An Electrical Dancer
The modification of the well-known mechanical dancer shown in the illustration is based on the principle of the electric bell. While the amusing antics of the mechanical dancer are controlled by the hand, the manikin shown is actuated by the electromagnet.
When the Contact is Made the Figure Dances
When the Contact is Made the Figure Dances
The mechanism is contained in a box. It consists of an electromagnet with a soft-iron armature carried by a spring. A wire from the battery goes to the magnet. The other terminal of the magnet connects with the armature spring at L1. The spring is bent at a right angle at its other end, L2, and carries a platform, L3, strengthened by a smaller disk underneath. The dancer performs upon this platform.
A contact spring, S, is carried by the armature spring. A contact screw, C, is adjustable in its contact with the spring S. A wire runs from the contact screw to the binding post B, to which the other battery wire is connected.
The current keeps the platform in constant vibration, causing the dancer to “dance.” By means of the screw C, the action of the current may be varied, and the “dancing” will vary correspondingly.
The figure is made of wood with very loose joints and is suspended so that the feet barely touch the platform.—Contributed by Edward C. Connelly, Wilkesbarre, Pa.