The first invention I learned about this week was the platform scale. Thaddeus Fairbanks invented the platform scale in 1830, while trying to figure out how to weigh large loads. The platform scale makes it easy to weigh large heavy objects without large counter weights or cranes. Fairbanks scale began to sell throughout the world by the mid 1800’s. Scales are still used every day in large industries.
The second invention I learned about this week was the Railroad T-rail. Robert Stevens invented the flanged t-rail after founding one of the first railroads in America in the 1830’s. The t-rail is strong, stable, durable, and easy to install. Stevens technology spread to Britain. He continually improved the design which produced tracks. The development of trains played a major roll in the American Civil War, leading to the victory of the North and the defeat of the South.
The third invention I learned about this week was Multi-coil magnets. Joseph Henry improved the electromagnet with insulated wire in 1831. The multi coil magnet uses increased coil density to develop large magnetic fields that makes their widespread practical use. Henry continued his research. The multi- coil magnet lead to the rise of the telephone and power grid.
The fourth invention I learned about this week was the mechanical reaper. Cyrus McCormick perfected his dads mechanical reaper and patented it in 1834. Pulled by a horse, it increased the crops reaped by farmers. With the help of trains and marketing he was able to expand this invention to the Midwest. Farms increased by size. Farm work laborer decreased, and food production exceeded consumption.
The most interesting thing I learned about this week was how there are different electromagnets. The first electromagnet just uses normal copper wire, but the other electromagnet uses insulated wire instead of normal copper wire. The new design has better magnetic fields for more range and stronger power.
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