Spinning Top: The Tippe Top

The Tippe Top is a gravtiy defying top, flipping upside down when spun. The design is inspired by the Art Deco Movement of the 1930's. The motion of this top was first observed in the early 1800's but not understood until the 1950's. In this case the force of gravity is overcome when the initial angular velocity is sufficiently high. The rolling motion of the top acts with the force of friction to invert the top and lift the bottom of the top into the air!

 

I am very greatful to the journal of applied mathmatics for their article contributing to this design: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/268537

 

I am so excited to have received my own top today! I tore open the box and the design worked on the very first spin! You will love this mechanical work of art! I recommend orange, buy yours today!