Why The Wheel Is Round

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.

A visually rich, analytical history of the key cycles in a revolutionary technology.

A delightful look at the history of the information wheel

On the frontispiece of this tract is a woodcut, representing the name of God irradiated; below it a hand is placing a nail on a wall (of Norwich Cathedral?), and a second hand turning a double-wheel, with eyes in the rim. The frontispiece woodcut to "The Nail hit on the head" represents three columns, to the central one of which are attached, on the left, as on nails, a crown, an hour-glass (preaching-glass), a pulley; and, on the right, crossed keys, a hat, holy-water sprinkler (?), and a pitcher; to the sides of the column, on the left of the centre, a robe, a girdle (of the High Priest), and two other objects; on the pillar to the right hang a flagon, a vessel of another form, and a pair of bellows. Below is inscribed "Fideliter Ser-" This woodcut is repeated on page 49 of the sermon. On the title page of "The Nail hit on the head : and driven into the city and cathedral wall of Norwich" is a woodcut of a broad-headed nail. The text is a sermon on the verse, "And I wil fasten him a nail in a sure place; and he shal be for a glorious throne to his fathers house. Esa, 22, 23".

Drivers buy more wheels and tires for their cars and trucks than any other aftermarket accessory. This book is a comprehensive source for wheel and tire information. Whether you want to know how your wheels and tires actually work and how they affect vehicle performance, or whether you just need advice as to what best suits your vehicle, this book provides the information you are looking for. This book covers daily use and competition cars and trucks, including off-road, circle track, drag, autocross, rally, and show vehicles. Beginning with a chapter on vehicle dynamics, with explanations of center of gravity, slip angle, yaw, roll, and pitch. Author Richard Newton then moves on to general information about tires and wheels--from materials and construction to use and maintenance. He also explores how this general information applies to specific types of vehicles, using pertinent examples throughout.

Collects twelve stories told by snow-bound members of an extended family gathered in their old homestead for the Christmas holidays.