[TheForge] Cool kinematic web site

[Andrew Vida]

Jerry Frost wrote:
> Agreed.
> 
> Until we develop a true nano-construction industry perfection is a 
> concept rather than a reality. Even that is only atomic precision; 
> somewhat less than perfection. I expect a bit less from my erector set 
> though so it's okay.

	We are already capable of making machines whose accuracy is not limited 
by the manufactured precision, but by factors such as dimensional flux 
due to thermal variance.  Have eyou ever used an optical flat?  We used 
them in college.  It's cool to watch a surface warp locally when you put 
your finger on it.
> 
> I think you made a good choice for the grasshopper too. Though I haven't 
> looked through, let alone experimented with all the straight line 
> linkages I haven't seen one simpler and with a hammer simple means robust.

	It's a great hammer, but I still think it should get an air cylinder, 
but Bruce has resisted this idea.  I have two 17" cylinders, so any time 
he's ready... :)
> 
> PeaucUellier (mythspelled for the pun. <grin>) has a few linkage devices 
> but I think I know which one you mean. The 8 link yes? It is appealing 
> but looks awfully fragile for a blacksmith. Maybe a blacksmith's clock? 
> <grin>

	Oh, I'm sure one could build a plenty sturdy hammer with such a 
configuration, but I suspect it would be impractically bulky.