Technologies
Each entry explains a technology, the problems it solves and its connections.
Filters: 1500 – 1799Clear
Rifling
Late 15th century: the technology was already present in German regions · matureIndustry · MilitaryRifling inside the barrel spins a projectile to improve its stability in flight; it is a separate aspect of firearm technology from the ignition system.
Matchlock firearm
Mid-to-late 15th century: development of matchlock mechanisms in Europe · replacedMilitaryA mechanical mechanism controls a burning match for ignition, making it easier to coordinate holding the firearm and firing it.
Wheellock firearm
Around 1500: wheellock mechanisms appear in Europe · replacedMilitaryA spring-driven wheel strikes sparks against an ignition material, reducing dependence on a continuously burning match.
Binary numeral system
Developed in the 17th century; used in electronic computing in the 20th century · matureIndustry · InformationA numeral system that uses only 0 and 1 to represent values and states, providing a common representation for reliable digital switching and computer encoding.
Breech-loading firearm technology
Earlier origins; a Ferguson flintlock breechloader from around 1780 was confirmed in this review · matureMilitaryAmmunition is loaded through the rear of the barrel, with breech locking and gas sealing among the central challenges.
Charcoal production
Known in antiquity; became a metallurgical fuel before and around modern industrialization · matureEnergy · Industry · MaterialsHeating wood with no oxygen or limited oxygen to obtain a solid fuel with a higher fixed-carbon content and better suitability for high-temperature combustion.
Flintlock firearms
Early 17th century: the mature French flintlock mechanism; other spark-striking designs preceded it · replacedMilitaryIgnites the charge with sparks produced by flint striking steel; mature European mechanisms and late-Ming zisheng huochong require separate documentation.
Steam engines
Improved in the 18th century and adopted in factories, mines, and transport · replacedEnergy · Industry · TransportA heat engine that converts the pressure of steam produced by a boiler into reciprocating or rotary mechanical work.