On the positioning of the obelisks and contrasting beams

 

In the analysis of the possible ways of positioning with Egyptian means and knowledge of the large contrasting beams that make up the covering of the crypts following Khafra, the similar question relating to the obelisks was also examined. But if in the latter case it was technically plausible to use the most shared procedures, with some possible adaptations, during the investigation a scientific method also emerged, perhaps empirically known by the ancient designers, to establish the maximum length of a obelisk subjected to the tensions due to its raising, without incurring breakage. Therefore, by adapting a principle similar to that of the obelisks, it was possible to advance a possible method for installing the roof beams of the pyramidal crypts with elementary measures, examining the specific case of Khufu in which the support behind these beams had to be provided by the same superstructure. 

 

Academy of Sciences of Turin (Acc. Sc. Torino, Atti Sc. Fis. 135, 2001, 85-110)