Introduction to the background of traditional tenon and mortise technology in China

The tenon-mortise structure is the greatest masterpiece of ancient carpenters in China. Its exquisite structure and clever use of physics make the tool of tenon-mortise structure connection very strong. The tenon-mortise structure also has a nickname, called "eternal prison". This means that items connected by tenon-mortise structure will not be damaged for 10 thousand years. As for who invented the tenon-mortise structure, there are different opinions among the people and historical materials.

According to folklore, the tenon-mortise structure was first invented by Lu Ban, the grandfather of the carpenter, and later developed by Lu Ban's disciples. This statement was probably first circulated by carpenters, because the carpenter's grandfather was Lu Ban, and the tenon-mortise structure was the carpenter's greatest invention. Therefore, most carpenters are willing to give credit to their grandfather Lu Ban.

According to historical records, the earliest tenon-mortise structure found in tombs and sites dates back to Hemudu site. Archaeologists have found a large number of dry film mortise and tenon structures in Hemudu site. Such as fire convex square tenon, double-layer square tenon, dovetail joint and so on.

However, whether it was invented by Luban or Hemudu people, it was the technical crystallization of ancient craftsmen in China, and its influence on later generations was immeasurable. With the development of modern life, many high-tech products have replaced the handicraft skills of ancient people. However, the result of over-reliance on scientific and technological products often makes us suffer unexpected losses. Many times, a small screw is loose, which will cause incalculable consequences.

Therefore, in today's science and technology, scientists began to reflect more and more, and ancient inventions and technologies similar to mortise and tenon structures began to be more and more applied to the field of science and technology.