Naked Science Forum
Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: erickejah on 11/09/2011 00:13:46
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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
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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.
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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
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Thanks!!
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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.