Wednesday 12 November 2008

SLEEPING IN OBLIVION - John "Longitude" Harrison's Forgotten Masterpiece - David Heskin. Soptera Publications.


Video footage (13 videos in total) and descriptive text are available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Fswe2MXJW8

Alternatively, go to http://www.youtube.com and search for
glathoppa


NOT IN PRINT 


Extracts from the publication follow. This represents a small part of the 201 page publication. Dedicated chapters describe the background, history, mechanical workings, scientific principles, construction, assembly and operation of this beautiful and fascinating timepiece. Over 151 photographs, schematic drawings, design layouts and detailed drawings complement the comprehensive text. Considerable detailed dimensioning is incorporated, assisting in the construction of a working near replica suitable for any environment, including domestic settings.

*Please note that this website precludes an exact replication of the layout, font and indent styles used in the publication. The layout of the TABLE OF CONTENTS is, most especially, not represented.

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EXTRACTS (THIRD EDITION)............... © David Heskin 2010

First published in 2007

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FOREWORD

This publication arose from a persistent fascination for the amazing work and achievements of a truly remarkable man - John “Longitude” Harrison. To those with an interest in pioneering science and engineering, Harrison’s astonishing technical work in the field of precision timekeeping is an alluring, rich, and absorbing subject. When combined with an inspiring story of human fortitude, self-belief, tragic failures and wonderful triumphs it becomes truly irresistible.

Sadly, for reasons beyond my understanding, much of Harrison’s work has been appallingly neglected and I felt a need to contribute something, however small, towards a correction of that situation. To that end, I’ve done my best to create a publication accessible to all, whatever their technical background. That hasn’t been easy and only the reader can decide whether it has been successful.

What is certain is that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of it and, above all else, it is my sincere hope that you do, too.

David Heskin
Lancashire, England, 2007

(The following five chapter titles then follow, but the contents are not reproduced here)

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS


INTRODUCTION

BEGINNINGS

LONGITUDE

OBLIVION

PREVIEW OF TECHNICAL CHAPTERS

Whilst nothing within the following technical chapters could be described as difficult, there is undoubtedly a considerable amount of information and detail, much of which, although presented in disassembled form, is quite often interrelated. The layout of this publication has therefore been designed to lead the reader progressively and logically through the intricate mechanical workings and science of the Final Regulator. Relatively straightforward descriptions and explanations constitute the early technical chapters, whilst interconnected and occasionally convoluted (though, I repeat, not difficult) subjects are delayed until later. For that reason, amongst others, I would strongly recommend a first, careful reading of the text in precisely the order presented.

In support of the textual content, I've included two comprehensive pictorial chapters produced from my own version of a working “visual near replica”. A precise interpretation of the term “replica” will be defined in the MECHANICS chapter, together with an explanation of that interpretation. That ‘a picture speaks a thousand words’ was never more certain than in this application - the replica and the photographs derived from it are the indispensable backbone of my description and explanation. Information relating specifically to the replica is necessarily included throughout the text, but great effort has been expended in an attempt to make honest distinctions between original features and those peculiar to the replica. Not least, although best appreciated in the flesh, Harrison’s Final Regulator is an object of considerable beauty in its own right, and I trust that the photographs, albeit of the replica, convey this as no other written method could.

The separation, layout and content of the technical chapters have been designed with two readers in mind. The first reader would be interested in understanding some or all aspects of the history, design, mechanics and science of the Final Regulator, but would have absolutely no intention of attempting construction. It may be that this reader will elect to abbreviate one or two chapters and appropriate guidance will be given as those chapters arise. The second reader would be keen to construct his or her own regulator replica. For this reader, it is recommended that the text should still be first read in the order presented, but thereafter, by design, used as an “easy reference”, consulting the appropriate self-contained chapter(s) according to the phase of construction, assembly, operation or research.

In order to cater for all readers, whatever their technical background, I have, wherever possible, dispensed with, or simplified, strictly correct (but often obscure) horological, scientific and engineering terminology and substituted phraseology that should convey clearer meaning to all. In addition, a dedicated chapter (discussed shortly) lists and explains many of those words and phrases, in order to assist when they are used. I trust that the purists and experts will understand and accept this approach.

I am well aware that the chosen layout and objectives have led to occasional repetition. It was my belief that clarity and ease of reference demanded a higher priority than the economical or elegant use of words.

SUMMARY OF CHAPTERS

We should first discuss, in retrospect, the TABLE OF CONTENTS. The content of this publication is composed of chapters, made up of numerous “sections” (with the exception of the pictorial chapters). Each section deals with a single aspect of the applicable subject, and a title, describing that single aspect, has been ascribed to every section, for inclusion in the TABLE OF CONTENTS. The result is a long and detailed table of contents, which should assist in the speedy and accurate location of a chosen topic.

The GENERAL PICTORIAL chapter shows overall views of the replica regulator and the movement in various stages of disassembly, revealing the general layout of the mechanism within.

The next chapter, entitled MECHANICS, is devoted to descriptions of the assemblies, sub-assemblies, components and mechanical devices contained within the regulator. This serves as an introduction to Harrison's fascinating devices and lays the foundations upon which a more detailed understanding will be built in later chapters.

The DETAILED PICTORIAL chapter displays detailed views of assemblies, sub assemblies, individual components and mechanical devices within the “replica” regulator. Considerable dimensional information is included, in order to assist those who wish to construct their own “replica”.

PRINCIPLES OF PRECISION presents my interpretation, derived from Harrison’s original manuscripts, of the ingenious methods by which he combined his many mechanical devices. This is, arguably, the most important chapter of all, certainly in terms of my own objectives. Herein are the fascinating “secrets” responsible for the technical success of Harrison’s regulator system, invisible to all but the enlightened. Sadly and tragically, this also represents that part of Harrison’s work in greatest danger of becoming extinct.

Two chapters, CONSTRUCTION and ASSEMBLY, not only relate specifically to the production of the replica, but also provide a unique appreciation of the complexity of the mechanism and an insight into the challenges met by Harrison during its design and construction. In the process, these chapters add more depth to an understanding of the “replica” movement.

The OPERATION chapter has been designed for study after all previous chapters have been understood. It provides additional essential information, insight, fine detail and cohesion to the earlier chapters and is, therefore, absolutely vital to a complete understanding of the regulator. Quite obviously, this chapter also serves as a self-contained guide to the initial set up and everyday operation of the “replica”.

Two complementary chapters, ABBREVIATIONS and DIMENSIONING, are reference chapters, relating, in the main, to the DETAILED PICTORIAL chapter. The conventions explained herein were specifically devised to convey information economically and in a manner suited to the photographic method of presentation. A willing and open mind will readily adapt to the dimensioning system.

The TERMINOLOGY chapter is a vital reference for those who are unfamiliar with the wonderful names and phrases peculiar to horology. Although usage of many of the more obscure terms has been kept to a minimum, there will still be many occasions when those new to the subject may derive some benefit from this chapter.

A blank NOTES chapter follows.

A BIBLIOGRAPHY chapter lists and thereby acknowledges invaluable sources of information.

In addition to its traditional function, the INDEX has been designed to guide the reader to their chosen topic sections. It is anticipated that this arrangement will be of particular assistance to those wishing to study every aspect of a particular device or method, by consulting those sections listed against the appropriate entry.



TABLE OF CONTENTS (formatting not as per the publication - see * above)



FOREWORD

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

INTRODUCTION

BEGINNINGS

LONGITUDE

OBLIVION--DISCOVERY
--NEGLECT
--REGRET

PREVIEW OF TECHNICAL CHAPTERS--SUMMARY OF CHAPTERS

GENERAL PICTORIAL--INDEX TO GENERAL PICTORIAL

MECHANICS--GENERAL DESCRIPTION
--THE REPLICA
--MAIN PLATES AND PILLARS
--BRIDGES AND ANTI FRICTION ASSEMBLIES
--WHEELS AND PINIONS
--GREAT ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--CENTRE ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--MAINTAINING GEAR
--THIRD ARBOR ASSEMBLY
-THE REMONTOIRE
----GENERAL
----MECHANICAL ARRANGEMENT
----REMONTOIRE ARBOR ASSEMBLY
----REMONTOIRE RELEASE AND RESET MECHANISM
----SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
------LIFTING PHASE
------REWIND AND RESET PHASE
----REARRANGEMENT OF THE REMONTOIRE
----THE ORIGINAL REMONTOIRE
----THE REPLICA REMONTOIRE
--ESCAPE ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--THE ESCAPEMENT
----INTRODUCTION
----LAYOUT OF THE REPLICA ESCAPEMENT
----MECHANICS OF THE REPLICA ESCAPEMENT
--THE ESCAPEMENT CYCLE
----OVERSWING
----CAPTURE
----RELEASE
----COMPLETE CYCLE
--ESCAPEMENT DELIVERY OF IMPULSE
--ESCAPEMENT PALLET NIB LENGTH
--FLY ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--THE PENDULUM
--THE CRUTCH
--DRIVING WEIGHT AND LINE
--PENDULUM SUSPENSION CHEEKS
--DATE INDICATION
--BALANCING
--MOVEMENT MOUNTINGS
--DISPLAY CASE

DETAILED PICTORIAL--INDEX TO DETAILED PICTORIAL

PRINCIPLES OF PRECISION--INTRODUCTION
--THE GRAHAM REGULATOR SYSTEM
--OBJECTIVES
--THE PENDULUM
----TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION
----GRIDIRON RODS
----DENSITY COMPENSATION
----COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENT
----PENDULUM MASS AND ARC
----CIRCULAR SUSPENSION CHEEKS
----AERODYNAMIC DRAG AND TURBULENCE
----PENDULUM SUSPENSION SPRING
--A PAUSE FOR REFLECTION
--REGULATOR INSTALLATION
--ABSENCE OF SLIDING FRICTION
--ESCAPEMENT AND ESCAPE WHEEL
----OPERATING AMPLITUDE
----ABSENCE OF FRICTION
----DELIVERY OF IMPULSE
----RECOIL
----ABSENCE OF DROP
----COMPOSER WEIGHTING
----ESCAPE WHEEL TOOTH COUNT
--ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
----THE REMONTOIRE
----WHEEL AND PINION GEOMETRY AND CHARACTERISTICS
----ANTI FRICTION ARBOR SUPPORTS AND END STOPS
----ROLLING ELEMENT BEARINGS
----MAINTAINING GEAR
----TESTING AND ADJUSTMENT

CONSTRUCTION--INTRODUCTION
--SEQUENCE OF CONSTRUCTION
--PROTOTYPE SEQUENCE OF CONSTRUCTION
--AXIAL POSITIONING OF COMPONENTS
--LIGNUM VITAE
--REAR RECTANGULAR AND U-SHAPED BRIDGES
--TEMPORARY BASEBOARD
--ESCAPE ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--ANTI FRICTION WHEELS
--TRAIN WHEELS
--MINUTES DIAL
--ESCAPE ARBOR TEMPORARY FRONT END STOP
--ESCAPEMENT MANUFACTURE
--DISPLAY CASE
--CIRCULAR CHEEKS
--THE PENDULUM
--ESCAPEMENT TESTING
--THE FLY
--REMONTOIRE MANUFACTURE
--REMONTOIRE TESTING
--TEMPORARY PLASTIC GUARDS
--WINDING RATCHET PAWLS
--GREAT ARBOR ASSEMBLY
--BALANCING
--MINUTE HAND AND HOUR DIAL SYNCHRONIZATION

ASSEMBLY--GENERAL NOTES
--LUBRICATION
--LIGNUM VITAE
--ANTI FRICTION WHEELS
--NOMINAL ANTI FRICTION WHEEL DIAMETERS AND HUB ORIENTATIONS
--ASSEMBLY STAGES
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 1 - ARBOR ASSEMBLIES
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 2 - FRONT AND REAR MAIN PLATE ASSEMBLIES
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 3 - LOWER ARBOR ASSEMBLIES FITTED
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 4 - ESCAPE ARBOR ASSEMBLY AND REMONTOIRE MECHANISM
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 5 - ESCAPEMENT AND FLY ARBOR ASSEMBLY
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 6 - BACKPLATE, MOUNTING BRACKETS, CHEEK MOUNT
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 7 - CASE TO WALL AND MOVEMENT TO CASE
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 8 - DIALS AND HANDS
----ASSEMBLY STAGE 9 - DRIVING WEIGHT

OPERATION--WARNING - ESSENTIAL OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
--INSTALLATION
--THE PENDULUM
----THE RATING NUT
----TEMPERATURE AND DENSITY COMPENSATION
----SUSPENSION SPRING
--THE DRIVING WEIGHT
--SETTING OF HANDS AND DIALS
--DATE INDICATION
--THE ESCAPEMENT
----INTRODUCTION
----GENERAL
----ADJUSTMENT
------PALLET ARM TAIL WEIGHTING
------PENDULUM ARC
------ESCAPEMENT FRAME ADJUSTMENT
------COMPOSER ADJUSTMENT
------NIB REDUCTION
------BEAT ADJUSTMENT
----REMONTOIRE OUTPUT
----EXCESSIVE PENDULUM AMPLITUDE
--THE REMONTOIRE
----PREPARATION
----LIFTING FOOT GRAVITY STOP
----RESET/DETENT ARM ATTACHMENT
----FLY ARBOR LOCKING ARM ATTACHMENT
----FLY ARBOR LOCKING ARM LENGTH
------ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE
----FLY ARBOR ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION
----COUNTERBALANCE ADJUSTMENT
----INITIAL REMONTOIRE WINDING
----INTERMEDIATE REMONTOIRE WINDING
----REMONTOIRE LIFTING FOOT RESET
--REGULATOR WINDING AND PENDULUM STARTING
----WINDING AND STARTING PROCEDURE
--TRANSPORTATION

ABBREVIATIONS--LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

DIMENSIONING--PRINCIPLES OF THE DIMENSIONING SYSTEM
--DIMENSIONING SYSTEM EXAMPLES

TERMINOLOGY

NOTES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

INDEX

© David Heskin 2010

First published 2007






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1 comment:

AMIT said...

very nice detail posted with contact info.

BPO work from home