Magnetic-Kinetic Energy Toy
The concept behind this toy is magnetic repulsion. A series of magnets would be hung from two rails with like sides (N-N or S-S) facing each other. When a magnet on one side is pulled back and released, it would swing down and before it came in contact with the next magnet, it would transfer its kinetic energy through the series to the last magnet, which would swing out, then repeat the process. By playing with this toy, a child would see that force (momentum, kinetic energy...) can be transmitted from one thing to another without the two actually touching. Explaining magnetism to a child would be much easier with this hands on toy.
Construction costs would be minimal. A thin metal frame would support the magnets, suspended by some kind of string or wire. The magnets would be inside small plastic balls for decoration. The toy would not be very durable for younger children. It would be best used on a grade school aged child's desk or shelf. Without any sharp edges or power sources, this product would be entirely safe.
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Dan Gielas dgielas@andrew.cmu.edu 39-245