Building a self looping "SMOT"

[elecar]

Hi Norman, are you happy that my replication of your track is reasonably accurate ?

[elecar]

There are a few problems which will need attention on the track. I have dealt with the 1st one which was at the "pointed" end of the teardrop. I have marked the area in red.

Because of the relatively large diameter of the tube it is important that the spacing is as even as possible. I have marked the track in Blue and yellow to show the width difference.

Because of the large diameter of the tube even if you lay it absolutely level the ball will roll from the point that is closest together to the point that is furthest apart. Simply because the closer together you bring the two rails the higher the ball is riding.

[norman6538]

Hi Norman, are you happy that my replication of your track is reasonably accurate ?

Elecar that is great and as I said its a rapid prototype. Anxious to see how many inches you can get it to roll..... My concern is that the material might not be as low friction as lets say the thin aluminum used to cover the wood on the outside of a house. It comes in a roll and can be easily cut and perhaps hot glued in place.

Norman

[elecar]

Hi Norman, I agree the material is not ideal. However I intend on seeing the trial out to the end. What I have learned so far is the track needs attention, mainly the spacing needs much improvement. My plan is to run some non magnetic rod through the hollow to make the pipe a bit more stable. Then I need to find a way to space it evenly.

That said I am happy with the early tests I have done on your track and I think I should be able to loop it with a little more work.

Here is a video made in 3 parts.

Part 1 shows the ball being sucked up the ramp, but as it rolls away it gets hung up on the magnetic ramp. (yes I will show the fails too)
Part 2 Shows the same but after the magnets were adjusted and it was able to escape the field. (Note how the ball is sucked up high and drops down and out of the ramp)
Part 3 is a wider angle showing all the track and how much further I need to get the ball to travel to the point it will get sucked into the ramp.

Its early days but I am happy with the result so far. If I get time tomorrow I will try and make the adjustments to the track.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igFrMNtFACg&feature=youtu.be

[truesearch]

@elecar:


Thanks for sticking with us 


I'm looking forward to your next part.


truesearch