Moveable Type: Steam Press, Art Tread, Tractor Tire Printing, Etc.
The Case Traction Engine has enormous rear wheels with great blubbery slabs of old tire tread bolted between the metal treads . We've talked a bit about replacing some of these treads with stamping or intaglio treads.
These art treads
could be images, text, letters, pictures, whatever. When
the tractor rolls on soft surfaces (like the playa surface
of the Black Rock Desert), it'd leave an imprint. The
tractor would become a gigantic printing printing press.
We've talked about making a tray system wherein the trays
would be bolted to the wheel and individual elements could
be slid into place, yup, movable type.
We're still trying to figure out what material(s) to use in
crafting the new art tread (plastic, wood, rubber, metal?).
It must be inexpensive, durable, and easy to craft. The
"canvas" size is a trapezoid shape (approx. 18" x 5" x 2").
Your input's welcome.
We're still figuring out a system (trays?) that would allow
for swappable type or graphic elements. To join in on the
discussion, email us or go to the KSW message board. Your
ideas are welcome.
