Model of Cones with a Common Vertex by Richard P. Baker, Baker #507 (a Ruled Surface)

This geometric model was constructed by Richard P. Baker in the early twentieth century when he was Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Iowa. Baker believed that models were essential for the teaching of many parts of mathematics and physics, and over one hundred of his models are in the museum collections.

The typed part of a paper label now attached to the top metal bar of the frame reads: No. 507 (/) FOUR POINT CONTACT; ROOTS 3. The model has a wooden frame painted black, held together with metal screws and a metal crosspiece. The threads go crosswise. They represent two double elliptic cones, one with blue threads and one with yellow. The ellipses at both ends are of the same size and perpendicular to one another. They each meet at four points. Threads passing through these points of intersection are collinear

This was the fourth of five models Wheeler designed of “cones with a common vertex.” Four of these are in the Smithsonian collections. They are Wheeler’s numbers 504 (MA.211257.098), 505 (MA.211257.099), 507 (MA.211257.100), and 508 MA.211257.101).

Reference:

Richard P. Baker, “Mathematical Models,” Iowa City, Iowa, January, 1931, p. 10.

Currently not on view