Ladle machine, 1754.

Model of a ladle machine for raising water

Model of a machine which uses ladles to lift water, 1754. Dr. Stephen Demainbray (1710-1782), a lecturer in experimental philosophy, was given this model by the Marquis de Grolliers when he was in Lyons in 1754. Turning the handle operated the water wheel which turned the shaft running across the top of the machine. As the shaft turned one way the first series of ladles scooped water from each reservoir while the second poured water into the next reservoir. When the shaft turned back the first series emptied while the second refilled. Hence water was lifted through the height of the machine.