Chinese Mechanical History (Part 2)
The Tang Dynasty (618-907) marked another golden age for Chinese mechanical achievements. During this time, the Chinese developed the world’s first geared mechanism—the Tang world-shifting-arm, which used two interlocking gears to control the speed of a large rotating arm. This device was used to control the motion of a boat, windmill, or other device in order to lift heavy objects such as a water wheel or to guide ships as they approached port. This device was later refined and used to create the earliest steamships.
The Chinese also developed the world’s first automatic clock during this period. This device used a water-powered mechanism to continuously track the passage of time by ringing bells or setting wheels in motion. In addition, the Chinese developed the world’s first piston pump, a device that uses a chamber of liquid to regulate pressure and direct water flow. This type of pump was used to drive small waterwheels and other machinery in various practical applications.
The Song Dynasty (960-1279) marked a new chapter in Chinese mechanical history. During this time, the Chinese developed the world’s first centrifugal pump, which is a motorized system that pumps liquids and other substances at high speeds. This invention was used to irrigate fields, operate hydraulic machinery, and create hydraulic devices such as hydraulic bells, hydraulic lathes, and hydraulic pressing machines.
In addition, the Song Dynasty saw significant advances in the field of metallurgy. During this time, the Chinese developed a furnace that could achieve temperatures high enough to produce iron, copper, and other metals. This allowed them to create more complex mechanical devices and tools using metal parts.
The Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) saw further advances in the Chinese mechanical arts. During this time, the Chinese developed the world’s first repeating weapons, such as the repeating crossbow, which could fire multiple arrows in quick succession. In addition, the Chinese developed the world’s first four-bar linkages, which consists of four metal rods connected with joints and linkages that can be set to move in specific ways. This allowed them to build more intricate and powerful devices such as the trebuchet, which was used to launch large stones at garrisons.
The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw the development of an even more sophisticated series of mechanical devices. During this period, the Chinese developed the world’s first steam engine, which ran on coal and used a piston to drive a series of gears and pulleys. This invention revolutionized the industrial world, as it allowed machines to be powered by steam and enabled the mass production of goods and materials. In addition, the Chinese developed an oscillating fan that used air pressure to keep a fire burning and create a steady, cool breeze in hot weather.
The Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) saw the development of new forms of transportation and the exploration of new territories. During this time, steam engines and locomotives were widely used to reduce reliance on horse-drawn carriages and ox-drawn wagons. In addition, the Chinese developed an early version of the internal combustion engine, which was used to power boats and airships.
By the beginning of the 20th century, Chinese engineers had made significant advances in the field of mechanical engineering. These included high-pressure steam engines, the telegraph, and the heliograph. In addition, they had developed powerful firearms and torpedoes, which were used to great effect during the First and Second Sino-Japanese Wars.
Overall, the history of Chinese mechanical engineering is one of remarkable achievements. From the invention of the geared mechanism during the Tang Dynasty to the development of the internal combustion engine during the Qing Dynasty, Chinese mechanical engineering has left an indelible mark on the world.
