Modeling, 3D Printing and Mechanical Analysis of Roman Patenotre

Mineral extraction works in mines can be accompanied by problems derived from water infiltration. The networks of galleries are receptors of infiltration water that are transformed into small subway watercourses that circulate towards the lower points of exploitation. The need to evacuate the water to the exterior makes it necessary to channel the water from the different galleries to a drainage gallery at the lowest level, and from there, it is conveyed to a surface hydraulic network. Already in Roman times, different systems for lifting and pumping water were developed, which were mentioned by Vitruvius: the Tympanum, bucket wheel, bucket chain, Archimedes’ screw, and Ctesibius’ machine. This paper analyzes a system devised about 2000 years ago and attributed to the Roman architect and engineer Vitruvius. The mechanism called Paternoster or Patenotre is a vertical pumping system that resembles a rosary; it has a rope-type traction system with knots or discs that push the water through a tube by the force of a wheel at the top of the well or work site. To complete the study, geometric modeling was carried out using a computer-aided design program, obtaining a three-dimensional model of the Roman mechanism and providing detailed documentation with sketches and plans. Subsequently, the 3D printing of the mechanism and a mechanical and similarity analysis were carried out.