This machine uses one motor, microprocessor control
for forward, reverse, slowdown operation. The lift system is a series
of three ball-screw actuators, linked by timing belts. Each elevator
lifts a ball, ejects it onto a ramp, and the first two are linked by a
circuit ramp. The circuit ramp dumps into a basket which is tipped
by the action of the elevator, which dumps the ball via a connecting ramp,
into the next basket for continuation of the lift.
The machine incorporates tipping direction changers,
(random flip-flop) balance gates, 4-wire tracks throughout, a double-loop,
tip-delivery segments, chimes and one bell. One-inch glass marbles
are used. Photos are placed on flip-flop panels for a decorative
effect.
Sculpture in progress, before painting and detail
Completed sculpture
Bixworks
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