IMPROVEMENTS IN DIVING BELLS AND IN ELECTRICAL AND OTHER APPARATUS TO BE EMPLOYED IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR SUBMARINE OR SUBAQUEOUS OPERATIONS, PARTS OF WHICH APPARATUS ARE APPLICABLE FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Year: 1880

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Robert Lake, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake,
& Co., Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings, London, for an Invention of
"IMPROVEMENTS IN DIVING BELLS AND IN ELECTRICAL AND OTHER APPARATUS
TO BE EMPLOYED IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR SUBMARINE OR SUBAQUEOUS
OPERATIONS, PARTS OF WHICH APPARATUS ARE APPLICABLE FOR OTHER
PURPOSES." A communication from abroad by Charles Frederick Pike, of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America.
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION filed by the said William Robert Lake at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 8th June 1880.
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patent Agents,
"IMPROVEMENTS IN DIVING BELLS AND IN
Southampton Buildings, London.
ELECTRICAL AND OTHER APPARATUS TO BE EMPLOYED IN CONNECTION THEREWITH
FOR SUBMARINE OR SUBAQUEOUS OPERATIONS, PARTS OF WHICH APPARATUS ARE
APPLICABLE FOR OTHER PURPOSES." A communication from abroad by Charles
Frederick Pike, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America.
This Invention relates generally to apparatus for submarine or subaqueous
It consists
operations, parts of which apparatus are applicable for other purposes.
mainly in the following features, namely:
First. The employment in connection with a diving bell of a mechanical arm
located upon the outside of the same, and hydraulic or atmospheric mechanism
for actuating the arm, the construction being such that a workman within the
bell may by means of the actuating mechanism quickly and easily manipulate
the arm and cause the same to grasp or seize any desired object upon the outside
of the bell.
Secondly. The employment of grappling tongs or tools and hydraulic or atmo-
spheric mechanism for actuating the saine.
Thirdly. The employment in connection with mechanism for controlling the
hydraulic or atmospheric pressure of electrical mechanism for actuating the con-
workman within the
trolling mechanism, the construction being such that a
bell by means of the electrical mechanism may readily actuate the controlling
mechanism, and thus cause the submerged grappling tongs or other tools to be
operated in accordance with his wishes without the intervention of other persons.

page_text: Fourthly. The employment in connection with atmospheric or other pressure
of a non-elastic or incompressible fluid for actuating the cylinder-piston, and
Fifthly. The special construction of the diving bell itself, the same being
provided with two independent compartments, one of which is closed against the
entrance of water and the other open to the same, all substantially as hereinafter
described.
In the accompanying Drawings,-
Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 represent various views of the diving-bell and its
attached arm, and also detached parts of the same.
Figures 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 represent various views of the grappling appliances.
Figures 11, 12, 13, and 14 represent various views of the valve-mechanism for
controlling the hydraulic or atmospheric pressure, and the electrical mechanism
for actuating the valve-mechanism.
Figure 15 is a general view representing the manner of using the improved
submarine appliances.
Figures 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 represent various views of the
mechanism in which atmospheric or other pressure is employed in connection
with a non-elastic or incompressible fluid, and
Figures 24, 25, 26, and 27 represent various views of the diving bell provided
with two independent compartments.
A, Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4 represents a diving-bell or car of the usual well known
or other proper construction, which bell is provided with port-holes a, Figures 1, 3,
and 4 having glasses a³, by means of which the workman within is permitted to
see properly the condition of affairs without; B is the main shaft, drum, or hub
of the arm which extends through a suitable opening a¹ in the side of the bell,
and is supported in proper-bearings, as shewn; b represents a gear-wheel rigidly
attached to said drum or forming a part of the same, the purpose of which will be
hereinafter explained; C also represents a gear-wheel located upon the shaft B
and loose thereon as far as revolution is concerned, but is held against lateral
displacement by means of the overhanging flange b', as shewn in Figure 1; C¹ is
a bevel gear wheel formed upon the face of the wheel C, as shewn in Figure 1,
the purpose of which will be hereinafter explained; 62, 62, Figures 1 and 3, are
arms projecting from the outer end of the shaft B in which are formed shaft-
bearings, as shewn; D is a shaft supported in these bearings and which is centrally
provided with a worm d, as shewn, and at one end with the bevel-pinion d¹
adapted to engage with the corresponding gear-wheel C, as shewn in Figures 1
and 3; 6, 63, Figure 2, also represent arms projecting from the outer end of the
shaft B in which are formed bearings, as shewn; e is a shaft properly supported
in the bearings of the arms 6s, 63, which is provided with the worm-wheel D
adapted to engage with the worm d, as shewn in Figure 1; E represents a frame
consisting of the side bars e, e¹, the shaft e² before referred to, and the shaft K
hereinafter referred to, which by means of this shaft e² is hinged to the arms b³, b³,
as shewn in Figure 2, in such a manner as to swing freely thereon; F, F',
Figure 2, represent bevel-wheels located upon the shaft e² which are free to revolve
thereon without interference, but are held against lateral displacement by rigid
collars, as shewn ff, represent bevel wheels engaging with the wheels F, F',
the shafts f, fs, of which extend in a rearward direction through the drum and
are supported in suitable bearings therein, as shewn; 66, 6, are stuffing boxes, by
means of which the entrance of water into the bell through the shaft openings is
effectually prevented; f, f5, are crank-handles attached to the shafts by means
of which the same may be readily revolved when desired; G, G¹, are shafts
supported in proper bearings e³, e, upon the frame E, which are provided at their
inner ends with bevel gear-wheels 9, 91, Figure 2, engaging with the wheels F, F',
and at their outer ends with worms 9², g³, as shewn in Figures 1 and 2; K repre-
sents the shaft before referred to as part of the frame E which is supported in
proper bearings at the outer ends of the side bars e, e', as shewn; L, Figure 1, is a
worm wheel located upon the shaft K which is free to revolve thereon, but is held

page_text: from lateral displacement in any suitable manner; represents a bevel wheel
either rigidly attached to the worm wheel or made a solid part thereof, as
may be preferred; H is a cylinder provided with a shaft h, Figure 1, which
is supported in proper bearings in the bracket h¹, as shewn, the latter being
attached to and forming a part of the worm wheel I upon the shaft K, as shewn
in Figure 2; h² is a gear-wheel upon the shaft h which engages with the bevel-
wheel upon the shaft K; H¹, Figure 1, is a piston head in the cylinder H, and ½³
a piston rod extending out of the same through a proper stuffing-box, as shewn;
1, h, Figure 2, represent racks formed upon the sides of the piston-rod at the
outer end of the same, as shewn; H³, H2, are bracket-plates projecting from
the cylinder; and N, N¹, Figure 2, jaws pivotted between the plates which are
provided with the segmental gears n, n¹, engaging with the racks h*, h³, Figure 2,
upon the piston rod, as shewn; m, m¹, are ports in the cylinder at the proper
points leading into flexible tubes M, M¹, which extend into the bell through
stuffing-boxes a², as shewn; m², m², Figures 1 and 2, are two-way cocks located
in the line of the tubes, by means of which the hydraulic or atmospheric pressure
conducted to the tubes from any proper source is controlled; m³, m³, are treadles
by means of which these cocks are adapted to be easily actuated by the foot of
the workman in the bell; O, Figure 2, is a shaft supported in proper bearings in
the boll, which by means of a proper stuffing box is extended through the wall of
the same, and is provided at its outer end with a pinion of engaging with the gear-
wheel C loose upon the shaft B, as hereinbefore described; o is a crank handle
upon the shaft O by means of which the same may be readily revolved when
desired; P is a cylinder having the usual piston head, the rod p¹ of which is
provided with a rack p, as shewn in Figure 4; a' is a bearing by means of which the
lower end of the piston rod is properly guided in its movement; p³, 1, Figure 1,
are pipes leading into the cylinder at the proper points, which are provided with
any proper valves for controlling the flow of fluids through them.
The operation is substantially as follows, that is to say:
The bell containing the operator having been lowered to the proper point the
arın may be actuated in the following manner, namely:-
First. The drum or shaft B may be partially revolved for the purpose of
obtaining any desired position, the entire arm and its attachments being carried
with it. This result is accomplished by actuating the valve in the pipe p³ to admit
pressure to one side of the piston head in the cylinder P and exhaust from the other,
in the manner well understood, by means of which the piston rod p¹ having its
bearings on the bell is reciprocated and caused to revolve the wheel b rigidly
attached to the shaft B. The direction of the revolution of this shaft is determined
by the direction of the movement of the piston in the cylinder P, which itself is
governed by the operation of the valve in the tubes 23.
Secondly. The frame E and the parts in front of the same may be swung as a
whole upon the shaft e³, as shewn in Figure 3, the full lines giving the horizontal
position and the dotted lines 1, 1, the upward and downward positions. This
result is accomplished by revolving the shaft O by means of the crank-handle o³,
Figure 2, in consequence of which its pinion o¹ engaging with the wheel C loose
upon the shaft B gives revolution to the same. By the revolution of the wheel C,
its bevel gear-wheel C¹ engaging with the bevel gear-wheel d¹ gives revolution to
the latter, and its attached shaft D carrying the worin d, as shewn in Figure 1.
By the revolution of the worm d the worm wheel D¹ rigidly fixed to the shaft e³,
Figure 3, is revolved, and consequently the latter is turned in its bearings to a greater
or less extent according to the length of the movement. By the turning of the
shaft'e, the frame E united thereto, and its attachments, are swung in either direction
from the horizontal, as shewn in dotted lines 1. 1, Figure 3, hereinbefore referred to.
Thirdly. The cylinder H and its attachments may be swung as a whole upon the
shaft K, as shewn in Figure 3, the dotted lines 2, 2, shewing the upward and
downward positions. This result is accomplished by revolving the shaft f³, Figure 2,
by means of the crank-handle f³, in consequence of which its pinion f' engaging

page_text: .
with the gear-wheel F loose upon the shaft e² gives revolution to the same. By
the revolution of the wheel F engaging with the pinion g¹ the latter is revolved,
and also the attached shaft G' carrying the worm g³, as shewn. By the revolution
of the worm the worm-wheel I, Figures 2 and 3, rigidly fixed to the bracket h¹
carrying the cylinder, is revolved, and hence the latter is swung upon the shaft K
into one or the other of the positions shewn in dotted lines 2, 2, Figure 3, according
to the direction of the revolution of the actuating shaft.
Fourthly. The cylinder with its attachments may be rotated on a longitudinal
axis. This result is accomplished by revolving the shaft f³, Figures 1 and 2, by
means of the crank handle f, in consequence of which its pinion f engaging with
the bevel gear-wheel F loose upon the shaft es gives revolution to the same. By
the revolution of the wheel F engaging with the pinion g the latter is revolved,
and also the attached shaft G carrying the worm g². By the revolution of the worm
the worm-wheel L loose upon the shaft K is revolved. By the revolution of the
wheel L, its attached bevel gear-wheel engaging with the bevel gear-wheel h³
gives movement to it, and to the attached shaft h which is rigidly fixed to the
cylinder. The cylinder in its revolution is supported by the bracket h¹ held by
the shaft.
Fifthly. The jaws may be opened or closed to a greater or less extent when
desired. This result is accomplished by actuating the treadle m³ controlling the
valve m², in consequence of which pressure from the main source of power is
admitted to one side or the other of the piston head according to the circumstances
of the case, and the latter consequently being moved in one direction or the other,
its piston rod having the rack-bars h, h, Figure 2, is caused to engage with the
seginental gears of the jaws and give them movement.
From the foregoing description it will be evident that the arm may be moved
readily into any desired position within its range, and be caused to seize or grasp
any object which it is desired to obtain.
In Figure 5 is shewn a modified form of grasping jaws which will now be
described.
H. represents the cylinder, which is provided with a shaft h and bevel gear-
wheel h³, substantially like that previously described, and also with a piston-head
adapted for operation, substantially as herein before set forth. N2, N2, represent
grasping jaws having parallel faces, one of which jaws is rigidly attached to the
cylinder H and the other to the piston rod h³, as shewn.
By properly controlling the supply-pipe of the cylinder the jaw of the piston is
caused to approach or recede from the jaw of the cylinder, as may be desired. If
desired the jaws shewn in Figures 1, 2, and 3, may be actuated in other ways;
for example, toggle-links may be employed in place of the rack-bars and segmental
gearing, in which case one end of the link will be secured to the piston-rod and
the other to the jaw.
When greater power is required to oscillate and rotate the cylinder H and jaws
N, N', than can be exerted by the operator, the shafts G, G¹, f2, ƒ³, wheels f, f¹,
F, F, g, g', and worms g³, g³, may be replaced by cylinders secured to the side bars
e, e¹, of the frame E, the piston-rods of which being provided with a rack may
act directly upon the wheels L and I when pressure is employed in the manner
bereinbefore described.
If a less powerful but more rapid movement is required to oscillate and rotate
the cylinder H and jaws N, N', than is obtained by the worn-wheels L, I, bevel-
wheels may be substituted for these, and the worms g², g³, one of which should give
revolution to the bevel wheel , and the other to a wheel upon a bracket . When
it is desired to give the drum or shaft Ba capacity for complete revolution a worm
gear and worm may be substituted for the rack p and wheel b.
Some of the advantages of the above described construction are as follow, that
is to say :-
The diving-bell being provided with a proper supply-tube may be lowered to
great depths without inconveniencing the occupant of the bell.
The necessary

page_text: movements of the arm are easily and quickly made by the operator working under
the ordinary atinospheric pressure.
I will now proceed to describe the grappling appliances.
Q, Figures 6 and 7, is a cylinder of any proper construction, which is essentially
provided with suitable pipes q, q', leading from openings in the cylinder at opposite
ends of the same, as shewn; q, q³, represent valves of any proper construction
located in the pipes, the arms or handles of which are united by a common con-
necting rod or bar q', Figure 7, as shewn; q, q, represent flexible tubes leading
from the upper ends of pipes q, q', to the boat above, or to any desired point; R is
a rod or bar rigidly united to the cylinder in any proper manner, the upper end of
which is provided with the eye r or other proper means for permitting the attach-
ment of chain, and the lower end with the eye, Figure 6, or other proper
means for permitting the attachment of the tongs-mechanism hereinafter referred
to; S, Figure 6, is the piston-head located within the cylinder, and adapted to
move therein; it is provided with the piston rod s, extending through a proper
opening in the lower head of the cylinder, as shewn; T, T, Figure 6, are link-bars
strongly pivotted at their upper ends to the lower end of the bar R, and at their
lower ends to the upper ends of the tong-levers, as shewn; U, U, are the tong-
levers consisting of suitable bars having curved and pointed ends below, as shewn,
which are crossed near the upper ends, and strongly pivotted at the point of crossing
to the bar u, Figure 7, extending outward from the lower end of the piston-rod 8,
as shewn.
The modified form shewn in Figures 8 and 9 will now be described.
V, Figures 8 and 9, is a cylinder constructed substantially like that previously
described, and provided with the same pipes v, vl, Figure 8; v², v2, Figure 9, are
arms rigidly united to the cylinder, which extend in a downward direction, and are
provided below with bearings for the pivot shaft of the scoop or tong levers, as
shewn; w, Figures 8 and 9, are the scoop-levers, consisting of suitably bent bars
provided above with the eyes w, w, having rings w¹, w', Figure 8, for the lifting
chain w, and below with the scoops w³, w, as shewn; is the fixed pivot-shaft
before referred to, by means of which the scoop-levers are properly held at the
point of crossing; X, X, Figures 8 and 9, are link-bars pivoted at their upper ends
to the lower end of the piston-rod of the cylinder, and at their lower ends to the
scoop-levers, as shewn.
The operation is substantially as follows:-
By properly actuating the valves and admitting thereby air or water from any
proper source of supply, the piston is reciprocated in the cylinder, and caused to
open or close the tongs or scoops according to the circumstances of the case, as may
be desired.
In the form shewn in Figures 6 and 7, the tongs are opened by the upward
movement of the piston, and closed by its downward movement.
In the form shewn in Figures 8 and 9 the scoops are closed by the upward move-
ment of the piston, and opened by its downward movement.
The modified form of cylinder shewn in Figure 10 will now be described. Y
represents the cylinder provided below with the openings y, y, and above with the
single supply and discharge pipe y', controlled by any suitable valve.
The operation of the cylinder is as follows, that is to say :-
The downward movement of the piston is effected by hydraulic or atmospheric
pressure, received through the pipe y from any proper source of supply. The
upward movement of the piston is caused by the pressure of the water alone, the
resistance upon the upper side of the same being removed by the escape of the water
or air contained in the cylinder through the pipe y'.
Some of the advantages of the above described construction are as follow:-
By the employment of a power independent of that exerted by the diver, to open
and close the tongs, he is relieved from the excessive labor which is required to
perform this operation owing to the pressure of the water. By the employment of

page_text: power also rapidity of movement is obtained in opening and closing the tongs
or scoops, in consequence of which much valuable time is saved.
In the form of construction shewn in Figures 8 and 9 the power is applied more
advantageously, that is, a harder grip is given to the article grasped with a less
expenditure of power.
By locating the valves near the cylinder, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the same
may be actuated by the diver himself. If desired however they may be located on
board the vessel carrying the apparatus for supplying the power, or at any other
proper point, in which case the diver may communicate his orders in regard to the
tongs by any proper signalling apparatus.
It will be understood that the tongs are lowered by means of the rope or chain
and any proper hoisting mechanism to the place of operation, and that then the
submerged workman or diver guides the same to the precise point desired, and
either himself actuates the valve to open and close the tongs, or signals the
person above to do the same. If desired a flexible diaphragm may be employed
instead of the piston shewn in Figure 10.
The valve-mechanism for controlling the hydraulic or atmospheric pressure and
the electrical mechanism for actuating the same are constructed and arranged as
follows, that is to say :-
Z, Figures 11, 12, and 13, represents a throttle or other proper valve or device
for controlling hydraulic or atmospheric pressure, and which is provided with ports
having proper pipe-connections, as shewn; z is the plug or key of the valve, which
is of such construction as to properly control the ports for the purpose of obtaining
the desired supply and exhaust in the manner well understood; is a lever held
in a proper opening in the plug or key z, which is provided above with the-
transverse arm 2, having the inclined faces 23, 24, as shewn, and below with the
spring loosely held in the bracket 20 on the stand 27, as shewn; 28, 28, are the electro-
magnets, secured to the supports 2º, 2º, rising from the base 7, which are provided
with the usual cores or bars 210, 210, projecting therefrom, as shewn; 21, 212, are the
conducting wires, the ends of which in one direction terminate in the contact-
plates 213, 14, upon the switch-board, and in the other extend into the magnet and
form the coil of the same in the manner well understood; 15, 218, are wires leading
from the coil to the earth; 217 is a plate upon the switch-board, and 218 the switch
pivoted thereto at the point 219, as shewn; 220 is a wire leading from the plate z¹
to the battery.
The operation of these parts is substantially as follows :—
When the switch is in the position, shewn in Figure 11, the circuit is broken, and
hence no action whatever occurs. When the switch is moved into the position
shewn in full lines, Figure 12, the electrical circuit extending through the left
hand coil is completed, and its bar being consequently magnetized the arm of the
lever is drawn over into contact with the bar, as shewn, against the resistance of
the spring. By means of this movement the plug is turned, and pressure is
thereby admitted from the source of supply to the proper pipe or tube leading away
to the tool, as shewn in Figure 15. When the switch is moved into the position
shewn in dotted lines, Figure 12, the circuit is broken through the left hand coil
and established through the right hand coil, in consequence of which the arm is
released from the bar of the left hand coil and is drawn over into contact with the
bar of the right hand coil. By means of this movement the plug is turned into
an opposite position, and consequently the pressure is admitted to the other pipe
or tube leading away to the tool. When the switch is returned to its normal
position, as shewn in Figure 11, the arm z¹ is returned to its normal position by
the reaction of the spring.
By the employment of the mechanism described it is possible for a person in a
diving bell to open and close the grappling-tools himself without the intervention
of other persons.
The modification of the spring-mechanism shewn in Figures 13 and 14 will now
be described.

page_text: Z is the cock, as before, and, the plug or key to the same; is the lever,
having above the bar 2, as before, and below a rigid portion having studs or
pins,, on opposite sides, as shewn in Figure 14; 2, are standards located
at the ends of the base-plate, and 223, 23 intermediate standards, by means of which
the spring proper is supported; 4, 2, are spiral-springs secured at their outer
ends to the standards 222, as shewn, the inner ends of which are extended in a
straight line through the standards 23, and provided with hooks or bent ends 25
adapted to engage with the studs 221, as shewn; 226, 226, are collars upon the
straight portions of the springs, by means of which their return movement, after
expansion, is limited to a definite point.
The operation is substantially as follows:-
When the bar of either coil is magnetized the lever 21 is oscillated in the manner
herein before described. By means of this oscillation one or the other of the
springs, is expanded, and is held until the magnetic action ceases, when
the lever being thus released the same is drawn to place by the reaction of the
expanded spring.
The manner of employing the valve-controlling mechanism with either form of
spring mechanism is shewn in Figure 15, and the same will now be described.
27 is a vessel of any proper construction; 28 is a diving bell of any proper
construction, which is lowered from the vessel by any suitable hoisting mechanism;
220 represents tubes, by means of which air is supplied to and discharged from the
bell, through which tubes the electrical wires are conducted, as shewn; 230 is a
glazed opening or window through which the occupant of the bell is enabled to see
the condition of things in the water outside; 31 represents the terminal plates of
the wires which lead to the mechanism for actuating the valve which controls the
opening and closing of the tongs; is the switch-lever which is employed in
connection with these terminals; represents the terminal plates of the wires
which lead to the mechanism for actuating the valve which controls the raising
and lowering of the tongs; 2 represents the tongs and the actuating cylinder
of the same; represents the tubes leading to the tongs'-cylinder; 27 is the
reservoir containing the power supply.
The operation of these parts is substantially as follows, that is to say:-
The diving bell having been lowered to its proper position the person contained
therein looking through the port 20 lowers the tongs to the desired point by
properly moving the switch connecting with the terminal plates 233; he then, by
properly moving the switch 23, opens or closes the tongs as may be desired.
By the employment of the electrical actuating mechanism in connection with
the valve-controlling mechanism manipulation of the tool is placed under the
management of the person in the bell, and he is enabled to operate the same
without any muscular exertion and with great rapidity.
By the employment of the spring-mechanism the valve is automatically locked
in its closed position, except when the same is positively held in its open one.
By multiplying the number of electrical connections any number of tools may be
manipulated.
I do not limit myself to the special construction of the parts shewn. If desired,
any other suitable electrical mechanisn may be employed, such, for example, as the
Ruhmkorff coil. The valves also may be largely varied in construction. If desired,
the spring for locking the valve may be dispensed with, and the cock, instead, be
controlled in all its movement by the magnets.
It is evident that parts of this Invention may be applied to other purposes, if
desired, than submarine operations.
The mechanism by means of which atmospheric or other pressure is employed in
connection with a non-elastic or incompressible fluid for actuating the cylinder
piston is constructed and arranged as follows, that is to say:-
A, Figure 16, is a cylinder of the usual well known or any other proper con-
struction, which is provided at each end with suitable openings communicating
with pipes a, a¹, extending away to the controlling valve hereinafter described;

page_text: a² is the piston having the usual piston-rod a³ extending through a proper stuffing-
hox at one end of the cylinder, which piston-rod is employed in any suitable
manner to actuate any desired mechanisin; B, Figures 16 and 17, is the case of
the controlling valve; and C, Figures 16 and 19, the plug or key, the latter of
which is actuated by any suitable means, in such manner as to control properly
communication through the ports of the valve, or to cut it off entirely, as may be
desired.
:-
For convenience the construction and. operation of the remaining parts will be
described under three different heads, as follows, namely:
First. The parts which co-act in permitting pressure to be exerted upon the
piston a through the pipe .
Secondly. The parts: which co-act in permitting the exhaust through the
pipe a'.
..
Thirdly. The arrangement of the parts when pressure is exerted through the
pipe a¹.
The parts which co-act in permitting pressure to be exerted upon the piston a³
through the pipe a are as follows:-
b, Figures 17, 21, and 23, is an opening through the valve case, near the centre
of the same, into which extends the upper end of pipe a, Figure 23, leading from
the cylinder; b' is a similar opening in the valve case upon the side opposite to
the opening b, and in line therewith, into which extends the upper end of the pipe d,
Figures 16 and 23, hereinafter referred to; c is a passage-way through the valve-
plug, which, when the valve is in the position shewn in Figure 16, connects the
openings b, b, as shewn in Figure 23; D, Figures 16 and 23, is a reservoir of any
proper construction, which is provided below with a suitable opening communi-
cating with the pipe d, herein before referred to, which extends into the opening
of the valve-case, and above with a suitable opening communicating with the pipe d'
extending away to the controlling-valve, as shewn in Figure 23. In this reservoir
is placed a proper quantity of water or other fluid, which is practically incom-
pressible. b, Figures 20 and 23, is an opening in the valve-case near one end,
into which extends the pipe d' leading from the reservoir D, as shewn; 63, Figures 20
and 23 is a groove or passage-way upon the inner side of the case, which, when
the valve is in the position shewn in Figure 23, extends from the opening b² one
fourth of the distance around the case; 4 is an opening located in line opposite one
end of the groove b, as shewn, into which extends one end of the pipe e, Figure 23,
which latter is extended away to any proper source for supplying atmospheric or
other power-pressure; c¹ is an opening or passage-way through the plug, which,
when the valve is in the position shewn in Figure 23, connects the opening 64 with
the groove b³, as shewn.
When the parts are arranged as thus described and shewn atmospheric or other
power pressure will be received from the main source of supply through the pipe e,
Figure 23, and be delivered through the valve-passage c' and pipe d¹ to the
reservoir D. The pressure thus exerted upon the incompressible fluid in the
reservoir forces the same out through the pipe d, valve-passage c, and pipe a, into
the cylinder A upon the left hand of the piston, as shewn.
The parts which co-act in permitting the exhaust through the pipe a¹ are as
follow-
65, Figures 17 and 23, is an opening into the valve-case, into which extends
the upper end of pipe a leading from the right hand side of the cylinder A;
b, Figures 18 and 23, is a similar opening in the valve case upon the side opposite
to the opening in line therewith, into which extends one end of the pipe f
hereinafter referred to; c² is the passage-way in the plug, by means of which, when
the same is in the position shewn in Figure 23, the openings 65 and 66 are united:
F, Figures 16 and 23, is a reservoir, like that before referred to, which is provided
below with a suitable opening communicating with the pipe f extending to the
valve, as shewn. This reservoir also is provided with a proper quantity of an
incompressible-fluid. 67, Figures 18, 22, and 23, is an opening in the valve-case,

page_text: into which extends one end of the pipe leading out of the top of the reservoir,
as shewn; b, Figures 17, 22, and 23; is a similar opening located upon the opposite
side of the valve-case, in line therewith, which discharges directly into the
atmosphere; c, Figures 22 and 23, is an opening or passage-way through the
plug, which, when the valve is in the position shewn in Figure 23, unites the
openings 67, 68.
When the parts are arranged as thus described and shewn, and pressure is exerted
upon the left hand side of the piston, as has been previously described, the
incompressible fluid in the cylinder, on the right hand side of the piston, will be
driven out through the pipe a', the valve-passage c², and pipe finto the reservoir F.
The entrance of the fluid into the reservoir will in its turn drive out the air or
other elastic-medium contained therein, and discharge the same through the pipe f',
valve-passage, and opening 68, into the atmosphere.
The general operation of the parts when pressure is exerted through the pipe a,
and the exhaust is delivered through the pipe a', is as follows:-
Pressure from the main source of power is admitted through the pipe e, valve
passage c¹, groove b³, and pipe d¹, into the reservoir D; and from this consequently
the incompressible fluid contained therein is delivered through the pipe d, valve-
passage c, and pipe a, to the left hand side of the piston; the latter being thus
moved in the cylinder towards the right hand end of the same, the liquid upon the
right hand side is forced before it through the pipe a', valve-passage c², and pipe f,
into the reservoir F, and from this consequently the air or other elastic-medium
contained therein is discharged through the pipe f', valve-passage c³, and opening 68
into the open air.
The arrangement of the parts when it is desired to exert the pressure through
the pipe a¹ and discharge the exhaust through the pipe a will now be described.
When it is desired to shift the valve for the purpose of causing the pressure to
be exerted upon the opposite side of the piston, the following parts, not before
described, will be employed:-
el, Figure 23, is a pipe communicating with a proper opening located near one
end of the valve-case, which, like the pipe e, extends away to the main source of
power supply; b is a groove or passage-way in the valve-case, by means of which
communication is established between the pipe e¹ and the pipe f¹, when the valve-
plug is turned to bring the passage c³ into the position shewn in dotted lines,
Figure 23.
When the valve is in the position shewn in Figure 23, pressure cannot be received
through the pipe c¹ from the main source of supply, the communication being cut
off as shewn, but when the valve is in the position shewn in dotted lines, Figure
23, pressure is received through the pipe c', and the same is delivered to the
reservoir F.
is a passage arranged in the plug at right angles to the passage c², which serves
to continue the connection between the pipes f and a¹, when the position of the
passage arranged
valve is changed, as shewn in dotted lines, Figure 23; c³ is a
in the plug at right angles to the passage c, which serves to continue the connection
with the pipes a and a when the position of the valve is changed, as shewn in
dotted lines, Figure 23; 610 is an opening in the valve case in line opposite the
opening ba, by means of which when the position of the valve is changed, as shewn in
dotted lines, Figure 23, the pipe d'is permitted to discharge through the valve-
passage c¹ into the atmosphere. By changing the position of the valve, commu-
0 nication is cut off with the pipe e leading to the source of the main-pressure supply.
From this it will be understood that when the valve is shifted in the manner
described, pressure will be admitted to the opposite end of the cylinder, and the
piston consequently will be moved in the opposite direction, that is to say, to the
left hand end of the same, the operation being the reverse of that previously
5 described. When it is desired to hold the piston in any particular position, the
valve plug is turned into such relations to the ports as to cut off communication
When communication
through it, as indicated in part in dotted lines, Figure 16.

page_text: is thus cut off the piston is immovably held in whatever position it may be by the
volume of incompressible fluid upon each side of the same, this fluid itself for the
time being held from movement of any kind. The incompressible fluid, it will be
understood, remains permanently in the reservoirs, the cylinder and the pipes con-
necting the two together, and is used over and over again, it being only necessary
to replace as much as is lost by evaporation or leakage; the exhaust also, it will
be understood, is taken from the elastic medium, by means of which pressure is
exerted, and not from the incompressible fluid.
Some of the advantages of the above described construction are as follow, that is
to say-
The incompressible fluid in the reservoirs is continuously used, the exhaust being
taken from the elastic-medium, by means of which the pressure is exerted upon
the fluid. This is rendered possible by the employment of two reservoirs. The
construction of the mechanism is quite simple and not liable to get out of order.
The diving bell is constructed as follows, that is to say:-
A, Figures 24 and 25, represents the diving bell having the compartment a
closed upon all sides against the entrance of water, and the compartiment a' closed
upon all sides excepting the bottom, which is open, as shewn; a², Figure 24,
represents in dotted lines a man-hole, by means of which the diver is permitted to
enter the compartment a; B, Figures 24 and 25, is a pipe extending downward
into chamber a from the vessel or wharf above, through which compressed air from
any proper source of supply is conveyed; b is a branch of the pipe B and opens
into the chamber a near the bottom of the same, as shewn, through which air for
breathing is delivered; 6' is a valve by means of which the supply of this air to
the chamber a is controlled; 62 is a valve in the pipe B, by means of which the
supply of compressed air to the chamber a' is controlled, the pipe itself being
carried through the division wall, and extended upward to near the top of the
chamber, as shewn in Figure 26; C, Figures 24 and 25, represents the exhaust-
pipe opening below into chamber a, and discharging above into the atmosphere.
It is provided with a cock c by means of which communication through the same
may be shut off in case of accident; D, Figures 24 and 25, is a pipe extending
downward into the chamber a from the vessel or wharf above, through which
water from any proper source of supply is conveyed; d, c, d, represent the
branches of this pipe, each of which is provided with a two-way cock or water-
valve for purposes hereinafter explained; E, E, Figures 25 and 27, are ways or
guide-bars extending across the chamber a' near the top of the same, upon which
are supported the ends of the frame e, the latter being free to move thereon in
either direction; e¹, el, Figures 25 and 26, are ways or guide-bars extending across
the frame e, upon which is supported the plate or frame e², having the hoisting
wheel e with pulley e, as shewn; F, Figures 25 and 27, represents a water-wheel
of any suitable construction supported by proper bearings upon one side of the
chamber a, which is provided inside with a right and left hand water-wheel,
the shaft of which has a pulley f, as shown; f' is a rope wound about the pulley f
the ends of which rope are attached to the frame, one portion of the rope being
carried about an opposite guide-pulley, as shewn. This water-wheel by means of
suitable pipes is connected to the two-way cock d in chamber a; G, Figures 25
and 26, also represents a water-wheel-case supported by proper bearings upon one
side of the frame e, which is provided inside with a right and left-hand water-wheel,
the shaft of which has a pulley g, as shewn; g is a rope wound about the pulley,
the ends of which are attached to the frame e2, one portion of the rope being
carried over an opposite guide pulley, as shewn. This water-wheel by means of
suitable pipes is connected with the two-way cock in chamber a; H, Figures 25
and 26, also represents a water-wheel-case supported by proper bearings upon one
side of the frame e, which is provided inside with a right and left hand water-
wheel, the shaft of which has a pulley h, as shewn; h represents an endless rope.
which passes through the eye or pulley, and over pulleys and e', a turn or two
of the same being taken around these latter, as shewn. This water-wheel by

page_text: means of suitable pipes is connected with the two-way cock d² in chamber a;
I, I, Figures 26 and 27, are side plates or pockets located at the bottom of the
chamber a for receiving any articles which may be raised by the hoisting
mechanism; J, Figure 24, represents one or more sight-holes in the wall between
the two chambers.
The operation is substantially as follows:-
The diver having entered the chamber a, and the manhole having been tightly
closed, the bell may be lowered to the proper place. When thus lowered the
chamber a containing the diver will be free from water, while the chamber a¹ will
be full of the same. The diver now by turning the cock 62, and admitting
compressed air into chamber a' can expel the water froin the same. This chamber a¹
then being illuminated by any proper means, its entire interior becomes visible to
the diver, and any article contained therein may be seized and raised by the
hoisting device. The hoisting device by means of the mechanism above described
may be caused to travel to any part of the chamber, movement transversely in
either direction being caused by the water-wheel F, and longitudinally in either
direction by the water-wheel G. Movement of the hoisting rope either up or down
is caused by the water-wheel H. The movement of the water-wheels is reversed
to change the direction of the actuated parts by simply reversing the two-way cock
in the chamber a in the manner well understood.
Some of the advantages of the above described construction are as follow :-
By means of the compartment a which is entirely closed against the entrance of
water, the diver is enabled to perform the necessary operations without being
exposed to more than ordinary pressure, while if the compartment a¹ were occupied,
the pressure borne would be in proportion to the depth of water. By the
employment of the compartment a¹ in connection with the compartment a the
diver is enabled after the water has been expelled from the former to see what-
ever may be contained therein, while if water was contained in compartment a',
and the same should be muddy or dirty nothing could be seen at any distance.
Having thus fully described the said Invention, as communicated to me by my
foreign correspondent, and the manner of performing the same, I wish it understood
that I claim,
First. The diving bell having a mechanical arm, substantially as above
described.
Second. The grappling tongs and other tools, with the mechanism for actuating
them, substantially as above described.
Third. Electrical mechanism, substantially as herein described, for actuating the
controlling mechanism.
Fourth. Mechanism, constructed and arranged substantially as described, for
employing in connection with atmospheric or other pressure an incompressible fluid
for actuating the cylinder-piston.
Fifth. A diving-bell having two independent compartments, one of which is
closed against the entrance of water, and the other open to the same, all as above
set forth.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Robert Lake, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Eighth day of June, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and eighty.
W. ROBT. LAKE. (L.S.)