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Between Mechanics and Harmony: The Drawing of Lissajous Curves

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Abstract

The contribution describes some aspects related to the representation of special curves; recalling mechanisms created specifically for the design of these curves, which have particular characteristics. Through the construction of a simple apparatus, consisting of two pendulums—which oscillate at the same time- it is possible to graphically reproduce Lissajous’ experiments on the commuting vibrations of the diapasons. This equipment was first built by Samuel Charles Tisley (London 1829-Unknown), under the name of harmonographer. The contribution aslo illustrates the essential characteristics of the harmonograph—born as a means of analysing vibrations—but which, by its principle belongs to mechanics, for its applications to acoustic science and geometry for the ability to draw “harmonious” curves.

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Notes

  1. Munari B., Design e comunicazione visiva- contributo a una metodologia didattica, Editori Laterza, Bari (1974).

  2. See: Reichardt J. (Editor). Cybernetic Serandndipity, the computer andth earts, London-New York (1968, p. 49).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy

    Arturo Gallozzi

  2. University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy

    Rodolfo Maria Strollo

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  1. Arturo Gallozzi
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  2. Rodolfo Maria Strollo
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Correspondence to Arturo Gallozzi.

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Gallozzi, A., Strollo, R.M. Between Mechanics and Harmony: The Drawing of Lissajous Curves. Found Sci 29, 205–224 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10699-023-09906-z

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