Antikythera mechanism – A compound epicyclic gearing for Venus. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Diolatzis, Ioannis S.; Pavlogeorgatos, Gerasimos
• Is Part Of: Digital applications in archaeology and cultural heritage. Number 12(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Anikythera mechanism -- Epicyclic theory -- Epicyclic gearing -- Gears -- Epitrochoid -- Geocentric -- Sun gear -- Satellite gear -- GeoGebra -- Venus apparent trajectory -- Retrograde motion; Archaeology -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Cultural property -- Protection -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.daach.2018.e00089
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-0548

Abstract

Abstract: One undeniable characteristic of Antikythera mechanism is the complex gear arrangements that generously have been used by the constructor. He succeeded the best combination of integer numbers to reach the maximum accuracy, no matter the number of the gears he used for it. One representative example is the "moon train" consisted of eleven meshing gears which he used to simulate the non-uniform lunar motion. Someone could say that the constructor preferred the complexity for the sake of accuracy. Many Scholars, believe that the mechanism could be a kind of planetarium. In that case, there is a possibility of a more complex mechanical subsystem comprised of more imaginative and specialized gear arrangements. The latest decoded inscriptions on the mechanism's surfaces, are referred to planets (Inferiors and Superiors) and show records of astronomical events. The lack of physical evidence of this planetary construction prevents its conception, but on the other hand, challenges the researchers to discover the inimitable thought of its creator. Nevertheless, fitting this excess gearing in a limited space of a compact construction like Antikythera mechanism is really a puzzler. The planetary subsystem which will complete the mechanism should stand out for the maximum possible measurement accuracy and the best space management. This research proposes a feasible epicyclic gearing specialized for a compact planetary construction achieving the highest possible accuracy. Abstract : Highlights: Recording of astronomical events like Superior-Inferior conjunctions within a graphical display of planets geocentric orbits. Compatibility with the Back-Cover Text inscriptions on Antikythera mechanism (planets presented by little spheres moving in circles). Closer approach to Babylonians time records. Better space management. High accuracy in the chronological determination of astronomical events.