In its earliest form, the capstan consisted of a timber mounted vertically through a vessel's structure which was free to rotate. Levers, known as bars, were inserted through holes at the top of the timber and used to turn the capstan. A rope wrapped several turns around the drum was thus hauled upon.

Who invented the capstan?

So, man being the ingenious cuss he is, some unknown character devised the first capstan. A Greek poet, named Nonnos, of Panopolis, who lived during the 4th century AD, wrote in his 48 volume epic poem Dionysiaca, of the “ …

What is difference between windlass and capstan?

The difference: typically a windlass has a horizontal axis (drum on the side, axis pointing to the horizon) whereas a capstan has a vertical axis. ... The capstan can be used on larger ships to tend docking lines in heavy wind. Either of these specialized power winches will mount on deck in the bow.