A class-wide assignment for CraftingWithData is to build a quincunx. There have been several interesting approaches by different classmates (walking map, processing, monkey, play station, pyramid, plastic champagne glasses, garbonzo beans). You can view a plan, some photos, and a video of mine below. It’s not quite complete, but I’m not sure how much more effort will go this way.
I think I really spent a lot more time on this project than maybe I should have, but it was addictive to in the shop using my hands and away from the screen. Using the saws, drills, sanders, and other tools with the plexi and metal was pretty fun. Jason Krugman helped me out alot, first by providing marbles for me to use and second by suggesting materials and methods. He also recommended checking out a cool store called Metalliferous. Jason, thanks for your knowledge, usage of your bits, etc, etc.
These links are also worth a look: bean machine + this is sand.