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

[Voxynn]

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

 

[Astronuc]

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 -

 

[Janus]

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.

 

[Evo]

Sounds like the old game "Mousetrap".



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMzbRkWGLv0

 

[Janus]

The particular kinetic sculpture described sounds like it might be the "Gravitram".

 

[Evo]

Is this it janus?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rpg0Y3oPGW0&feature=related

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rpg0Y3oPGW0

 

[leroyjenkens]

I'm wearing a ball bearing device right now.

 

[Janus]

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.

 

[nismaratwork]

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.

 

[mugaliens]

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. :)