There is no part of our bodies that fully rotates—be it a wrist
or ankle or arm in a shoulder socket, we are made to twist only so
far. And yet there is no more fundamental human invention than the
wheel—a rotational mechanism that accomplishes what our physical
form cannot. Throughout history, humans have developed technologies
powered by human strength, complementing the physical abilities we
have while overcoming our weaknesses. Providing a unique history of
the wheel and other rotational devices—like cranks, cranes,
carts, and capstans—Why the Wheel Is Round examines the
contraptions and tricks we have devised in order to more
efficiently move—and move through—the physical world. Steven
Vogel combines his engineering expertise with his remarkable
curiosity about how things work to explore how wheels and other
mechanisms were, until very recently, powered by the push and pull
of the muscles and skeletal systems of humans and other animals.
Why the Wheel Is Round explores all manner of treadwheels,
hand-spikes, gears, and more, as well as how these technologies
diversified into such things as hand-held drills and hurdy-gurdies.
Surprisingly, a number of these devices can be built out of
everyday components and materials, and Vogel’s accessible and
expansive book includes instructions and models so that inspired
readers can even attempt to make their own muscle-powered
technologies, like trebuchets and ballista. Appealing to anyone
fascinated by the history of mechanics and technology as well as to
hobbyists with home workshops, Why the Wheel Is Round offers a
captivating exploration of our common technological heritage based
on the simple concept of rotation. From our leg muscles powering
the gears of a bicycle to our hands manipulating a mouse on a
roller ball, it will be impossible to overlook the amazing feats of
innovation behind our daily devices.
General
| Imprint: |
University of Chicago Press
|
| Country of origin: |
United States |
| Release date: |
October 2018 |
| Authors: |
Steven Vogel
|
| Dimensions: |
229 x 152 x 28mm (L x W x T) |
| Format: |
Paperback - Trade
|
| Pages: |
344 |
| ISBN-13: |
978-0-226-59968-7 |
| Categories: |
Books
|
| LSN: |
0-226-59968-X |
| Barcode: |
9780226599687 |
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