Quote Originally Posted by Frank S View Post
Sorry but more energy is wasted turning that crank than it would take to swing a hammer. Very little work being done for the amount of energy expended
True for pure energy input/output but it is a good proof of concept. Once connected to some other form of power like a water wheel it won't matter as much.

The other thing is if made to more exacting dimensions you would be able to move the cam to the other side of the hammer pivot point to gain a mechanical advantage to lift the hammer higher. Of course the cam would need to on top but adding some follower rollers it would greatly reduce the friction and increase the efficiency.

I gathered that they are trying to follow the progress of mechanization from stone age to industrial revolution. A great learning experience that many people have not been introduced to before.