Asymmetric Inertial Propulsion - AKA the Lewis Ratchet [View all]

[mikelewis]

Watch and learn how to use Gravity and Friction to your advantage! Using Newton's Laws, when our initial thrust pushes the ball away rapidly, the platform recoils in response. By refusing to allow the momentum to directly overcome the friction of the ice or water, we can achieve short relocations or small displacements. This design will not work in Space! It requires Friction and Gravity to function.

However, this is clear evidence that you can move out of your x,y position on Earth using Gravity and Friction. This idea is difficult as it seems to be overturning centuries of our thoughts on what is possible with propulsion. However, not only can you see the physics are real, it's also logical. Important note! This method is extremely inefficient and not recommended for any real propulsion. It's a proof of concept only! A V8 is still better and much more energy efficient than this, sadly! LOL

When you watch the video, you see where the forces are going and none of them will allow you to return the outer frame of reference back to its original position. This is precisely why I call it a ratchet. This system only allows momentum to manifest in one direction. In the equal and opposite direction, we use gravity and friction to bleed the energy and reverse the momentum of the ball.

Crucial note. We are breaking symmetry by using Friction to offset and unbalance the force equation. That is why this will not work in space. This setup cannot function in space as there are no forces present to create this effect.

These videos were made with Algodoo and OBS Studio. Both are free and both are awesome!!! Try them out!

https://qmichaellewis.blogspot.com/2025/02/the-lewis-ratchet-forward-asymmetric.html