What do you call an inclined plane wrapped around a central cylinder to form a spiral?

An inclined plane wrapped around a central cylinder to form a spiral is called a screw. This structure is a classic example of a simple machine that converts rotational motion into linear motion. The inclined plane allows for a gradual increase in height with less force needed compared to lifting a load straight up, making it easier to move objects vertically.

The geometry of a screw consists of a helical ridge, which is essentially the inclined plane that spirals around the cylinder. As the screw turns, the inclined surface pushes the object upward along the height of the cylinder. This is not just limited to woodworking screws; it also applies to various tools and machinery that utilize screws for lifting or fastening purposes.

While terms like spiral ramp, cylinder, and helix describe different concepts, they do not specifically represent the combination of an inclined plane and a central cylinder working together in the manner a screw does. The term "spiral ramp" might suggest a similar concept but does not encompass the mechanics of a screw. A cylinder refers merely to the shape, while a helix describes a three-dimensional spiral but lacks the function associated with a screw.