• Publications of The Korean Astronomical Society
• /
• v.28 no.2
• /
• pp.17-23
• /
• 2013

Song I-Yeong (1619 ~ 1692), who was an astronomy professor of Gwansanggam (觀象監, Bureau of Astronomy), created the Honcheonsigye (渾天時計, Armillary Clock) in 1669 (10th year of King Hyeonjong Era). Honcheonsigye was a unique astronomical clock which combined an armillary sphere, the traditional astronomical instrument of the Far East, with the power mechanism of western alarm clock. The clock part of this armillary clock is composed of two major parts which are the going-train, power unit used the weight, and the time signal system in a wooden case. The time signal system is composed of four parts which are the time-annunciator, the striking train, the 12 different time-announcing medallions and the sound bell. This clock has been neglected for many years and its several components have been lost. This study is to understand the structure of time signal system and suggests the restoration process.

• Journal of Engineering Education Research
• /
• v.5 no.1
• /
• pp.77-84
• /
• 2002

The 18th century Joseon(朝鮮) science philosopher Hong Dae-Yong(洪大容, 1731-83) tried to create his own scientific system, while partially keeping the Eastern view of nature and accepting Western science and technology. Most of all, he confirmed that Western science and technology was based on mathematical principles and accurate observation and wrote a math book, [Juhaesuyong(籌解需用)]. Therefore, we have good reason to call him a mathematician. He produced so many achievements that he can be considered a natural scientist in the late Joseon era; he accepted the Eastern view of nature critically and sometimes refused it. He also suggested new and various scientific thoughts, including an infinite universe theory, on the basis of Western scientific thought. Hong Dae-Yong emphasized the importance of practice. He understood the principle of the Western Honcheonui(渾天儀) and manufactured an alarm clock with a craftsman's help. He was an excellent engineer and he set a personal observatory. Considering the level of scientific technology at that time, it is reasonable to regard Hong Dae-Yong as a 'scientific technologist in the 18th century Joseonera', well equipped as a mathematician, a natural scientist, and an engineer. In conclusion, it is with 'mathematical thinking, creative conception, and practical activities' that Hong Dae-Yong maintained throughout his life that we can set a guide to produce excellent Korean scientific technologists and engineers in the 21st century.