What Is the Mechanical Device That Uses a Ball Bearing on a Track?

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SUMMARY

The mechanical device described in the discussion is identified as a "kinetic sculpture," specifically resembling the "Gravitram." Participants clarified that while it may evoke Rube Goldberg devices, which are designed to perform simple tasks in overly complex ways, the Gravitram operates on a different principle. The conversation highlighted the distinction between kinetic sculptures and Rube Goldberg devices, emphasizing their unique characteristics. The original Gravitram is located at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland, OR.

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  • Understanding of kinetic sculptures
  • Familiarity with Rube Goldberg devices
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical principles
  • Awareness of the Gravitram and its function
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of kinetic sculptures
  • Explore the design and function of the Gravitram
  • Investigate Rube Goldberg machines and their historical context
  • Learn about the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and its exhibits
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Anyone interested in mechanical engineering, educators in physics, hobbyists building kinetic sculptures, and fans of Rube Goldberg devices will benefit from this discussion.

Voxynn
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Does anyone know the name for a mechanical device where a ball bearing is made to go down a ramp, through loops, up and down pulleys etc, while moving on a metal rail?

My first thought was a Rube Goldberg device, but I don't think that's it.

Richard
 
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Voxynn said:
Does anyone know the name for a mechanical device where a ball bearing is made to go down a ramp, through loops, up and down pulleys etc, while moving on a metal rail?

My first thought was a Rube Goldberg device, but I don't think that's it.

Richard
Rube Goldberg refers to a complicated, the more complicated the better, for achieving a simple goal. I believe you're describing a Rube Goldberg device.

Enjoy -
 
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Voxynn said:
Does anyone know the name for a mechanical device where a ball bearing is made to go down a ramp, through loops, up and down pulleys etc, while moving on a metal rail?

My first thought was a Rube Goldberg device, but I don't think that's it.

Richard
I think the generic term for such a device is a kinetic sculpture.
 
Sounds like the old game "Mousetrap".



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMzbRkWGLv0
 
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The particular kinetic sculpture described sounds like it might be the "Gravitram".

Gravitram-OMSI-w-Shab.jpg
 
I'm wearing a ball bearing device right now.
 
Evo said:
Is this it janus?

Yep, that's what I'm thinking about, I just don't know if this is what the OP is looking for.
By the way, http://www.omsi.edu/" , the home of the original Gravitram is located right here in Portland, OR.
 
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I don't think that kinetic sculpture can be considered a Rube Goldberg device, because the latter is a device meant to accomplish a simple task in a ridiculously complex fashion. Maybe a very complex gumball vending machine could be, but even then...

Anyway, it can't be bad any time the name of Reuben Lucius Goldberg is mentioned.

rube-goldberg.jpg
 
  • #10
Janus said:
Yep, that's what I'm thinking about, I just don't know if this is what the OP is looking for.
By the way, http://www.omsi.edu/" , the home of the original Gravitram is located right here in Portland, OR.

I thought it looked familiar! My son and I saw it in action while visiting my brother. :)
 
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