then recreating those scans using real Lego 1×1 plates. The entire Bricasso machine is constructed entirely out of Lego pieces, showcasing the versatility and potential of Lego as a medium for complex builds. The scanned images are stored inside the EV3 controller, allowing multiple mosaics to be made from a single scan.
The Bricasso is not just a simple toy; it is a sophisticated piece of machinery. The EV3 color scanner is a crucial component, as it accurately reads the colors of the input image. This data is then processed by the EV3 controller, which directs the print head to place the correct colored Lego plates in the appropriate positions. This process transforms a simple color drawing into a vibrant Lego mosaic.
How the Bricasso Works
The device can hold up to 450 Lego plates in nine different colors, which are gravity-fed to the print head. This ingenious feeding mechanism ensures that the print head always has a supply of the necessary colors to complete the mosaic. Although it is a long process to build a single small Lego mosaic, the end result is incredibly rewarding. Watching the Bricasso in action is mesmerizing, as it methodically places each tiny plate to create a detailed and colorful image.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Bricasso is its ability to create larger pieces of artwork. This is achieved by breaking down the prints into smaller sections that can fit inside the Bricasso. Once all the sections are completed, they can be assembled to form a larger, cohesive piece of art. This modular approach allows for the creation of intricate and expansive mosaics that would be impossible to build in a single pass.
The Bricasso is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Lego builders. It demonstrates how Lego can be used not just for play, but also for creating functional and artistic machines. The combination of Mindstorms EV3 hardware and traditional Lego bricks opens up a world of possibilities for builders to explore.
In addition to its technical prowess, the Bricasso also highlights the importance of patience and precision in Lego building. Each mosaic requires careful planning and execution, as even a small mistake can affect the final image. This attention to detail is what makes the Bricasso so impressive and inspiring to Lego enthusiasts around the world.
The Bricasso has garnered attention from various media outlets and Lego fans alike. Its ability to turn simple drawings into beautiful Lego mosaics has captivated audiences and sparked interest in the potential of Lego as a medium for art and engineering. Jason Allemann’s creation is a shining example of what can be achieved with a little imagination and a lot of dedication.
via Gizmodo
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