The model interprets a drawing by Leonardo contained in the Codex Atlanticus and represents the axle of a cart equipped with a rolling-bearing system. Instead of fitting along its full length into the recess of a wooden or metal support, the axle rests—near the wheel hubs—on two pairs of cylindrical rollers (one on each side) which act as bearings, allowing it to rotate more quickly and with minimal friction. The invention was certainly conceived to be applied in the construction of mechanically driven carts.
Technical informations
Type of exhibit
Model
Material
Painted carved wood, metal
Measures
Width: 40 cm, Length: 41 cm; Depth: 41 cm.
Relationship with the original work
Source: Leonardo da Vinci, Codex Atlanticus, f. 1049 r
Location
Museo Leonardiano, storage