Original working IntoTheMap reconstruction of the automatic float-valve mechanism described by Hero of Alexandria for his self-filling goblet.
Hero’s device used a hidden reservoir feeding a lower vessel connected to the drinking cup. Because the goblet and lower vessel shared the same water level through communicating vessels, drinking from the cup caused the level in both to fall. A cork float connected to a lever then opened the supply valve, allowing water from the reservoir to refill the system. As the water rose, buoyancy lifted the float again and automatically closed the valve. Hero also incorporated a counterweight so the opening and closing point of the mechanism could be carefully balanced.
This working model was constructed for IntoTheMap research and video production to demonstrate one of the earliest known automatic water-level controls, an ancient principle remarkably similar to the float valves still used in modern plumbing. A brass museum style identification plaque will be added upon purchase.
Featured in The Ancient Machine You Still Use Everyday https://youtu.be/gMYbdbAgmYc
Original working research model. One of one.
Large model approximately 16 inches wide, 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide including the top counterbalance arm.
Device will have to be partly disassembled to ship, mainly just the counterbalance arm to avoid breaking it, but clear re-assembly instructions will be provided
Original working IntoTheMap reconstruction of the automatic float-valve mechanism described by Hero of Alexandria for his self-filling goblet.
Hero’s device used a hidden reservoir feeding a lower vessel connected to the drinking cup. Because the goblet and lower vessel shared the same water level through communicating vessels, drinking from the cup caused the level in both to fall. A cork float connected to a lever then opened the supply valve, allowing water from the reservoir to refill the system. As the water rose, buoyancy lifted the float again and automatically closed the valve. Hero also incorporated a counterweight so the opening and closing point of the mechanism could be carefully balanced.
This working model was constructed for IntoTheMap research and video production to demonstrate one of the earliest known automatic water-level controls, an ancient principle remarkably similar to the float valves still used in modern plumbing. A brass museum style identification plaque will be added upon purchase.
Featured in The Ancient Machine You Still Use Everyday https://youtu.be/gMYbdbAgmYc
Original working research model. One of one.
Large model approximately 16 inches wide, 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide including the top counterbalance arm.
Device will have to be partly disassembled to ship, mainly just the counterbalance arm to avoid breaking it, but clear re-assembly instructions will be provided
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