escapement wheel
Definition
- Noun:
- A toothed wheel in a timepiece (such as a clock or watch) that, together with the escapement mechanism, controls the movement of the gear train and regulates the release of energy from the mainspring or weight. It works by alternately locking and releasing the gear train, allowing it to advance at a controlled, steady rate, thereby ensuring accurate timekeeping.
Usage Examples
Advanced Usage
- "to adjust the escapement wheel": to fine-tune the position or interaction of the wheel with the pallet fork for optimal timekeeping.
- The horologist carefully adjusted the escapement wheel to correct the watch's daily drift. (The expert made small changes to improve accuracy.)
Variants and Related Words
Escapement (n): the entire mechanism that controls the motion of the gear train in a timepiece, of which the escapement wheel is a part.
- The Swiss lever escapement is a common type used in modern mechanical watches. (The mechanism that includes the escapement wheel.)
Wheel (n): a circular component that rotates on an axle, often with teeth for engaging other parts.
- The gear train consists of several wheels, including the escapement wheel. (A rotating part used in mechanical systems.)
Synonyms
- Crown wheel: a type of gear wheel sometimes used in escapement mechanisms (though not identical, it shares a function in regulating motion).
- Ratchet wheel: a wheel with teeth that allows motion in only one direction, similar in locking function.
Related Idioms
- (No common idioms directly using "escapement wheel" are found, as it is a technical term.)