Georg Lankensperger (also: Lankensberger), (31 March 1779 – 11 July 1847) was a German wheelwright who invented the steering mechanism that is today known as Ackermann steering geometry. He patented the invention in Germany, but his agent Rudolph Ackermann filed for the patent in the U.K.
Also the birthplace of Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger) in 1927.
Early life
editLankensperger was born in Marktl in the district of Oberbayern in Germany.
Career
editLankensperger invented his steering mechanism in 1816 as Hofwagner (Court waggoner) in Munich, to allow the front wheels of a carriage to individually follow the natural arc of its turning circle, rather than skidding and slipping when they are forced to each share a common arc with the conventional pivoted axle. It continues to be used in horse-drawn carriages and passenger cars to this day.[1][2]
Death
editHe died at Birkenstein near Berlin.
References
edit- ^ Veröffentlicht: „Wöchentlicher Anzeiger für Kunst- und Gewerbfleiß im Königreich Baiern“, No. 24, 15. Juni 1816, Spalte 394
- ^ Bayerisches Privileg für Georg Lankensberger vom 25. Mai 1816