Simply a Slinky on a scaled down, escalator-like device. Using IR tranceivers, the speed of the steps is maintained to keep the Slinky in motion.

The "steps" can be tilted slightly forward to facilitate forward motion or backward to facilitate stopping.

A Newton's Cradle for the 21st century, its susurration will add an air of sophistication to your office or drive you insane.
-- phoenix, Nov 02 2003

Some prior research http://www.20six.co...tegory/uy0wqr7qpr2t
Might be helpful. [waugsqueke, Oct 05 2004, last modified Oct 21 2004]

can it run up the steps the wrong way like naughty children? she said, tilting her head, crossing her eyes and wrinkling her brow.
-- po, Nov 02 2003


Alone, or in pairs?
-- 2 fries shy of a happy meal, Nov 02 2003


several I hope and perhaps the escalators can be clipped together to build some kind of Escher contraption.
-- po, Nov 02 2003


+ Ya gotta love this.

If I remember correctly, a Slinky will walk down a ramp. An inclined belt would be easier to build than an escalator although it would probably not be as visually impressive.
-- half, Nov 02 2003


I'll take two!
-- DrCurry, Nov 02 2003


this reminds me of those weird r/c tops in the store. I doubt they would work. But this is another story... Bottom line: croissant
-- croissantz, Jul 18 2004



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