THE TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS THAT LED TO THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
Some of the technological innovations that led to the Industrial Revolution were:
'The Flying Shuttle' by John Kay
John Kay, a mechanic from Lancashire, created the flying shuttle. Using cords attached to a picking peg, a single weaver, using one hand, could operate the shuttle on the loom. With this invention it took four spinners to keep up with one cotton loom, and ten people to prepare yarn for one weaver. So while spinners were often busy, weavers often waited for yarn. As such, the flying shuttle effectively doubled a weaver's production of cloth.
'The Steamboat' by Robert Fulton
In 1807, Robert Fulton used steam power to create the first steamboat, an invention that would change the way and the speed in which materials could be moved between the colonies of Britain. In the beginning, the ship was more expensive to build and operate than sailing vessels, but the steamship had some advantages. It could take off under its own power and it was more steadfast in storms.
'Steam Powered Train' by Stephenson
In 1814, Stephenson used the steam engine to create a steam powered train. Soon, the steam-powered train had become an icon of success throughout the world. Britain encouraged the building of railroads in other European countries, often with British capital, equipment, and technicians. Railroads became a standard item of British export.
'Water Frame' by Richard Arkwright
In 1764, Richard Arkwright created the "water frame" to produce yarn faster. The "Spinning-Frame," its earlier name, was too large to be operated by hand. After experimenting with other sources of power, he decided to employ the power of a water wheel, and his machine became known as the water frame . Rollers produced yarn of the correct thickness, while a set of spindles twisted fibers together. The machine was able to produce a thread far stronger than any other available at the time..
'Steam Engine' by James Watt
In 1769, James Watt created the steam engine and in effect created a new source of power. Early-model steam engines were introduced to drain water and raise coal from the mines. The first steam engine was actually produced by Thomas Newcomen, but Watt later improved it. The original idea was to put a vertical piston and cylinder at the end of a pump handle and then to put steam in the cylinder and condense it with a spray of cold water.