lantern pinion
Definition
Noun: A lantern pinion is a specific type of gear component. It is a small pinion (a small gear) that uses cylindrical rods or bars as its engaging elements instead of traditional, machined gear teeth. This simpler, less expensive design is primarily used in low-cost clock mechanisms.
Usage
The term lantern pinion is a technical noun used in mechanics, horology (the study of timekeeping), and engineering to describe a specific gear design. - It functions as the subject or object in a sentence. - It is often modified by adjectives like small, brass, or clockwork.
Examples
- The repair required replacing the broken lantern pinion inside the antique timepiece.
- Compared to a cut-tooth pinion, a lantern pinion is cheaper to manufacture but less efficient.
- In the diagram, the lantern pinion engages with the crown wheel.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: The lantern pinion was a common solution in early clockmaking and simple machinery before precision gear-cutting became widespread. Its design is emblematic of practical, cost-effective engineering.
Variants and Related Words
- Pinion (n): A general term for a small gear that meshes with a larger gear or a rack.
- Lantern Gear (n): A synonymous term for lantern pinion.
- Crown Wheel (n): A type of gear, often with teeth at a right angle to its plane, that frequently pairs with a lantern pinion in clock escapements.
Synonyms
- Lantern gear
- Rod pinion
- Cage gear
Antonyms
- Cut-tooth pinion (a pinion with traditionally shaped, machined teeth)
- Spur gear (a gear with straight teeth cut into its cylindrical surface)
Related Phrases and Technical Terms
- Escapement mechanism: The part of a clock where a lantern pinion is often found, regulating the release of energy.
- Friction drive: A lantern pinion operates partly on this principle, with its rods rolling against the teeth of the mating gear.
- Inexpensive clockwork: A common descriptive phrase for the application of lantern pinions.
Noun
-
a small pinion having cylindrical bars instead of teeth, used chiefly in inexpensive clocks
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