A Running German Gravity Wheel Exhibited In 1927

[broli]

Pagosa Springs News (Pagosa Springs, Archuleta County)
Friday, September 06, 1895
Page: 3

HIS PERPETUAL MOTION.

Michigan Man Thinks He Has More Than Solved the Problem.

A.C. Mott of Plymoth, Michigan,, traveling representative of several farm machinery concerns has studied perpetual motion for several years, and, according to the verdict of expert machinists, has succeeded. His machine not only runs itself to some extent but develops power to some extent. The machine consists of a shaft, upon which is a balance wheel. Connected with one end of the shaft by hinged joints are two frames, carrying arms, which radiate nearly to the circumference of the balance wheel. The ends of these frames from the arms, and are slotted where they pass the shaft, and to each set of arm are attached, by elbow joints, the ball weights which furnish the motive power. Each ball as it reaches the top of the circle is thrown to the extreme limit of its reach, the one opposite being drawn by the same mechanical device closer to the shaft. This is done by the sliding of the frame of the shaft from which rigid connections extend to the weight arms, the movement straightening the upper and bending the lower elbow joints. The two frames being at right angles, providing four weights, there is no time when such a thing as a dead center can exist, and as soon as the balance wheel, which is kept locked by brake, is released, the machine starts, gaining speed to a point where the centrifugal force overcomes the force of gravity, the weights counterbalance and the frames cease to fall. From this point there is an increase of speed. A governor has been attached to the model to regulate the speed. Mr. Mott has been offered $ 1,500 for single state rights for exhibition purposes.


Source:
Pagosa Springs News
Colorado Transcript

[Bill_Mothershead]

On this forum are sharp minds from several generations, some solidly
educated, all of course familiar with advancements in science and
technology of the last 100 years, many computer literate and
using advanced computer tools...and yet...after years (a decade?)
of collaboration we read that a...

traveling representative of ...farm machinery

...built a working wheel over a hundred years ago after
having "studied perpetual motion for several years".

Guys, something is wrong.

This cant be that hard. (So simple a carpenter's boy...)

Where are we going wrong?

Why haven't we come up with something yet?

[jim_mich]

I found a document while searching for Mott "Plymouth Michigan" perpetual motion titled "Scientific American. / Volume 3, Note on Digital Production" on the internet with an extension of '.sgm' that I downloaded. My browser did not know how to open it. So I saved the file and looked at it with notepad. It looked much like an HTML document so I renamed the extention as HTML and was able to read it.

It contained text recognition of "THE SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN" for period between November 6, 1847 and September 16, 1848. I copied and pasted certain articles from it below. Please excuse the bad spelling. The date of the scan was 1999. Character recognition has gotten much better since then.

Enjoy the selected quotes:

Perpetual Motion.
A Mr. J. Hutt, of Hiockley, England, frame work knitter, states that after nineteen yeai~intent study, he has discoverenl Iterpetual mss..tion. His machine, he says, is capable ~l working any mill, or turning any motive pow.er, without the aid of steam, water, or air5 having an inherent power of its ownar. ara which never tires. A getitlesnan in Brookiya N. Y., claims to have discovered a similar power some years since. We are, howe~,er,~ sceptical on this subject of perpetual moti~powet.

Perpetual Motion.

A correspondent of the Midland Counties
(Eng.) Herald, says A frame work knitter of Hinkley, namd Joseph Hutt. has, after 20 years application and study, completed a ma-chine which he calls a self-moving machine, or perpetual motion. He set it in motion on the 25th of Atigust last, since which time it has continued to work with the gmeatest regu-larity - The motions of the machine are both quick and powerful, and may be greatly in-creased and applied to any purpose. It does not require time aid of steam or any othem- pow-er to keep it in motion, having one continued and regular motion of its own.

J. P. E. of Ohio Give your Perpetual Motion a more careful consideration. Make a fair experiment before expending money for a patent.

New invenhionElectro Magnetic Engine.
Mr. James P. Egan, of Dresden, Muskingum Co., Ohio, has just invented an Electro-Mag-netic Machine, which consists of series of magnetized plates, of the requisite diameter. which are connected together by screws, and so constructed as to allow the plates to be con-tracted into an almost solid mass, or to be drawn out to a gi~en length. These plates are called a Contracting .Magnet. The alternate with solid metal, and form a sort of piston, which is worked in a helix, answer-ing to a cylinder, and which, beingduly char-ged with the electric fluid, forces out the pis-ton, which shoots itself back again by its own magnetic contracting power, thus giving mu-tion to the machinery, which can be built of sufficient force for any of the purposes to which steam is now applied. Mr. Egans machine requires no boilers, no fuel, and but little attendance, and it is said can be built at a cost, and worked at an expense very far be-low any steam engine.
Mr. Egan also writes to us that upon the prin-ciple of his contracting ma,,net, he can con-struct a perpetual motion, at least the most perfect and durable machine deserviiig such a title.

J. K. of Mass.Will you be so good as explain what you mean by perpetual motion We confess that there are many vague ideas about it and we cannot see into yours.

M. 0. P. of N. H.We have seen a great number of perpetual motions, but there never has nor never will be one made to be of any service as a propelling power. There is no such a thing in the Science of Mechan- ics as a power creating a power superior to itself. We would sincerely recommend all mechanics to study the first principles, you appear to have a mind ingenious and invent- ive, only direct it right. Had we room in our columns we might explain the impossi- bility of your machine being a perpetual mo- tion, but the operation will satisfy yourself.

M. M H. of MassYou are correct When he can create a power then he may com- mence to make his perpetual motion and end by experiencing the fact of his own evanes- cence.

J. K. P. of Pa.We would advise you not to lose time and money any longer in trying to invent perpetual motion. Let ex- perience and sound sense guide your inventive mind, not vague impossibilities.

Practical Blunders.
There is not a week passes over our heads but we see or hear tell of some lucky person who has discovered perpetual motion. The pursuit of this motion is not confined merely to the illiterate and unlearned mechanic, but singularly enough men of rare intellect, wealth and learning have pursued the phantom and wasted both time and means in futile efforts to immortalize their names in the discovery of an impossibility. A general diffusion of sound knowledge connected with the principles of mechanics would soon dispel this kind of chi- mera from an inventive mind and leave it free to pursue projects of utility and of a rational character. A young man of an inventive turn of mind when first struck with the beauty of some piece of mechanism and not well ac- quainted with the principles of its construc- tion, generally turns his thoughts upon per- petual motion, because it is something of which every one has heard. Many an hours sleep it costs him to astonish the world and at last he makes the grand discovery of a teeto- tom propelled by smoke, which would have run forever only it exploded. We have come to the conclusion that there is only one way to construct a perpetual motion, and that is by having a tall pole, say one hundred and seven- ty nine feet eleven inches and fifteen-six- teenths in length, elevated on a tall cliff and on the top of the pole have a single spiders thread suspended on the point of a point, which must be so fine that a microsco~ e will fail to perceive it. The thread will no doubt always be in motion as the atmosphere is ne ver without some current sufficiently strong to move it. Of the hundreds of perpetual mo- tions that have been discovered, there is not one in existence at the present moment. This every body knows, but the reason why they failed is not known to a great number. Many no doubt ridicule perpetual motion who could not give a reason for their ridicule and who would be dumbfoundered were an opponent to assert ingenuously, that all perpetual motions tailed for the want of true ingenuity. Every person, espeeially every mechanic, should be established in the fundamental principles of science, so that he may be able to give a con- vincing pioof and reason for every assertion that he makes

Motive Power.
It is really amusing to observe the sublime mysteriousness with which some of our ora- cle wiseacres treat the science of Mechanics. With declamatory style they wrap up a vast fund of stupidity and ignorance in an un- known tongue, leaving those who peruse their works, not wiser and better, but cer- tainly much duller men. This is the reason why so few operative mechanics after the se- vere toils of the day, cannot sit down and read with profit such kind of works. No branch of mechanical science is less general- ly understood than momentum. The follow- ing axiom if kept continually in mind, will be a beacon to the practical mechanic. The whole effect produced by mechanical expedi- ents is always equal to the whole cause or la- bor exertedmechanical expedients merely condense or expand labor. A power exerted over six feat and producing a result in o~. e foot, is condensed into one sixth, and in that space the result is six times as great as the labor exerted in the same distance, and vice versa. 100 pounds raised 6 feet is equal to 600 pounds raised 1 foot, and vice versa. Thus it follov~s that the momentum motive power always bears exact proportional relationship to the effect produced. The power momen- tum may be concentrated, or spread over a wide surface, but in no case can a prime mo- ver communicate power, or impart a momen- tum superior to what is possessed in itself. Could this be done perpetual motion would be an easy matter.

Edit: My mistake! I typed the wrong ending date as 1948 instead of 1848. This is only about 10 months of the "THE SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN" , which was published weekly back then.

[greendoor]

Thanks Jim - interesting from a historical perspective. Seems much like similar rants in this very forum - how little things have changed down the centuries.

As much as I favor Momentum thinking - I 100% agree with that last statement:

"in no case can a prime mover communicate power, or impart a momentum superior to what is possessed in itself. Could this be done perpetual motion would be an easy matter. "

However - can I point out (again) that a heavy Atwoods system, overbalanced by a small driver mass, can acquire very large amounts of Momentum compared to the Momentum of the same driver mass free-falling the same height. This is simple, undeniable physics. I believe Broli prepared a spreadsheet at one time - but anyone can do the maths and prove this as established fact.

So if said "primemover" has an over-abundance of Momentum, then we are not asking the primemover to "communicate momentum superior to what it possed itself". We can happily take a fraction of the momentum available to succeed in lifting the driver mass back up again from whence it fell.

Just thought I would add that, FWIW ...

[broli]

greendoor, when researching I find many more articles explaining how pm is impossible or ridiculous then success stories. One even suggested to ban pm tinkering by law. Little has changed since but I tend to ignore. Bessler must be raping them in hell by now.

[broli]

The New York Times
Wednesday,December 13, 1897
Page: 1

DREAMED PERPETUAL MOTION.

A Syracuse Carpenter Claims to Have Solved the Problem.

SYRACUSE, Dec.12. – S.S. Rogers, a carpenter of this city, claims to have solved the problem of perpetual motion. Up to six weeks ago he had never thought of the question. Then he had a dream, and upon awakening, informed his wife that he had discovered the secret of perpetual motion. The next day he constructed a simple machine, which, by the arrangement of unequal weights upon two wheels and suitable gearings, when once started, runs for an unlimited time.
Mr. Rogers believes that if not stopped the machine would run until worn out. Crowds are about the mechanic’s house daily, but he only permits a favored few to view the machine, as he is perfecting it. Mr. Rogers has applied for a patent.

Source:
The New York Times

[AB Hammer]

Bessler must be raping them in hell by now.

That was funny broli. LOL But would if he went the other way?

______________

[AB Hammer]

The saddest part of it all, there are a lot of claims. Back then it may have become the favorite scam like a side show to have so many. But where are these machines or the information today? Possible patents, family histories and town documentations will be the only road to search if you can find these at all. IMHO

What has been found and posted on this string is a fantastic beginning for any research for these claimed designs, and Kudos to you all for what you have found so far.

Alan

[ovyyus]

...but he only permits a favored few to view the machine, as he is perfecting it...

Classic :D

[broli]

Longmont Ledger (Longmont, Boulder County)
Friday, March 20, 1908
Page: 1

Perpetual Motion

Our townsman, M Burk, thinks he has discovered perpetual motion.

There is not any one thing which men have tried to invent more than what is called perpetual motion, or some power that will operate of its own power and continue in motion. It has been experimented on for over 400 years by all classes in the civilized world. Thousands of men have spent their last dollar in the attempt to discover such power or motion.
Furthermore, it was at one time decided by the best scientific men that the country could produce at that time, that no such thing could be or would be; that it was an utter impossibility for any human being to invent perpetual motion. Well, poor fellows, they did not know it all.

Suppose Mr. Edison had told them that he was going to invent a machine that could talk, sing, or reproduce any sound at any time and as often as he may wish to do so, even years later. Would they not have said, it was an utter impossibility? Yes; who wouldn’t! Yet today we have it in a great many homes. We are going to have perpetual motion. It is going to be as common a thing as out clock upon the wall. This discovery has been made by Mr. Burk, a real estate man of Longmont, well known throughout the country. Not only has he made the discovery of motion, but has a power that is unlimited. It can be attached to anything where power is needed in a stationary place. It will take the place of steam engines and electric machines. There will be no water or fire to contend with. The new power is inexhaustible, self regulating, self operating. Will start of its own accord but cannot stop. The space and power can be increased or decreased by the use of smaller lever. Plans and specifications are under way, and it will be only a matter of time when Mr. Burk will complete a perfect working model.

Source:
Longmont Ledger

And the follow up

Longmont Ledger (Longmont, Boulder County)
Friday, May 08, 1908
Page: 1

Perpetual Motion

Some time ago we published an article in regard to the invention of perpetual motion, which caused a good bit of comment among our home people as to whether it was real or imaginary. Some are anxiously waiting to see while others are from “Mizzoory� and must be shown. Others have asked the inventor: “What has become of your invention! Why don’t you have it patented and turn it into money?�

Others seem to think that an instrument of this kind must be made very light in order to operate. To this the inventor wishes to say that is why they have failed in this attempt. If you expect power you must have weight to it. Mr. Burk’s machine consists of over 500 different pieces which each and every one must do its part at the right instance. Out of those 500 or more pieces there is not a single spring or any exhaustible material or metal about it. The machine is made up of three wheels which relieves each of its burdens at proper intervals, the same as a gasoline engine is relieved of its explosive at the end of each stroke. These wheels are placed side by side, revolving in the same direction at a different rate of speed; the center one having a burden of about 45 pounds to carry while the outer ones carry about 6 pounds each, according to the size of the machine.

Now, therefore, you must remember that it takes both time and money to complete a thing of this kind, so you may expect that it will take well onto next year before this invention is thoroughly completed. But if you wish to hurry the matter up and get in on the first floor to reap a part of the profits of this invention, you can do so by footing up the first cost of making a perfect working model, which will cost about $250. After this is done the rest will take care of itself.

Source:
Longmont Ledger

That should excuse me for the day I didn't post one.

[broli]

Fort Collins Weekly Courier (Fort Collins, Larimer County)
Wednesday, July 29, 1903
Page: 4

Has Solved the Impossible.
Denver Republican.

William F. Garbe, formerly instructor in moulding and machine work at the state agricultural college, is certain that he has invented a perpetual motion machine. He says that after 14 years of experiment he has exhausted his resources in the preliminary work. With capital he declares the machine can be made practicable.

Mr. Garbe is a resident of Fort Collins. He has made a number of models which, he says, were successful as far as they went. His latest model he had taken apart and is now reconstructing on lines to make it more perfect.

“Perpetual motion is considered an impossibility by all scientists,� said Mr. Garbe yesterday. “But I hold that it is not beyond the reach of the inventor. I firmly believe that my system of producing power will be true perpetual motion. I invite criticism and inspection and believe I can convince anyone that I am right.
“Nothing of this kind can be done without the aid of God,� continued Mr. Garbe. “When he believes that the time has come to give to the world a new device he conveys the ideas to the people through a chosen medium.
“It was so in the case of every great invention, I believe. To some one chosen by the Creator was given the knowledge needed to produce the device. In my case it was all revealed to me. I have spent 14 years in working out the system, and I think it is perfected to such an extent that only capital is needed to give the world the benefit of power at practically no cost.
“During all of the time that I was working on the device those who knew of it scoffed at the idea that perpetual motion was a possibility. All of the scientists teach that it cannot be accomplished. According to their theories and practices it cannot, but I do not follow the established rules.
“All who have attempted to solve the problem of perpetual motion have worked on the theory of developing it though what is called a primary motion. That is where I differ from them, because I develop the power by secondary motion. In that manner the power that can be developed is almost unlimited.
“In the primary motion schemes the disc is mounted upright. And effort is to apply the force of gravity in such a manner that the disc will revolve. But my discs are mounted in a horizontal position, and the application of, the force is not directly on the wheels or discs from which it is intended to obtain the power through motion.
“It would be unwise for me, of course to give the public the entire secret of my invention. But the force of gravity is applied to a lever that acts on the wheels in such a manner that the pressure of the leverage is overcome and there is a surplus of power for driving the wheels. There is always a surplus and it is this that produces the perpetual motion.
“I am perfectly willing to be criticized and court the closest inspection, because I wish to convince someone that I am right in order that I can obtain the financial backing necessary.�

Source: Fort Collins Weekly Courier, Fort Collins Weekly Courier

[winkle]

hummmm

so

seems like the real secret of perpetual motion never occurs to anyone unless they are looking for it through an empty wallet

hay guys looks like you need to start off loading the cash if you want the answer

it would be a big burden but if it will help you in you're quest just send that distracting troublesome cash to me :-)

[teokox]

Hi all,

It seems that a lot of people discovered the "holy grail" and many PM has been built!

Please explain me why any PM is not running at present.

1) All PM were destroyed or supressed by the inventors;
2) Governmental organizations supressed the PM (news and evidences) completely and threatened the inventors;
3) All claims PM were hoax or lies.

I'm not able to think other reasons.

All the Best,
tk

[Trevor Lyn Whatford]

Hi all,

It is considered imposable thus there is no Government or Scientific interest, and if you ask for financial help to fund your research you would be seen as a scam, so boys its up to us, good luck to us all.

Regards Trevor

[broli]

Brooklyn Eagle
Tuesday, Sep 26, 1857
Page: 2


Perpetual Motion Again.

A gentleman in Cincinnati is said to have invented a motive power which is capable of being applied to every use an purpose for which steam power is now employed. The invention, if what is stated be true, realizes the principle of perpetual motion, the moving principle being in the machine itself, and requiring the assistance of no agency, save that of oil, to reduce the effect of friction. When once set in motion the machine will run as long as the material of which it is composed, will last.

Source: Brooklyn Eagle

Brooklyn Eagle
Thursday, Feb 14, 1850
Page: 2

Perpetual Motion.


A writer in the Charleston Mercury asserts, with considerable positiveness, that the dream of inventors has at last been realized, and that a perpetual motion is finally discovered. He says
“We some time since saw a notice of the discovery of this principle in the construction of a self-moving wheel, by a Mr. Reichester, of Madison, Ga.; and, as in former cases of a similar kind, set it down as one of the latest abortions of some recentric and dreamy mechanic. On yesterday, however, we had the satisfaction of seeing the veritable wheel itself; and from a careful examination of its parts, which were taken in pieces and re-arranged in our presence, we do not hesitate to pronounce it a self-moving wheel, which, if let alone, would, without cessation, and untouched by any one, “move until� the materials of which it is composed decayed from the influence of time, and such causes as act upon al perishable objects.

The power is so great, when once in motion, that, unchecked by proper means, it would cause it own destruction.�

Source: Brooklyn Eagle