I've just re-read this entire thread......
Hi Everyone!
Its been a long time, and I have NOT forgotten this project! In fact, the Newton's Cradle is sitting on the carpet in my living room! As I walk past it every day, I'm reminded of the problem I had encountered during its build!
I have to admit, much has changed, in my health, as well as my finances! As soon as I was ready to take another stab at it there was a death in the family
For many an evening, I have been studying my CAD drawings. Looking for a way to add a three dimensional adjustment to the top of the swing arms. This would allow me to move the balls & pivots up & down, right & left, and further & closer apart! Achieving this along with the ability to lock them into a final position is very challenging! Especially while trying to use up as many of the existing parts as possible!
After making several new CAD files, I think I've found a way to do it! It will require making 10 small aluminum blocks, with lots of setscrews! The blocks have to be made independently, as it would be impossible to drill & tap the holes located between the blocks! So the blocks will be mounted and pinned to a long outer plate with the same handles as the last top plate. The only problem is the current design only holds the upper bearing block by 8 setscrews. The outer screws will force the outer plates apart, so they must be made from one piece or have runners attached between them!
This is making the whole unit top heavy, and ugly! Neither designs are acceptable! So back to the drawing board!
Widgit
www.widgitmaster.com
It's not what you take away, it's what you are left with that counts!