Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: erickejah on 11/09/2011 00:13:46

Title: Where can I get a gyroscope?
Post by: erickejah on 11/09/2011 00:13:46

I recently started to read a book about gyroscopes (Carl Machover), it is very interesting. I would like to understand the precession effect by experimenting with a real gyroscope. I have not had any luck finding one with google; mostly all the hits are about spinning tops.

Does anyone knows where I can get one? (two degree of freedom preferably(economic too))

Thanks

Title: Where can I get a gyroscope?
Post by: CliffordK on 11/09/2011 17:29:11

I suppose it would depend on your goals.
I'd recommend playing around with a bicycle wheel for a bit. 

I can remember that the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry had a device that you could stand on and spin with by tilting a gyroscope.  Cool device, but not too practical. 

Most gyroscopes in use would be components of other things such as aircraft controls.

There is a beautiful bronze torpedo gyroscope on E-Bay right now (http://www.ebay.com/itm/WWII-US-NAVAL-TORPEDO-GYROSCOPE-Torpedo-Mk-14-Gyro-Mk-12-3-Excellent-/270813546547), although the seller doesn't list the size.  I'm guessing less than 6" tall.  Unfortunately, it also appears to be missing the drive mechanism.

Title: Where can I get a gyroscope?
Post by: Geezer on 11/09/2011 18:02:33

Yes - a bicycle wheel and a revolving office chair is a good way to go.

There's probably a demo on Youtube.

Here's one

Title: Where can I get a gyroscope?
Post by: erickejah on 12/09/2011 00:22:48

Thanks!!

Title: Where can I get a gyroscope?
Post by: Soul Surfer on 12/09/2011 17:43:24

Simple gyroscopes are available from science shops  and the very best toy shops.  You can also get ones designed for exercise purposes from sports shops ( look up gyrociser but not the hula hoop! )  I have one and the forces produced by this can be really impressive when you get it going fast.