The evolution and restoration of European vertically arranged mechanical turret clocks before the 17th century

Abstract

From the 14th to 17th century in Europe, a variety of types of mechanical turret clocks were manufactured, many of which have been replaced or abandoned. At present, vertically arranged mechanical turret clocks can be rarely found. This study mainly analyzed the mechanism and technology of nine existing vertically arranged mechanical turret clocks manufactured in Europe from the 15th to the 17th century, in order to determine the design rules based on mechanical evolution and variation. The systematical restoration of vertically arranged mechanical turret clocks in history has resulted in 16 representative mechanism configurations of movements of mechanical turret clocks. The content and results of this study can provide its readers a clearer understanding about the mechanism design and technology of the vertically arranged mechanical turret clocks of each period throughout history in order to establish a comprehensive knowledge system. Furthermore, understanding the design concept of the vertically arranged mechanical turret clock contributes to the establishment of every possible restoration design construction throughout history. These innovative results not only provide new historical materials that could be applied in the research of science and technology history, but also contribute to the development of creativity and science education teaching materials.