Discover the Top Types of Counterweights for Efficient Physical Work

  • Thread starter gloo
  • Start date
In summary, the large Ferris wheel with an equal distribution of large weights would be a counterweight device.
  • #1
gloo
261
2
I have been trying to gather a list of counterweight devices that are designed to do some kind of physical work. I was wondering if anybody could clarify or add to my list?

List:

1. pulley ( simple or compound)
2. lever
3. hydraulic cylinder (with equal dimension cylinder and equal mass on each side
4. Weighted wheel?

I was wondering if something like a large Ferris wheel with an equal distribution of large weights (say 1 ton) were installed all around -- is this a counterweight of a sort? The only power needed to turn the wheel is the power needed to overcome the friction? I don't know what kind of work this wheel could do but my query is how hard it would be to turn even though there are heavy weights distributed evenly.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #3
Baluncore said:
I think you need to be more specific as to what you mean by “counterweight devices”.
Is a flywheel a counterweight device ?

The crankshaft in a fast IC piston motor has counterweights to balance each piston.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crankshaft#Internal_combustion_engines
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crankshaft#Engine_balance

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counterweight
Google 'counterweight devices'
Hmmm..I guess you are right -- I am not thinking of a mechanical advantage (less force more distance) as much as devices that uses a counterweight where when one weight is moved up against gravity, it has the other one or more weight being pulled down with the assist of gravity to totally balance that. The result would be only small amount of external force being applied to overcome any friction in the movement.

I know how the top 3 works. But the weighted wheel can have 2 or more weights in the balance placed at the other side of the diameter of the wheel. This balance would allow the wheel to be moved without any more force other than that required to overcome any friction at the center axial correct?

So isn't the crankshaft with counterweight considered as a lever type classification? Is there any other device or method... especially in the classical machine category?
 
  • #4
 
  • Like
Likes gloo
  • #5
Nidum said:

Thanks..I have seen this before -- this would fall under the weighted wheel category? I guess if it could only go up and then down but not all the way around it could be a lever huh?
 
  • #6
gloo said:
I am not thinking of a mechanical advantage (less force more distance) as much as devices that uses a counterweight where when one weight is moved up against gravity,
Garage door springs serve the same function, but without the need for all the weight (and are more compact)... :smile:
 
  • Like
Likes gloo and billy_joule
  • #7
gloo said:
I have been trying to gather a list of counterweight devices that are designed to do some kind of physical work.
snip
I was wondering if something like a large Ferris wheel with an equal distribution of large weights (say 1 ton) were installed all around -- is this a counterweight of a sort? The only power needed to turn the wheel is the power needed to overcome the friction?

That's not quite correct.

Energy is also needed accelerate the mass from stationary up to operating speed. Adding counterweights to a Ferris wheel would mean more energy is needed to accelerate the wheel. More power as well if you want it to take the same time to reach operating speed.

You might be able to recover that energy when the wheel slows down again but it depends how you slow the wheel down. If you use a friction brake then it's wasted as heat.
 
  • Like
Likes gloo
  • #8
Have a look at ' water balance funicular railways ' . Delightfully eccentric but quite practical as well .
 
  • Like
Likes billy_joule and gloo
  • #9
Nidum said:
Have a look at ' water balance funicular railways ' . Delightfully eccentric but quite practical as well .
Oh that's pretty cool too - Thanks! :)
 
  • #11
In a domestic setting the sash window.
 
  • Like
Likes gloo and Nidum
  • #12
Jobrag said:
In a domestic setting the sash window.
This is more like a pulley system no?
 
  • #13
gloo said:
This is more like a pulley system no?
Yes. One problem with the OP question is the archaic concept of categorising fundamental classes of machine components.

Both the Falkirk wheel and the Foxton Locks Inclined Plane solve the same problem, but in different ways and with similar efficiency. One has a balanced wheel, the other has a wedge and a pulley system. The water passed in both cases is only the difference in displacement of the boats being transported, plus leakage. The system is balanced so acceleration and friction are the only cost.

gloo said:
I was wondering if something like a large Ferris wheel with an equal distribution of large weights (say 1 ton) were installed all around -- is this a counterweight of a sort? The only power needed to turn the wheel is the power needed to overcome the friction? I don't know what kind of work this wheel could do but my query is how hard it would be to turn even though there are heavy weights distributed evenly.
When a small, partly patronised, Ferris wheel is being loaded they try to balance the position of the mass of people on the wheel so as to minimise the resultant torque. The small wheel can be stopped and started. Big wheels such as the London Eye turn continuously so they do not have to accelerate and decelerate the entire 320 tonne mass of capsules, only the people who step on as a capsule passes need be accelerated.
 

What is a counterweight?

A counterweight is a weight that is used to balance or offset the weight of an object. It is commonly used in physical work to make lifting and moving objects easier and more efficient.

Why is it important to choose the right type of counterweight?

The right type of counterweight can greatly improve the efficiency and safety of physical work. It can help to evenly distribute weight, reduce strain on the body, and prevent accidents or injuries.

What are the different types of counterweights?

Some common types of counterweights include adjustable counterweights, fixed counterweights, and counterweight bags. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different types of work.

What factors should be considered when choosing a counterweight?

When choosing a counterweight, factors such as the weight of the object, the distance it needs to be lifted, and the type of work being done should be taken into consideration. It is also important to consider the strength and physical capabilities of the person or machine doing the work.

How can counterweights improve efficiency in physical work?

Counterweights can improve efficiency in physical work by reducing the amount of effort and strain needed to lift and move objects. They can also help to maintain balance and stability, making it easier to complete tasks quickly and safely.

Similar threads

Replies
22
Views
1K
  • General Engineering
Replies
29
Views
11K
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
69
Views
10K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
504
  • General Engineering
Replies
27
Views
8K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
5
Views
4K
Back
Top