Mechanical Clock
By: Raoul
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Introduction
Introduction
The invention of the mechanical clock in the Middle Ages of Europe was of incredible importance to medieval European society. Originating around the late 1200s CE, the mechanical clock replaced the previous inaccurate time-telling devices of the water clock and sundial (Andrewes). The creation of the mechanical clock can be credited to various needs that were met by the clock, such as increased commercial business and dedicated prayer times from the catholic church (Andrewes).
A close-up image of a medieval mechanical clock (1)
A medieval mechanical clock in France (2)
Impact on society
Impact on society
Soon after its invention, the mechanical clock became a staple in medieval Europe and beyond with clock towers becoming an ordinary sight throughout cities (Hopkins Press). Its invention greatly impacted not only medieval Europe but also modern-day society. One way in which the mechanical clock did so was by standardizing the measuring of time and dividing the day into two even quantitative 12-hour periods for the very first time (Mason and Collette 3). This made it much easier for workers to synchronize their schedules, creating stricter work times for them (Fitch et al.). This resulted in a much more productive society as a whole.
Impact on science and technology
Impact on science and technology
The invention of the mechanical clock also had a great impact on the fields of science, astronomy, and literature. In fact, the mechanical clock often acted more as a symbol than a time-telling device (Álvarez). The praises of the mechanical clock are also sung throughout many pieces of medieval Europe. Many of these literary writings hailed the mechanical clock as one of the greatest inventions mankind has ever made (Mason and Collette 3). The main thing that makes the mechanical clock function is the pendulum. The pendulum is a reliable yet sensitive measurer of time that works by swinging back and forth, pushing a fork. This releases what's called an escapement wheel which is attached to a counterweight. When the weight falls, the wheel begins to turn. This wheel is attached to cogs. These cogs work to stabilize the wheel and keep it consistent (SystemModeler Model).
The inner workings of a mechanical clock (3)
Further Reading
Further Reading
On Time: A History of Western Timekeeping: Further delves into the impact of the mechanical clock and other time-telling devices
Clock (Britannica): Goes into greater detail about the inner workings of the mechanical clock
A Brief History of Time(Keeping): Shows more of the connection between the mechanical clock and science and technology
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