Design and Invention

Machine Design

Machine Design

Experiment with mechanical movement: use cams and wheels to change the speed, direction and shape of motion. Invent applications for motions: create figures that dance or jump, fence or box. Put your imagination in motion.

Learn more...

The Whitney Relay

Whitney Relay

The Whitney Relay is a set of interconnectable parts that lets students master the art and science of energy transfer in the tradition of the Rube Goldberg Machine or its contemporary Japanese masterpiece: the Pythagoras Switch. Each student receives 5 ramps, 8 marbles, 6 blocks, and assorted parts to construct a chain reaction that could include your whole class. Thoughtful lessons in mechanics, invention and teamwork.

Learn more...

Home › Design and Invention

Join our email list




Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike License
Unless otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 License.

Getting Here

Winter Schedule
During the winter, we teach school groups during the day either here in the Museum or away at schools.
Monday – Friday Office Hours 9am – 5pm

Walk-in Projects available during open hours on
Saturday and Sunday.
Saturday: 10am – 3pm
Sunday: 12 – 5pm
Phone: (203) 777-1833
Fax: (203) 777-1229

915 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06517

Map of Hamden and New Haven, surrounding the Eli Whitney Museum

For directions and a larger map...