Impossible Table - Desktop Tensegrity Demonstration
The Impossible Table is a desktop toy that defies the laws of physics! No wait, I mean the Impossible Table is a desktop toy that complies with the laws of physics! Specifically, the laws that apply to the tensegrity* concept.
The tensegrity concept is "the characteristic property of a stable three-dimensional structure consisting of members under tension that are contiguous and members under compression that are not." Yeah, it's much easier to grasp via demonstration, such as this wood and elastic geometric baby toy most of us are probably familiar with. Or, for adults who want to geek out, mechanical engineer Kevin Michael Sayers' Impossible Table.
The Impossible Table is an assembly of CNC-machined 60601 aluminum and nickel-plated steel. It comes in 2 versions, a classic design whose tension members are all ball chain, and a next-level head scratcher that uses neodymium magnets as its center tension member. Both Impossible Tables are flexible when pushed and bent, yet hold firm and upright untouched. Both can also support weight on their top plate, the classic ball chain versions up to 12 pounds, and the magnetic table up to 1 pound.
If you'd like to get your hands - and your sodie cans - on the wondrous expression of science that is the Impossible Table, get your Kickstarter pledge in for the all-ball or magnetic desktop demo through April 3, 2020.
*Anybody else unable to read the word "tensegrity" without thinking of South Park's Tegridy Farms?
May 2021 Update: After a successful crowdfunding campaign, the Impossible Table is available for direct purchase from Sphidget.
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