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If you can tolerate the voiceover and want to see the most incredible (but useless?) application of a four bar linkage check out the above link.

Theo Jansen has been creating his ‘Strandbeests’ since 1990 using only yellow PVC pipes. These are so meticulously designed that when they catch the wind, these gigantic sculptures being to walk.

What’s particularly interesting is how Jansen has designed a system on the base of the feet that transforms a rotational movement into a straight one with each step the sculpture takes. I also admire the way he’s exploring the limitations of PVC in a way never seen before.

Jansen’s utopian dream of the creatures being self sufficient aside, he’s really created an incredible piece of engineering. And now thanks to Shapeways online 3D printing service, mini kinetic ‘beests’ are available to buy here. Christmas presents anyone?

design of the times.