The Engineering and Programming Methods Used in Manufacture of Astrolabes and Errors Resulting

TL;DR

This paper reviews traditional astrolabe manufacturing methods, identifies errors, and introduces a computer-assisted analytical approach to improve design accuracy and revive this historical instrument using modern technology.

Contribution

It presents a novel computer-assisted analytical method for designing astrolabes, reducing manufacturing errors and modernizing the production process.

Findings

Identification of key sources of manufacturing errors

Development of a computer-aided design approach

Potential for producing more accurate astrolabe models

Abstract

In this study, we first reviewed the traditional astrolabe design methods and identified potential sources of manufacturing error. We then proposed an analytical approach using computer assistance to develop designs for the astrolabe components. This approach marks a pioneering step toward designing and producing a physical astrolabe model aided by computer technology. Our goal was to revive this significant heritage instrument while leveraging modern techniques and software to produce astrolabe models free from traditional manufacturing inaccuracies.