GeoPatternLabPendulum Swing
An animated multi-jointed pendulum that draws harmonograph-style curves in real time.
Watch a chain of swinging arms draw the curve. Play, pause, or step frame by frame.
About Pendulum Swing
Chain several swinging arms together and watch the pen at the tip trace their combined motion live. Each added joint layers in another frequency, so a single joint draws a smooth loop while more joints weave dense, harmonograph-like meshes. Play the animation to see the linkage swing, pause and step frame by frame, or speed it up. Switch between Swing (oscillating pendulums) and Rotary (continuously spinning gears) motion, tune the number of joints, arm lengths, speeds and damping, reshuffle the seed for new forms, then export a high-resolution PNG.
How to use Pendulum Swing
- Press Play. Start Pendulum Swing and watch the animation evolve in real time. Use Pause and Step to inspect it frame by frame.
- Adjust the rules. Use the side panel to change the parameters — the simulation responds live, so you can steer the emerging pattern.
- Explore variations. Press Randomize for a new starting point, or copy the share link to reproduce an exact result.
- Export. Pause on a frame you like and download it as a high-resolution PNG.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pendulum Swing?
Chain several swinging arms together and watch the pen at the tip trace their combined motion live. Each added joint layers in another frequency, so a single joint draws a smooth loop while more joints weave dense, harmonograph-like meshes. Play the animation to see the linkage swing, pause and step frame by frame, or speed it up. Switch between Swing (oscillating pendulums) and Rotary (continuously spinning gears) motion, tune the number of joints, arm lengths, speeds and damping, reshuffle the seed for new forms, then export a high-resolution PNG. It runs entirely in your web browser on GeoPatternLab, free and with no sign-up.
Is Pendulum Swing free to use?
Yes. Pendulum Swing on GeoPatternLab is completely free, with no sign-up or download required. Create as much art as you like and export it directly from your browser.
How do I download my Pendulum Swing artwork?
Use the export buttons in the toolbar to save your work as a high-resolution PNG image. Files download straight to your device.
Does Pendulum Swing work on phones and tablets?
Yes. Pendulum Swing is fully responsive and works with touch input on phones and tablets as well as with a mouse or trackpad on desktop.
Can I use Pendulum Swing artwork commercially?
Yes. Artwork you create with Pendulum Swing is yours to use for personal and commercial projects, such as wallpapers, prints, textiles, and teaching materials. See our Terms of Use for full details.
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