Sometimes I feel like the thing that will set humans apart from our future Robot Overlords will be Rube Goldberg Machines (RBM). Sure, machines could maybe design a better one than we mortals, but why would they want to? They'll have better things to do, like deciding our fate. In any event, check out this remarkable RBM made with marbles, magnets, blocks of wood, bearings, and what are either tooth picks or tiny dowel rods [Via Digg]. What I love about it is the clever use of friction and magnets to not only control when and where the marbles and magnets roll, but to serve as gates, hammers, springs, and even a tube delivery vehicle. It's magnificent.
Check It Out: 4 Minute Rube Goldberg Machine Made from Marbles and Magnets