Travois

The rod loop is a device used since the Neolithic Europe for transporting goods between field and forest and settlement on rough terrain. The rod loop created by the use of the plow and went forth from the constellation ox - yoke - plow.

Function

The basic design consists of two long poles and a cross of wood, which are connected to an isosceles triangle. The pointed end of the device is carried or pulled by oxen, and faces forward. The wide end with the rod attached between the long spars was dragged across the floor. Objects are stacked on the frame and tied. In order to accommodate small-scale charge fabric or leather was spread over the bars.

Slide and rod loops represent the first transport device with which one could carry loads on land without having to wear them. In the loop, however, a part of the load and the design weight is to wear. Applies for a good off-road as an advantage over other means of transport. With the use of slide and rod grinding a higher sliding resistance is sure to overcome rolling resistance compared to the wheeled vehicle. The material wear is higher in a loop at the beginning of use. In the course of the use of the material is smooth and abrasion decreases. In addition, the abrasion varies greatly depending on soil conditions and load, such as grassland or stony ground.

The oldest bar loop found is from 3100 BC and was in chalain ( Fontenu, Jura) unearthed in France. On Mont Bego in the Val de Fontanalbe exist carvings showing a duck in a loop. In Kamen Well Mogila near Melitopol in Ukraine show carvings oxen and a plow in front of a rod loop. Remains of a loop were also found in the bog settlement Reute - Schorrenried.

Steppe

In Ukraine, the shape of the horse-drawn unit known as Femerstangenschleife.

North America

Used in North America Plains Indians similar transporting devices. This as a travois (in French for a Harness, from the Latin word tripoli, three rods assembled) designated loops were drawn before the introduction of horses by people or dogs.

Travois the Kainai