sodaplay is nothing more than a
website with a
java applet running
On it. But oh, what an applet! Basically it's an
engineering simulation:
you can build
models out of a combination of
springs, solid connecting
bars and
weights. Once you're happy with your model (or for a
quick start
solution use one of their pre-defined models), switch on the
gravity and start the springs oscillating, then
giggle with delight as your creation comes to life, lurching
spasmodically
across your screen.
What's more, while it's in motion, you can drag and drop your Soda creature
anywhere within the playing field. Snigger evilly as your turtle-esque
being lands upside down and frantically waves its little spring-controlled
legs in the air.
When the pleasures of being evil finally start to wear off, fear not! You
can now alter the gravitational constant, or even reverse it or turn it off
completely. You can increase or decrease the tensile strength of the springs,
change their oscillation rate or generally tinker with the universe in a
variety of pleasing ways.
If you want to play, Sodaplay lives at http://sodaplay.com/index.htm
(choose the "constructor" link).
WARNING!
Sodaplay is dangerously, frighteningly addictive. I will bear no
responsibility for you spending even more time in front of your computer
(if that's possible), neglecting Everything or deciding to change career
path and becoming a mechanical engineer.