A Conduit and Aerial Electro-locomotor, primarily for Laying or Drawing in Electric Mains or other Cables for any Service.
Year: 1897

page_text: Date of Application, 10th Nov., 1897
Complete Specification Left, 12th Sept., 1898-Accepted, 10th Feb., 1899
A Conduit and Aerial Electro-locomotor, primarily for Laying or
Drawing in Electric Mains or other Cables for any Service.
I, EDGAR LIONEL BENJAMIN, of 48, Sutherland Avenue, Maida Vale, W., in the
County of London, England; Civil and Electrical Engineer, do hereby declare the
nature of this invention to be as follows:―
This invention has, for its primary object, the provision of a locomotor, or
hauling trolley, to be actuated by electric power, for drawing conductors of elec-
tricity into their pipes, conduits, culverts, channels, ducts, subways, or other
receptacles, constructed of any ordinary materials: such electric conductors being
either insulated or bare; in the form either of wires, or of single, or concentric,
or triple concentric cables, whether armoured, or lead-sheathed, or neither, or both,
or consisting of strips, bars, rods, or tubes; employed as either electric light and
power distributing mains or feeders, in any system of electric distribution, whether
low, or high-tension, continuous, alternating, or polyphase current transmission;
or employed on electric tramways or railways, as encased or buried feeders, for
the trolley line, or for transformers on the route, or as return feeders, having
auxiliary potential, for preventing "vagabond" earth currents, with their atten-
dant electrolytic action on buried pipes, or for any purpose in open-, or closed-
conduit, or electro-magnetic, or cable haulage, traction systems; whether adopted
as pilot potential wires; test wires; or for the purpose of regulating the potential
difference, at any specific points in the distributing network, by any suitable
device, for purposes of differentiation of appointed rate-periods of the day, for
integrating watt-hour, electric-supply meters on consumers' premises, or for other
objects; or utilised for telegraphs, telephones, telautographs, or any other purpose
of electric energy transmission or signalling. It may also be applied for inserting
or threading, into any pipe or the like, a flexible rope of hemp, etc., or of steel
or other metal, or rods, tapes, bars, or tubes of any material; as also for
depositing any substance or article in any manner of culvert, at any desired point
in its length.
The conduit electro-locomotor is equally well suited as a despatch carrier, in
substitution for pneumatic despatch systems; and as a propeller for a brush-cleaner
or scraper, for pipes or other description of culverts, for sewage, water, gas, com-
pressed air, or other service.
Another useful application of this invention is to telpherage systems. In the
case of large business premises; commercial papers, goods, &c., are readily trans-
ported on an overhead, miniature, electric tram system to and from a central
office, or on a general intercommunication net-work, the destination being entirely
under control, preferably by electrical means. Thus, the electro-telepherage system
is not restricted to the narrow limitations of a gravity, aërial tram.
The precise construction of the electro-locomotor varies with its intended appli-
cation; and details of its design are dependent upon the special conditions of its
required service. The following description applies to one form of the conduit

page_text: electro-locomotor, intended for drawing in electric supply mains into circular
pipes. Any appurtenances or accessories, to be used in conjunction therewith,
come within the scope of this invention.
In laying the pipes, for any variety of electric service, in a district, where this
invention is in vogue, it is unnecessary to thread these pipes with a hauling line,
when laying them; or to employ sectional, screwed rods, or other laborious device,
for the subsequent drawing in of the mains. Furthermore, additional cables may
hereby be laid in conduits, already containing some laid mains. By means of the
electro-locomotor, the laying of cables is accomplished with great ease and
expedition; and without detriment to either the core or insulation of the cable,
or abrasion of the interior surface of the conduit, whether this be its own skin, or
an insulating or preservative composition. It is immaterial where the electric
cable pipes are situated; and the usual curvatures of such do not prevent the
passage of an electro-locomotor of correct design.
In combination with the electro-locomotor, a main switch and a starting switch,
or, in substitution for both, a suitable "controller," are or is to be employed, for
governing the speed of drawing in the cable; together with a rheostat, when direct
current, or with a variable-inductance solenoid, when an alternating current,
the source of motive power; as also a trailing, power line, which may be in the
form of a light insulated, twin wire; and a source of electric energy, which, in
the case of already-laid, neighbouring cables, preferably derives its existence from
some machine or accumulators, in the central, or some sub-station; the laid cables
being temporarily joined up in circuit for this purpose, if not yet "alive" or
permanently connected. Should such facilities not obtain; portable accumulators,
or a battery of other cells, or a small dynamo, or magneto-electrical machine,
should be brought into requisition.
The power line, for the electro-locomotor, may be wound upon a spool or reel,
either stationed on the pavement or elsewhere, or carried by the machine itself.
In either case, the provision of suitable means, for rapidly rewinding the paid-out
line upon the spool, after use, by the agency of the electro-motor of the invention,
is very desirable. These remarks apply equally to the trailing, tractive line, when
such is employed with the electro-locomotor.
The cables, to be drawn in, may themselves form the power line to the electro-
locomotor. Thus, during the laying of a main, this may fulfil the function of
the "lead"; whilst the "return" is provided by an auxiliary, light, trailing wire,
insulated or bare, or by the conduit itself. In dealing with concentric, or sheathed,
or armoured cable, or two conductors simultaneously, the power circuit is self-
provided. It is immaterial to this invention, if the containing conduit form
normally a common return, or an intentional "earth," to the electric systems of
mains; or if, on the other hand, it perform no electrical function.
In combination with the electro-locomotor, a strong hook, eye, pin, shackle,
staple, ring, link, sheave, binding-screw, lug, or other device, is to be employed,
for the attachment of the line, which is to be pressed into. service, for drawing
in the cables, or for the direct attachment of the cable, which may, or not, be
sweated or clamped in a cap-connector, or other contrivance. The trailing, tractive
line may be a rope of steel, or of other metal, or of hemp; to the after end of which,
the electric main is to be secured; or, so as to employ a motor of yet smaller power,
where it is desired to do all the actual hauling by hand, or by winch, only a string,
cord, or wire, which is to be but preliminary to the real hauling rope, need be
threaded through the conduit, by the direct agency of the machine.
A head-, or tail-electric lamp, or both, may be carried by the electro-locomotor,
for indicating its progression. through the conduit. This lamp, which may be
in a protective shield, sends visual warning of its approach to the destination of
the locomotor; so that the speed of the latter may be diminished by means of the
'controller," or rheostat switch, till it is brought to a standstill.
In the succeeding paragraphs, the construction of a particular form of the
electro-locomotor itself is described.
E
5

page_text: An electric motor, of peculiar and compact design, has, at either end of its
armature, a set of 3 radial or longitudinal arms, constrained to move centrifugally
by springs or other means, and which carry wheels or rollers at their extremities,
and thereby keep the motor centrally in the pipe.
One of these rollers has the function of a driving wheel, and suitable mechanism
connects the same to the armature spindle; so as to transfer rotative motion, and
therefore tractive force, from the motor to the driver-wheel or "tractor."
Preferably, for small pipes or conduits, helical gearing is employed, and the
worm thereof is then a prolongation, actually or in effect, of the armature shaft.
This worm engages a worm-wheel, mounted upon the driver-spindle, or may
actuate the "tractor" through intermediate gearing.
The motor, for such small pipes, is of somewhat elongated dimension, in the
axial direction of its armature, in order to obtain the necessary sectional area of
the armature and field cores, to carry the magnetic flux at an ordinary induction.
The weight of the motor's field-yoke may be reduced, and motive energy thereby
saved, by so designing the motor and engaging parts, that the material of the iron
or steel conduit itself shall virtually lend its own section to that of the permanent
yoke, for carrying the magnetic induction of the field circuit.
The commutator, where the motor is for continuous currents, or the collecting
rings, when for alternating, are preferably arranged at the opposite extremity of
the armature to that, occupied by the worm.
Also, in preference, the "tractor," with its gearing, is placed in the van-guard;
and the current collecting device, in the rear of the machine.
The entire motor may be encased, in a waterproof manner, either in impervious
fabric or in special castings; and with the motor, the helical gearing, as well as
the various spindle bearings, if so desired, may be included in the damp, or
injurious gas, excluding casing. The encased motor is preferably applied, where.
oil-filled pipes are used, for insulating high tension mains.
The trailing, power wires, supplying the motor with current, may be directly
attached to the commutator brushes; but in preference, through the intervention
of tension terminals, secured to the body or bracket of motor. The electric con-
nections may be relieved from strain, by the employment of cable-clamping cleats
on the carcase of machine.
"
The "tractor or driving wheel may be a roller of any suitable material, adapted
to exercise tractive adhesion on the inner surface of the pipe.
Whilst the core of the tractor is, by choice, in metal, its periphery is preferably
of a material, conforming to the nature of the enveloping conduit, with regard to
maximum adhesive effect.
Whilst therefore a simple casting may be employed; a replaceable tyre, in the
same or other material, is advisable, when the electro-locomotor is for varied, doubt-
ful, or certain special services. In all cases, a worn tyre, band, or peripheral
casing is cheanly replaceable.
Rubber band is specially suited for some substances, used in pipe construction.
The machine is as applicable to earthenware, as to metal pipes.
The periphery of the tractor is preferably serrated, and preferably turned to the
radius of the pipe; and it is permissible to use cog-wheels.
Whilst the axis of the tractor spindle is preferably fixed, in relation to the
motor. either subject to adjustment or rigidly; it may alternatively be mounted
upon brackets, arms, or springs, having radial movement, with regard to the pipe.
or attached in any other manner to the motor, so as to act in common with the other
arms, in maintaining the central position of the machine in the pipe, conformably
with preserving the engagement of its worm wheel with the worm. This complica-,
tion is. however, seldom needed.
One, but preferably both, of the other rollers in the van-guard set, is, endowed,
with radial freedom of motion, with respect to the pipe.
The axial direction, or parallelism with the pipe, of the locomotor is preserved
by a trailing set. of arms, whereof, one, two, or all may be radially pivotted, and be

page_text: forced centrifugally, or not, by springs, or other means.
the
The movable arms of each
set are pivotted in brackets, attached to the field magnet, bearing lugs, or brackets,
or any other suitable part of the framework, or hinged directly to any such part.
All or any of the brackets, carrying the radially moving arms, may be revoluble
upon their bases; so as to effect such adjustment,-dependent on
locus of the centre of gravity of the entire electro-locomotor, of the three rollers,
around the circumscribing circle, formed by the circular interior of conduit,
whereby a desired distribution of the weight of the machine, upon the tractor and
other wheels, may be effected..
If desired, one or more of the rollers of either or both sets may be at liberty to
swerve, or change its plane, normally radial, slightly; so as more readily to accom-
modate the available space, between any given pair of rollers of a set, in the event
of there being bad kinks in that part of the laid cables, which the machine is, for
the moment traversing,
If desired, the rear set of roller-arms may be separate from, and readily attach-
able to, the electro-locomotor; in which case, different sets of arms may be used,
for variously-sized conduits. Though 3 virtual arms, to each set, have been
referred to above, yet these may be compound arms, consisting of two bars, rods,
or tubes, each. Also, their number is not necessarily confined to three, but may
be more or fewer, at discretion. Spigot and fawcet, as also any other joint, forms
no obstruction or hindrance to the passage of this electro-locomotor; and in all
variations of diameter of the same conduit or in varied services, the expanding arms
ensure proper tractive adhesion of the driving wheel. The stress of the springs
may, with advantage, be regulatable.
For employment of the locomotor in services of greatly varying conditions, as
regards bores, or material of, or nature of supply through the pipes, etc., various
appurtenances to this apparatus may be necessary or advisable, and they are, in
all cases, parts of this invention.
<6
Also, as a convenient means for launching the electro-locomotor into a conduit
of any form, a shovel," or sling, is, with advantage employed. It is also, with
advantage, brought into requisition at the locomotor's destination, or receiving
end of the pipe. These insertions and removals generally occur at the manholes,
constructed over street boxes, feeding points, junction or service boxes, and trans-
former chambers; and the use of a launching shovel is especially of utility, in
lowering the electro-locomotor partially down a transformer box or sub-station,
whether subterranean or not, as also at the central, and general sub-stations, and
at telegraph, telephone, etc., exchanges.
elevated" railroads, the
The shovel, for this purpose, is suspended by suitable means.
In applying this invention to aerial or other lines, or
following construction of "track" is preferably observed.
By choice, 3, but permissibly, any number of, parallel wires, rods, tubes, or
rails, are to be secured to the inner peripheries of metal rings, at spaced intervals
in their lengths, and these may be suspended at convenient points.
Within this " open tube," the electro-locomotor runs its course, trailing or push-
ing carriages, cars, or trolleys, for papers, goods, or passengers. The 2 sets of
radial and rollered arms keep the locomotor centrally placed, whilst ensuring due
tractive adhesion. These rods, etc., of the " permanent way may be serrated or
racked, for securing yet better adhesion of the tractor. High speeds are readily
obtainable.
وو
This invention may be used in a converse form viz. the electro-motor may be
applied to an auto-mobile annulus, travelling on a tube, rod, or system of parallel
or spiral wires, or the like, on a small or large scale. This may be of utility for
a parcel despatch; wherein, the goods are within the conduit, and the motive agent
without, and therefore accessible and available for transference to another despatch
" trunk line."
Dated this 9th day of November 1897.

page_text: A Conduit and Aerial Electro-locomotor, primarily for Laying or
Drawing in Electric Mains or other Cables for any Service.
I, EDGAR LIONEL BENJAMIN, of 48, Sutherland Avenue, Maida Vale, W., in the
County of London, Civil and Electrical Engineer, do hereby declare the
nature of this invention and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be
particularly described and ascertained in and by the following statement:-
This invention has, for its primary object, the provision of a locomotor, or
hauling trolley, to be actuated by electric power, for drawing conductors of elec-
tricity into their pines, conduits, culverts, channels, ducts, subways, or other
receptacles, constructed of any ordinary materials: such electric conductors being
either insulated or bare; in the form either of wires, or of single, or eccentric,
or triple concentric cables, whether armoured, or lead-sheathed, or neither, or both,
or consisting of strips, bars, rods, or tubes; employed as either electric light and
power distributing mains or feeders, in any system of electric distribution, whether
low, or high-tension, continuous, alternating, or polyphase current transmission;
or employed on electric tramways or railways, as encased or buried feeders, for
the trolley line, or for transformers on the route, or as return feeders, having
auxiliary potential, for preventing "vagabond" earth currents, with their atten-
dant electrolytic action on buried pipes, or for any purpose in open or closed-
conduit, or electro-magnetic, or cable haulage, traction systems; whether adopted
as pilot potential wires; test wires; or for the purpose of regulating the potential
difference, at any specific points in the distributing network, by any suitable
device, for purposes of differentiation of appointed rate-periods of the day, for
integrating, watt-hour, electric supply meters on consumers' premises, or for other
objects; or utilised for telegraphs, telephones, telautographs, or any other purpose
of electric energy transmission or signalling. It may also be applied for inserting
or threading, into any pipe or the like, a flexible rope of hemp, etc., or of steel
or other metal, or rods, tapes, bars, or tubes, of any material:
depositing any substance or article in any manner of culvert, at any desired point
of its length.
as also for
The conduit electro-locomotor is equally well suited as a despatch carrier, in
substitution for pneumatic dispatch systems, and as a propeller for a brush-cleaner
or scraper, for pipes or other description of culverts, for sewage, water, gas, com-
pressed air, or other service.
Another useful application of this invention is to overhead rail systems, wherein
virtual" con-
a locomotor travels either in a pipe of ordinary solid form, or in a
duit, by reason of its frictional engagement with the pipe or virtual conduit. This
latter may be composed of wires, tubes, or rails, rigidly disposed to ensure due
grip between them and the locomotor. In the case of large business premises;
commercial papers, goods, etc., are readily transported on an overhead miniature,
electric tram system, to and from a central office, or on a general intercommuni-
cation network, the destination being entirely under control, preferably by electrical
means. Thus the overhead system just described is not restricted to the narrow
limitations of a gravity aerial tram.
The precise construction of the electro-locomotor varies with its intended appli-
cation and details of its design are dependent upon the special conditions of its
required service. The following description applies to one form of the conduit
electro-locomotor, intended for drawing in electric supply mains into circular.
pipes. Any appurtenances or accessories, to be used in conjunction therewith,
come within the scope of this invention.

page_text: In laying the pipes, for any variety of electric service, in a district where this
invention is in vogue, it is unnecessary to thread these pipes with a hauling line,
when laying them; or to employ sectional, screwed rods, or other laborious device,
for the subsequent drawing in of the mains. Furthermore, additional cables may
hereby be laid in conduits, already containing laid mains.
By means of the electro-locomotor, the laying of cables is accomplished with
great ease and expedition; and without detriment to either the core or insulation
of the cable, or abrasion of the interior surface of the conduit, whether this be its
own skin, or an insulating or preservative composition. It is immaterial where the
electric cable pipes are situated; and the usual curvatures of such do not prevent
the passage of the electro-locomotor; of correct design, according to this invention.
In combination with the electro-locomotor, a main switch and a starting switch,
or, in substitution for both, a suitable "controller," are or is to be employed, for
governing the speed of drawing in the cable; together with a rheostat, when a direct
current, or with a variable inductance solenoid, when an alternating current, is
the source of motive power; as also, a trailing, power line, which may be in the
form of a light. insulated, twin wire; and a source of electric energy, which, in
the case of already laid, neighbouring cables, is preferably derived from
some machine or accumulators, in the central, or some sub-station: the laid cables
being temporarily joined up in circuit for this purpose, if not yet "alive" or
permanently connected. Should such facilities not obtain; portable accumulators,
or a battery of other cells, or a small dynamo, or magneto-electrical machine,
should be brought into requisition.
The power line, for the electro-locomotor, may be wound upon a spool or reel,
either stationed on the pavement or elsewhere, or carried by the machine itself.
In either case, the provision of suitable means for rapidly rewinding the paid-out
line upon the spool after use, by the agency of the electro-motor of the invention,
is very desirable. These remarks apply equally to the trailing, tractive line, when
such is employed with the electro-locomotor.
"
The cables, to be drawn in, may themselves form the power line to the electro-
locomotor. Thus, during the laying of a main, this may fulfil the function of
the "lead," whilst the " return is provided by an auxiliary light trailing wire,
insulated or bare, or by the conduit itself. In dealing with concentric, or sheathed,
or armoured cable, or two conductors simultaneously, the power circuit is self-
provided. It is immaterial to this invention, if the containing conduit form
normally a common return, or an intentional "earth" to the electric system of
mains; or if on the other hand, it perform no electrical function.
In combination with the electro-locomotor, a strong hook, eye, pin, shackle,
staple, ring, link, sheave, binding screw, lug, or other device, is to
be employed for the attachment of the line, which is to be pressed into
service, for drawing in.the cables, or for the direct attachment of the cable, which
may, or may not, he sweated or clamped, in a cap connector or other contrivance.
The trailing, tractive line may be a rope of steel, or of other metal, or of hemp;
to the after end of which, the electric main is to be secured: or, so as to employ
a motor of yet smaller power, where it is desired to do all the actual hauling by
hand, or by winch; only a string, cord, or wire, which is to be but preliminary
to the real hauling rope,--need be threaded through the conduit by the direct
agency of the machine.
A head, or tail electric lamp, or both, may be carried by the electro-locomotor,
for indicating its progression through the conduit. This lamp, which may be
in a protective shield, sends visual warning of its approach to the destination of
the locomotor; so that the speed of the latter may be diminished by means of a
controller" or rheostat, till it is brought to a standstill.
6:
In the succeeding paragraphs, the construction of a particular form of the
electro-locomotor itself is described.
An electric motor, of peculiar and compact design, has, at either end of its
armature a set of three radial or longitudinal arms, constrained to move centri-

page_text: Tugany by springs or other means, and which carry wheels or rollers at their
extremities, and thereby keep the motor central in the pipe.
One of these rollers has the function of a driving wheel, and suitable mechanism
connects the same to the armature spindle; so as to transfer rotative motion, and
therefore tractive force from the motor to the driver-wheel or
" tractor."
. Preferably, for small pipes or conduits, helical gearing is employed, and the
worm thereof is then a prolongation, actually or in effect, of the armature shaft.
This worm engages a worm-wheel, mounted upon the driver-spindle, and may
actuate the tractor" through intermediate gearing.
"
The motor, for such small pipes, is of a somewhat elongated dimension in the
axial direction of its armature, in order to obtain the necessary sectional area of
the armature and field cores, to carry the magnetic flux, at an ordinary induction,
The weight of the motor's field yoke may be reduced, and motive energy thereby
saved, by so designing the motor and the engaging parts, that the material of the
iron or steel conduit itself shall virtually lend its own section to that of the per-
manent yoke, for carrying the magnetic induction of the field circuit.
The commutator, where the motor is for continuous currents, or the collecting
rings, when for alternating, are preferably arranged at the opposite extremity of
the armature to that, occupied by the worm. Also, in preference, the "tractor,"
with its gearing, is placed in the vanguard, and the current collecting device in
the rear of the machine.
The entire motor may be encased in a waterproof manner, either in impervious
fabric or in special castings; and with the motor, the helical gearing, as well as the
various spindle bearings, if so desired, may be included in the damp- or injurious
gas-excluding casing. The encased motor is preferably applied, where oil-filled
pipes are used for insulating high tension mains. The trailing power-wires, supply-
ing the motor with current, may be directly attached to the commutator brushes; but
in preference, through the intervention of tension terminals, secured to the body
or bracket of motor. The electric connections may be relieved from strain, by the
employment of cable-clamping cleats on the carcase of machine. The tractor.or
driving wheel may be a roller of any suitable material, adapted to exercise adhesion
on the inner surface of the pipe.
Whilst the core of the tractor is by choice in metal, its periphery is preferably
of a material, conforming to the nature of the enveloping conduit, with regard to
maximum adhesive effect. Whilst therefore a simple casting may be employed,
a replaceable tyre in the same or other material is advisable, when the electro-
locomotor is for varied, doubtful, or certain special services.
In all cases a worn tyre, band, or peripheral casing is cheaply replaceable.
Rubber band is specially suited for some substances, used in pipe construction.
The machine is as applicable to earthenware as to metal pipes.
The periphery of the tractor is preferably serrated, and preferably turned to the
radius of the pipe; & it is permissible to use cog wheels.
Whilst the axis of the tractor spindle is preferably fixed in relation to the motor,
either subject to adjustment, or rigidly, it may alternatively be mounted upon
brackets, arms, or springs, having radial movement with regard to the pipe, or
attached in any other manner to the motor; so as to act in common with the other
arms, in maintaining the central position of the machine in the pipe, conform-
ably with preserving the engagement of its worm-wheel with the worm.
plication is, however, seldom needed. One, but preferably both, of the other
rollers in the vanguard set is or are endowed with radial freedom of motion, with
respect to the pipe.
This com-
The axial direction, or parallelism with the pipe, of the locomotor is preserved
by a trailing set of arms, whereof one, two, or all may be radially pivotted, and
be forced contrifugally or not by springs or other means. The movable arms of
each set are pivotted in brackets, attached to the field magnet bearings, lugs, or
brackets, or any other suitable part of the framework, or hinged directly to any
such part.

page_text: All or any of the brackets, carrying the radially moving arms, may be revoluble
upon their bases, so as to effect such adjustment (dependent on the locus of the
centre of gravity of the entire electro-locomotor) of the three rollers around the
circumscribing circle, formed by the circular interior of conduit, whereby a desired
distribution of the weight of the machine upon the tractor and other wheels may
be effected.
If desired, one or more of the rollers of either or both sets may be at liberty to
swerve or change its plane, normally radial, slightly; so as more readily to accom-
modate the available space between any given pair of rollers of a set, in the event
of there being bad kinks in that part of the laid cables, which the machine is for
the moment traversing.
If desired, the rear set of roller arms may be separated from, and readily attach-
able to, the electro-locomotor, for different conduits of greatly varying diameters.
Though three virtual arms to each set have been referred to above, yet these may
be compound arms, consisting of two bars, rods, or tubes each. Also, their
number is not necessarily confined to three, but may be more or fewer at discretion.
Spigot and fawcet, as also any other joint, forms no obstruction or hindrance to
the passage of this electro-locomotor; and in all variations of diameter of the
same conduit, or in varied services, the expanding arms ensure proper tractive
adhesion of the driving wheel. The stress of the springs may, with advantage,
be adjustable.
In the employment of the locomotor in services of greatly varying conditions,
as regards bores of, or material of, or nature of supply through, the pipe, etc.,
various appurtenances to this apparatus may be necessary or advisable, and they
are, in all cases, parts of this invention.
66
"
Also, as a convenient means for launching the electro-locomotor into a conduit
of any form, a shovel or sling is, with advantage, employed. It is also, with
advantage, brought into requisition at the locomotor's destination, or receiving end
of the pipe. These insertions and removals generally occur at the manholes, con-
structed over street boxes, feeding point-, junction-, or service-boxes, trans-
former chambers, sub-stations, whether subterranean or not, as also at the central-
and sub-stations, and telegraph, telephone, etc. exchanges; and the employment of
a launching shovel is especially of utility in lowering the electro-locomotor partially
down a transformer chamber.
The shovel, for this purpose, is suspended by suitable means.
In applying this invention to aërial, or other lines, or
the following construction of "track" is preferably observed.
<< elevated" rail roads,
By choice, three, but permissibly, any number of parallel wires, rods, tubes, or
rails are to be secured to the inner peripheries of metal rings, at spaced intervals
in their lengths, and these may be suspended at convenient points.
"
Within this "open
or virtual" tube, the electro-motor runs its course, trail-
ing or pushing carriages, cars, or trolleys for papers, goods, or passengers. These
two sets of radial arms keep the locomotor centrally placed, whilst ensuring due
tractive adhesion. These rods, etc., of the "permanent way may be serrated or
racked, for securing yet better adhesion of the tractor. High speeds are readily
obtainable.
To further elucidate the intended methods of applying this invention, the accom-
panying drawings illustrate one specific design of locomotor, to be actuated by
electricity, and intended for use in a pipe or conduit.
Figure 1 is an elevation of the device in position in the pipe, the pipe being in
section.
-
Figure 2 is a plan of the same apparatus, the trailing portions being omitted.
Figure 3 is a front, and Figure 4 is a rear elevation of the device.
Figure 5 is a longitudinal section of a space economising armature spider, neces-
sary for due compactness of the electro motor of the device, and of use in many
situations, especially where a powerful small motor is required..
Figure 6 is a transverse section of same.

page_text: Figure 7-is an end elevation viewed from the left hand end of Figure 5; whilst
Figure 8 is an end elevation, viewed from the right hand end.
Like letters indicate like parts throughout the drawings.
In these drawings, A represents a pipe or conduit; and B, the field magnet of
the electro-motor. C is the armature, revolving between the pole picces B' of the
magnet. The armature spindle C of the armature is prolonged, and carries,
either upon it, or upon an extension attached thereto, a worm D. This worm D
operates the driving wheel F of the device, through worm and toothed gearing E E¹.
In addition to this driving wheel F', are two rollers G, carried on radial arms H,
which tend to keep the device central within the pipe. At the trailing end of
the device, are three such rollers, all lettered G¹, and serving the same purpose as
the rollers G. The device is provided, at its controlling end, with a large hook,
or other attachment device K, to which the object, which the locomotor is intended
to take through the pipe, may be attached. The controlling rollers G¹ are carried
on arms H¹, each of which normally lies in a radial plane, and is pivotally sup-
ported, as at H2, on the frame of the machine. The arms H¹ are in the shape of
bell cranks, and their short ends engage with a grooved collar L. The collar L
is formed on a pin L', which also carries a spring L2, and nut L³. The armature
spindle has its bearings in a front bracket plate M, and rear bracket plate N.
The front bracket plate M also serves to support two side plates M¹, in which the
gear wheels are journalled. Between the rear plate N and the magnet of the
machine, is located the commutator 03, and brush rocker and brushes, lettered C
and C respectively. The conducting cables, by which power is supplied to the
motor, may conveniently be secured thereto by the metal nuts C, which are in
connection with the brushes.
Owing to the very restricted space, within which the device has to work, it is
found necessary, for high power motors, to employ a special construction of
armature-spider, in order to allow sufficient room for the armature conductors.
This construction of spider comprises, say three, feathers or radial keys, fitted
in grooves or key ways on the shaft, and not mounted, as is usual, upon a sleeve
upon the same. These feathers serve to support the arimature core discs, &
positively transmit the latter's rotation to the shaft.
From the consideration of these details; it will be observed that the magnet B,
formed of the limbs B2 and yoke piece B³, forms the foundation of the whole device,
and serves to carry all the adjuncts. The rotation of the armature, between the
pole pieces B', transmits motion through the worm and gear wheels, to the driving
wheel or "tractor "F, which thus receives a rotation in a plane, substantially at
right angles to that of the rotation of the armature. This rotation serves to pro-
pel the device through the conduit, by the frictional engagement of the circum-
ferential periphery of the wheel F with the wall of the pipe or conduit. This por--
tion of the apparatus is preferably placed at the forward end, as shown, although
the parts, shown at the forward and trailing ends, may obviously, to a certain extent,
change places. For instance, the commutator might, if desired, be placed at the
forward end, and the tractor at the controlling end, but it is preferred to arrange
matters in the manner, shown in the drawings.
The device may very conveniently be employed in conjunction with a skeleton
pipe, formed of, say, three rods, so disposed that one of the wheels, carried at the
fore and rear end of the machine, engages with each rod. This application may
prove of service, in connection with well known "cash railways," at present
employed in large commercial establishments.
Although the motor, herein before described and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings, is propelled by electrical means, this construction has only been given by
way of example, as it may conveniently be propelled, if desired, by mechanism
driven by compressed air or other gas or by steam. Or again, an endless cord or
equivalent device may be passed over the wheel, carried by the machine, in such a
manner, that by pulling on the endless cord, motion is imparted by the tractor,
and the machine propelled through the pipe as before. The essential feature of
j

page_text: "
this invention is the provision of a locomotor, which, when placed within a con-
duit either solid or virtual and supplied with power, will exert tractive
effort by reason of its frictional engagement with the containing conduit.
Other details of construction may obviously be varied without departing from the
spirit of this invention; such for instance as the method of obtaining the neces-
sary pressure of the centreing rollers upon the wall of the conduit. For example,
each of the arms, carrying these rollers, may be controlled by a separate spring,
instead of all three by one, as illustrated; or an audible instead of the visible signal,
referred to in the earlier part of this specification, may be employed. The con-
struction illustrated is, however that preferred. In the case of the arms, for
instance, it is more convenient to be able to adjust their pressure by the operation
of a single spring, which is adjustable by the simple rotation of a nut.
Finally this device, intended for use in a closed or skeleton pipe or conduit, is
obviously applicable to many other purposes, than the drawing of electric cables
into their containing pipes. It may be employed for operating pipe cleaners or
scrapers, such as are used in water and other mains, tubulous boilers etc. It may
be used for the transport of articles through pipes or conduits instead of a pneu-
matic despatch, and for numerous other purposes.
My space economising armature spider is illustrated in Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8.
By its agency, the entire annular space between the armature spindle and core,
with the exception of that occupied by three slender radial feathers, is rendered
available for winding the necessary coils of wire.
The spider consists of, say three, radial driving feathers or webs, 0, 0, 0, equi-
distantly disposed about the motor spindle and terminating in rings, P, and P,
at either end. Each web, 0, 0, 03, has a shoulder, 01 02 03¹, formed upon it.
The webs are intended to engage positively with the shaft, by being slid into key-
ways, correspondingly recessed therein. The ring 1', is internally of the full shaft-
diameter, whilst the diameter of the ring 12, equals the diameter of shaft at the
base of its flutings. Thus, the spider may be slid on to the shaft from one end
thereof, until the ends of keyways of latter be brought into contact, as shoulders,
with the left hand, inner edges of the said feathers, thereby arresting further
threading movement. Over the webs, 0, 0, 0, the slotted armature discs, Q of
the usual laminated form, in charcoal iron or other selected material, are slipped;
stout washers R, and Rg, being provided at each end of the series, so as better to
distribute the compressional thrusts of the device. The laminae and washers Q,
R₁ R, shewn, in Figure 5, only in the upper half of same, (but completely, in
the other views) are firmly pressed together, by screwing up the annular ring, S,
bearing the horns, S, S, S, against them, by means of the nut T, and washer, V,
working upon the threaded portion P2, of the ring P. The laminae are, in this
manner securely held together between the shoulders, O₁1 01 031, of the stationary
ring P, and the horns, S, S₁ S, of the annulus S, riding upon the other fixed
ring P. Moreover, independent rotation among them is prevented, by their flut-
ings all being in engagement with the same feathers, 0, 0, 0, and, as these latter
are embedded in the sunk keyways upon the spindle therefore positive driving
effort subsists between the said armature spindle and the armature discs Q whether
the device be employed in motor, dynamo or converter.
The economy in available winding space is attained, by reason of the usual
central tubes of the spider being dispensed with; and as the whole length of the
spider is a multiple key unto itself, so is the mechanical driving proportionately
positive. Also, the weight of the spider is thus reduced; and the machining of
the central tube as also the use of through bolts, are obviated. By virtue of this
construction, the whole annular space, between axle and laminae, except for the
three narrow feathers 01 02 03, becomes available for the armature conductors
which pass in and out at the wide entrances between the rings and washers P" R
and P2 R2 respectively; and hereby, in addition to all the other advantages, an
armature of reduced overall diameter, can be employed for a required service.
The whole device, is retained in its position upon the shaft, by being pressed,

page_text: till its webs 01 02 03 abut against the keyway ends or shoulders, by another nut,
screwed upon the spindle itself, or otherwise locked in place. Alternatively, the
shaft bearings themselves may be caused to prevent end-sliding of the webs from
off the shaft-keyways.
The commutator or collector rings is or are preferably disposed at the ring Pus
end of the armature, thereby leaving the tightening nut T readily accessible.
Whilst the above describes a specific design of the space saving spider, any
modifications thereof, embodying the same principle, come within the scope of my
invention. Thus for instance, the armature shaft may be provided with radially
projecting feathers, forged upon it, or milled out of the solid, or cast with it in cast
steel, say or again, retaining the recessed flutings in the spindle, the armature
core laminae may be stamped out, with inwardly directed narrow projections for
engaging the same. In either case, the separate webs of my spider are dispensed
with, being now self-contained in either the shaft or core; and then, only a couple
of suitably formed washers and nut will be necessary to retain the armature core
in situ upon the axle. Also, tangential, instead of radial feathers might be
employed and so forth.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the
said invention, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that
what I claim is;-
1. A locomotor which can be inserted in a pipe conduit or the like and be pro-
pelled therethrough by its frictional engagement with the sides or walls of the said
pipe conduit or the like.
2. A device for drawing a cable or the like into a pipe or other conduit having
a motor which propels the device through the conduit by means of frictional
engagement with the wall of the conduit.
3. A locomotor for use in a conduit having at one or both ends a set of three
or more rollers carried on spring or magnet controlled arms for the purpose of
keeping the locomotor central in the conduit substantially as described.
4. In a locomotor for use in a conduit a driving wheel or "tractor" which makes
frictional or toothed engagement with the wall of the conduit or with a rack
attached thereto.
5. In a locomotor for use in a conduit the combination with a driving wheel at
one end of two or more adjustable or other centreing rollers carried on. spring con-
trolled arms substantially as described.
6. In an electro-locomotor for use in a conduit the combination with the
armature spindle of gearing whereby driving effort is transmitted to one of three
rollers whose function it is to keep the locomotor central in the conduit substan-
tially as set forth.
7. The complete electro-locomotor substantially as described and illustrated in
the accompanying drawings.
8. The armature spider for saving diametral space in the armature of an electric
motor substantially as described and illustrated in Figures 5, 6, 7, & 8 of the
accompanying drawings.
9. The combination with a "virtual" pipe of a locomotor substantially as
described.