Parallel rulers

Parallel rulers are a drafting instrument used by navigators to draw parallel lines on charts. The tool consists of two straight edges joined by two arms which allow them to move closer or further away while always remaining parallel to each other.

Parallel rule in plastic with aluminum arms.

History

The parallel ruler was invented in about 1584 by Fabrizio Mordente, but it was not in common use until the 18th century.[1]

Captain Field's Improved Parallel Rule

In the 19th century a retired sea captain, Captain William Andrew Field (c. 1790/1 - 1870) of Fold Farm, Herbrandston in Pembrokeshire, improved the design by adding a protractor-style scale to the upper edge of one rule, and compass points to the opposing edge, which made reading bearings easier.[1] Examples exist of boxwood, ivory or ebony, usually with brass hinges.[1][2] The instrument usually had two links, but longer models sometimes had three,[3] and sometimes the links were scissored.[4] Another variation is the "roller" model which included a cylindrical roller for ease of use.[3]

In February 1833 the same Capt. William Andrew Field rescued 14 sailors from the Sicilian brig Felicita, which was wrecked on rocks at the entrance to Sandy Haven in Milford Haven for which he received the RNLI Silver Medal and a medal from the Royal Humane Society.

See also
  • Technical drawing tools

References
  1. "Captain Field's Improved Parallel… (NAV0602) – National Maritime Museum". www.nmm.ac.uk. Retrieved 2009-06-23.
  2. "Parallel rule (NAV0601) – National Maritime Museum". www.nmm.ac.uk. Archived from the original on 2011-06-09. Retrieved 2009-06-23.
  3. "Parallels". www.mathsinstruments.me.uk. Retrieved 2009-06-23.
  4. "Parallel rule (NAV0618) – National Maritime Museum". www.nmm.ac.uk. Archived from the original on 2011-06-09. Retrieved 2009-06-23.


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