Observations on Japanese Tribological History and Representative Heritages from Ancient to Modern Times

Abstract

It is inspiring to discover technology related to tribology throughout the history of mankind. This paper describes sketches produced by da Vinci in the 15th century corresponding to modern bearings and notable tribological achievements in Japan from ancient times. Explained herein are a project to construct bearing models based on da Vinci’s sketches, a fire-making device used in Japan since ancient times, shura sleds that were widely used in Japan, investigations of the revolving stage mechanisms of Japan’s oldest surviving theater, and ingenious automated doll devices of Japan’s Edo period that paved the way to the creation of modern humanoid robots. Lastly, this paper touches on how these technologies led to the development of Japan’s bearing industry.