Gallery: U.S. Patent Office Shows Off Timeless Machines

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    Robertson picked this 1872 model of an electromagnetic engine for its visual appeal. "It reminds me of modern sculptures," he says. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi Photography*
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    A governor for controlling the speed of steam engines. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi Photography*
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    A paper-bag-making machine model submitted by Edgar Stocking. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi Photography*
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    Playing an obstacle-course-themed mini-game in Nintendo Land for Wii U. Photo credit: Andrea Schwalm.
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    A mousetrap that didn't kill mice but held them captive. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi*
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    A cotton seed planter from 1865. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi*
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    A brick-pressing machine from 1855. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi*
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    James Scherzi
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    An extension ladder from 1878. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi*
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    James Scherzi
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    An artificial leg from 1860. *Rothschild Patent Model Collection, Scherzi*
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