Geometrical Characteristics and Solid Modeling of the Grasshopper Escapement Mechanism

Abstract

This paper presents the geometrical properties of one special type of escapement mechanism – the grasshopper escapement, by which the first marine chronometers were equipped. The most important and distinguish mechanical feature of this escapement is also disclosed that contact surfaces between pallets and escapement teeth do not need lubrication. In addition, paper presents the escapement 3D solid model and explains briefly its operational cycle.