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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around identifying a mechanical device that utilizes a ball bearing moving along a track, incorporating elements such as ramps, loops, and pulleys. Participants explore various names and classifications for this type of device, including references to kinetic sculptures and Rube Goldberg devices.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the device could be a Rube Goldberg device, which is characterized by its complexity in achieving simple tasks.
  • Others propose that the term "kinetic sculpture" may be more appropriate for the described device.
  • A participant mentions the game "Mousetrap" as a similar concept.
  • The "Gravitram" is specifically mentioned as a potential match for the device in question.
  • One participant distinguishes between kinetic sculptures and Rube Goldberg devices, arguing that the former does not necessarily aim to accomplish a simple task in a complex manner.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on whether the device fits the definition of a Rube Goldberg device or should be classified as a kinetic sculpture. There is no consensus on a single term that accurately describes the device.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific examples and related concepts, but there are unresolved distinctions between the definitions of kinetic sculptures and Rube Goldberg devices.

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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