Kermit's What-Happens-Next-Machine Reloaded

TL;DR

This paper explores the complex equations of motion for a simple mechanical device inspired by Kermit's machine, demonstrating that simulation can be both educational and entertaining despite the challenges involved.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis and simulation of the equations of motion for Kermit's machine, highlighting the complexity and educational value.

Findings

Equations of motion are challenging to solve.

Simulation offers instructive insights.

The apparatus's dynamics are complex and interesting.

Abstract

If Kermit's What-Happens-Next-Machine had functioned, you would not have seen much, because it would have gone too quickly. In this article it is shown that putting up and solving the equations of motion of a seemingly simple mechanical apparatus presents a challenging problem. The simulation can, however, be quite instructive and also entertaining.