Anti-gravity device
Abstract
An educational toy useful in demonstrating fundamental concepts regarding the laws of gravity is described. The device comprises a sphere 10 of radius r resting on top of sphere 12 of radius R. The center of gravity of sphere 10 is displaced from its geometrical center by distance D. The dimensions are so related that D((R+r)/r) is greater than r. With the center of gravity of sphere 10 lying on a vertical line, the device is in equilibrium. When sphere 10 is rolled on the surface of sphere 12 it will return to its equilibrium position upon release. This creates an illusion that sphere 10 is defying the laws of gravity. In reality, due to the above noted relationship of D, R, and r, the center of gravity of sphere 10 rises from its equilibrium position as it rolls a short distance up or down the surface of sphere 12.
- Publication:
-
NASA Patent Application
- Pub Date:
- May 1975
- Bibcode:
- 1975pata.rept.....P
- Keywords:
-
- Antigravity;
- Gravitation;
- Center Of Gravity;
- Education;
- Patent Applications;
- Spheres;
- Physics (General)