Trammel of Archimedes

thingiverse

This device features a base with two slots that intersect at 90-degree angles. Two sliding components are confined within the slots and are connected to a grip by pivots (screws) positioned along the length of the grip. The mechanism can be used to draw a precise ellipse. This is achieved by placing a writing instrument at the end of the grip while making a full rotation. It's often sold in novelty stores with intriguing names like the Bullsh*t Grinder, the Bullsh*t Masher or the Do-Nothing Machine. Most of these names are preceded by state names such as Arkansas, Kentucky and others. I suppose locals use this method to poke fun at their neighbors. Further Information / Assembly Instructions: https://www.instructables.com/id/Trammel-of-Archimedes/ Animation: https://youtu.be/NiEOJxK4AYA