Figure-8 crossover junction Physics of

[Stephen Ngqwebo]

Hi,
Does anyone know about the figure of eight crossover junction.
I want to make a model toy where a cylinder is moving around the track completing the figure of eight, similar to model trains. How does one drive this cylinder around and how does it cross over from the circle of the eight to the other? How are the machanicks of this junction?

 

[LURCH]

I suppose the simplest way would be to make one section of track go underneath the other at the intersection, like a bridge. But that may not satisfy your needs, especially if you want a situation where there's a possibility for two of your cylinders to crash.

The next easiest solution I can think of is to simply make the track straight near the intersection. Rather than making your figure-eight look like two circles, you could make it look like an "X" with half-circles at the top and bottom to close off the free ends. This way, each time a cylinder approaches the intersection, it will tend to go straight, and that will take it through the intersection and on to the other half-circle of the track.

 

[ravenprp]

The figure-8 crossover junction is a common feature in model train sets and other similar toys. It consists of two intersecting loops in the shape of a figure-8, allowing a train or other object to cross over from one loop to the other. The mechanics of this junction involve several components, including the track, the train or object, and a mechanism for controlling the movement of the train.

In order to drive the cylinder around the track, you will need a power source, such as a motor, to provide the necessary energy. The track itself is designed with rails that conduct electricity to power the train's motor. The train is typically equipped with wheels that have metal contacts to connect with the rails and receive the electricity.

To create the crossover, there are a few different mechanisms that can be used. One common method is to have a switch or lever that can physically move the track, allowing the train to switch from one loop to the other. Another method is to use a magnetic system, where a magnet on the train can be attracted to a magnet on the track, guiding it to the other loop.

Overall, the figure-8 crossover junction is a simple yet clever design that allows for an interesting and continuous motion of an object around the track. With the right components and a bit of creativity, you can create your own model toy with this feature. Happy building!