IMPROVEMENTS IN GIVING SIGNALS ON RAILWAYS BY ELECTRICITY AND IN INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH
Year: 1854

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Edward Tyer, of No. 3, Rhodes Terrace, Queen's
Road, Dalston, in the County of Middlesex, Electrical Engineer, for the
Invention of is Tunne CIZING STRATEGY TOLLY
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Edward Tyer at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on the 10th January.
1854.
I EDWARD TYER of Number 8 Rhodes Terrace Queen's Road Dalston
in the County of Middlesex Electrical Engineer do hereby declare the
nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN GIVING SIGNALS ON RAILWAYS
BY ELECTRICITY AND IN INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH."― to
be as follows
The first part of my Invention relates to the arrangement of certain appa-
ratus on a railway in such a manner that the wheels of a train actuating the.
said apparatus whilst passing over it, close, reverse, break, or couple up, electric
circuits, whereby signals are transmitted to stations, indicating the position of
the said train.
The second part of my Invention relates to the arrangement of cer-
tain apparatus in conjunction with one or more of the rails of a railway in
such a manner that whenever the rail or rails is or are deflected from the
natural position caused by the weight of an engine or train, such deflection.
21364-2.
A

page_text: operating upon mechanical contrivances close or couple up electric circuits,
whereby signals are transmitted to the station indicating the position of the
train.
The third part of my Invention relates to the application and combination
of magneto-electric machines, with either of the before-mentioned contrivances
for the purpose of giving signals on railways.
The fourth part of my Invention relates to various arrangements of tele-
graphic instruments which being in connection with any of the aforesaid
apparatus are operated upon by the electric currents transmitted therefrom
and serve to indicate, or otherwise record the position of a train or trains.
The fifth part of my Invention relates to certain methods of actuating
telegraphic alarums for the purpose of calling attention to the signals given.
The sixth part of my Invention relates to certain instruments and apparatus
fixed at a station for the purpose of reversing or altering the direction of
electrical currents in order to call into action any of the before-mentioned
parts of my instruments or apparatus.
The seventh part of my Invention relates to a certain apparatus and instru-
ments fixed upon a railway in such a manner that the instruments and
apparatus mentioned in the eighth part of my Invention being fixed-on an
engine or train and making contact with a portion of such apparatus fixed on
the railway receive a signal from the station as to the state of the line in
advance.
The eighth part of my Invention relates to certain instruments and appa-
ratus fixed upon an engine or train in such a manner as to be operated upon
whenever the instruments or apparatus so fixed come into contact with a
portion of the seventh part of my Invention by means of currents of electricity
transmitted therefrom.
The ninth part of my Invention relates to the insulation of wires for the
purpose of giving signals by electricity.
The tenth part of my Invention relates to certain arrangements of lightning
conductors for the purpose of warding off any injurious effect that might be
caused by atmospherical electricity entering any of the instruments or apparatus.
The eleventh part of my Invention relates to certain arrangements for the
preservation of the zinc plates used to generate the electricity, for giving
signals therewith.
The twelfth part of my Invention relates to the combination of several of
the before-mentioned instruments and apparatus together with other arrange-
ments for the purpose of causing electrical currents to explode detonating
signals, lighting coloured fires and exhibiting signals on railways.

page_text: First part of Invention. Fig. 1. Sheet 1. represents a spring lever or
treadle which being fixed in close proximity to the rail the wheels of a train
in passing over it, give it a downward motion and thereby actuate other
apparatus for the purpose of closing, reversing breaking or coupling up
electric currents.
Fig 2. Sheet 1 represents a plan of the same shewing the method of fixing.
A is the spring lever. B the plank or base to which it is fastened
C a guard
to prevent stones dirt &c. getting underneath D D the sleepers to which
the rails are fixed EE the rails, Fa tube to convey the wires from the
treadle under the rail to protect them from injury.
Fig. 3. Sheet 1 represents a simple spring to be fixed in the same manner
and used for the same purpose.
Fig: 4. Sheet 1. a lever and counterpoise for the same purpose.
Fig. 5 Sheet 1 represents a simple method of closing an electric circuit by
the wheel of a railway train, A is a spring connected with the earth, Ba
cylinder having a piston rod worked by a helical spring and in connexion
with the line wire, the spring A being pressed down by the wheel of a train
comes in contact with the piston of the cylinder and closes the circuit.
Fig. 6. Sheet 1 shews an arrangement for closing a circuit. The cylinder A
is attached to a metallic plate, to which is fastened one wire, the other wire
is attached to a spring B, and upon the piston being depressed it comes into
contact with the spring B and closes the circuit, C is a small cap or shoot
to turn off the wet.
Fig. 7 Sheet 1 shews an arrangement for the same purpose, and is used
when the circuit of the line wire is required to be closed without any earth
circuit.
Fig: 8. Sheet 1. shews an arrangement for breaking the circuit, removing
out of circuit an instrument, and by introducing into the breach the battery,
a signal is transmitted up the line and down the line without actuating the
instrument that formerly made part of the circuit. Fig. 9 shews an end
elevation and Fig: 10 a plan, the same letters refer to the same parts in all
three figures. A A. the line wires in connexion with B. B the instrument
wires. C. C. the wires from the battery.
Fig: 11 Sheet 1. shews the general arrangement of spring levers, springs,
or levers and counterpoises together with the apparatus for transmitting the
electric currents, A, is a box for enclosing the connectors, to preserve them

page_text: from wet dust and dirt, each time a wheel passes over the treadle a contact
is formed and a signal transmitted to the station.
Fig: 1. Sheet 2 represents another method of closing a circuit and consists
of a quadrant fixed on to the axle of the treadle with a spring pressing against
it. Upon the downward motion of the treadle the spring comes into contact
with a slip of brass or other metal fixed at the edge of the quadrant and
thereby closes the circuit and transmits the signal.
Fig: 2 Sheet 2. shews an arrangement for accomplishing the same effects
as Fig: 8 Sheet 1, the circuit is represented as closed by the strip of metal
uniting the two springs to which are attached the line wires, the battery
wires are fixed to the two pieces of metal on the upper side, and upon the
partial revolution of the cylinder come into contact with the springs, the cur-
rent passes and the signal given.
Fig 3 Sheet 2. shews an elevation of the same apparatus.
Fig: 4 Sheet 2. represents a box to contain the connectors Figs. 1 or 2
and has a stuffing box on the side in order that the axle of the treadle may
pass air-tight through it, together with a tube to convey the wires safely
under the rail.
Fig. 5 Sheet 2 shews the general arrangement of treadle with either
Figures 1. or 2 and Figure 6 a plan of same fitted up with connector Fig: 2.
Another form or method of closing a voltaic circuit is to have a small tube
of either glass or ivory closed at one end and having a wire or wires passing
through this closed end, the open end dips into a reservoir of mercury con-
tained in an elastic bag, whenever the bag is pressed upon the air contained
therein is condensed which forces the mercury up the tube and coming in
contact with the wire or wires fixed therein closes the circuit the pressure
being withdrawn the mercury falls and the circuit is broken.
Second part of Invention. Fig. 7 Sheet 2 represents a rail in conjunction
with any of the apparatus before described for the purpose of closing re-
versing breaking and coupling up electric currents. An engine or train in
passing over the rail bends or deflects it to a small extent, but sufficient
to close, reverse break or couple up electric circuits, the rail resumes its
former position after the engine or train has passed over it the circuit is
thereby broken or resumed as the case may be.
Third part of Invention. Figs. 8. 9. 10 Sheet 2 represent magneto-elec-
tric machines with cylinders and helical springs attached. These being fixed in
similar positions as the connectors with respect to the spring levers, springs or
levers and counterpoises as before described are set in motion thereby each
time a wheel of an engine or train passes over a current of electricity is induced

page_text: in the coils which is transmitted along the line wires and actuates instruments
fixed at the station giving the signal, the general arrangement of magneto
machines in conjunction with the spring treadle is shewn in Fig. 1 Sheet 6.
Fourth part of Invention. Figs. 1 to 7 Sheet 3 represent several arrange-
ments of telegraphic signal instruments in all of which of which a dead-beat
movement is given to the indicator and the signal once given remains per-
manent until operated upon a second time by another electric current, the
object of this arrangement will at once be manifest by referring to Figures 8
and 9 which are intended to represent the external form of instruments fitted
up internally with either of the preceding figures for example in Figure 8
the signal "danger" being given it is requisite that the indicator should
retain its position until operated upon by another electric current when it will
at once pass over to "all clear" the same applies equally to Fig. 9. In
Fig. 1 and 2 the permanent magnetic needle is hung between the poles of a
temporary or electro magnet, the mutual attraction between the pole of the
permanent magnet and the soft iron cores of the electro magnet is sufficient
to retain it in either of the two positions it is caused to assume by the electric
current.
Fig. 2. Sheet 3. is a plan of Fig: 1.
Fig. 3. ditto Is an elevation and Fig. 4 a plan of an instrument having
two permanent magnets mounted with their centres of suspension below the
centre of gravity consequently they will remain in whichever of two positions
they are placed these magnets are actuated by electric currents passing
through the coils as understood.
Fig. 5. Sheet 3. Shews a galvanometer instrument the needle is as usual
in the interior but on the axis is placed a disc having one or more cuts or
notches in it. A small weighted lever falls into one of these notches when-
ever the needle is deflected by an electric current, a small electro magnet
and armature releases this catch when required by transmitting an electric
current through the coils a dead-beat movement is thereby obtained.
Fig. 6. Sheet 3 Shews a similar arrangement and is to be used whenever
the signal is required to remain permanent until released by hand the small
cylinder and piston rod with the finger stud on the top serves to release
the catch.
Fig. 7. Sheet 3. represents an arrangement of telegraphic signal instrument
for the same purpose, here a permanent magnet is fixed between the cham-
fered poles of two electro magnets and when operated upon is allowed to
come in actual contact with them the residual magnetism retains the perma-
nent magnet in its fixed position until released by hand, as in Fig. 6, either

page_text: of these instruments can have a slender spring pressing upon a small disc fixed
to the axle of the indicator in order to overcome any vibration that they may
be subject to.
The whole of these instruments may be fitted up with line wires and con-
nected with any of the apparatus before described and fixed in close proximity
to the rail, the wheels of a railway engine or train closing, reversing, break-
ing, or coupling up the electric circuits as before described operate upon these
instruments all or either and the position of the train is signalled to or from
the station or in any other part of the line it may be requisite to receive
such signal.
Fifth part of Invention. The plans I adopt for actuating alarms or striking
bells so as to call attention to signals given are as follows 1st by calling
into action local batteries (to strike the bell by direct strokes) and secondly
by liberating machinery for the purpose of making and breaking the circuit
in measured time, so as to allow time for the electro-magnets to accomplish
their work, by the first arrangement I can so adjust the battery power to
the work to be done that a current say of a second duration is not of sufficient
length to cause the electro magnet to arrive at its maximum of attractive
force, but by continuing the current for some time longer the electro-magnet
arrives at its greatest strength, the armature is attracted and the bell struck,
the second arrangement is intended to set in motion a large bell outside the
station and is accomplished as follows, the train in passing over any of my
connections transmits a signal to the station but the rapid manner in which a
train passes over such connection is not of sufficient duration to ring in
measured strokes a large station bell, but by liberating mechanism thereby
and causing a wheel to revolve having on its circumference a series of metallic
slips arranged in various lengths with suitable springs pressing thereon the
electric current can be prolonged altho' the train may have passed over
the treadle and connection and consequently a long contact being made the
electro-magnet has time to work and the bell rings in measured strokes.
Fig. 10. Shews the method of closing the circuit of a local battery for
the purpose of producing strong mechanical effects similar to the foregoing
the armature being attracted by the electro-magnet, the pin A, comes into
contact with the disc B. and the circuit is complete.
Fig. 11, Sheet 3. represents an arrangement for calling into action a local
battery at a distant station either positively or negatively in order to produce
two distinct effects, it is merely a compound arrangement of Fig. 10.
Fig. 1. Sheet 4 Shews a further arrangement and is used when it is
required to call the distant battery into action negatively, but when no

page_text: current is passing through the electro magnets. A. A, the local battery at this
distant place is always set positively.
The three last instruments are or may be used for many other purposes than
the mere striking of bells, and are intended to be employed for the purpose of
calling into action local batteries at distant stations or places in order to record
or point out signals or work signal apparatus generally by the agency of local
batteries.
The sixth part of Invention. Fig. 2, Sheet 4 Shews a plan for reversing
the direction of electrical currents and is used for calling into action any of
the before-mentioned telegraphic instruments together with several instru-
ments that will be explained in the following parts of this Provisional
Specification on one surface of a non-conducting material one fitted three
pieces of metal A. B. C. A and C. being in metallic contact with one pole
of the battery and B. with the other pole D. E. are two springs pressing on
the surface of this non-conducting material but not touching either of the
pieces of metal the ends of these springs are in connection with the line wires,
now as soon as this arrangement is moved a little way either to the right or
the left the pieces of metal come into contact with the springs and the current
is transmitted and according to the direction in which the apparatus is moved
so will be the direction of the current the lower portion shewn as F is for
the purpose of introducing a key to turn on or turn off this current director
similar to an ordinary lock.
Fig. 3 Sheet 4 Is a modification of the foregoing arrangement and is used
for the purpose of keeping the circuit closed so as to allow of the free passage
of electricity from distance places, and at the same time to enable the operator
to break the circuit and introduce into the breach the battery poles in order
to transmit a signal this contrivance is shewn as working with an ordinary
bell pull.
Fig. 4 and 5 Sheet 4 represent the exterior of an apparatus fitted up
in
the interior with one or more of the current reversers as described the signals
written thereon are intended to correspond with the other signal instruments
and apparatus before described.
Another method of reversing the direction of an electrical current is to have
a cylinder mounted on its axis, having on its circumference several pieces of
metal, so arranged that upon causing the cylinder partially to revolve the slip
or slips of metal come into contact with two or more metalic springs, and
thereby close the circuit in one direction, and upon revolving the cylinder the
contrary way a current is transmitted in a reverse direction.
Seventh part of Invention.. Fig. 1 Sheet 5. is intended to represent two

page_text: +
metallic bars placed in any convenient position upon a railway but always
parallel to the rails one of these bars is in communication with the earth
the other with the line wire which terminates at the station with any of the
telegraphic signal instruments already described.
Fig. 2 is an elevation of one of the bars having an incline at each end.
Fig. 3 Sheet 5 is a spring lever, or a simple spring may be used two of
these are fixed to an engine or train in such a manner that as the engine
or train passes over the two parallel bars Fig. 1 and 2 the levers rise up one
incline, ride along the level surface and down the other incline forming metallic
contact with the line wire and the earth or with a local battery placed by the
side of the rails a wire passing accross the engine from one spring lever to the
other transmits a current, and if an instrument is fitted on the engine or train
that instrument will be actuated by the current so passing giving a signal from
the station to the engine driver, guard or other person.
Figs. 4 and 5 Shew a reverse arrangement of the foregoing, here the parallel
*bars are fixed on the engine or other part of the train, and the spring levers
by the side of the rails upon contact being made as the engine or train passes
over the current passes and the signal is given.
Eighth part of Invention. Fig. 6 Sheet 5. Shews a plan for liberating
steam from the boiler of a locomotive for the purpose of sounding a whistle
and is called into action by the electro magnet, A, said magnet being excited
by the engine and spring levers passing over the parallel bars and receiving
electricity therefrom.
Fig. 7 A similar arrangement but here a falling weight turns on the steam
'the weight is caused to fall by the electro magnet attracting the soft iron
'catch, A.
Fig. 8 A contrivance for turning off the regulator of a locomotive by the
agency of electro magnetism the steam being admitted into the cylinder a,
by similar means to the last two described plans the piston of said cylinder
pressing against the end of the regulator turns it off, a falling weight is also
applicable to this purpose all these signals are given to the engine or train
whilst in motion from the station to which the train may be approaching and
may be used separately or in conjunction with any of the before described
instruments or apparatus for the purpose of giving signals on railways.
Ninth part of Invention. Figs. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Sheet 5 represent a
plan for insulating the wires used in transmitting the electric currents for the
purpose of giving signals it consists of boring holes in the posts and driving
into them metal spikes or screws having a small hole at one end to pass the
wire which is bound to this spike or screw and soldered, the whole is then

page_text: coated with an insulating varnish or other material, the holes in the post
serving to throw off the rain a metal shoot is shewn in addition at Fig. 12.
Fig. 13 is merely a piece of wood cut into the shape shewn and a spike driven
across, which serves to hold up the wire.
Tenth part of Invention. Fig. 14 Sheet 5 represents a plan to prevent any
injury being done to telegraphic signal instruments by atmospherical electricity
and consists of a flat metallic coil composed of two ribbons of thin metal
wound round each other having a thin flexible, porous or perforated non-
conducting material placed between them one of these ribbons is in direct
communication with the earth, the other with the line wire the line wire
enters the centre of the coil and terminates on the exterior should atmo-
spherical electricity enter it always tends to take the outer conductor which in
this case being the second ribbon and only having a thin non-conducting
material between, it will pass by this outer ribbon direct to the earth, without
injury to the telegraphic instruments.
Eleventh part of Invention. Figs. 15 and 16. Sheet 5. represent zinc
plates used in the batteries for giving signals by electricity. The novelty
consists in having a cup or reservoir in the upper part of the zinc cylinders
or plates, such cup or reservoir being filled with mercury it gradually
percolates through the pores of the metal and thereby keeps it thoroughly
amalgamated.
Fig. 17 represents a contrivance for mechanically retaining a film of
hydrogen on the surface of the zinc plates and consists in wrapping tightly
round the metal any perforated, flexible, porous non-conducting substance,
and retaining the same in its position by one or more elastic bands, especially
one placed at the upper surface, by which the hydrogen formed during the
action of the battery is retained on the surface of the metal and can only
escape through the pores, or perforations made in the material this film
of hydrogen being retained prevents local action to a very considerable
extent.
Twelfth part of Invention. Figs. 2 and.3 Sheet 6 represent two chambers
to be filled with gunpowder or other explosive substance having a thin metallic
wire passing into it a current of electricity passing through this thin wire
renders it red hot and the gunpowder explodes giving the engine driver guard
or other person in charge of a train a signal of "danger." 6 of these chambers
are represented in Fig: 4 one end of the entire 6 are in communication with
the negative end of a small battery and 6 wires Nod 1 to 6 are in communi-
cation with the fine metallic wire passing into the centre of the gunpowder
the ends of these 6 wires are attached to the terminals of 6 springs which

page_text: press on the circumference of a cylinder of non-conducting material as shewn
in Fig. 5 this cylinder has a strip or strips of metal placed upon it in such a
manner that upon the cylinder being partially revolved each spring comes into
contact with this slip of metal alternately, and this slip being in connexion
with the positive pole of the battery the circuit is completed every time
the springs touch the strip of metal and one of the chambers is instantly
fired.
Fig. 6 represents the method of causing the cylinder to revolve the electro
magnet when excited attracts the armature and causes by means of a simple
racket wheel and catch, the cylinder to revolve and one of the chambers to be
fired each time the electro magnet is excited.
Figs. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12 Shew an entire arrangement and combination
of several instruments and apparatus before described for the purpose of
exploding detonating signals, lighting colored fires and exhibiting signals on
a railway.
Fig. 7. is the spring lever a spring fixed by the side of the rail having its
connector fixed underneath as represented.
Fig. 8 a series of four chambers fitted as before described.
Fig. 9 One of the instruments before described for calling into action the
local battery.
Fig. 10. The electro magnet, ratchet, and cylinder for the purpose of closing
the circuit with either of the chambers.
Fig. 11 and 12 the instrument at station with its key for reversing and
turning on the current so as to call the other parts into action.
This latter instrument when pointing to "off" shews that the circuit is
broken in two places so that a train in passing over the spring lever Fig. 7
only closes one of the said breaches in the circuit and consequently only one
being closed no effect is produced. but by turning the handle over to "fix" a
current is started from the station and passing through the electro magnet in
connexion with the cylinder fixes one of the chambers in the circuit the
handle is then turned over to "on" which has the effect of closing one of
the breaches in the circuit so that should an engine or train now pass over
the spring lever the circuit would now be complete throughout and the
chamber a colored fire would instantly be ignited. The signal light a colored
fire can be ignited if required upon the engine or other part of the train, in
the same manner and by the same means as the signal is transmitted to the
engine or train.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent, filed
by the said Edward Tyer in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 8th
July 1854.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME; I EDWARD
TYER of No. 3 Rhodes Terrace Queen's Road Dalston in the County of
Middlesex Electrical Engineer send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria by Her Letters
Patent bearing date the Tenth day of January in the year of our Lord, One
thousand eight hundred and fifty-four in the seventeenth year of Her reign,
did for Herself, Her heirs and successors, give and grant unto me the said
Edward Tyer Her special licence that I the said Edward Tyer my executors,
administrators and assigns, or such others as I the said Edward Tyer my
executors, administrators and assigns should at any time agree with, and
no others, from time to time and at all times thereafter during the term
therein expressed, should and lawfully might make, use, exercise, and vend,
within the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and Ireland, the Channel
Islands and Isle of Man, an Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN GIVING SIGNALS
ON RAILWAYS BY ELECTRICITY AND IN INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS CONNECTED
THEREWITH upon the condition (amongst others) that I the said Edward
Tyer by an instrument in writing under my hand and seal should particu-
larly describe and ascertain the nature of the said Invention, and in what
manner the same was to be performed, and cause the same to be filed in the
Great Seal Patent Office within six calendar months next and immediately
after the date of the said Letters Patent :
"
NOW KNOW YE, that I the said Edward Tyer do hereby declare the
nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to be performed,
to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the following statement ;
that is to say
The first part of my Invention relates to improvements in apparatus which
are to be fixed at any required point or place upon a railway, in such a manner
and in such a position, that the wheels of an engine or train, or other moving
body passing over such apparatus, shall impart motion to certain instruments
herein-after called "connectors" whereby electric currents or circuits are closed
broken reversed or coupled up which electric currents actuating or operating
upon other electro-magnetic instruments (included in the same circuit) shall
serve to point out, register or otherwise record the position or positions of any
engine or train, that may be passing or has passed over such apparatus.
The methods I adopt in order to carry out this first part of my
Invention

page_text: will be more readily understood by reference to the Figures or Drawings
hereto annexed.
Sheet I. Figs. 1. 2. 3 represent three different arrangements of apparatus
to be fixed at any required point or place upon a railway and in such close
proximity to the rails that the wheels of an engine or train or other moving
body passing over either of them give them a downward motion which being
imparted to certain instruments herein-after termed "connectors " (shortly to
be described) close reverse break or couple up, electric circuits or currents,
whereby signals may be transmitted from one part of the line to another.
Fig. 1. represents a spring lever working on suitable bearings, having a
stop to prevent the lever rising above the level of the rail; the whole is firmly
secured to a block of wood or other suitable material and fastened to the
sleepers of the railway-A represents the lever B the spring to give an
upward motion to it C the hinge, or bearings, D the stop E the block of
wood, to which the whole contrivance is properly secured by nuts and bolts as
represented.
Fig. 2 is a plan of Fig. 1 shewing the rails with the sleepers of the railway
under the method of fixing this apparatus by proper bolts in close proximity to
the rail, so as to be struck by any wheel of an engine or train or other moving
body that may pass over it. A the lever C C the hinge D the stop,
EE the block of wood fastened to the sleepers F a guard either of metal
or wood placed on the outer side of the lever A, and for the purpose of pre-
venting stones from getting beneath it G G G G a portion of the rails of
the railway H H the sleepers, I a tube to convey wires from the " con-
nectors" hereafter to be described from beneath the lever A safely under the
rails and thereby protect them from injury.
Figs. 3 and 4 represent modifications of the same apparatus, and are
intended to be fixed in the same manner. Fig. 3 is a strong compound spring
fixed to a block of wood, with a suitable stop. A the compound spring B
the stop C the block of wood to which the whole is bolted down.
Fig. 4 represents a lever similar to Fig. 1 but instead of a spring to give
the required upward motion a counterpoise weight is used to retain the lever
in its proper position. A the lever B the stop C the block of wood
D the counterpoise weight.
Now in order to render either of these contrivances available for the purpose
of closing reversing, breaking or coupling up, electric circuits or currents in
order to transmit signals from one part of the line to any other part, it will be
necessary to place suitable instruments in conjunction with the spring levers
heretofore described in such a position that whenever a downward motion is

page_text: given to the spring levers Figs. 1. 2. 3. 4. by the wheels of an engine or train
or other moving body passing over either of them such motion shall be
imparted to the instrument in connexion therewith and the electric current
will thereby be set in motion, these instruments I shall here call (for the
sake of simplicity) "connectors some of which are represented by Figs. 5.
6. 7. 8. 9. 10 Sheet 1.
"
Fig. 5 A represents a spring near the upper portion of which is fixed, a
piece of non-oxydising metal B such as platinum. C a cylinder having a
piston rod D in the interior, which piston rod has a reciprocating motion but
when in a quiescent state it is kept in one position by a coiled spring placed
around it, to the spring A is fastened a wire, which is to be put in direct
communication with the earth circuit, to the cylinder C is fastened an insu-
lated wire which is to be in metallic connexion with the ordinary line wire
that is to serve as the medium of transmitting the signals from one part of the
line to another, this wire has an electro-magnetic instrument and voltaic
battery attached in such a manner that the electric current cannot either pass
through the instrument or along the line wire, until the spring A comes into
contact with the piston rod D of the cylinder C, now so long as the piston rod
D is kept at a short distance from the spring A, no metallic contact is effected
in fact the circuit is not complete, and as is well known, no electricity will pass
from the cylinder C to the spring A, on account of this small intervening space
between B and D consequently the electro-magnetic instrument and voltaic
battery which may be at some distant station or other required point or place
upon the line will remain inactive but so soon as an engine or train comes up
and the wheels thereof or other moving body pass over the spring lever before
described and thereby cause the spring A to be depressed, then the part B
immediately comes into contact with the piston rod D of the cylinder C the
circuit which before was open is thus closed and the electric current flows
from the voltaic battery through the electro-magnetic instrument, along the
line wire and finally completes its circuit by entering the earth by the spring A.
The instrument at the station or other required point or place upon the railway
being thus called into action by the electric current, may serve to record or
register the signal thus given and the signal men at the station will thereby
receive accurate and instantaneous information as to the position of the engine
or train so passing over the point or place where the spring lever and
connector are fixed.
Fig. 6 represents a "connector to be used for the same purpose and in the
same manner but as it can be made to work air and water tight if required,
the metallic contact surfaces are not so liable to become defiled with dirt or

page_text: mud as in the former arrangement shewn in Fig. 5 it is constructed as
follows A is a metal plate B a cylinder and piston rod with a coiled
spring in the interior (similar to C Fig. 5) C is a block of any convenient
insulating substance to which the plate and cylinder are fixed D a spring
the end of which comes very near to the lower extremity of the piston rod B
but does not actually touch it E is a wire fastened to the metal plate and
consequently in metallic contact with the piston rod B F a portion of the
insulated wire leading to the recording or indicating instrument and voltaic
battery fixed at the station as before described, G a shoot or cap for the
purpose of throwing off any wet that might accumulate under the levers
Figs. 1. 2. 3. 4, this cap can either be fixed to the spring lever or to the
upper portion of the piston rod B, now so long as the piston rod B does not
actually touch the spring D, the electric circuit is open and the indicating
instrument and voltaic battery in connection with the line wire F remain in a
quiescent position, but the moment the piston rod B is depressed and the
lower end of it comes into contact with the spring D then the circuit is at once
closed and the electric current passes along the line wire F into the earth, by
the earth wire E in the direction of the arrows as soon as the wheels of the
engine or train have passed over the spring levers Figs. 1. 2. 3. 4, then they
of course resume their first position, and the coiled spring within the cylinder
B raises the piston rod thereof, and the lower extremity coming away from the
spring D the metallic contact is broken and the circuit being once more open
the electric current ceases to flow until again depressed by a following wheel
of the engine or train when a second contact will be formed, the circuit closed
and a signal transmitted this effect is produced every time the spring lever is
depressed now in order to render this instrument perfectly air and water
tight as before mentioned it will be necessary to place a stuffing box at the
upper portion of the cylinder B and the metal plate A being made with a
flange to extend over the sides of the non-conducting material C the whole
can then be placed into a metal box likewise having a flange extending over
its upper surface and the two flanges being then brought together with nuts
and bolts can be rendered perfectly air and water tight.
Figs. 7. 8. 9. and 10 are modifications of this form of "connector" and are
used for similar purposes.
Fig. 7 represents one with two metallic springs, A. A instead of one, as in
Fig. 6, these springs do not touch each other, until the piston rod B (which
in this case has a piece of non-conducting substance C fixed at its lower end)
is depressed, when contact is formed between the two springs and the electric
circuit being thereby closed, the signal is transmitted along the wire to

page_text: any electro-magnetic instrument that may be included in the same circuit.
The reason why I sometimes use this form of "connector" in preference to the
former ones, is, that whenever I wish to give a signal to any station in advance
and at the same time transmit a signal back to the station or other point or
place upon the railway the train last came from this form of "connectors "
comes in very advantageously because, I can in that case dispense with the
earth circuit upon the line of railway where this "connector" is fixed and also
only one spring lever is requisite to serve two or more stations and give signals to
each at the same instant, the one signal can be made to indicate the approach
of an engine or train towards a station whilst the other signal can be made to
record the fact that such engine or train has arrived at the point or place upon
the railway when this "connector" and spring lever attached thereto is fixed.
In order to render this explanation clearer we will suppose that this "con-
nector" Fig. 7 with its spring lever attached is placed upon the railway
half way between any two stations and the insulated wire Al passes up the
line whilst the other insulated wire A 2 passes down the line, and each of the
extremities thereof terminates in an electro-magnetic instrument with a voltaic
battery included in the same circuit, the small space between the two springs
A* A prevents the electric current from passing but no sooner does an engine
or train come up and the wheels thereof pass over the spring lever with this
"connector "underneath when the piston rod B will be depressed and then the
two springs A* A will come into contact with each other and consequently
close the electric circuit, when the current from the battery will immediately
pass, and operating upon the indicating instruments will flow along the line
wire, to the springs A* A and on to the next station, where the current finally
enters the earth, by means of an ordinary earth circuit or plate, thus with one
spring lever and one connector underneath, two stations can be signalled at
the same time, the electro-magnetic instrument at one station indicating the
approach of a train and the instrument at the other station records the fact
that an engine or train has just passed over the spring lever, and consequently
has arrived at that point or place along the line of railway when such spring
lever and connector are fixed.
Figs. 8. 9 and 10 represent an arrangement of "connector" by which any
instrument can be "cut out of circuit" whilst one or two other instruments at
one or two other stations can be operated upon by the electric current
transmitted from the point or place upon the railway where this "connector "
is fixed.
Fig. 8 is an elevation Fig. 9 an end view Fig. 10 a plan the same
letters refer to each of the parts respectively in all three Figures. A the

page_text: "
metal plate B the cylinder and piston rod, C a piece of insulating substance
fixed to the lower end of the piston rod D D a pair of metal studs attached
to the said insulating substance C, E E two flexible metallic cords, bands
or wires secured on each side of the studs D D and led off by suitable wires
to the two terminals or poles of a voltaic battery; F F two metallic studs
having insulated wires led off to the electro-magnetic instrument at the station
where this apparatus is nearest to; G G two springs which press against the
studs FF and form part of the circuit of the line wires with the instrument
in connexion with the studs F F-H, H, the two ends of the line wires fixed
to the springs G, G, I I the two ends of the wires led from the studs F F
to the electro-magnetic instruments at the distant stations; K, K the battery
wires, now to explain the action and utility of this form of "connector
whenever a current of electricity passes along the line wires H H from any
distant station, the springs G G pressing against the studs F F allow such
current to pass along the wires marked II to the electro-magnetic instruments
fixed at the nearest station and actuating or operating thereon give motion to
an indicator or pointer, which may serve to register or record the passage of
some engine or train over some portion of the railway but should an engine
or train pass over that portion of the railway where a spring lever with this
"connector" underneath is fixed then the piston rod B would be depressed
and the studs D D would press upon the springs G G and force them away
from the stops F, F. thereby "cutting out of circuit" the electro-magnetic
instrument in connection with the wires II which formerly was included in
the same circuit and at the same time, would allow a current of electricity to
flow along the battery wires K K to the line wires H H and on to two or
more distant stations so as to work any suitable instruments at those stations
this effect is produced every time the spring lever and "connector" attached
is depressed by the wheels of an engine or train or other moving body passing
over it. By the use of this "connector " I am thus enabled to give signals
upon a railway which serve to point out, record or otherwise shew the position
of any engine or train from between any one station to any other station
either forwards or backwards both or either and with only one line wire;
the general arrangement of electro-magnetic instruments I prefer using in
connexion with the "connectors herein-before described will be presently
explained.
Fig 11 represents the general arrangement of spring lever Fig: 1 fitted
up with one of the "connectors" before described A is the lever, B the
spring, C the bearings D the stop, E the block of wood to which this
apparatus is fixed F the cylinder and piston rod, G the cap or shoot to

page_text: throw off the rain, H the metal plate to which the cylinder F is fixed and is
bolted down to the box or case II in order to protect it from dirt mud rain
&c. K the under spring near to but not touching the piston rod; L, M,
the line wires one fixed to the plate H and in direct communication with the
earth circuit, the other with the spring K, this method of fitting up the
"connector in the metal box I underneath the spring lever or compound
spring or lever and counterpoise weight is equally applicable to either of the
other "connectors" 5, 6, 7, 8, but this one representation is given in order to
shew the general arrangement of apparatus for the purpose of closing breaking
or coupling up, electric circuits or currents.
It will at once be understood from the description of the "connectors "
heretofore given that either of the apparatus shewn by Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, being
depressed by a wheel or wheels of an engine or train or other moving body
passing over it, causes the piston rod of either of the "connectors" underneath
to descend which piston rod descending gives motion to the various arrange-
ments of springs and stops herein-before described and thereby closes breaks
or couples up electric circuits or currents but as it is obvious to those
conversant with electrical science that a variety of forms and configurations
could be given to the "connectors" to act in the same manner and for the
same purpose
I deem it necessary to illustrate this part of my Invention still
further by introducing several other modifications of instruments or "con-
nectors as exhibited by Drawings Figures 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 Sheet 1.
"
In these arrangements I use a quadrant or cylinder of any suitable non-
conducting material fixed upon the axle of the spring lever, or lever and
counterpoise weights Figures 1. 3 and 4 as described and in such a manner
that whenever motion is given to the said lever the axle thereof partially revolves
and consequently carries with it the quadrant or cylinder attached, upon the
outer edge or periphery of which, one or more pieces of metal are fastened
and in some suitable position are placed one or more springs, the upper
extremities of which press upon the said pieces of metal fixed to the quadrant
or cylinder, now whenever the spring lever is depressed the quadrant fixed to
the axle thereof partially revolves, and the pieces of metal slide away from the
springs that before were pressing upon them; thereby breaking the continuity
of the electric circuit, but upon the quadrant or cylinder revolving a little
further the spring or springs come into metallic contact with some of the other
pieces of metal fastened likewise on the quadrant or cylinder the circuit is
once more closed, and according to the arrangement of the springs and pieces
of metal so will the electric circuit or current be closed broken reversed or
coupled up as the case may require.

page_text: a
Fig: 12 Sheet 1 represents the simplest arrangement of this form of
" connector." A the quadrant having one piece of metal B fastened thereon
C the axle of the spring lever D a spring which is here represented as pressing
upon a portion of the quadrant but not touching the piece of metal B. Now
whenever the quadrant partially revolves the piece of metal B comes into
contact with the spring D and thereby closes the circuit, a wire W¹ is
attached to the spring D which is insulated and carried to any required point
or place upon the line and there terminates in an electro-magnetic instrument
and voltaic battery, a wire Wa is likewise fastened to the piece of metal B
which is to be in direct communication with the earth circuit, the electric
circuit is therefore all but complete having only the small intervening distance
between the spring D and the piece of metal B now whenever the wheels
of an engine or train pass over the spring lever with this form of "connector "
fixed to the axle thereof the lever is depressed and the quadrant consequently
partially revolves and the piece of metal B comes into contact with the
spring D the circuit is at once closed and the electric current operating upon
the instrument (fixed or in connexion with the wire W¹) which may be at any
distant station, causes that instrument to indicate the position of such engine
or train or to register the fact that an engine or train has just passed the
point or place upon the railway where this apparatus is fixed.
Fig 13 represents a modification of Fig: 12 and is only a double arrange-
ment thereof. A A the axle of the lever B a cylinder of non-conducting
material upon the periphery of which are fixed some pieces of metal shewn
by C¹ C³ C³ two springs D¹, D³, are represented as pressing upon the piece
of metal C¹, thus any current coming from any distant point or place upon the
railway along the wires W1 W2 can pass without interruption from one of
the springs to the other but as C2 C3 one in communication with the wires
W W leading to a voltaic battery, it follows, that when the cylinder B
partially revolves the springs D¹ D' slide on to the slips of metal C2 C3
the current from the voltaic battery can at once pass along the wires W³ W
to the springs D1 D2 thence along the wires W1 W2 which being in con-
nexion with one or more electro-magnetic indicating instruments fixed at one
or more distant stations upon the railway, signals can be transmitted from the
point or place where this apparatus is fixed to the distant instruments in
connexion and thereby indicate the passage of some engine or train over the
place where this "connector" and spring lever is fixed.
Fig 14, Sheet 1 represents the plan I adopt in order to prevent any stones
dirt or mud from interfering with the correct section of this form of "con-
nector" it consists of a box divided into two parts at A, A, and made to fasten

page_text: together with nuts and bolts passed through the flanges B. B. B. A stuffing
box C is shewn at the side, to allow the axle of the lever to pass through, D
is a tube to convey the wires of the "connector" from within safely beneath
the rails, and likewise to protect them from injury.
:
Fig 15 Sheet 1, shews the general arrangement of the form of "connector"
Fig: 12, attached to the axle of the spring lever, which is precisely the same
in mechanical detail as Fig: 1 Sheet 1.
:
Fig 16 Sheet 1 represents a plan of the spring lever having the cylindrical
form of "connector" Fig. 13 attached.
Another method of closing breaking or coupling up electric circuits or
currents which can be sometimes used with considerable advantage, is to place
a small elastic bag, partially filled with mercury under the spring lever or com-
pound spring before described, a tube closed at one end, and having one or
more wires passing into this closed end, is caused to dip into the mercury
contained in the elastic bag the whole is then rendered air tight with cement
or by any other suitable means and the wires so entering the tube form part
of the electric circuit, now the use and action of this instrument or "con-
nector" is as follows, so long as the lever fixed in close proximity to the
rail remains in a quiescent position the mercury in the lower part of the
elastic bag, does not come into metallic contact with the wires in the upper
part of the tube; but whenever the spring lever is depressed by the wheels of
an engine or train or other moving body passing over it the elastic bag is
likewise depressed and the air contained therein being compressed forces the
mercury up the tube, which, coming into contact with the wires at the upper
end immediately closes the circuit, and the required signal, is given to the
distant station. So soon as the wheel or wheels have passed over the lever the
pressure on the bag is removed, and the compressed air regaining its natural
volume the mercury in the tube falls into the bag and the circuit or current
is broken; by combining one or more of these tubes in the same bag or by
using any number of bags and tubes any arrangement of "connector" can be
constructed as the nature of the case may require, in order to close break
reserve or couple up electric circuits or currents. Instead of having the tube
closed at one end I sometimes prefer having a bulb or cylinder at the upper
end so as to receive any superfluous amount of the compressed air. In the
description I have now given of this first part of my Invention I have repre-
sented all the "connectors" as combined or in mechanical adjustment with a
spring lever, a compound spring, or a lever and counterpoise weights, and the
'connector" worked by the downward motion given to the lever, or spring by
the wheels of an engine or train or other moving body passing over either or all

page_text: "
of them; but it is evident that in some cases of giving signals upon railways it
may be necessary that the signal man who is deputed to work any of the signal
as now in use, may likewise be required, to transmit signals to distant stations,
as to the position of any engine or train that may have arrived or has just left
his own station, in these cases I prefer, that one of the "connectors" here
before described should be fitted up at any convenient place, and instead of a
lever, a simple thumb knob is to be screwed to the top of the piston rod of said
" connector so that the mere depression of the piston rod by the hand or thumb
of the signal man in charge, would operate upon the distant instruments and the
necessary signal would be given from one part of the railway to any other part.
The second part of my Invention relates to the arrangement or adjustment
of any or all of the before described instruments termed "connectors" with one
or more of the rails of a railway, in any required part thereof, in such a manner
and in such a position, that whenever an engine or train passes over such rail
or rails, to which the "connector" is adjusted, the weight of such engine or train,
in causing a small deflection of the rail from its natural position, such deflection,
shall be employed to operate upon the "connector," attached, which may be of
any form that will act and the necessary metallic contact being made, each
time an engine or train passes over the rail beneath which or adjusted to
which is the "connector" the same shall be worked in like manner as if a
lever was used as before described and by these means electric circuits or
currents may be closed, broken, reversed, or coupled up so as to transmit
signals from one part of a railway to another, which signals, serve to indicate or
register the passage of any engine or train over such point or place where the
"connector" is fixed. This arrangement will be the better understood by
reference to Fig: 1 Sheet 2. A A represents the rail B B the chairs
thereof C. C the sleepers. D the "connector" similar in construction to
Fig 6. Sheet 1. although any of the "connectors" before described can and
may be used in the place of the one here represented and for the same purpose;
now it will be seen by this Figure, that the upper end of the piston rod P
instead of pressing as in the former cases against one side of a spring lever,
presses against the under side of the rail A A, whilst the other end of the
piston rod P comes very close to but does not actually touch the spring S,
attached to and in communication with the conducting line wire W₁, Now
so soon as an engine or train passes over the rail A A the weight of such
engine or train causes the rail to bend or deflect from its natural position, and
consequently the piston rod P comes into contact with the spring S and
conducting wire W₁, the electric circuit is at once closed, and the electric
current being allowed a free passage, operates or actuates any suitable electro-
:

page_text: magnetic instrument, that may be in connexion with the conducting wire W¹
the "connector" is fastened into a box or case represented by X X X which
is fastened to the sleepers C C by nuts and bolts, the upper portion of the
piston rod P may have its cap or shoot attached, in order to throw off the rain
and the whole apparatus can be placed in such a position with respect to the
rail or rails that it cannot be interfered with, this is accomplished by having
two guards of wood or metal placed one on each side of the rail, and bolted
down to the box or case X X X, this will prevent stones dirt &c. from
accumulating under the rail or rails where these "connectors" are fixed.
Having actually tested this method of closing breaking or coupling up
electric circuits or currents I find it to answer admirably and from its
extreme simplicity I prefer using it in many cases.
The third part of my Invention consists in the application of magneto-
electric machines, in combination with any of the before-described spring levers,
compound springs or lever and counterpoise weights, in such a manner that
whenever the wheels of an engine or train pass over any of these contrivances
the downward motion imparted thereto, as before described, shall be rendered
available, to set in motion the coils of a magneto-electric machine, and as is
well known, during the brief period such coils are in motion currents of
electricity are induced in those coils which electricity, by suitable insulated
conducting wires, may be transmitted to any required point or place; and if
there are any electro-magnetic instruments included in the same circuit (that
this induced electricity is traversing), such instruments will be operated upon
or set in motion by such induced current or currents of electricity, and any
required signal can be given; I use this magneto-electric machine with a lever
or compound spring, for the purpose of indicating the position of an engine or
train upon a railway the magneto-electric machine being called into action by
the wheels of such engine or train or other moving body. I do not confine
myself to any precise details of magneto-machines because a variety of forms
could be devised to answer the purpose contemplated; without deviating from
the true nature of this part of my Invention, but at the same time in order to
render the above description somewhat plainer I have represented by Figures
2. 3. Sheet 2 the general arrangement of those forms of magneto-machines, I
prefer using for this purpose; the letters refer to the same parts in both
Figures, A A A, the compound permanent magnets, B. B. B. the coils
surrounding the iron cores in the interior, the ends of which wires are attached
to the line wires communicating with the distant instruments included in the
same circuits C a cylinder having a piston rod D D passing through it, this
piston rod has a powerful coiled spring surrounding it of sufficient tension to hold

page_text: пр the coils B B, which are attached to its lower end; now whenever the
piston rod DD is suddenly depressed the coils B B are moved with it and
passing away from, or before, or changing with respect to, the poles of the per-
manent magnets A A A, electric currents are induced for the moment such
change of position in the coils is taking place, which currents may be made
available to work other electro-magnetic instruments in connexion therewith.
Fig 4 Sheet 2, shews the general arrangement of magneto-machine with
a spring lever, for the purpose of giving signals on railways by magneto-
electricity, whenever such magneto machines are called into action by or
through the agency of the wheels of an engine or train or other moving body.
A the lever B the spring to retain the lever in its proper position. C the
stop to prevent the lever A from rising above the level of the rail D the
fulcrum or hinge of the lever E E the block on which the whole is properly
secured FF F the case to hold the magneto-electric machine G the
compound permanent magnets H the coils I the cylinder K K the
piston rod, having a coiled spring surrounding it to retain the coils H, in their
proper position. La tube to convey the wires W W safely beneath the rails,
and likewise to protect them from injury, these wires are in connexion with
the coils H and also forming part of the circuit with the distant instrument.
Now whenever an engine or train passes over the spring lever A the wheels
of such engine or train depress the lever A and consequently the piston rod K
with the coils attached thereto are moved away or changed with respect to
the poles of the permanent magnets G, during the period the coils are in
motion currents of electricity are induced in them, as is well understood which
electricity, passing along the wires W W and from thence to the communi-
cating line wires with the station, enter the electro-magnetic instrument
attached and included in the same circuit, which instrument serves to register,
record or indicate to the signal man in charge, that an engine or train has just
passed over that point or place upon the railway where the magneto-electric
machine and lever is fixed.
The fourth part of my Invention relates to certain improvements in the
electro-magnetic instruments which I here term "indicators" and are for the
purpose of indicating the position of an engine or train upon any part or portion
of the line. They are intended to be called into action by currents of electricity
traversing coils of wire attached thereto which electricity is turned on or
turned off, or in other words the circuits that the currents are intended to
traverse, are closed broken reversed or coupled up, by either or all of the before-
described instruments called "connectors" they can be used either separately
or in combination with the said "connectors," so as to render the "indicator "

page_text: both a receiving as well as a transmitting instrument, In the arrangements
represented by Fig: 5. Sheet 2 the. pointer or hand a¹ a³ is made, or caused
to assume one of two distinct positions for the purpose of indicating or recording
two distinct signals; and the pointer or hand having assumed one of such two
positions, remains fixed there, until operated upon a second time by another
electric current, the improvement consists in thus obtaining two distinct and
permanent beats or deflections of the pointer, and differs from the plans usually
employed for giving or receiving. signals in or on the ordinary telegraphic
instruments inasmuch that in the latter case, the magnetic needle, hand, or
pointer, is generally made to assume a vertical position, and the deflections
either to the right or to the left are caused by the influence of electric currents
passing in close proximity to such magnetic needle or needles of the telegraphic
instruments, but so soon as the electric current ceases to flow, then the needle
or magnet again returns to its vertical position, and points to zero, now this
kind of instrument is not applicable to the plans I adopt and which have been
previously described for closing breaking or coupling up the electric current
because it will at once be manifest that during the rapid passage of the wheels
of an engine or train over the connector and spring lever, the vibrations
of a magnetic needle or pointer if placed in a vertical position would
be too rapid and uncertain, and not being permanent they (the deflections or
vibrations) might during the instant they were taking place, escape the
attention of the signal man in charge, now in order to obviate those
difficulties I propose so to construct the magnetic needles or pointers of my
instruments as represented by Figs: 5 and 6 Sheet 2 that their centres of
suspension shall be below their centres of gravity consequently if suitable
stops are placed for the needles to rest against, the needles will always remain,
against either of these stops, and never point to the vertical, and a permanent
deflection will be obtained, but to explain more fully in Fig. 5. A¹. A³.
represents a magnetic needle suspended by an axle B this axle is made to pass
through the needle A below its centre of gravity, consequently the upper half
marked 'A'. is much heavier than the lower half A. and as the stops c³. c*.
prevent this upper and heavier half from descending below the required
position, it follows that the needle 'A'. 'A'. will always rest against one or other
of these stops c. c³. (and never in a vertical position) which is just the
position I require in order to indicate permanently the signal given, The
magnetic needle is caused to move either to the right or left by currents of
electricity traversing the coils of the electro-magnet M 'M.
Fig. 6. represents another method I adopt to accomplish the same object
here the magnetic needle is fixed above the axle and consequently the centre

page_text: of gravity being always above the centres of suspension the magnet will always
rest against one or the other of the stops C. C.-A. 'A. the magnetic needle B
the axle and centre of suspension C. C. the stops to prevent the needle A* A
from moving beyond the required position, D. D. the electro-magnetic coils
placed in suitable positions with respect to the magnet 'A. 'A. so that whenever
currents of electricity are made to traverse the coils D. D. the needle A. A. will
be operated upon or deflected either to the right or to the left according to the
direction of the current through the coils D. D. A hand or pointer E is fixed
to the axle B which serves to point to any required signal.
Figs. 7. 8. Sheet 2. represents an improvement in telegraphic signal instru-
ments when it is desired that the needle hand or pointer thereof should remain
fixed in one of two or three different positions and it is to be used with either
of the "connectors" before described. A small disc 'A. is fastened to one end
of the axle that carries the magnetic needle, Upon the periphery of this disc
are cut two or more notches B. C. the weighted end of a small lever D. D. is
caused to rest upon this disc a. in such a manner that if it is caused to turn
upon its axis the lever falls into one of the notches and there retains the disc
in that position, the magnetic needle in the interior of the coils is deflected
either to the right or to the left by currents of electricity traversing through
coils of wire placed in such positions so as to operate upon, the magnetic needle
in Figs. 7. 8 an ordinary galvanometer instrument is represented but any
other method may be used and to whichever side the magnetic needle within
the coils is caused to move by the electric current traversing them, the axle
fixed to the said magnetic needle moves likewise, and by such motion the disc
partially revolves and as soon as it turns sufficiently so as to bring one of the
notches beneath the end of the weighted lever, such weighted lever falls into
that notch, and thereby retains the disc, axle, and magnetic needle, a pointer, in
the required position, now whilst the disc and needle remain thus fixed, other
currents of electricity might be sent through the coils E E. without producing
any effect upon the pointer or hand attached to the axle, by this means I am
enabled to record permanently one signal at a time, for it is evident that before
the magnetic needle can be again operated upon, the weighted end of the lever
D. D. must be raised, now in order to effect this object I employ an electro-
magnet F and affix an armature G to the unweighted end of the lever D. D.
now if we pass a current of electricity through the coils of the electro-magnet
F the armature G will be attracted, and the weighted end of the lever will
thereby be raised, and come out from the notch into which it had previously
fallen, and consequently the magnetic needle in the interior of the coils E E
will regain its first position, and the hand or pointer attached, can thus be made

page_text: to point to another signal this effect will be produced every time currents of
electricity are allowed to traverse the coils E E and the electro-magnet F, and
according to the direction given to the current through the coils E E, so will
be the direction of the magnetic needle and disc, But in some cases I find it
necessary to retain the signal given until such signal is actually observed by
the signal man in charge, in order to effect this object I dispense with the
electro-magnet F and use the contrivance shewn in Figure 8 in lieu thereof
in this Figure it will be seen that in the place of the electro-magnet is fixed a
stop H, and above this there is a cylinder I with piston rod and coiled spring
within, at the upper end of this piston rod is fixed a finger stud K, and
whenever this is depressed the lower end of the piston rod presses upon the
unweighted end of the lever D. D. and thereby releases the disc. It is not
absolutely necessary always to use a weighted lever in order to retain the
pointer magnetic needle and disc in one position as a simple spring pressing
upon the circumference of the disc will serve to retain the pointer in the
required position.
Figs. 9. 10. Sheet 2 represent the exterior of these indicating instru-
ments which may be fitted up in the interior with any of the before-described
instruments Figs. 5. 6. 7. 8. so as to give motion to the pointers or hands A. A.
now if either of these instruments are fixed at a station or other point or place
upon the railway and a voltaic battery in connexion with a line wire led from
the coils of such instrument, and the ends of such line wire, taken along the
railway to any two or more places, and there attached and in communication
with either of the "connectors" before described, so soon as an engine or
train passes the spot where the said "connectors" are fixed, the wheels of such
engine or train or other moving body, will close the circuit, and a signal will be
transmitted to the station, the indicator shewing what signal has been received
and as this signal is permanent, by the means before described, the signal man
in charge of such instrument, can at all times see if he is to allow any train to
pass him or not Any number of spring levers with "connectors" attached
can be fitted upon the railway the communicating wires therefrom being led to
any other part of the railway either at a station or into a "switchman's" box
and terminating with a voltaic battery and indicator so that the passage of
an engine or train over any point or place upon the railway can at once be
signalled to the said station and switchman's box giving them timely notice of
"danger" or to stop all trains either up or down or that the line is "clear"
and consequently free from all obstructions and therefore perfectly safe for
any following engine or train to pursue its course without interruption.
The fifth part of my Invention consists of improvements in the arrangements..

page_text: of electro-magnetic apparatus for the purpose of calling into action local
batteries the object being to enable any great resistance to be overcome and
also to perform any electro-magnetic effect that requires considerable force. It is
well known that a current of electricity in passing along a wire of any great
length has to overcome the resistance offered by such wire and the electro-
motive force actually available is very much weakened thereby and in some
cases is not sufficient to accomplish the desired amount of work now in order
to obviate these difficulties it has been the practice to use various arrangements
of apparatus to call into action local batteries and thereby to obtain any
amount of electro-magnetic force that may be desired; now it sometimes
happens that in giving signals on railways by my instruments and connectors
before described I find a local battery very advantageous and therefore those
plans I find to answer best in order to call into action such local batteries I
have here detailed.
Fig. 11 Sheet 2 represents the simplest form of this "local battery closer."
A is an electro-magnet, B. the armature supported by the slender spring C.
D. a pillar having set screws at the upper end in order to adjust the spring C.
to any required height, this pillar D. is in direct communication by the
wire W¹ with one pole of the local battery a small pin and screw passes
through one portion of the slender spring C. This is shewn at F, immediately
beneath this pin is fixed a pillar having a piece of metal G in the form of a
disc at its upper end coming near to, but not actually touching the pin F to
this pillar is fixed a wire W. leading to the electro-magnetic instrument that
is required to be operated upon by the local current the remaining end of
this wire after having passed through the local instrument is placed in con-
nexion with the other pole of the battery, now whenever a current of electricity
is allowed to pass through the coils of the electro-magnet A, the armature B,
is attracted downwards, and the pin F comes into metallic contact with the
disc G, and the circuit of the local battery being thus closed through the wires
W. W. the required effect is produced in or upon the electro-magnetic
instrument that is included in the circuit of the said local battery. The use of
the piece of metal or disc G is for the purpose of shifting the points of contact
F G in order to renew the surfaces at pleasure and thus overcome the annoy-
ance usually experienced by such surfaces becoming burnt up or oxydised.
Fig. 1. Sheet 3 represents a compound arrangement of Fig. 11. Sheet 2.
just described and is for the purpose of calling into action the local battery'
either positively or negatively so as to produce two distinct effects upon the
local instrument, 'A. 'A. are two electro magnets both of which are in con--
nexion with the line wire, B. B. are two armatures or magnets supported

page_text: upon slender springs and pillars D. D. D. D.-E. E. two pieces of metal or
discs, one in connexion with the positive pole of the local battery, the other
with the negative pole of the battery, F F. the two pins similar to those last
described, G G two wires forming part of the local circuit, and including in
it the instrument to be actuated or operated upon, by the electricity from the
local battery, so soon as the circuit shall be closed, now whenever a current
of electricity is allowed to traverse the coils of the electro-magnets 'A A, one of
the armatures B B, is attracted downwards, whilst the other is repelled
upwards, and the pins FF coming into contact with the discs, the circuit is
closed, and according to the direction, of the motion given to the armatures
B. B, so will be the direction of the current from the local battery, the letters
P. 'N. placed to the discs E E denote that the poles of the local battery are
in connexion with those discs the one marked P. in connexion with the
positive pole, and the one marked N in connexion with the negative pole.
By changing the direction of the current through the electro-magnets A. A
and thereby chainging their polarity with respect to the magnets B. B a con-
trary effect or motion is imparted to them and an opposite effect is produced
upon the local instrument, the direction of the current local battery is thereby
changed.
Fig. 2. Sheet 3 represents a further modification and arrangement of these
"local" pole changers" and is used for the purpose of calling into action a local
battery at a distant station in one direction only, but only so long as currents
of electricity are passing through the coils of the electro magnets 'A 'A but
upon this current ceasing to flow the elasticity of the slender springs B. B.
causes the pins attached thereto to press against the upper discs and by such
pressure to close the circuit of the local battery in a reverse and contrary
direction and keep such closed until the armatures are attracted downwards
by the magnets 'A. 'A the main difference between this instrument and the
one last described, consists in having four pieces of metal or discs instead of
two they are so arranged that the two upper ones are in connexion with the
positive and negative poles of the local battery, and the two lower discs are like-
wise in similar connexion but in a reverse manner, this is represented by the
letters P. 'N. N. P. being placed against those discs that are to be placed in
connexion with the positive and negative poles of the local battery the two
cross wires C. C. serve to convey the current from one disc to the other, from
an inspection of this Figure it will be seen that the circuit of the local battery
is closed and therefore any desired electro-magnetic effect is produced upon
the instrument included in the local circuit, but if we now send a current of
electricity through the magnets 'A 'A. the two armatures will be attracted and

page_text: the pins will cease to press upon the upper discs and will immediately come
into contact with the lower ones, when the local circuit will again be closed, but
in a reverse direction, and consequently an opposite and contrary effect will be
produced upon the instrument in communication therewith.
The sixth part of my Invention relates to improvements in those instruments
used for the purpose of reversing or changing the direction of electrical currents
termed "pole changers" or "commutators." I use them for giving signals on
railways, in order to transmit a signal to an approaching engine or train from
any part of the railway, where it may be necessary to fix them, so that when-
ever the said engine or train arrives at certain points or places upon the line
where an apparatus or contrivance herein-after to be described is fixed the
electrical current being turned on (or reversed in direction as the case may
require) such engine or train shall receive the signal from these "pole
changers" or reversers. I likewise use them to call into action any of the
electro magnetic instruments herein-before described either separately or com-
bined In most of the instruments of this description the current is turned
on, and upon
the operator releasing his hand the instrument resumes its normal
position but as it is required sometimes to turn on or reverse the current and
then leave the current thus turned on or reversed until the engine or train
comes up and the desired signal is transmitted I prefer a "pole changer" that
can be used very similar to an ordinary lock and key because the signal man
in charge can after he has turned on the electric current and thereby set the
desired signal) leave the "pole changer" without the least possible chance of
its being interfered with or altered because as soon as he has set the desired
signal he withdraws the key and of course the apparatus is at once secured,
I prefer using this kind of instrument because in those that are only placed
in a box or case and a lock and key attached I find it very often happens and
more frequently than not, that the box is left open and consequently the appa-
ratus may be interfered with, but by this contrivance the very act of turning
the key turns on in the required direction the electric current and thereby
sets the signal and according to the direction given to the key so will be the
direction of the electric current.
Fig. 3. Sheet 3. represents the interior arrangement of this form of "lock
pole changer;" upon a piece of non-conducting material, I, are fixed 3 pieces
of metal A, B, C. A. and C. are in metallic communication with one of the
poles of a voltoric battery, and B, is likewise attached to the other pole; this
piece of non-conducting material slides backwards and forwards, and is put in
the place of the bolt of a common lock, two springs D. D. press upon the
surface of the material I, where the three pieces of metal A. B. C. are fixed,

page_text: but do not form any metallic connexion, until the bolt I. is slid either to the right
or to the left; these two springs, form the termination of the circuit, and may
be in communication with any other instrument, that it may be necessary to
call into action, The key to cause the bolt I. to slide backwards or forwards, is
represented at F. Now so soon as the key F is introduced and turned either
to the right or to the left, the bolt I, slides, and the pieces of metal A. B. C.
immediately pass under the springs D. D--the circuit is at once closed and the
signal given, upon the instrument included in the same circuit, but if the key
is now turned the reverse way, the pieces of metal slide under the springs D. D.
in an opposite and contrary direction, and consequently the electric current
passes likewise in an opposite and contrary direction, and produces a different
result in the electro-magnetic instrument, included in the same circuit; I do
not confine myself to any particular form of lock to which this sliding bolt. I
is to be applied, because any form of lock could be made available so as to act
as a "pole changer" in the manner described.
Fig. 4. Sheet 4. represents another form of this sliding bolt but here the
springs D. D, are shewn as pressing upon two extra pieces of metal K. L.
which are in contact with each other, by a piece of metal or wire, W. the
advantage of this form is that the current can, not only be turned on in either
direction as in the former example, but if the bolt I, is slid half way, then the
springs D. D. press upon the two pieces of metal K. L. and thereby keep the
electric circuit closed, so that any other current coming from some distant point
or place along the railway can at once enter and operate upon the instrument
that may be in connection with either or both of the springs D. D. An ordi-
nary finger pull P. is represented as fixed to one end of the sliding bolt I. which
serves to give motion to this instrument, although the key is equally applicable
to this form of pole changer as to the other, represented by Fig. 3.
Figs. 5. 6. Sheet 3. represent the exterior cases, fitted with one or more of
these pole changers; in Fig: 5 hand or pointer A, is attached to the bolt,
so that upon inserting the key, this hand A, turns, and points to the signal
required, Fig. 6. shews four of these pole changers, with finger pulls (as
explained in Fig. 4.) attached, the signals written above are intended to
represent some of the signals required to be given upon any of the receiving
or indicating instruments, (Figs. 9. 10. Sheet 2) and upon merely pulling
out the finger stud attached below, the required signal would be transmitted.
I likewise apply these pole changers in any suitable manner to any of the
"points" or "crossings" of a railway, whereby signals of " danger or other-
wise can by means of the apparatus hereafter to be described be given to
and received upon any engine or train that may be approaching, should such

page_text: points be left open, whereby accidents could be prevented, Also whenever
shunting" is taking place at a station, signals can be given to a station in
order to prevent any other train coming on, or to an engine driver so as to
inform him of danger.
The seventh part of my Invention relates to improvements in giving signals
from any point or place upon a railway, to an engine or train whilst that
engine or train is in motion and vice versa, from an engine or train in motion
to any other point or place upon the railway, I accomplish this object by fixing
upon the line at any required distances, metal bars, or bars made of any other
suitable conducting material having inclined planes at each end, so adjusted
that if two spring levers, compound springs, or levers and counterpoise weights
similar to those represented by Figs. 1. 3. 4. Sheet 1. be placed in an inverted
position upon an engine or carriage the engine or carriage coming up to the
points or places where these metal or other bars are fixed, the spring levers on
the engine or carriage shall strike the lower end of the inclined planes of the
metal or other bars, and gliding up them on to their upper surfaces shall then
form metallic contact with such bar or bars and these being in communication
with a voltaic battery the electric current would have a tendency to pass from
the bars to the metal spring levers fixed upon the engine or carriage and if
an insulated wire were carried from the spring levers to any electro-magnetic
instrument, likewise fixed upon the engine or carriage, such instrument, would
be operated upon by the electricity flowing from the bars, in communication
with the voltaic battery; and every time the engine or carriage with the spring
levers attached, glided over these metal bars a signal could be given to, and
received from an engine or carriage and a station, or vice versa, the instru-
ments I prefer fixing upon the engine, in order to receive the signal from the
station, are those already described by Figs. 9. and 10. Sheet 1.
A similar arrangement to the foregoing for the purpose of giving signals
upon railways was patended by me in the year One thousand eight hundred
and fifty-two see Specification dated Twentieth July One thousand eight
hundred and fifty-two but my present improvement consists chiefly in the
construction and arrangement of these bars, together with their application to
other purposes not enumerated in my former Specification.
Figs. 7. S. 9 Sheet 3 represent this improved arrangement, together with
the improved position with respect to the rails. Fig. 7. represents a plan.
Fig 8. an elevation of one of the bars; Fig 9. a section, and side view; the
saine letters refer to the same parts in all three Figures, The 12 A's represent
the metal bars The S B's planks of wood or other insulating material may
be used The 19, C's, bent pieces of metal one end passing through the bars a

page_text: and fastened on the other side with nuts, the other end bolted down to the
planks B. the planks are supported by pieces of metal one of which is
shewn at Fig. 9. by D. These pass up a hole in the plank represented by the
dotted lines the other end is either fixed to the sleepers of the line, or
bolted to stakes driven into the ground; a portion of one is shewn by F.
Fig: 9. S. (nineteen times repeated) represent shoots either of an insulating
material or not, for the purpose of throwing off the rain, and for better
insulation. R. R. R. R. Fig: 7. represent a portion of the rails of the railway
with their relative position with respect to the bars A. A. A. A &c. the
whole contrivance is then to be well varnished, except the extreme upper edge
of the bars, now in order to explain the action and use of these bars for the
purpose of giving signals let one of them Fig. 7. be put in direct communica-
tion with the earth, by an ordinary earth plate, and the other be in connexion
with the line-wire which is carried along the line, and terminates with a
voltaic battery, and any of the instruments before described; it is thus
evident that by the use of instrument Fig. 5. Sheet 3. a current of electricity
from the voltaic battery can be turned on, either positively or negatively, which
accordingly will charge the bar in connexion therewith either positively or
negatively, but as this bar has no metallic communication with the one with
the earth circuit attached; it is evident the electric current cannot pass from
the one to the other now upon the engine or carriage I fix a pair of spring
levers (very similar to Figs. 1. 3. 4. Sheet 1.) represented by Figure 10. (some-
times I use a pair of rollers attached to the end of these spring levers or
compond spring) in such a position, that whenever the engine or carriage
comes up to the point or place upon the railway when these bars are fixed,
the lever A, Fig. 10. glides up the inclined plane of the bar A Fig. 8, rides
along the level surface; and descends the remaining inclined plane; of course
the same effect is produced on both the spring levers fixed upon the engine or
train, at the same time. now if a wire be carried from one spring lever to
the other, it will be manifest, that whenever the spring levers are riding over
the upper surfaces of the bars, the electricity can at once find a free passage
to the earth, and if the wire leading from one spring lever to the other be
severed, and an instrument similar to those already described in Figs. 9. 10.
Sheet 2. be put into metallic connexion, with the two ends of such severed
wire, a signal will be recorded or given upon such instrument, during the brief
passage of the levers over the bars; but as the signal given upon these
instruments is a permanent one, and not a vibrating one (as in needle
telegraphic instruments generally, as before explained) the signal given will
remain, although the passage of the levers, over the bars may have ceased; Now

page_text: by placing these bars at various intervals upon the railway, an engine or train
may be signalled each time the levers fixed thereon glide over these bars-If
a pair of spring levers are fitted to the guard's van or brake, and an instru-
ment fitted to the wires in connexion with the spring levers; the very same
signal given to the engine driver will (upon the guard's van or brake coming
up to the bars and the spring levers making contact therewith) be recorded
upon such instrument fitted upon such van or brake. I find it not always
necessary to employ two bars, parallel to each other in order to give a signal
upon an instrument, fitted to an engine or carriage, for if one end of the wire
leading from the instrument, be fixed to the spring lever, and the other end in
metallic connexion with the metal work of the engine or carriage; and the iron
rail of the railway exactly opposite to and parallel with the metal bar (having
the line wire and battery attached) be put into metallic contact with the earth
circuit, I find that the result will be the same and the electric current will
find a ready passage to the earth, over and along the metal of the engine down
to the rail, that is so put in communication with the earth circuit. Fig's.
11 and 12 Sheet 3. represent a reverse arrangement to the foregoing; here
the spring lever A, Fig. 11, is to be placed upon the railway and to be in
direct communication with the line wire and volteric battery, Fig: 12 repre-
sent's a long bar of metal which is to be insulated by any suitable means, and
to be fixed to the engine or train; the bar in this case glides over the spring
lever Fig. 11. and thereby forms metallic contact with the line wire and
battery attached; I use this reverse arrangement whenever I wish to give
a different signal, to a different train, (that is to say) by using this plan for
luggage engines, and the before-described method, for passenger train, engines
a distinct a separate signal can be transmitted, to either train, although the
signal man at the station, may not be aware which train may be coming first.
because the luggage engine will only make a contact with the spring levers
Fig. 11, whilst the passenger engine will only form contact with the parallel
bars as in Fig: 7. Thus each engine driver will receive his own proper signal
without reference to which engine arrives, or is first approaching the station
from which such signal is given.
The eighth part of my Invention relates to improvements in the arrange-
ment of electric-magnetic instruments or apparatus, to be fixed upon a loco-
motive engine for the purpose of liberating the steam from the boiler thereof,
either to sound an ordinary whistle or to turn the "regulator" of such loco-
motive, so as to bring the train to a standstill, from the description I have
given in the former part of this Specification I have shewn I have shewn how
an electro-magnetic instrument fixed upon an engine can be operated upon or

page_text: actuated, by currents of electricity, being permitted to traverse such instru-
ment, by certain arrangements of spring levers or spring rollers gliding
over metal bars in communication, with a voltaic battery, situated at any
other point or place upon the line; Now it is at once obvious that if
we, by the means already described, can actuate electro-magnetic instru-
ments fixed upon an engline, such instruments would be made to perform
other important functions, than merely indicating a signal; for we have
only to use a more powerful battery and a larger electrio-magnet to obtain
a greater result. I am fully aware that electrio-magnetism has been applied
for the like purpose, but then it has been, from the guard at the rear of
the train, to the engine driver, and vice versa, and then only by the means
of insulated wires carried in various ways along or upon such train from
one part to another, with the voltaic battery likewise carried on or upon
the train, now I contemplate quite a different arrangement and propose
actuating the steam whistle of the locomotive, or of turning the steam
regulator thereof by current of electricity (operating upon suitable electro-
magnets and other mechanical arrangements as will be hereafter explained)
sent from the station to the engine whilst such engine is in a state of rapid
motion; my improvement therefore consists in actuating or operating upon
the steam whistle or regulator of an engine whilst the same is in actual
motion not through metallic circuits passing along or upon such engine and
train from one part of it to another, but through metallic circuits extending
from a station or any other point or place upon the railway to the apparatus
or contrivance before described, for effecting communication between such
metallic circuit, and an electro-magnetic instrument fixed upon the engine or
train; I do not therefore think it requisite to claim for this part of my
Invention any precise details of electro-magnetic apparatus in order to accom-
plish these objects, as a variety of plans could easily be suggested whereby an
electro-magnet could be rendered available to turn on or turn off steam in
order to accomplish my desired effect or purpose but the methods already
described of causing an electro-magnet fixed upon an engine to become excited
by currents of electricity transmitted from a battery not upon the engine, but at
some part of the line of railway and the engine and magnet, at another part
together with the said engine in rapid motion I consider a new application of
electrio-magnetism, and an improvement in the means of turning off steam
regulators of locomotives, and of sounding steam whistles or for using the
steam thus turned on or turned off for other useful purposes by and through
the agency of electrio-magnets.

page_text: Figs, 13. 14. Sheet 3, represent the improved arrangement of apparatus to
be fixed upon an engine for the purposes above described.
Fix. 18. Shews the plan for allowing steam to sound the whistle, a is a tube
communicating with the interior of the boiler, B a cylinder having a piston
in the interior the end of the piston rod, C¹, touches a lever and handle
D. E. this lever works upon suitable bearings F. a tube G passes out from
the cylinder B and terminates in the steam whistle H, the piston within the
cylinder B. being thrust to the bottom thereof prevents the steam from the
boiler passing through the whistle H, a spring I having a catch K. is mounted
in such a manner that the catch K. shall hold down one end of the lever D.
to this spring I, is attached a piece of soft iron L which being attracted by the
elictro-magnet M (whenever the same is excited by allowing currents of
electricity to flow through the coils thereof) releases the lever and catch D. K.
and the steam from the boiler pressing upon the piston within the cylinder B,
raises it, and as soon as it passes the opening of the tube C, it rushes out
through the whistle H, and thereby emits an audible sound; the engine driver
by pressing upon the handle E. restores the lever D. E. to its former position
and by depressing the piston below the tube G, prevents any further escape of
the steam until the magnet M. is again excited, the wires W. W2. are led
away to the spring levers fixed upon the engine so that the necessary contact
may be formed with the line wires and voltaic battery as before described; I
generally use the steam whistle in order to call the attention of the engine
driver to any signal that may have been transmitted from the station to any
other electro-magnetic signal instruments, that may be used in conjunction and
in combination with the whistle fixed upon the engine.
"
Fig 14, represents the arrangement for operating upon the "regulation
of a locomotive; the contrivance is very similar to that used for the steam
whistle but instead of allowing the steam to escape it is allowed to pass into
a second cylinder, the piston rod of which pressing against the handle of the
regulator turns off the steam and brings the locomotive to a standstill; A
the tube communicating with the boiler, B. the small cylinder, C. the piston
rod D. D. the lever, E, the hinge or bearings of same, G, a tube commu-
nicating with the small cylinder B. to a larger one H. the piston rod of which
is shewn as pressing against the handle of the "regulator" R. R. R. I. a lever
holding the soft piece of iron K. the upper end of this lever, has a catch L,
which serves to retain the lever D. D. in its proper position; M, the electro-
magnet, W. W2. the ends of the wire coils, which are to be put in metalic
communication with a pair of spring levers as before described, now when-

page_text: ever currents of electricity are traversing the coils of wire of the electro-
magnet M. the piece of soft iron K. is attracted and consequently the catch
L. being released from the lever D. D. the piston and rod of the small cylinder
B, is raised by the pressure of steam from within the pressure of steam from
within the boiler, and the piston passing the tube G allous the steam, then
to enter the cylinder H, when the piston and rod thereof will be immediately
forced along the cylinder and the end of the rod pressing against the handle
of the "regulator" R. R. R. turns it to "shut" and consequently the steam
being thus shut off the locomotive stops.
Having thus described the nature of my Invention and in what manner
the same is to be carried into effect, I would have it understood that I do not
confine myself to the precise details of any part herein described so long as
the characteristics thereof are retained. But what I claim is.
Firstly. I claim the general arrangements and configurations of the several
instruments and apparatus described in the first part of my Invention for the
purpose of closing, breaking, reversing, or coupling up, electric circuits, or cur-
rents, so as to give signals on railways indicating the transit or passage of any
engine or train over or upon any portion of the line that may be deemed
requisite; also the means used and described for accomplishing this object.
Secondly. I claim the use and application of the deflection that takes place
in any of the rails of a railway whenever an engine, train or other moving
body passes over or upon them for the purpose of closing breaking reversing
or coupling up electric circuits or currents so as to give signals on railways
as described.
Thirdly. I claim the use and application of magnetio-electric machines for
giving signals on railways, whenever such magnetio-electric machines are
called into action by the wheels of an engine or train or other moving body
rolling over, striking or otherwise operating upon mechanical arrangements
in connexion with such magnetio-electric machines as described.
Fourthly. I claim the means used and described in the fourth part of my
Invention for causing the magnetic needles, hands or pointers of electro-
magnetic instruments to retain any position they are made to assume so as to
record a permanent signal, indicating the position of any engine or train on any
portions of the line deemed requisite, together with the general arrangement
and configuration of the several parts used to accomplish this purpose.
Fifthly. I claim the general arrangements and configurations of the several
instruments termed "local pole changers for the purpose of calling into
action local voltaic batteries so as to give signals on railways as described.

page_text: Sixthly. I claim the arrangement, configuration and application of the
sliding bolts" or "lock and key" commutators or pole changers, described
in the sixth part of my Invention.
Seventhly. I claim the improved means used and described in the seventh
part of my Invention for giving signals to or from an engine or train whilst in
motion to or from any desired station, point or place upon the line.
Eighthly. I claim the use and application of electro-magnetism in order to
turn on or turn off the steam of locomotive engines, so as to sound "whistles "
shut or open "regulators" or for other necessary purposes in giving signals on
railways, whenever such electro-magnetism is made to proceed from a voltaic
battery, fixed or stationary at any portion of the line to the instruments or
apparatus fixed upon the locomotive engines whilst in motion, as described.
In witness whereof I the said Edward Tyer have hereunto set my hand
and seal this Eighth day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand
eight hundred and fifty-four.
EDWARD TYER. (L.S.)