Simon Cowell gave them a standing ovation.

Three Minnesotans recently made their television debut on America's Got Talent. St. Olaf College physics professor Jason Engbrecht along with alumni Bryce Danielson and Christian Weeks were invited on the nationally broadcast talent show after their work for 3M.

The St. Olaf trio -- who call themselves "Hamster Wheel" -- have garnered attention for their fun, creative physics work. Back in 2015, they partnered with 3M to create a Rube Goldberg machine (chain reaction machine) promoting 3M's brand and products.

According to Kare 11, when the three got a phone call from America's Got Talent inviting them to be on the show, they thought it was a joke. Needless to say, it wasn't.

Their latest machine took 300 hours to create, and included special AGT touches, including the use of host Tyra Banks' phone, images of judges Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Mel B and Howie Mandel and a final golden buzzer.

Simon gave them a standing ovation, saying, "You know what? I was really on the edge of my seat, thinking 'I really hope this works!' I like toys like this!"

Howie also enjoyed it, saying, "I love these Rube Goldberg devices. I feel like I'm at some sort of science convention and you guys are winning."

Heidi was the only one who didn't enjoy it, calling it "boring."