Desktop Wimshurst Machine

thingiverse

This is a 12" Wimshurst machine I designed based on a toy that sparked my imagination years ago. The original was all plastic, poorly crafted and frustratingly cheap - just what I wanted to avoid in my design. Instead, I drew inspiration from the classic Victorian model, but with a modern twist. The purpose of a Wimshurst machine is to produce high-voltage charges for experimentation purposes. It works by having two discs rotate in opposite directions close together, creating a buildup of charge on collector plates due to like charges repelling each other. The accumulated charges are then transferred to the arms and into Layden jars - essentially precursors to modern capacitors. Once sufficient potential is reached, air breaks down between electrodes, resulting in a spark. My design features wooden and brass construction, but feel free to print it all out in plastic except for plates and grounding/collector rods. A working machine requires wire to connect Layden jars to collector arms and needles inserted into small holes on the collector arms to facilitate charge collection. Don't forget a belt to link pulleys together!