It is an interesting bit of irony to see 3M create a Rube Goldberg Machine. A Rube Goldberg Machine, by its nature, is designed to complete a rather simple task in the most overly complicated and technical way possible, and 3M’s products are supposed to make tasks simpler and easier.

There are some awesome bits of science at work here, like the fluid mechanics of a ball floating on an air jet, but there is something else mind-blowing too. Though the thought of 3M usually brings to mind post-it notes and other back to school shopping supplies, it looks like even the road signs and welding equipment are made by 3M. (But the streamers that rain down at the end are Post-it notes.)

This showcase of versatility is most likely meant to combat the “relevance” issue the company faced earlier this year. In an ever-growing technological landscape, some have wondered how a globally present entity that is best known for packing tape is going to fare. It seems 3M’s response — showing their innovation, utilization of scientific concepts, and widespread connection to just about every industry one could think of — means they will always be finding new and interesting ways to get things done (even if it’s something as simple as cascading a whole bunch of Post-its all over the place).

What product or industry are you most surprised to find 3M’s brand involved with? Let us know in the comments below.