Senior Project 2015: Lorenz Water Wheel

Robert Fox, Ben Kellogg, Kasey Kitto, Jack PalmerSenior Project 2015:Lorenz Water Wheel

BackgroundEdward Lorenz, 1960Chaos Theory:Wheel constructed with buckets that leak water, causes wheel to change direction randomly and unpredictablyMotion achieved by altering inflow of water source and outflow of each bucket

MaterialsBicycle wheelTin funnelsU-channel pole (similar to those that hold up road signs)TubWater pumpHoseWooden blocks to fasten pole to tubSteel rodsVinyl hose to direct outflow of water from funnelsNuts, bolts, washersSample of Motion

ChallengesLeveling tub and pole (mounting/anchoring pole)Regulating outflow of funnels (tiny rocks)Possible outcomes:Wheel continues to turn one directionWheel stops moving when buckets dont fall under the water source and each bucket emptiesContinuous chaotic motion (success)Number of bucketsOnly six funnels left a lot of open space in between each funnel, meaning when wheel slowed down it would tend to stop in between funnels