Wimshurst machine

American  

[wimz-hurst] / ˈwɪmz hɜrst /

noun

Electricity.

1. a device for the production of electric charge by electrostatic induction, consisting of two oppositely rotating glass or mica disks carrying metal strips upon which charges are induced and subsequently removed by contact with metallic combs.

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Wimshurst machine British  

/ ˈwɪmzhɜːst /

noun

1. a type of electrostatic generator with two parallel insulating discs revolving in different directions, each being in contact with a thin metal wiper that produces a charge on the disc: usually used for demonstration purposes

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Wimshurst machine Scientific  

/ wĭmz′hûrst′ /

1. An electrostatic generator used to generate static electricity at high voltages, consisting of mica or glass disks covered with metal sectors of plates that are rotated in opposite directions. The rotational energy is used to build up static charge across the plates, while each plate periodically makes electrical contact with another as it rotates, building up a voltage by induction. The Wimshurst machine is named after its inventor, British engineer James Wimshurst (1832–1903).

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Etymology

Origin of Wimshurst machine

Named after J. Wimshurst (died 1903), English engineer

Example Sentences

More elaborate appliances of many different forms have been used, but the only one of these electric machines, as they are called, which is now commonly employed is the Wimshurst machine.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 2: Ebert to Estremadura by Various

Little instruments for lighting gas by means of the spark are, however, made, and the noxious fumes of chemical and lead works are condensed and laid by the discharge from the Wimshurst machine.

From The Story of Electricity by Munro, John

These two sets, a1 and b1 are charged to a high potential by a Holtz or Wimshurst machine, and may be connected to a jar of some capacity.

From The inventions, researches and writings of Nikola Tesla With special reference to his work in polyphase currents and high potential lighting by Martin, Thomas Commerford

The Wimshurst Machine.—The essential parts of an ordinary Wimshurst machine, as shown in fig.

From Hawkins Electrical Guide, Number One Questions, Answers, & Illustrations, A Progressive Course of Study for Engineers, Electricians, Students and Those Desiring to acquire a Working Knowledge of Electricity and its Applications by Hawkins, Nehemiah

But I have also used a Wimshurst machine in some experiments.

From The inventions, researches and writings of Nikola Tesla With special reference to his work in polyphase currents and high potential lighting by Martin, Thomas Commerford