Journal of Astronomy and Space Sciences

The Korean Space Science Society (한국우주과학회)
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A Study on the Operation Mechanism of Ongnu, the Astronomical Clock in Sejong Era

  • Kim, Sang-Hyuk (Basic Science Research Institute, Chungbuk National University) ;
  • Lee, Yong-Sam (Department of Astronomy and Space Science, Chungbuk National University) ;
  • Lee, Min-Soo (Department of Astronomy and Space Science, Chungbuk National University)
  • Received : 2010.07.29
  • Accepted : 2010.11.15
  • Published : 2011.03.15
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Abstract

Ongnu (Jade Clepsydra; also called Heumgyeonggaknu) is a water clock was made by Jang Yeong-sil in 1438. It is not only an automatic water clock that makes the sound at every hour on the hour by striking bell, drum and gong, but also an astronomical clock that shows the sun's movement over time. Ongnu's power mechanism used is a water-hammering method applied to automatic time-signal device. The appearance of Ongnu is modeled by Gasan (pasted-paper imitation mountain) and Binpungdo (landscape of farming work scene) is drawn at the foot of the mountain. The structure of Ongnu is divided into the top of the mountain, the foot of the mountain and the flatland. There located are sun-movement device, Ongnyeo (jade female immortal; I) and Four gods (shaped of animal-like immortals) at the top of the mountain, Sasin (jack hour) and Musa (warrior) at the foot of the mountain, and Twelve gods, Ongnyeo (II) and Gwanin on the flatland. In this study, we clearly and systematically understood the time-announcing mechanism of each puppet. Also, we showed the working mechanism of the sun-movement device. Finally, we completely established the 3D model of Ongnu based on this study.

Keywords

References

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