Diagram of a device for opening doors

Only Available in the UK and Ireland

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Diagram of a device for opening doors

Door opening device. Diagram of a device designed by Hero of Alexandria (flourished 1st century AD) to open temple doors. As the fire on the altar (at upper left) heated the air beneath it, the gas expands and forces its way into the sphere (at bottom left). The sphere contains water which is forced out by the gas into the bucket. When enough water has flowed into the bucket, its weight will overcome that of the weight (at bottom right) holding the doors closed. The bucket will descend, pulling on ropes which are wound around poles that are attached to the doors and so open them. Intricate devices like this were popular in Heros time. Image taken from Heros Pneumatics

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6469485

© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Device Early History Of Science Instrument

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable diagram of an ancient device designed by Hero of Alexandria, a prominent figure who flourished in the 1st century AD. The diagram illustrates an innovative mechanism created to open temple doors with precision and ingenuity. At the upper left corner, a fire burns on an altar, heating the air beneath it. As this air expands, it forcefully enters a sphere located at the bottom left of the illustration. Within this sphere resides water that is propelled out by the gas and into a bucket. The ingenious concept behind this hydraulic system lies in its ability to accumulate enough water within the bucket until its weight surpasses that of another weight positioned at the bottom right corner – effectively holding the doors closed. Once equilibrium is disrupted, gravity takes over as the descending bucket pulls on ropes intricately wound around poles attached to these grand doors. During Hero's era, such intricate devices were highly sought after due to their complexity and practicality. This historical artifact sheds light on early technological advancements and highlights Hero's exceptional inventiveness in harnessing thermal expansion for functional purposes. Displayed proudly within Science Photo Library's vast collection, this image serves as both a testament to human innovation throughout history and an inspiration for future generations fascinated by our ancestors' scientific achievements.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.