Types of two-dimensional pendulums and their uses in education

Abstract

Pendulums which swing in two dimensions simultaneously and are designed to leave a record of their motion are termed 'harmonographs'. The curves which they draw are known, alternatively, as 'Bowditch curves' or 'Lissajous curves'. A variety of designs of harmonographs have been invented over the years. These may be a 'Y-suspended' 'simple' pendulum, or they may be a complex 'physical' pendulum system. Harmonographs have been built as demonstration apparatus in physics (or mathematics) or as 'art' machines for enjoying the aesthetics of the curves produced. © 2005 Springer.