Domino Effect Machine
Every team builds one link. Together they set off something spectacular.
About
Domino Effect Machine is an ambitious, large-scale build in which your entire group creates one life-size contraption. Each team designs a device that performs a simple action, and every device must trigger the one that follows.
Getting a device to work once is not enough. Teams test, adjust and test again until it performs reliably every time, and they soon learn that the simplest designs are often the most dependable.
Neighbouring teams then work together on the hand-over between their machines, ensuring the action flows smoothly from one device to the next around the entire room.
When everything is ready, the first team sets its device in motion. One after another, each creation triggers the next until the cascade reaches a wonderfully simple yet spectacular final action, usually to loud applause.
Learning outcomes
Domino Effect Machine behaves like a real project with real constraints. During planning, the design is split into segments and people and materials are divided into working groups, testing team dynamics and resource management.
Teams rely on problem-solving, creativity and communication to scope a device that is ambitious yet achievable within the time available. Simple, reliable ideas usually outperform complicated ones.
Building and testing require coordination between teams and across different skills and approaches. Most devices need several attempts, so persistence and a constructive attitude to failure become part of the learning.
The programme motivates everyone towards excellence and keeps every participant engaged. Watching the complete cascade run for the first time is a moment of shared triumph that stays with teams long after the event.
Program flow
-
The master plan
Teams learn how the contraption will work and which part of the sequence they own.
-
Design a device
Teams plan a device that performs a simple action and links to the next team.
-
Build and test
Teams build their device, then test and refine it until it runs reliably.
-
Perfect the hand-over
Neighbouring teams connect their devices and fine-tune every link.
-
The grand run
The first device is triggered and the cascade travels around the room to its finale.
What is included
Included
- Expert facilitators throughout
- Building materials and tools for every team
- Design briefs and planning sheets
- Testing and linking support
- Final run of the full contraption
Not included
- Venue hire
- Meals and refreshments
- Audio-visual equipment
- Transfers to and from the venue
- Bespoke printed materials
Frequently asked questions
How big can the group be?
From 10 to 500 guests, organised into smaller teams.
How long is the programme?
The programme typically lasts about 5 hours.
Are technical skills needed?
No. Teams work with simple ideas, and testing and improving is part of the enjoyment.
Indoors or outdoors?
Either. It can be staged indoors, outdoors or across both, depending on your venue.
What happens at the end?
The first device is triggered and sets off every other team's creation in turn, all the way to the final action.
Cobot Coding Challenge
Build a robot, code its moves and compete for the top technology prize.
Mission Machine Makers
Design a robot for the mission, build it from scratch and test it in action.
Wildlife Haven Builders
Earn the materials, build homes for wildlife and give them to the community.
Request a quote for Domino Effect Machine
Tell us your group size, date and goals. We will reply with a tailored proposal.