MachineExMarcus
The actual mechanism is a Hoecken linkage.The Hoecken linkage converts rotational motion to approximate straight line. What I implemented is the pure version with a sliding pivot instead of the more typical 4 bar version.
After getting the linkage built, I spent all but the last 4 days of the challenge wondering if I needed something for the linkage to do. A lot of bad solder joints and wire later, I have my first attempt at a rolling ball sculpture. I have wanted to try this for quite some time and the challenge provided the impetus for the first attempt. Apparently I have another hobby now.
The linkage parts were machined from steel on stream. The base is salvaged butcher block and construction offcut. The balance is galvanized wire soldered together with a resistance soldering unit.
