Tools: Libbey-Owens-Ford's Sun Angle Calculator

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With all of the technological sophistication available today, it's fascinating to think about the tools and data available to early solar architects.  Previously I discussed Whit Smith's solar tool , a homemade device using solar cotangent diagrams published in 1938.

The first commercially-available solar tool (that I am aware of) was made by the Libbey-Owens-Ford glass company beginning in 1951.  I recently purchased one as a gift for a friend, and took a few pictures before sending it along.

L-O-F calculator (3).jpg
L-O-F calculator (1).jpg

Earlier, in 1946, Libbey-Owens-Ford had patented a slide-rule type of device: "Method and Apparatus for use in Designing Solar Houses".   It was never produced as far as I can tell.