Technical details
Description, documents, and source code.
Build a tabletop waterwheel and mill
Watch flowing water turn a shaft, rotate a mill disc and move two pestle mechanisms up and down. A crank also permits a dry demonstration of the linked mechanical transmission.
How it works
Water acting on the wheel blades rotates the wheel and shaft. Gears transfer rotation to the mill disc and change its axis. Cam-like shaft projections lift the pestle levers; when released, the pestles fall back down. The open construction makes water power, gear transmission, cams, levers and reciprocating motion visible.
Illustrated components
Mill disc and base, waterwheel and retaining cover, 8-tooth gear, main base, two shaft supports, two type-A and two type-B pestle supports, crank, two pestles, shaft and cylindrical pin. This supplier table has 13 component categories, not 13 individual pieces; check actual contents against the supplied version.
Assembly and use
Assemble both pestle-lever units and mount them over the base recesses. Fit the shaft and supports, orient its projections to engage the levers, assemble and mount the waterwheel, then fit the gear, mill disc and crank. Check movement by turning slowly. Place the model in a tray before directing a small stream of water onto the blades. Water source and spill tray are user-supplied.
Supplier-stated specifications
- Approximate assembled size: 17.7 × 10.3 × 8.3 cm (not packaging dimensions)
- Main material: ABS plastic
- Suggested age: 8+, with adult guidance
- Water-driven or hand-cranked mechanical operation
This is an educational model, not a vehicle, food-processing appliance, pump or electrical generator. Contains small parts. Keep fingers clear of moving mechanisms; stop if it jams. Use water away from electrical equipment and sockets, control splashes, and drain and dry before storage. Do not ingest experiment water or components.