variable frequency mechanical oscillator

[davidohyer]

I'm trying to figure out a way I can make a mechanical oscillator, (I guess an engine where the shaft only moves up and down), where I can change the frequency of motion by small increments. Doesn't need to be very big, pretty small actually. Any suggestions on the best way to go about doing this? I was thinking maybe an air or steam powered piston engine would work.

Davido Hyer

 

[TheTick]

Look at a mechanical metronome.

 

[Timelord]

Mount an eccentric on a motor shaft, the oscillation frequency will be the same as the rotational speed which can easily be varied and controlled. If you need truly linear oscillation use two motors with phased eccentrics to cancel the motion in one plane.

Timelord

 

[davidohyer]

Here's a link to something like what i'm looking for, except for an electronic version.

http://www.rexresearch.com/teslamos/514169.gif

I believe the frequency of operation can be varied by changing the weight that you can add on top of the shaft. This engine is steam powered. Any ideas on how to reproduce this kind of engine electronically?

Davido hyer

 

[MintJulep]

Linear electric motor.

Voice Coil.

Rack and pinion driven by stepper or servo motor.