Last month, Ed Pike’s collection of handmade wooden models, which show how different mechanical movements work, were showcased at the Scotia-Glenville Senior Center on Worden Road in Scotia.
Pike, a retired GE machinist, made the intricate models using a variety of different woods to highlight the different components of each model.
He said making them was like building a puzzle. The book he worked from — “Making Mechanical Marvels in Wood” by Raymond Levy — provided the dimensions of each piece but Pike had to figure out how they came together.
This sort of challenge was right up his alley. “I worked 40 years for GE doing metal work on a turret lathe,” the 92-year-old said.
Models show movements
His models are examples of movements found in machinery and include a model of self-conjugate cam, a Scotch yoke, and a fast return actuator. Making them was time-consuming Pike said, adding that he appreciated the precision in construction of each piece of the model. “It had to be exactly right or the movement wouldn’t work,” he said.
Each month, the senior center highlights another’s seniors hobby or collection in the display case. In the past, Madame Alexander dolls, cars and dolls collected while traveling and original art works have been displayed. If you would like more information about the center and the many activities held there, call 374-0734.
Categories: Uncategorized
