A Working Model of the Mechanical Escapement in Su Sung's Astronomical Clock Tower

Burstall, Aubrey F.; Lansdale, W. E.; Elliott, Portia C.

doi:10.1038/1991242a0

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Later versions were more advanced, using an upper reservoir and allowing only a slow flow of water into a tall and thin lower metered reservoir for accurate measurement. Around 725 BC a Chinese polymath, Su Sung, built a mechanical clock tower which used a water driven escapement to power the clock 16 . Figure 1: Evolution of clock systems with significant historical events A significant advancement in clock evolution occurred in the 1300s with the introduction of large weight powered mechanical clocks 15 .…”

Section: Technology and Societal Perspectives On Horologymentioning

confidence: 99%

Time Keeping Experiments For A Mechanical Engineering Education Laboratory Sequence

Wagner¹,

Knaub²

2009 Annual Conference &Amp; Exposition Proceedings

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The evolution of science and technology throughout history parallels the development of time keeping devices which assist mankind in measuring and coordinating their daily schedules. The earliest clocks used the natural behavior of the sun, sand, and water to approximate fixed time intervals. In the medieval period, mechanical clocks were introduced that were driven by weights and springs which offered greater time accuracy due to improved design and materials. In the last century, electric motor driven clocks and digital circuits have allowed for widespread distribution of clock devices to many homes and individuals. In this paper, a series of eight laboratory experiments have been created which use a time keeping theme to introduce basic mechanical and electrical engineering concepts, while offering the opportunity to weave societal implications into the discussions. These bench top and numerical studies include clock movements, pendulums, vibration and acoustic analysis, material properties, circuit breadboards, microprocessor programming, computer simulation, and artistic water clocks. For each experiment, the learning objectives, equipment and materials, and laboratory procedures are listed. To determine the learning effectiveness of each experiment, an assessment tool will be used to gather student feedback for laboratory improvement. Finally, these experiments can also be integrated into academic programs that emphasize science, technology, engineering and mathematical concepts within a societal context.

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Section: Technology and Societal Perspectives On Horologymentioning

confidence: 99%