Instructions

Hey! Do you enjoy the GraviTrack and want to design your own version of the linkage?
We built ours using David Rector's free linkage mechanism designer software found
here: http://blog.rectorsquid.com/linkage-mechanism-designer-and-simulator/
DESIGNING YOUR OWN
Although we have several CAD packages, we found his software to be extremely
useful with a number of different options to create dynamic linkage systems with
ease. One of the biggest benefits is that it allows you to export your designs in a DXF
format for easy importing into your favorite vector cutting or CAD modeling software.
We used a combination of Solidworks and CorelDraw to create the GraviTrack you’ve
assembled today!
GraviTrack Solar Marble Machine Kit
10
Linkage jams when the arms are attempting to pass the marble: Use a knife or other
sharp edge to shave down the inside of the large lifter arms and the outside of the
small lifter arms. See page 5, below step 2.5.
Linkage jams during linkage movement, or scraping noise can be heard: Adjust the
screws a quarter turn at a time either tighter or looser until smooth, non-jamming
movement has been obtained. Scraping noises are usually a sign that a screw is
tightened too far and is poking out the back of the linkage pieces.
Marbles are falling off the track: The GraviTrack needs to be within ~5° of level for
consistent operation. You may have to shim the surface of the GraviTrack to level it.
SolarEngine not working: Confirm that your motor and solar panel are plugged into
the appropriate connections, and they are not backwards. If available, use a
voltmeter to monitor the main capacitor. The voltage should slowly rise to near 3V,
then drop quickly as the power dumps to the motor, then restarts climbing. The more
light you give it the quicker it will increase to trigger (~5 seconds near an outside-
facing window).
TROUBLESHOOTING