helix_ball_drop_tester_v17 is a unit of time defined by a 3D printed helix track, its physical position, your touch, and upcycled glass tubes that didn't meet the specs for Time Since Launch.

To start, flip the tube upside down to reset the stainless steel ball. Then, place it vertically on a horizontal surface. The ball will spiral to the bottom while riding on the glass wall.

Due to variation in the geometry of the upcycled tubes, helix_ball_drop_tester_v17 may take anywhere from 45 seconds to 70 seconds to complete its descent.

Use it to time a breath, a thought, a pause. Or simply watch the ball spiral and fall.

Please be aware that the upcycled glass tubes may show imperfection and blemishes. The 3D-printed structure has layer lines and surface artifacts from the manufacturing process.

Increase in speed over time is to be anticipated due to material wear.

At CW&T, we strive to make our practice more sustainable from design to manufacturing. Rather than discarding, we approach the manufacturing defects as opportunities for thoughtful reuse.

This project is part of our ongoing effort to upcycle materials into meaningful and curious objects. Explore more of our upcycled work.