Fusee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fusee
[fjuːˈziː ]
Definition
mechanical device
A fusee is a conical gear used in clockwork to maintain a consistent speed of the clock's mechanism. It helps regulate the force of the mainspring as it unwinds, ensuring accurate timekeeping.
Synonyms
conical gear, fusee chain.
Examples of usage
- The clockmaker installed a new fusee in the antique clock.
- The design of the fusee is crucial for the clock's precision.
- She admired the intricate mechanism of the fusee in the grand grandfather clock.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Engineering
- Fusee devices help maintain consistent movement in clocks, compensating for changes in momentum.
- It represents a significant innovation in horology, allowing for more accurate timekeeping compared to earlier mechanical designs.
Cultural Significance
- Fusees symbolize the blend of artistry and science in clock-making, where aesthetics and precision are equally important.
- In literary works, references to timepieces with fusees often highlight themes of time management and the passage of time.
Advantages in Timekeeping
- The fusee works by using a conical pulley, creating a variable tension that helps regulate the asynchrony of the clock’s movement.
- This mechanical ingenuity allows clocks to run remarkably accurately over lengthy periods, reflecting human ingenuity.
Origin of 'fusee'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the French word 'fusée', meaning 'rocket' or 'fuse', which indicates its role in connection.
- The term evolved in English to describe clock mechanisms in the 18th century, reflecting technological advancements in timekeeping.
The term 'fusee' originates from the French word 'fusée', which means 'rocket' or 'spindle'. This is derived from the Latin 'fusus', meaning 'spindle', due to the shape of the device resembling that of a spindle. The concept was employed in horology to improve the performance of mechanical clocks and watches, especially during the 17th century. The design and application of the fusee reflected advancements in clockmaking technology, leading to more reliable timepieces that could provide consistent readings despite variations in tension of the mainspring. The clever integration of the fusee allowed artisans to create clocks that were more accurate and durable.