IMPROVEMENTS IN DETAILS BY WHICH MOTIVE FORGE IS TRANSMITTED IN MACHINERY."
Year: 1859

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to James Robertson. of Glasgow, in the County of
Lanark, North Britain, Engineer, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS
IN DETAILS BY WHICH MOTIVE FORGE IS TRANSMITTED IN MACHINERY."
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said James Robertson al
the Ollice of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on the
31st January 1850.
1, JAMES ROBERTSON, of Glasgow, in the County of Lanark, North Britain,
Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVE-
MENTS IN DETAILS BY WHICH MOTIVE FORCE IS TRANSMITTED IN MACHINERY," to
be as follows: -
The said improvements in details by which motive force is Transmitted in
machinery, are in part designed to facilitate and extend the development and
application of the grooved surface frictional system of gearing" in connection
with which I have already obtained grants of British Letters Patent, bearing
dates the 6th June 1855 (No. 1294). the 24th March 1856 (No. 692). and
the 11th June 1857 (No. 1639), and in part relate to novel applications of
grooved surfaces under various modifications in connection with various kinds
of wheelwork and shafting, and similar parts of machinery. By the improve-
ments having reference to the communication of motive force between separate
pieces, as from one wheel in another in gear with it, an increased intensity
Price 8d.1

page_text: and duration, and a more perfect continuity of driving contact. are obtained
together with increased smoothness of action, whilst some of the improvements
involve facilities for engaging. disengaging, and reversing movements, or
for movements by which the amount of frictional contact or of motion may be
varied.
'
An important part of the present Invention relates to the employment of steel
as the material of shafting for transmitting motive force, such material being
superior to iron in strength, so that shafts of it may be made of comparatively
smaller sizes, whilst it has also other advantages. The ordinary means,
however, of fixing on wheels and pulleys, and of forming couplings and similar
joints, are unsuited to steel shafting of comparatively small diameter, as are
also various peculiarities of the ordinary construction of shafting, and to render
such steel shafting advantageously available, grooved or indented surfaces are
according to this Invention used in permanently fixing or uniting together the
various parts. As there is difficulty and expence in forming raised bosses upon
steel rods or bars, it may ordinarily be preferable to use shafts made of straight
rods without such bosses either for wheels. pullies, or couplings. The shafts
may be made with wedge-shaped grooves in their surfaces running from end
to end or formed only at the parts receiving the wheels, pulleys or couplings.
One or more such wedge-shaped grooves may be provided for each key on the
shaft, or in the piece to be fixed thereon, and where there are more than one
key it may be sufficient to apply such groove to one key only.
In the case
of wheels or pulleys mounted on the shaft by means of three or more keys,
and where the diameter of the shaft is considerably less than that of the eye of
the wheel or pulley, a sufficient holding power may be obtained without
grooving the eye of the wheel or pulley, the eye being bored out with a slight
faper to fit the outsides of the keys, and to dispense with the cutting of key
beds in it. In the case of a wheel or pulley which can be bored to suit the
shaft, the eye of the wheel or pulley may be formed with the requisite grooved
surface and taper, and be driven on the shaft and so fixed without a key.
Contrivances of the kind suitable for steel shafting of small diameter, as
described, will also be found advantageously applicable in many cases to iron
shafting for fixing wheels and similar pieces.
It will be an improvement in both iron and steel shafts to form raised bosses
upon them, and to form grooved keying surfaces upon such bosses. the grooved
surfaces being by preference flat.
In couplings, the keys, where used, may be formed with longitudinal wedge-
shaped grooves on both inner and outer surfaces, or on the one or the other only.
the shaft butt and the coupling, or one of them, being grooved to correspond;

page_text: or the shaft butts may be formed with longitudinal wedge-shaped grooves and
be slightly tapered, the couplings being shaped to fit being fixed without keys
by driving light on; or transverse set pins or cutiers may be used instead
of longitudinal keys. The wedge-shaped compling surfaces may also be
formed round the parts instead of along them, and to get the coupling on the
shafi huits, their eyes may be enlarged on one side, keys being inserted in the
enlarged part. Or segmental grooved pieces in contact with the shaft butik
may be fixed in the coupling by keys; shafts may also be coupled by means of
tapered half laps or scarfs, the scarf surfaces being stepped or grooved
transversely or longitudinally.
An important feature of these grooved surface couplings and fastenings is
the obtaining of a compound wedging action. and such fastenings are susceptible
of numerous modifications. the grooved surfaces being used in combination
with bolts and in disc-shaped and other couplings. In disc-shaped and similar
couplings or fastenings, the grooves may be disposed concentrically. radially.
tangentially, or iransversely. As in the manufacture of steel shafting, some
difficulty will be experienced in raising collars for bearings, as in ordinary
shafting, it is proposed by this Invention to introduce modifications in the
construction to obviate this difficulty. It may, however, be remarked, that in
many of the arrangements of grooved surface frictional gearing described in
the Specifications of my Patents herein-before referred to, the grooved surfaces
of the wheels will retain the shafts in their places, and in such cases collars are
nol necessary: where longitudinal shifting of a shaft has to be provided against.
it is proposed to cut or form a series of comparatively small collars or ridges of a
wedge, square. or other shape round the shaft at the bearings, the latter being
formed with counterpart surfaces to fit. The increased number of such collars
or ridges will compensate for the comparatively small surface of each. In cases
where a reduced or no force has to be transmitted beyond the bearing. as at
the end of a shaft for example, the spaces between the collars or ridges may be
cut deeper towards the end of the shaft, or the journal may be tapered in
general outline, a central pivot of sufficient strength for the shaft to rest upon
being retained in the case of footstep bearings. At journals transmitting con-
siderable force a slight enlargement of the shafi should be formed out of which
io cut the collars or ridges without reducing the strength of the shaft at the part.
In general it will be most convenient to use a moveable collared piece fixed on
the shaft by set pins or otherwise, and in many hanging and pillow-block
bearings for the shafting of bevil gearing. it will be an advantage to render
these collared pieces adjustable by screws or cutters, and by their means to
adjust the contact pressure of the wheels. In horizontal shafting for bevil

page_text: gearing, the collars or ridges at the bearings may be made with inclined faces,
so disposed that the action upon them of the shafting and wheels will tend to
keep the latter in gear. In addition to the advantage steel shafting possesses
on account of its comparatively smaller diameter involving less lubrication, its
superior elasticity gives to the grooved surface frictional gearing the elastic
compensating action which it requires, whilst the reduced resistance of the axis
is of peculiar importance in such gearing.
An improvement in the construction of grooved surface frictional wheels
consists in making them with malleable iron or steel tyres shrunk or otherwise
fixed on cast-iron rimmed centres, each wheel having one or more such tyres;
or the tyres may be fixed on light steel or malleable iron arms, curved to give
compensating action and pressure when in gear. Various modes may be
adopted of giving elastic compensation by means of springs or elastic sub-
stances, such as wood or caoutchouc introduced between the tyres. whether of
cast iron. malleable iron, or steel, and the wheel boss, or between the wheel
and a separate boss keyed on the shaft. According to another plan the whole
may be built up of entire discs, and springs may be introduced between these.
as also between tyres to admit of them being more or less compressed together
for the purpose of modifying the adhesion between the wheels.
Malleable iron and steel grooved surfaces are superior in cast-iron ones.
from the contact, adhesion, and friction being naturally greater, whilst their
greater strength and durability admits of the wedge ridges being made more
acute, in consequence of which a greater amount of adhesion is obtained with
a given pressure.
A smaller extent of driving surface may also be used, and
the wheels may be made generally lighter, and so as to occupy less space than
ordinary iron ones."
Steel tyres and wheels entirely of steel may be magnetised to increase their
contact adhesion, and to render them more efficient.
In making grooved surface frictional wheels for high speeds. it is proposed
to fit them with wood surfaces, with the wood fibre presented radially.
According to one plan, the wood in segments may be fixed like the cogs of a
mortice wheel, the segments being shaped so as to form a continuous surface
externally for grooving; or the wood segments may be fitted into dovetail
recesses formed in the wheel castings. According to another plan. the rimmed
centre or rim back may be cast with thin radiating malleable iron partitions,
the spaces between which will form the mortices for the wood segments: Ji
the rim back is forined with flanges, the thin malleable iron partitions may be
embedded in them. The partitions may be roughened, perforated, or recessed
to give them a hold upon the wood segments, and such a number of them may

page_text: be introduced, according to the diameter of the wheel, as will give the most
suitable inclination of the sides for holding the segments when wedged. The
partitions may be formed of cast-iron. but the malleable iron is preferable.
The wood segments may be driven in with glue or other cement, and when
finished, will present a firm grooved surface of end wood. Similarly the
grooved surfaces may be composed of paper. leather. or other suitable material.
In an arrangement for varying the speed transmitted, analogous to ordinary
stepped-cone speed pulleys, there are a series of grooved surface wheels of
graduated diameters on the two shafts, and intermediate wheels or rings, the
laiter encircling one or both of the shafts, are provided for communicating the
motion, or the intermediate wheels or rings may be dispensed with; the
wheels on one of the two shafts being mounted loose on eccentric bushes, by
turning which the wheels may be placed in or out of gear with those on the
other shaft. The motion of the wheel on the bush is communicated to the
shaft by means of a snug working in a recess formed in a disc or arm keyed
on the shaft. A single pair of wheels may be fitted with this eccentric bush
and clutch. such an arrangement having many advantages for particular
situations.
According to another modification. wheels of various diameters may be
keyed on two shafts, and one or other pair of them be brought into gear by
inclining one or both of the shafts. With slight modifications these arrange-
ments may be adapted to bevil gear.
In another arrangement for obtaining various speeds. a pair of spherically-
shaped dises, with their concavities towards each other, are carried on one
shaft, and a pair of similar discs, with their convexities towards each other.
upon another shaft, the former pair working between the latter.
These discs
are fitted upon their shafts so as to be capable of a slight variation of incli-
nation at the lines of contact. and this variation is obtained according to one
plan by means of antifriction rollers applied to the opposite parts of their cir-
cumferences. With this arrangement the pairs of discs may be made 10
touch at different points on the lines, joining their centres, the speed com-
municated varying. accordingly. Single discs on each shaft may to a certain
extent be arranged. to answer the same end. A very efficient reversing
motion is obtained by arranging a pair of grooved surface wheels on two
parallel shafts so as to gear together, and by fixing pulleys to the side of each,
When the grooved
round which pulleys a metallic or other band is passed.
wheels are in gear the band is loose, but a slight shift of one of the shafts
takes the grooves out of gear, and tightens the band which gives a reverse
motion

page_text: An improvement in mounting the grooved surface frictional gearing consists
in cushioning the shafts and other parts by means of springs in couples.
arranged generally on opposite sides of the moveable piece to which they are.
applied. so as to influence the action in both directions: such springs being
adjustable separately or noi, as may be convenient. The springs may be
contrived to cause the wheels io bite harder when an increased sirain is being
transmitted by them, and for tlie same purpose a speed ring may he used
between a large grooved wheel and a comparatively small one. an increased
strain causing such ring in assume an inclination which gives it increased
adhesion.
It is intended to apply the majority of the herein-before described imprové-
ments to single groove or single ridge wheels, as well as to many grooved
wheels.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Paient. filed
by the said James Robertson in the Great Seal Patent Office on the
30th July 1859.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I. JAMES
ROBERTSON, of Glasgow, in tlie County of Lanark. North Britain, Engineer.
send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria. by Her Letters
Patent. bearing date the Thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and fifty-nine. in the twenty-second year of
Her reign, did. for Herself, Her heirs and successors. give and grant unto
me. the said James Robertson. Her special licence that I. the said James
Robertson, my exécutors. administrators. and assigns, or such others as T.
the said James Robertson, my executors. administrators, or 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 "IM-
PROVEMENTS IN DETAILS BY WHICH MOTIVE FORCE IS TRANSMITTED IN MACHINERY,"
upon the condition (amongst others) that I. the said James Robertson, my
executors or administrators, by an instrument in writing under my, or their.
or one of their hands and seals, should particularly describe and ascertain the
nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the same was to be per-
formed, and cause the same to be filed in the Great Seal Patent Office within

page_text: NOW KNOW YE, that 1. the said James Robertson, do hereby declare
the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to be per-
formed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the following
statement in writing. reference being had to the accompanying Drawings, and
to the letters and figures marked thereon, that is to say:
The said improvements in details by which motive force is transmitted in
machinery, are in part designed to facilitate and extend the development and
application of the "grooved-surface frictional system of gearing," in con-
nection with which I have already obtained grants of British Letters Patent,
bearing dates the 6th June 1855 (No. 1294). the 24th March 1856 (No. 692),
and the 11th June 1857 No. 1639), and in part. relate to novel applications
of grooved and other frictional surfaces. under various modifications, in con-
nection with various kinds of wheelwork and shafting, and similar parts of
machinery. By the improvements having reference to the communication of
motive force between separate pieces, as from one wheel to another in gear
with it, an increased intensity and duration. and a more perfect continuity of
driving contact, are obtained. together with increased smoothness of action;
whilst some of the improvements involve facilities for engaging, disengaging,
and reversing movements, or for movements by which the amount of frictional
contact or of motion may be varied.
And in particularly describing my said Invention. anil in order that it may
be properly understood and carried into effect, I shall refer as I proceed to the
several Figures on the Four Sheets of explanatory Drawings hereunto appended,
premising that the same reference letters and numerals mark the same or like
parts in the several Figures in which they occur.
An important part of the present Invention relates to the employment of
steel as the material of shafting for transmitting motive force, such material
being superior to iron in strength, so that shafts of it may be made of com-
paratively smaller sizes. whilst it has also other advantages. The ordinary
means, however, of fixing on wheels and pulleys, and of forming couplings and
similar joints, are unsuited to steel shafting of comparatively small diameter, as
are also various peculiarities of the ordinary construction of shafting: and to
render such steel shafting advantageously available, grooved or indented
surfaces are, according to this Invention, used in permanently fixing or
uniting together the various parts. As there is difficulty and expense in
forming raised bosses upon steel rods or bars, it may ordinarily be preferable to
use shafts made of straight rods without such bosses either for wheels, pulleys;

page_text: or couplings. The shafts may be made with wedge-shaped grooves in their
surfaces running from end to end, or formed only at the parts receiving the
wheels, pulleys, or couplings. Two or more such wedge-shaped grooves may
be provided for each key, on the shaft or in the piece to be fixed thereon:
and where there are more than one key it may be sufficient to apply such
groove or grooves to one key only. In the case of wheels or pulleys mounted
on the shaft by means of three or more keys, and where the diameter of the
shaft is considerably less than that of the eye of the wheel or pulley, a sufficient
holding power may be obtained without grooving the eye of the wheel or
pulley, the eye being bored out with a slight taper to fit the outsides of the
keys, and to dispense with the cutting of key beds in it. In the case of a
wheel or pulley which can be bored to suit the shaft, the eye of the wheel or
pulley may be formed with the requisite grooved surface and taper, and be
driven on the shaft, and so fixed without a key. Contrivances of the kind
suitable for steel shafting of small diameter as described, will also be found
advantageously applicable in many cases to iron shafting for fixing wheels.and
similar pieces.
:
1 will be an improvement in both iron and steel shafts to form raised bosses
upon them, and to form grooved keying surfaces upon such bosses, the grooved
surfaces being by preference flat on such bosses, but round on shafts having no
bosses.
I
1
Various examples of the application of grooved surfaces for fixing wheels
and pulleys on shafts are represented in Figures 1 to 16, Sheet 1, of the
accompanying Drawings.
Figure is a side elevation, and Figure 2 is a transverse section of a piece
of shafting, having a portion of its surface grooved longitudinally at one place;
Figure 3 is a side elevation, and Figure 4 a transverse section of a piece of
shafting similarly grooved at four parts of its circumference. In Figures 5
and 6 a couple only of grooves are formed at each part of the shaft intended to
receive keys; Figure 7 is an enlarged transverse section of fragments of a
shaft A, and of the boss B, of a wheel or pulley which is fixed by means of a
key C, grooved on both sides, the shaft A and boss B being grooved to
correspond; Figure 8 is a similar transverse section, showing the key C as
grooved on its inner side only, the boss B having a tapered eye turned in it, so
that the wheel or pulley can be fixed in any position on the shaft; Figures 9
and 10 are transverse and longitudinal sections, showing the application of a
single key for fixing the wheel or pulley B on the shaft A, the boss being
made with a key-seat to receive the key, which is grooved on only its inner
side to suit the grooved seat on the shaft: Figures 11 and 12 are transverse

page_text: and longitudinal sections. showing the application of four keys. C for fixing the
wheel or pulley B on the shaft A. The keys fit in key-seats in the wheel boss.
and the shaft is formed with an enlargement, out of which the grooves for the
keying are cut: Figures 13 and 14 are transverse and longitudinal sections
showing the application of four keys C, each formed with only two angular
ridges. fo suit which the shaft. A is formed with only two grooves at each
place. These keys may fit in key-sents in the wheel boss B, as in the
preceding example, or the boss may be formed with a tapered eye to receive
the keys as shown: Figures 15 and 16 are transverse and longitudinal sections
showing a convenient mode of fixing on a shaft A a pulley B. the eye of which
is considerably larger than the shaft. The eve is turned out with a slight taper
and two half bushes D are inserted, these internally fitting the shaft. A. and
externally the pulley B. Between the half bushes D a key C is introduced.
formed with angular ridges on its inner side to fit corresponding grooves formed
in the shaft. A.
In couplings, the keys, where used, may be formed with longitudinal wedge-
shaped grooves on both inner and outer surfaces, or on the one or the other
only. the shaft butt and the coupling, or one of them, being grooved to corre-
spond or the shaft butts may be formed with longitudinal wedge-shaped
grooves and be slightly tapered, the complings being shaped to fit, being fixed
without keys by driving tight on: or transverse set pins or cutters may be
used instead of longitudinal keys. The wedge-shaped coupling surfaces may
also be formed round the parts instead of along them, and to get the coupling
on the shaft buits their eyes may be enlarged on one side, keys being
inserted in the enlarged pari. Or segmental grooved pieces in coniaci with
the shaft butts may be fixed in the coupling by keys.
An important feature of these grooved surface couplings and fastenings is.
the obtaining of a compound wedging action. and such fastenings are suscep-
tible of mumerous modifications, the grooved surfaces being used in combination
with bolts, and in disk-shaped and other couplings. In disk-shaped and
similar couplings or fastenings the grooves may be disposed concentrically.
radially, fangentially, or transversely.
Various examples of the application of grooved surfaces for fixing the
couplings of shafts are represented in Figures 17 to 24, on Sheef 1 of the
accompanying Drawings. Figures 17 and 18 are transverse and longitudinal
sections of a modification in which the coupling E is internally formed with
longitudinal grooves, the shaft. butts a having corresponding longitudinal
grooves externally. In addition, a key C extends the entire length of
the coupling E, fitting in a key-seat therein, but formed with grooves

page_text: on its inner side fitting the grooves of the shaft buits a; Figures 19 and 20
are transverse and longitudinal sections of a disk-coupling. Each shaft butt a
has keyed on it with a key C. grooved on both sides in this example, a bossed
disk F. and the contact surfaces of these disks F are grooved circularly,
whereby the disks are made in, 'as it were, alhère together, and the strain on
the holding bolts G is considerably reduced. Figures 21 and 22 are a trans-
verse section and a side elevation: parily in longitudinal section, of a coupled
joint, in which the coupling is in two halves 11, separated longitudinally.
Grooves are formed round ihe shaft buits a. to fit corresponding grooves formed
round the interior of the half couplings H, and these half couplings are tightly
bound down upon the shaft buits by means of flanges and bolts G: Figures 28
and 24 are transverse and longitudinal sections of a coupled joint, in which a
single coupling ring E, is used, this having its eye formed with a very slight
longitudinal taper. This coupling ring E is fixed on the shaft butts by
means of four keys C, passing the entire length of the coupling and being
formed with longitudinal grooves in fit corresponding grooves on the shaft
butts a.
Shafts may also be coupled by means of tapered half laps or scarfs, the
scarf surfaces being grooved longitudinally or transversely; and similarly
details for transmitting motion otherwise than by torsion or rotation, such as
connecting rods, pump rods, and others, may be joinied by means of scarf or
otherwise shaped joints, the contact surfaces of which are grooved to impart
an increased holding adhesion longitudinally or transversely, or both ways.
Various examples of such joints are represented in Figures 25 to 32 on
Sheet of the accompanying Drawings. Figure 25 is a side elevation, and
Figure 26 is a transverse section of a scarf joint uniting two rod lengths E
The joint surfaces are grooved longitudinally, whereby the effect on the
holding bolts G of any lateral bending strain is much reduced. Figures 27
and 28 are side elevation and transverse section of a scarf joint. the joint
surfaces of which are grooved transversely. Where it is not necessary that
the two rod lengths I should be in the same line, the joint may be formed as
shown in Figures 29 and 30, the contact surfaces being grooved longitudinally
as shown, or transversely. A very excellent joint of a similar kind for jointing
wooden rods or beams is represented in Figures 31 and 32. In this case the
rod ends I are brought together between a pair of metal plates J, and the
whole is bolted together, as shown. The contact surfaces of the plates J and
rod ends I are grooved as indicated, whereby the holding power of the joint is
much increased.
In grooving the parts of the various fastenings herein-before described, I do

page_text: not confine myself to any particular proportion or pitch of groove, nor to any
particular angle, but I may remark that in delineating the various - examples.
on the accompanying Sheet of Drawings, I have adopted what I believe to be
the best proportions for practice. To render the grooved surface fastenings as
efficient as possible, the grooves should generally be formed by cutting. or
shaping tools, but when the parts are of cast metal, or one part of cast metal
and the other of wood, and when cheapness is an object, the parts or part may
be cast with the grooves ready formed, the moulds being shaped to correspond.
When the grooved surfaces are thus formed, in casting it will generally be
desirable to introduce between them a sheet of a comparatively soft metal,
such as lead, or of some similar partially compressible material; to insure the
perfect contact which the slight irregularities occuring in cast surfaces would
otherwise prevent. Figure 33 (Sheet I) is a transverse section of a joint
formed in this way; and I may here remark that this joint may be
advantageously adopted in putting together the framework of machines,
particular where great concussions and strains have to be provided against.
In some cases the grooves may be formed in malleable metal by rolling.
As in the manufacture of steel shafting some difficulty will be experienced
in raising collars for bearings as in ordinary shafting; it is proposed by this
Invention to introduce modifications in the construction to obviate this
difficulty. It may, however, be remarked that in many of the arrangements
of grooved surface frictional gearing described in the Specifications of my
Patents herein-before referred to, the grooved surfaces of the wheels will retain
the shafts in their places, and in such cases collars are not necessary. Where
longitudinal shifting of a shaft. has to be provided against, it is proposed to cut
or form a series of comparatively small collars or ridges of a wedge, square, or
other shape round the shaft at the bearings, the latter being formed with
counterpart surfaces to fit. The increased number of such collars or ridges
will compensate for the comparatively small surface of each. In cases where
a reduced or no force has to be transmitted beyond the bearing, as at the end
of a shaft for example, the spaces between the collars or ridges may be cut
deeper towards the end of the shaft, or the journal may be tapered in general
outline, a central pivot of sufficient strength for the shaft. to rest upon being
retained in the case of footstep bearings. At journals transmitting considerable
force, a slight enlargement of the shaft should be formed, out of which to cut
the collars or ridges without reducing the strength of the shaft at the part.
In general it will be most convenient to use a moveable collared piece fixed
on the shaft by set pins or otherwise; and in many hanging and pillow-block
bearings for the shafting of bevil gearing, it will be an advantage to render

page_text: these collared pieces adjustable by screws or cutiers, and by their means to
adjust the contact pressure of the wheels. In horizontal shafting for bevil
gearing the collars or ridges at the bearings may be made with inclined faces,
so disposed that the action upon them of the shafting and wheels will tend to
keep the latter in gear.
Examples of the improved journals are represented in Figures 34 to 39 og
Sheet 1 of the accompanying Drawings. In Figure 34 is shown a journal K
with a corresponding bearing brass L for the end of a horizontal shaft; collars
are formed by cutting grooves round the shaft, these grooves being deeper
towards the extremity of the shaft; the brass L, however, is made to extend
sonic distance beyond the innermost groove, so as to give sufficient support to
the shaft. Figure 35 is an elevation of a footstep bearing, one side of the
bearing block M and one of the bearing brasses L being removed. The
journal K is formed with graduated collars, as in the preceding example, the
upper portion of the journal being retained of the full diameter of the shaft A.
In Figure 36 a modified form of the collars is represented, these being so
shaped as to give increased supporting strength to the entrant rings of the
brasses without taking from the strength of the collars. In Figure 37 is
shown one mode of applying a moveable tubular collared journal piece N to a
shaft A. This journal piece N is adjusted and fixed in position by means of
nuts O screwed upon the shaft A. Another mode of fixing the journal piece N
is shown in Figure 38. The journal piece is slightly coned out at each end.
and is fixed by means of two rings P formed with segmental conical wedges.
These wedge rings being driven into the ends of the journal piece N, fix the
latter, firmly on the shaft and hold it, concentrically, notwithstanding that its
eye may be slightly larger than the shaft. The rings are prevented from
loosening by small pinching screws. In Figure 39 is shown a simple mode of
fixing a journal piece N on the end of a shaft A. The shaft end is turned to
a slightly less diameter to receive the journal piece, and its end is afterwards
hammered up to rivet the journal piece. These journal pieces may be made
of brass or other metal
In forming on shafts the angular grooves intended for the reception of the
grooved keys, I prefer to use a rotating cutting tool. R, of the kind shown in
Figures 40 and 41 on Sheet 2 of the accompanying Drawings, these Figures
being views taken at right angles to each other. The cutting tool R is made
to shape at once all the grooves required at one place, and the shaft A is
gradually traversed along as the tool R rotates.
As some difficulty will be experienced in rendering steel or malleable iron
shafting straight, I recommend the use of straightening apparatus of the kind

page_text: represented in elevation and in plan in Figures 42 and 43 on Sheet 2 of the
accompanying Drawings. This apparatus comprises a pair of rolls S. driven
by means of pinions at one end of each, in gear with a spur wheel on a first-
motion shaft T beneath. The rolls turn loosely on their shafts Ụ, which are
formed with slightly eccentric journals, capable of turning in the cheeks B.
At one end of the machine the shafts U project outside the cheek V, and
have fixed on them levers W. connected by means of a rod X with a recipro
caling movement. The eccentricity of one journal U is disposed opposite to
that of the other, and consequently the vibration of the levers W causes the
rolls S to alternately approach to and recede from each other. The shaft to
be straightened is laid between the rolls S, as shown at Y in Figure 42,
being prevented from falling through by a support Z. The shaft. Y is turned
by the action of the rolls, one acting downwards on one side, and the other
upwards on the other; the parts, however, are proportioned to give a slightly
greater surface velocity in the roll acting downwards, so as to insure its
keeping the shaft Y down. When the rolls are turning the levers Ware
made to vibrate, which will have the effect of giving repeated powerful blows
or squeezes to the shaft Y ander treatment whilst it is turning. and thereby
increase its rigidity.
In addition to the advantage steel or malleable iron shafting possesses on
account of its comparatively smaller diameter involving less lubrication, its
superior clasticity gives to the grooved-surface frictional gearing the elastic
compensating action which it requires, whilst the reduced resistance of the
axis is of peculiar importance in such gearing.
An improvement in the construction of grooved-surface frictional wheels
for transmitting rotatory motion consists in making them with malleable iron
or steel tyres. shrunk or otherwise fixed on cast-iron rimmed centres, each
wheel having one or more such tyres. Such malleable iron or steel tyres may
he shaped by rolling either before or after being formed into rings. the latter
being preferred; or cast iron or other tyres may be fixed on light steel or
malleable iron arms, curved to give compensating action and pressure when
in gear. Various modes may be adopted of giving elastic compensation by
means of springs or clastic substances, such as wood or caontchone, introduced
between the tyres (whether of cast iron. malleable iron, or steel). and the
wheel boss, or between the wheel and a separate boss keyed on the shaft.
According to another plan, the wheels may be built up of entire disks. and
springs may be introduced between these, as also between tyres, to admit of
them being more or less compressed together for the purpose of modifying the
adhesion between the wheels.

page_text: Malleable iron and steel grooved surfaces are superior to cast iron ones
from the contact, adhesion, and friction being naturally greater, whilst their
greater strength and durability admits of the wedge ridges being made more
acute, in consequence of which a greater amount of adhesion is obtained with
a given pressure. A smaller extent of driving surface may also be used, and
the wheels may be made generally lighter, and so as to occupy less space than
ordinary cast iron ones. The construction of wheels entirely of cast iron will
also be facilitated by casting the tyres separately.
Steel tyres and wheels entirely of steel may be magnetised to increase their
contact adhesion, and to render them more efficient.
Figures 44 and 45 on Sheet 2 of the accompanying Drawings are a face
view and an edge view, partly in section, of a grooved surface wheel, formed
with a malleable iron tyre 1. and a cast-iron centre 2. the tyre being distin-
guished by being coloured blue; Figures 46, 47, 48, and 49 are similar views
of a pair of tyred wheels having one a single groove, and the other a single
wedge ridge; Figures 50 and 51 are a face view and an edge view, partly in
vertical section, of a wheel and pinion, the wheel being a common grooved
surface wheel, and the pinion having a cast-iron iyre 1, with a ring of wood
blocks wedged in between it and the cast-iron centre 2. A ring of other
material may be inserted in this way between the tyre and the centre, to give
a slight elasticity to the wheel, and to prevent noise. When a steel tyre is
used, the proportions of the parts may be reduced, as shown in Figure 52,
representing a wheel and pinion, the tyres being coloured blue.
Figure 53 is a plan, partly in section, of a pair of grooved-surface bevil
wheels, showing a mode of imparting a slight elasticity, by forming one of the
wheels with light steel or malleable iron arms 4 of a curved form. These
arms may according to one plan be fixed in position on casting the wheel,
being arranged in position in the mould before casting. A mode of applying
curved steel or malleable iron arms to one of a pair of grooved-surface wheels
on parallel shafts is shown in Figure 54.
In making grooved-surface frictional wheels for high speeds, it is proposed
to fit them with wood surfaces with the wood fibre presented radially.
According to one plan the wood in segments may be fixed like the cogs of
a mortice wheel, the segments being shaped so as to form a continuous
surface externally for grooving; or the wood segments may be fitted into
dovetail recesses formed in the wheel castings. According to another plan
the rimmed centre or rimmed back may be cast with thin radiating malleable
iron partitions, the spaces between which will form the mortices for the wood
segments. If the rim back is formed with flanges, the thin malleable iron

page_text: partitions may be imbedded in them. The partitions may be roughened, per-
formied, or recessed to give them a hold upon the wood segments, and such
A number of them may be introduced according to the diameter of the wheel
as will give the most suitable inclination of the sides for holding the segments
when wedged in. The partitions may be formed of cast iron, but malleable
iron is preferable. The wood segments may be driven in with glue or other
cement, and when finished will present a firm grooved surface of end wood.
Similarly, the grooved surfaces may be composed of leather, paper, or other
suitable material.
Figure 55 represents a bevil wheel and pinion. partly in section. the grooved
surface of the wheel being formed on a wooden rim 5, built up of segments
fixed by means of tenons in mortices formed in the cast-iron rim 6. The
segments are cut so as to present the fibres in transverse section. or nearly so.
at the grooves and ridges.
Figures 56 and 57 are a face view and an edge view, parily in section. of
a grooved surface wheel and pinion on parallel shafts, the pinion having a
wooden rim; Figure 58 is an enlarged section taken radially, and Figure 59
is an enlarged face view of fragments of the pinion, showing the manner in
which the parts are pui together. The centre 6 of the pinion is cast with a
number of radially disposed malleable iron or steel feather plates 7 (Figure 50,
indicated by dotted lines in Figure 58), these plates being inserted in the
mould prior io casting the centre 6, and being perforated, as shown, to give
the cast metal a secure hold upon them. The wooden segments are wedged
in between the feather plaies 7. and are afterwards turned down to the required.
grooved form. Perforations in the plates 7. at the parts in contact with the
wooden segments 5. assist in holding these last, the wood swelling or expanding
into the perforations. Where a small pinion 8, Figures 60 and 61, is to be
driven by a large wheel 9. the pinion may with advantage be composed
principally of paper, the paper in sheets being densely compressed between a
pair of plates 10. and secured by rivets, and being afterwards turned down to
the required grooved shape.
In an arrangement for varying the speed transmitted, analogous to ordinary
stepped-cone speed pulleys, there are a series of grooved surface wheels of
graduated diameters on the two shafts, and intermediate wheels or rings. the
latter encircling one or both of the shafts, are provided for communicating the
motion. Or the intermediate wheels or rings may be dispensed with,
the wheels on one of the two shafts being mounted loose on eccentric bushes,
by turning which the wheels may be placed in or out of gear with those on
the other shaft. The motion of the wheel on the bush is communicated to

page_text: the shaft by means of a song, working in a recess formed in a disk or arm
keyed on the shaft. A single pair of wheels may be fitted with this eccentric
bush and clutch, such an arrangement forming an engaging and disengaging
contrivance. with many advantages, for particular situations, and being sus-
ceptible of various modifications.
According to another modification of apparatus for obtaining various speeds.
wheels of various diameters may be keyed on two shafts, and one or other pair
of them be brought into gear by inclining one or both of the shafts. With
slight modifications, these arrangements may be adapted to bevil gear.
In another arrangement for obtaining various speeds, a pair of spherically-
shaped disks, with their concavities towards each other. are carried on one
shaft, and a pair of similar disks. with their convexities towards each other.
upon another shaft, the former pair working between the latter. These disks
are fitied upon their shafts so as to be capable of a slight variation of inclina-
tion at the lines of contact, and this variation is obtained according to one
plan by means of antifriction rollers applied to the opposite parts of their
circumferences. With this arrangement the pairs of disks may be made to
touch at different points on the lines, joining their centres, the speed com
municated varying accordingly. Single discs on each shaft may to a certain
extent be arranged to answer the same end.
Various examples of the grooved surface and other frictional contrivances
for obtaining various speeds and for engaging and disengaging are represented
in Figures 62 to 80, Sheet 3. and in Figures 81 to 94. Sheet 4, of the
accompanying Drawings. I may here remark that an important aim in most
of these varying speed contrivances has been the avoidance of all end. or
longitudinal strain upon the hearings of the shafts.
:
Figure 62 is an elevation of an arrangement in which (a pair of disks
Goncave towards each other, or as I now prefer) a single disk d. with opposite
convex surfaces on one shaft e. lies between a pair of disks with convexities
towards each other on a parallel shaft g. The variation of speed is obtained
by varying the inclination of the disks at the points of their contact with the
disk d, thereby varying the positions of the points of contact. To obtain this
variation of inclination the disks are mounted loose on a bush loose on the
shaft g, and shown detached in side and end elevation in Figures 63 and 64.
Of this bush the parts on which the disks run are. disposed with opposite
inclinations, as shown, this having the effect of inclining the disks in each
other; so that, the distance between them; varies round the circle. The bush h
is adjusted and held by a lever handle i keyed upon it, and which should be
provided with a suitable catch plate. The disk nip the disk dat its

page_text: circumference or nearer its centre, accordingly as the bush his turned round
to render the space between them wider or narrower at the point of contact.
The (lisks are pressed together by the action of bolts and springs i, 'and the
motion they receive is imparted to the shaft by means of the clutch k.
Figure 65 is a side elevation, Figure 66 is a transverse vertical section, and
Figure 67 is a plan of varying speed apparatus, acting in a way similar to
that just described. The driving shaft e has fast on it a disk d, formed with
à rounded rim¨(to act like the convex sides of the disk d in Figure 62), and
entering between a pair of convex disks on an intermediate shaft g, the
combination forming in effect a species of variable ridge and groove. On the
other side a rimmed disc 1 is driven by the disks f. and transmits the motion
away by the shaft mm.
The disks are carried loosely on spherical centres n.
and are pressed together by means of springs o. abutting against adjustable
nuts on the shaft h. This shaft is carried in a swinging frame p mounted
on journals g. to one of which the adjusting handle i is fixed. The parts are
shown in black lines, as in the positions for transmitting an unaltered velocity
from the shaft e to the shaft m. If the swinging frame p is turned over to the
right, it will bring the disks into the positions indicated by the red lines, and
cause an increased velocity to be imparted to the shaft m. whilst if it is turned
over to the left, a diminished velocity will be imparted to the shaft in.
Figure 68 is a side elevation. Figure 69 is an end elevation, and Figure 70
is a plan, partly in section, of varying speed apparatus. in which the driving
shaft e carries a pair of convex or conical disks f. from which the motion is
transmitted by means of a ring r to a pair of convex disks upon the shaft m.
The disks can be more or less separated by means of a screw wheel 1, and
the velocity communicated varies as the ring ŕ enters more or less between
them. The disks might also be made adjustable as regards their distance
as under, but they are represented as fixed together; they may be loose on a
key on the shaft m, so as to adjust their position to suit the ring
Figure 71 is a side elevation, and Figure 72 is a back elevation of a vertical
drill, to which is applied a modification of my varying speed movements to
impart vertical motion to the drill during iis rotation. The drill spindle u has
fixed upon it a long pulley or bobbin e, which is encircled by a ring pulley 1c,
somewhat larger internally than the pulley v, and driven by a belt running
horizontally. The outer edges of the flanges of the ring pulley we are wedge-
shaped to work in the groove of a pulley, turning in bearings in a swivelling
bracket y, and adjustable in position by a handle z fixed on the spindle of the
bracket, which passes through the standard of the machine. The lever z,

page_text: bracket y, and pulley, are for giving an inclination to the ring pulley w
when -required. If this ring pulley is horizontal, the drill will rotate
without any vertical motion, but if the pulley is inclined, it will exert an
upward or downward screwing action on the drill, the direction and amount of
which will depend on the inclination of the pulley.
Figures 73 and 74 are face and edge views of two single convex disks,
arranged for obtaining various speeds in a very simple manner, namely, by
slightly inclining one of the shafts, as indicated by dotted lines. In this
example, the necessary driving contact pressure is accompanied by end strain
on the shaft bearings.
Figure 75 is a side elevation. Figure 76 is an end elevation. and Figure 77
is a plan of varying speed apparatus constructed on a modification of the plan
adopted in that represented in Figures 65, 66. and 67, herein-before described.
A single disk is entered between a pair of disks. but instead of transmitting
the motion by direct contact. intermediate pulleys 11 are interposed, the
variation of speed being obtained by shifting these pulleys instead of the
disks or . whilst these last have flat surfaces. The pulleys 11 are carried
by brackets 12, on sliding rods 13. which pass through guides 14. and are
connected by a crosshead 15. being adjusted by means of a screw 16. In this
arrangement no longitudinal strain acts on the shaft bearings. In a similar
way where a disk is driven by a disk or pulley d at right angles to it, as in
Figure 78. the strain may be taken off the shaft by using a second disk f.
and placing between it and the pulley d a second pulley d' of equal size.
Figures 83. 84. Sheel 4 of the accompanying Drawings, are vertical section
and plan of various speed apparatus, in which the driving shaft carries a
pair of disks 100. formed with bevilled edges, constituting together a wedge-
shaped groove. and gearing with one of a number of wedge-shaped rings
formed on an intermediate wheel 101 on the intermediate shaft. g. The shaft
m to be driven carries a pair of bevil-edged disks 102. also gearing with one
of the rings of the wheel 101. A different speed is obtainable by substituting
for either or both pairs of disks 100 or 102. a pair or pairs gearing with
different rings of the wheel 101. The disks 100. 102, are pressed together by
means of nuts 103 screwed on the shafts e and m. a slight elasticity being
imparted by means of springs (coloured blue). inserted between the nuts and
the disks. Instead of the screw nuts the kind of fastening shown at 104 may
be used. This consists of two thimbles gearing together by inclined or helical
edges, the outermost one being fixed on the shaft. The turning round of the
loose one forces it from the other, and it is held in any position by ratchet

page_text: teeth formed on the two helical or inclined surfaces. This fastening may be
employed in all my apparatus where applicable.
Figure 79 (Sheet 3) is a side elevation, and Figure 80 is an end elevation
of various speed apparatus, in which two pairs of grooved surface wheels 17, 18,
of different proportions are placed on two shafts 19, 20, these on the former
being fixed, whilst those on the latter are loose. The wheels on the shaft 20
are mounted on eccentric bushes, each fitted with its handle 21, by turning
one of which the corresponding wheel is thrown into gear with that opposite
to it. The motion is communicated to or from the shaft 20 by means of a
pin or snug carried by the wheel gearing in a short slot in a clutch box 22
keyed on the shaft. Only two pairs of wheels are shewn in this example, but
any convenient number may be arranged on the same pair of shafts.
Figure 81, Sheet 4 of the accompanying Drawings, is an end elevation
and Figure 82 is a side elevation of varying speed apparatus similar to that
just described, but having the various pairs of wheels 17, 18, connected by
means of intermediate wheels 23, 24. Wheels 17, 23, 17, and 18, 24, 18,
are shown for two speeds, with the two parallel shafts 19, 20, but any con-
venient number of sets may be arranged on the same shafts. The inter-
mediate wheels 23, 24, are mounted loosely on eccentric shafts or bushes
adjustable by levers 21, by means of one of which the intermediate wheel (23
or 24) is put into driving contact with the two wheels (17 or 18) corre-
sponding to the speed wanted. The parts appertaining to a single speed in
either of the arrangements represented in Figures 79, 80, and 81, 82, can be
used alone as very convenient engaging and disengaging apparatus.
This engaging and disengaging apparatus is susceptible of various modifi-
cations, examples of which are given in Figures 85 to 94, on Sheet 4 of the
accompanying Drawings.
Figure 85 is an end elevation, and Figure 86 is a plan of a modification
applicable for imparting to a steam engine valve eccentric a motion in advance
The engine shaft 25 has fast on it a
of the engine so as to reverse its action.
grooved surface wheel 26, arranged to gear with a pinion 27 loose on an
eccentric shaft or bush 28. The pinion 27 is united by means of an elongated
boss to a grooved surface wheel 29, arranged to gear with a pinion 30, which
The eccentric shaft or
is fast to the eccentric 31, but loose on the shaft 25.
bush 28 is fitted with a lever handle 21, by shifting which the wheels 27, 29,
inay be engaged with or disengaged from the wheels 26, 30.
being in this example proportioned to give an increased speed. have the effect,
when engaged, of throwing over the eccentric 31, and so reversing the engine
The wheels

page_text: in whichever direction the shaft may be turning.
In other applications of this
apparatus the wheels may be proportioned to transmit increased. or diminished
motion.
Figure 87 is a vertical section, and Figure 88 is an end elevation of engag-
ing and disengaging apparatus, in which two disks 32 are carried by a shaft 33,
one being keyed on the shaft and the other being loose, but having a driving
pulley or wheel 34 fixed on its elongated boss. The disks have their faces
grooved so as to drive when in contact, and this driving contact is obtained
by means of a deep grooved intermediate wheel 23, mounted on an eccentric
spindle or bush, which is adjusted by the handle 21. The disks 32 are formed
with external inclined surfaces with which the groove of the intermediate
wheel 23 gears when adjusted over towards the shaft 33, by means of the
handle 21, this adjustment forcing the disks 32 themselves into close driving
contact. Springs may be provided for separating the disks when the inter-
mediate wheel 23 is drawn away.
Figure 89 is an end elevation, and Figure 90 is a horizontal section of
engaging and disengaging apparatus, in which the motion is similarly trans-
mitted by means of disks 32 grooved on their faces. These disks are in
this example forced into gear by means of an intermediate wedge wheel 23,
mounted on an eccentric spindle or bush, and which enters between the
moveable disk 32 and a small disk 35 fast, on the shaft 33.
Figure 91 is an end elevation, and Figure 92 is a horizontal section of
engaging and disengaging apparatus, also comprising two disks 32, one fast
and the other loose on the shaft 33. The edges of the disks are bevilled to
form together a groove, into which the intermediate wedge wheel 23 is forced
by the eccentric bush action, and, as it were, gearing with both disks, causes
the motion to be transmitted.
Figure 93 is a vertical section, and Figure 94 is a face view of engaging
and disengaging apparatus, in which the intermediate wheel is dispensed with.
The shaft 33 has fast on it a grooved surface wheel 36, which is encircled by
an internally grooved wheel 37 formed in one piece with or fixed to a wheel
for communicating the motion to or from some other shaft. The wheel 37
runs loose on an eccentric bush 38, and this last is loose on an inner eccentric
bush 39. These bushes have an equal amount of eccentricity. and when
motion is not to be transmitted they are arranged so as to place the wheel 37
concentric with the wheel 36, in which position they are not in gear. The
outer eccentric is prevented from turning by a rod 40, formed with a vertical
slot, which works on a fixed pin, and allows it to move in this example

page_text: vertically. The inner eccentric bush 41 is adjusted by means of a lever handle
21, and when this bush is turned round it brings the wheels 36 and 37 into
driving contact on one side.
A very elicient reversing motion is obtained by arranging a pair of grooved
surface wheels on two parallel shafts so as to gear together, and by fixing
pulleys to the side of each, round which pulleys a metallic or other band is
passed. When the grooved wheels are in gear the band is loose, but a slight
shift of one of the shafts takes the grooves out of gear, and tightens the band
which gives a reversed motion.
Figure 95 is a side elevation, and Figure 96 is an end elevation of this
arrangement, the shafts 41, 42, have each fast on them a grooved surface
wheel 13, and a pulley 44. The shaft 42 has one end set in an eccentric
bush adjusted by the lever handle 21, so that it can be moved slightly to or
from the shaft 41. When the shafts are brought together motion is traus
mitted by the grooved surface wheels 43, and when they are separated, motion
is transmitted by means of the belt and pulley 44, in a reverse direction and
at different speeds in this example. An improvement in mounting the grooved
surface frictional gearing consists in cushioning the shafts and other parts by
means of springs in couples arranged generally on opposite sides of the move-
able piece to which they are applied so as to influence the action in both
directions, such springs being adjustable separately or not as may be con-
venient. The springs may be contrived to cause the wheels to bite harder when
an increased train is being transmitted by them; and for the same purpose a
speed ring may be used between a large grooved wheel and a comparatively
sinal one, an increased strain causing such ring to assume an inclination,.
which gives it increased adhesion. In cushioning shafts in the way referred,
to, I prefer to use springs of the kinds, described in the Specification of Letters,
Patent granted to me under date the Third day of September 1858, (No.
1998), but I do not restrict myself to such springs.
Figures 97, 98, are side elevation and plan of one form, and Figures 99,
100, are side elevation and plan of another form of plummer block, showing,
modes of applying springs 45 to the brasses 46, above and below the brasses
in one case and on each side in the other; the brasses are represented as partly
broken or cut away to show the springs, which are coloured blue. Keys 47
are introduced for keying up or adjusting the springs and brasses in one
direction in each case (so as, for example, to press together the wheels on a .
pair of shafts); Figures 101, 102, are side elevation and plan, partly in section,.
of a plummer block with springs 45 applied on each side of the brasses 46,,
and adjusted by means of an eccentric 48 on one side,. this eccentric acting

page_text: on the springs through a plate 49. It is the larger parts of the eccentric 48,
which fit the eyes or sockets in which they turn, the plate 49 being acted
upon by the eccentric pins or reduced parts between these larger parts. By
these means sullicient movement may be given to the shaft to engage and
disengage its wheels or to adjust the driving contact. Figures 103, 104, are
side elevation and plan of a plummer block similar to that just described,
excepting that the springs 45 are placed above and below the brasses 46, and
that the adjusting eccentric 48 and plate 49 are applied below; Figures 105,
106, are side elevation and plan of hanging bracket bearings for a pair of
bevil wheels, these bearings being arranged so that the screwing up of the
covers 50 presses the wheels 51 into closer contact, and springs are introduced
under the cover and at the opposite side of each brass to give a slight elasticity
to the wheels; Figure 107 is a face elevation of a set of grooved surface
wheels, showing a mode of applying springs to the bearings in such a way that
the wheels may tend to enter into closer contact when the resistance to the
strain transmitted is increased. The shaft 52 may be supposed to be that of a
pumping engine, the pinion 53 on it driving a wheel 54 on a shaft 55, which
works the pumps. The wheel 54 is also in gear with a pinion 56 on a shaft
The directions of
57, carrying a fly-wheel 58 for equalising the motion.
motion of the several wheels are indicated by arrows, and the bearings of the
shafts 52 and 57 are disposed obliquely to suit those directions of motion,
springs being applied to the brasses to enable them to yield obliquely towards
the intermediate wheel 54.
Supposing this wheel 54 to be held stationary, the rotation of the pinions
53, 56, would tend to make them roll round it, and the strain thence arising
would draw them down in their bearings, and more closely into contact
with the wheel 54. The same action takes place to a less extent when all the
wheels are in motion, but to a greater and greater extent as the resistance to
the motion of the wheel 54 is increased. The application of this contrivance
to the fly-wheel shaft 57 is of even more importance than its application to
the first motion shaft 52, as it prevents the slipping round of the wheels, and
insures the equalising action of the fly-wheel taking effect, at the same time
reducing the effect of the increased resistance upon the first motion shaft.
This feature renders the contrivance specially suited for pumping engines,
rolling mills, and machines similarly subjected to irregular resistances.
Invention comprehends the application to single groove and ridge wheels, as
well as to many grooved wheels, of such of the herein-before described
improvements as are suitable.
This
Having thus particularly described my said Invention, and the manner in

page_text: which the same is or may be used or carried into effect. I have to state that
I do not restrict myself to the precise details herein-before described or de
lineated, and that I do not claim to have invented every separate detail herein-
before described and delineated: but that what I consider to be novel and
original, and claim as the Invention secured to me by the herein-before in
part recited Letters Patent. is,-
First, the fixing of wheels, pulleys, couplings, and other similar parts on
shafts by means of surfaces formed with wedge-shaped grooves, substantially
as herein-before described.
·
Second, the uniting or joining together of shafts, spindles, rods. levers, and
other details for fransmitting motive force by means of surfaces formed with
wedge-shaped grooves, substantially as herein-before described.
Third, the forming of the journals of steel shafts with a number of collars
of comparatively small size, and the cutting of such collars of graduated depths
at end journals, substantially as herein-before described.
Fourth, the applying of adjustable or fixed tubular journal pieces. substan-
fially as herein-before described. upon steel and other shafts of wedge-surface
frictional gearing.
Fifth. the constructing of grooved-surface wheels for transmitting rotatory
motion in the various improved modes herein-before described in connection
with Figures 44 to 61. on Sheet 2 of the accompanying Drawings.
Sixth, the constructing and arranging of varying speed or various speed
apparatus substantially as herein-before described in connection with Figures
62 to 84. on Sheets 3 and 4 of the accompanying Drawings.
Seventh, the engaging and disengaging of wedge-surface wheels or coupling
disks by means of eccentric bushes. shafts. or spindles, applied as herein-before
particularly described in connection with Figures 79 to 82. and 85 to 94 on
Sheels 3 and 4 of the accompanying Drawings.
Eighth, the using of an intermediate wheel. shifted by an eccentric or other-
wise. for engaging and disengaging wedge-surface wheels, or coupling disks
substantially as herein-before described in connection with Figures 85 to 94.
on Sheet 4 of the accompanying Drawings.
Ninth. the obtaining of reversed motions by means of apparatus constructed
and arranged substantially as herein-before described in connection with
Figures 95 and 96, on Sheet. 4 of the accompanying Drawings.
Tenth, the applying to the bearing brasses of grooved-surface wheels, of
springs combined with keys, eccentrics, or other equivalent, adjusting details,
substantially as herein-before described, in connection with Figures 97 to
106, on Sheet 4 of the accompanying Drawings,

page_text: Eleventh, the disposing of the shaft bearings of grooved-surface wheels, so
as to obtain an increased pressure between the wheels when an increased
resistance is experienced, substantially as herein-before described in connection
with Figure 107. on Sheet 4 of the accompanying Drawings.
In witness whereof, 1. the said James Robertson, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Twenty-eighth day of July, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and fifty-nine.
Witness,
EDMUND HUNT, Patent Agent,
28, St. Enoch Square, Glasgow.
JAMES ROBERTSON. (L.S.)