Bill’s studio.

Each week we chat about the tools of the trade with one outstanding creative to find out exactly how they do what they do. The questions are always the same, the answers, not so much. This week: Bill Smith.

The Creators Project: Who are you and what do you do?
Bill Smith: I am a Midwesterner who has spent a lot of time in the woods from an early age. I am a mechanic and a biologist that sees the world as an infinitely complex mechanical network. I build efficient, functioning systems that reflect my reverence for nature and interest in science.

What kind of hardware to you use?
Electronic components: microcontrollers, multiplexers, sensors, pumps… for custom built modules. Materials: carbon fiber, conductive nylon, various types of plastics and metals… the materials and electronics are integrated.

What kind of software do you use?
Microsoft Visual Basic; PicBasic Pro.

A 3D network; potential background for the new John Hopkins Systems Institute website.

What piece of equipment can you simply not live without?
My brain.

If money were no object, how would you change your current set up?
At this point, I work in the real world and visualize ideas in my head. I would like to have access to people, equipment and software that would augment my ability to conceptualize ideas. I would like to have the ability to reverse engineer aspects of the real world and apply that to the virtual and vice versa. Having the ability to bidirectionally create and model in both the real and virtual would be a great tool.

Computer Interfaced Chaotic Pendulums

Is there any piece of technology that inspired you to take the path you did?
Not a single piece. Nature as a technological marvel inspired me.

What is your favorite piece of technology from your childhood?
The reviled internal combustion engine.

What fantasy piece of technology would you like to see invented?
I hope brain biochips, which increase intelligence, will be developed.