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Can someone help identify this device?

Foozle

Jun 27, 2022
2
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Jun 27, 2022
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Hi. I've had this device since childhood (about 50 years ago). When I was a kid I used to call it my "time machine" as it reminded me of the device in the 1960's movie. I can't recall how I obtained it, but if you connect to a low voltage/amp DC power source, start the wheel spinning and apply slight pressure from the metal lever on the left to the spindle of the wheel, the wheel will continue spinning at high speed.

I'm curious the name of the device and whether they make similar devices now, just for fun. My first post to the forum, so hope the image gets attached correctly.

Thanks!


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AnalogKid

Jun 10, 2015
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Looks like a lab demonstrator of a DC motor. Way older than 50, maybe pre-WWII.

ak
 

AnalogKid

Jun 10, 2015
2,884
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As "steam engine accessory" chances are "generator" ... :)
Agree.

The flywheel is so large compared to the magnet/coil pole surface area that I think very little useful power will be produced when running as a motor. OTOH, as a generator that large diameter works to your advantage; a low power motive source such as a toy steam engine will be able to "crank" out current even with a bit of a load, when a smaller flywheel diameter might stall.

ak
 
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