I found the Java applet interesting. I was wondering if anyone ever did a CAD mockup of a working difference engine? I did some gear boxes in TrueSpace back in the day which took some effort. I believe you can do a lot a scripting in Studio Max and it might have the power of creating a simulacrum of a Babbage computer. Once the basic mechanisms have been crafted they could be cloned and reused ad infinitum.

A more efficient means of generating alternative energy would be to install a system of pusher plates along active fault lines connected to generators. Since natural seismic activity is not reliable enough; small controlled nuclear explosions could maintain a constant state of seismic activity. The best part is that there are many active faults near dense urban areas; so infrastructure would not be a problem.

A Greek euphemism for the Furies.

Must...find....water!