Rediscovering the Futuristic Dynasphere Monowheel Vehicle Design | History and Legacy

The Fascinating History of the Dynasphere

The Dynasphere was a unique monowheel vehicle design patented in 1930 by Dr. J.A. Purves FRSE of Taunton, Somerset in the UK. Purves' radical idea for this futuristic vehicle was actually inspired by a sketch made by the legendary Leonardo da Vinci centuries prior.

Leonardo da Vinci's Visionary Design

Over 500 years ago, during the Renaissance era, Leonardo da Vinci sketched and described an unusual one-wheeled cart that had a frame shaped like a giant wheel. His sketch showed a platform for the driver and passengers that was contained inside the giant wheel. This inventive design was envisioned to offer stability and protection for travelers while also being able to handle rough terrain.

da Vinci's sketch and writings detailing this inventive one-wheeled vehicle design were rediscovered centuries later and ultimately inspired Dr. Purves to create his own unique take on this idea - the Dynasphere.

Dr. J.A. Purves Brings the Dynasphere to Life

Dr. John Archibald Purves FRSE was a Scottish inventor living in Taunton, England in the early 20th century. After coming across da Vinci's monowheel design documents, Purves was compelled to try and turn this visionary idea into a reality.

In 1930, Dr. Purves patented his own version called the "Dynasphere." This updated take on da Vinci's concept was conical in shape to provide aerodynamic advantages. It incorporated modern technologies and steering mechanisms that would allow the vehicle to be self-balancing and practical for roadway use.

Some key Dynasphere features as described in the original 1930 patent (#339,421) included:

• A single large wheel containing seating for driver and passengers
• Conical external framework to reduce air resistance
• Motorized drive shaft powered by gasoline engine
• Wheels mounted halfway up the wheel to aid balancing
• Steering mechanism allowing it to be driven like a car

High Hopes for the Futuristic Vehicle

Dr. Purves envisioned that the Dynasphere could reach high speeds comparable to motorcycles or early automobiles of the day. Its unique design was intended to provide stability and protection for the occupants inside the large spinning wheel.

However, despite being functional, practical, and able to be legally driven on roads, the vehicle was met with regulatory hurdles. Concerns over potential accidents and injuries meant that red tape ultimately kept the Dynasphere from going into wider production.

Rediscovering a Visionary Design

Although it never made it to mass production, Dr. Purves' Dynasphere serves as an inspiring example of how reinventing and reviving past ideas can lead to fresh innovation.

The one-of-a-kind vehicle demonstrates how reimagining a centuries-old sketch by Leonardo da Vinci resulted in this impressive futuristic invention decades ahead of its time. While regulatory issues kept it from becoming a practical means of transportation, the creative spirit behind the Dynasphere still serves to inspire dreamers and inventors in the modern world.

The Dynasphere Legacy

The Dynasphere never made it past the prototype stages during Dr. Purves' lifetime. However, in recent decades there has been a resurgence of interest in this unique vehicle. Modern artists, designers, engineers, and inventors look to the Dynasphere for inspiration on forward-thinking transportation solutions.

Vintage photographs and patent documents detail its ambitious capabilities. As classic car collectors and automotive historians learn more about lost visions like the Dynasphere, it continues to gather interest and attention globally.

Owning a Piece of History

For those looking to own a piece of this obscure yet influential automotive history - original Dynaspheres very rarely come up for sale as only a single prototype was ever built.

However, before his death in 1964, Dr. Purves did sell his original scale model of the invention along with the original patent documentation. These artifacts would make for a one-of-a-kind addition to any collection focused on visionary inventors or historic vehicles.

As the 21st century kicks into high gear, with environmentally-conscious transport and infrastructure solutions steadily gaining momentum, perhaps the time has come to revisit Dr. Purves' revolutionary Dynasphere design - a glimpse into what futuristic green transportation could have been.

FAQs

How was the Dynasphere designed to be steered?

The Dynasphere incorporated a steering mechanism that allowed it to be steered similarly to a conventional car. The 1930 patent describes a steering control rod that enabled directing the vehicle and the large spinning wheel.

How fast could the Dynasphere travel?

According to the original Dynasphere design specs, it was intended to reach speeds comparable to motorcycles or early automobiles of the 1930s era. Estimates place its top speed at 30-40 mph.

How would passengers get in and out of the Dynasphere?

The Dynasphere plans show a doorway allowing passengers to enter and exit the vehicle from the large spinning wheel that housed the seating area.

Could the Dynasphere really drive on regular roads?

Yes, the Dynasphere was designed to be fully functional and practical for driving on conventional roads. Its inventor envisioned it being used for regular transportation purposes.

Are any Dynaspheres still in existence today?

Sadly no. Since the vehicle never made it into production, only a single Dynasphere prototype was ever constructed. It was likely scrapped long ago after failing to gain commercial interest when it was invented.