Capstan

The capstan is a mechanical device with a vertical axle which is used onboard vessels, as well as in shipyards, to multiply the force used by a seafarer or dockyard worker, when pulling cables, chains, ropes and hawsers. Consisting of a drum that is powered either by steam, by electricity or by hand, it rotates around its axis to wind in the cable or chain, wrapping it around it. Capstans work on the same principle as windlasses, although the latter have a horizontal axle as opposed to vertical.