In an article from the
September 2008 edition of The College of
Mathematics Journal, Greg N. Frederickson analyzes Howard Eves’ physical
approach to designing a table both swinging and stable. The physical
construction of this table was based off of Henry E. Dudeney/Charles W. McElroy’s
geometric dissection discovery in 1902. The idea behind this discovery was to
transform an equilateral triangle to a square using hinged dissection.
Frederickson takes us through the history and thought
process behind this idea as well as the difficulties faced by these men as they
constructed this design. He also takes into account the improvements that
needed to be made and those that have been made to the overall design. Who knew
the construction of only one table could yield two entirely different shapes?
By the end of this presentation you’ll be tempted to build this geometrically
savvy table yourself!
Frederickson, Greg N.,
“Designing a Table Both Swinging and Stable.” The College Mathematics Journal 39.4 (2008):
Math 450 Presents
Designing a Table Both Swinging and Stable
by Ashley Herman
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
1:40 p.m.
Patterson 301
Come join us! All are welcome.
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