IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC CURRENTS, AND FOR PRODUCING ELECTRIC LIGHT
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Alfred Vincent Newton, of the Office for Patents, 66,
Chancery Lane, in the County of Middlesex, Mechanical Draughtsman, for the
Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC
CURRENTS, AND FOR PRODUCING ELECTRIC LIGHT." A communication from
abroad by the Weston Dynamo-electric Machine Company (Incorporated), of
Newark, in the State of New Jersey, United States of America.
**
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Alfred Vincent Newton at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 4th December 1878.
ALFRED VINCENT NEWTON, of the Office for Patents, 66, Chancery Lane, in the
County of Middlesex, Mechanical Draughtsman. IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS
FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC CURRENTS, AND FOR PRODUCING ELECTRIC LIGHT."
[A communication from abroad by the Weston Dynamo-electric Machine Company
(Incorporated), of Newark, in the State of New Jersey, United States of America.]
In this Invention there are two divisions. The first division relates to certain
improvements in dynamo-electric machines especially intended to increase their
usefulness for employment in connection with apparatus for the production of
electric light, and the second division relates to improvements in electric light
apparatus.
The first division embraces the following improvements, to wit:-
First. An improvement by means of which is imparted to dynamo-electric
machines having but one commutator the capacity of simultaneously maintaining
independent currents of electricity in several distinct circuits, and this result is
obtained by providing the stationary electro magnets of such machines with a
number of separately insulated coils having one set of their free ends connected with
one of the commutator brushes, and their opposite free ends connected respectively
with a corresponding number of binding posts to which are connected respectively
a like number of line wires whose opposite ends are connected with the other com-
mutator brush. By this improvement an ordinary dynamo-electric machine is
'

page_text: convertible into a multiple circuit machine without adding any commutator or com-
mutators to it.
Secondly. A peculiar mode of winding upon the armature two systems of coils, by
which each system is wound in diametrically separate divisions traversing the
exterior of the armature, and each division is connected with the next adjoining
division by a loop, the bight of which is connected to one of the commutator strips,
the two free ends of each system of coils being respectively connected to the same
two diametrically opposite strips of the commutator. The two systems of coils are
thus connected with each other as though they were composed of an endless wire.
As a result of this mode of winding the armature two currents generated in two
parallel wires are communicated to the two strips which are in contact with the
commutator brushes, and the whole double system of coils is constantly employed in
the generation of the current. It is an incidental feature of this part of the Inven-
tion that the loops or wires connecting the coils with the commutator strips are all
carried through one of the journals of the armature shaft, that is to say, through a
bushing of insulating material inserted in a metallic shoulder or collar upon the
shaft.
Thirdly. Certain improved features in the organization and construction of the
dynamo-electric machine for which Letters Patent were granted to W. R. Lake, on
behalf of the present Inventor, and bearing date Dec. 27th, 1877, No. 4903.
These features consist in widening and forming foot pieces on the iron bridges to
which the outer ends of the cores of the stationary electro magnets are secured, in
substituting wrought iron for the cast iron bars heretofore used in the slotted poles
of the stationary magnets; these wrought iron bars are secured in place (equidistant
apart) by casting the cores of the stationary magnets upon them; the space between
the plates are filled with plaster of Paris before inserting them in the mould; in
bracing apart the poles of the stationary magnets by means of arms made of brass
or some other non magnetic material, which arms also afford the bearings for the
armature shaft, in making the brushes accurately adjustable, in arranging the binding
posts upon the upper stationary magnetic pole, separating them therefrom by
insulating material, and finally in forming the armature core of thin wrought iron
discs.
The fourth part of the Invention consists in a modification of the form of machine
shown in Fig. 11 of the Patent above referred to, whereby each of the separate
divisions of the stationary coils are directly connected with the free ends of separate
operative circuits, and the armature is charged by means of electricity from another
machine or from a battery.
The second division of the Invention embraces the fifth, sixth, and seventh parts
thereof, and relates to electric light apparatus.
Thus the fifth part of the Invention consists in an electric torch composed of two
bars or sticks of carbon arranged in proximity to each other in relatively parallel
positions, and combined with a device for introducing into the electric arc at the
points of the electrodes a conducting vapor, which by lessening the resistance at
that point affords an effectual means of retaining the are in a prescribed path, and
by its combustion increases the illuminating power of the arc.
The mode of accomplishing this purpose consists in combining with one or each
of the carbon electrodes, but preferably with the positive electrode only, a cylinder
or stick of any material which although not placed between the electrodes is capable
of being slowly volatilized by the heat of the electric arc, and when volatilized
affords a vapor of superior conductivity, which vapor by its combustion affects the
illuminating qualities of the arc, and by its passage over the end of the positive
electrode to the end of the negative electrode so diminishes the resistance as to fix
and define the path in which the arc is maintained. In the electric torch nothing
is interposed between the carbons, and there is nothing to prevent the arc from being
formed below the points of the electrodes excepting the excess of conducting vapor
discharged over the upper end of the positive electrode to the negative electrode.
This vapour is produced by the volatilization of a cylinder composed of lime, glass,

page_text: or of compounds of infusible earths and metallic salts, silicates, double silicates,
mixture of the silicates with other salts of metals, fluorides, double fluorides, fusible
oxides or combinations of the fusible oxides with the silicates, the requirements so
far as the material is concerned being that it shall be capable of volatilization when
placed on the outer side of the electrode to which it is attached, and when volati-
lized shall afford a conducting vapor which tends to pass to the other electrode.
The foreign material added to the carbon may be incorporated into the electrodes
by being mixed with the carbon of which the electrode is composed, or it may be.
introduced into a tubular carbon, but experience has shown that it is best to place
it in a groove formed longitudinally in the side of the positive electrode, which is
made of about twice the area in cross section of the negative electrode. It is an
essential feature of this part of the Invention that the foreign material applied to
the positive electrode shall be placed upon the side opposite to the side adjacent
to the negative electrode. The object of this arrangement is to ensure that the
vapor generated from the added material by the heat of the arc shall be obliged
to pass over the upper end of the positive electrode in order to reach the negative
electrode, and hence to insure that the path of least resistance shall be definitely
fixed in a curved line, the crown of which slightly distant from the ends of the
electrodes, so that the electrodes will burn evenly at their ends and there will be no
possibility of a change in the position of the arc by which it shall be established
otherwise than at the upper ends of the electrodes.
The sixth part of the Invention consists in combining an igniter with an electric
torch or candle in which the position of the arc changes as the electrodes are
gradually consumed. This igniter is a moveable piece of carbon so arranged and
operating that upon the extinction of the arc it enters the space between the points
of the two electrodes, and by thus bridging the gap in the current re-establishes the
The igniter has the capacity to re-establish the arc in whatever position the
arc happens to be, that is to say, in the various positions which the arc occupies as
the electrodes gradually consume.
arc.
The igniter is embodied in two forms. One consists of a stick of carbon having
the same length as the original length of the torch and arranged in close proximity
with the torch, and mounted in a tilting holder which by the action of a spring,
when the circuit is broken, is so moved as to tilt the igniter toward the torch and
cause it to enter between the ends of the electrodes.
.
When the circuit is re-established an electro magnet polarized by the current acts
upon the tilting holder of the igniter and rocks the igniter away from the torch. In
the other form of the igniter it is arranged in line with the space between the elec-
trodes, and has an endwise motion toward and from the torch. In the latter case
a spring or weight serves to lower the igniter until by the entrance of the lower end
of the igniter into the space between the upper ends of the electrodes composing the
torch the arc is re-established. An electro magnet polarized by the current actuates
a moveable clutch which grips and raises the igniter away from the torch a pre-
scribed distance. In other words the igniter is freed from the clutch when the
current ceases and permitted to move downward whatever the distance it may have
to go to reach the torch, but has a limited range of movement upwards from
whatever may have been its starting point, the starting point being subject to
variation by the gradual reduction in the length of the torch as the electrodes are
consumed.
The seventh part of the Invention consists in incorporating the principle of the
tilting igniter into the construction of an electric lamp for making one electrode
stationary, and making the tilting igniter constitute the other electrode, or by
mounting both electrodes in tilting holders, geared or otherwise connected together,
and having parallel axes of oscillation. In this case an armature may be adopted to
swing across the magnetic field of an electro magnet, a spiral spring and a curved
arm or lifter being used to bring the electrodes together.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said Alfred Vincent Newton in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 4th
June 1879.
ALFRED VINCENT NEWTON, of the Office for Patents, 66, Chancery Lane, in the
County of Middlesex, Mechanical Draughtsman. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS
FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC CURRENTS, AND FOR PRODUCING ELECTRIC LIGHT." A
communication. from abroad by The Weston Dynamo-electric Machine Company
(Incorporated), of Newark, in the State of New Jersey, United States of America.
This Invention may be divided under two heads, the first of which relates to
certain improvements in dynamo-electric machines, especially intended to increase
their usefulness for employment in connection with apparatus for the production of
electric light, and the second to improvements in electric light apparatus.
The first head of the Invention embraces the following improvements, viet. :-
First. A novel means by which is imparted to dynamo-electric machines having
but one commutator the capacity of simultaneously maintaining independent
currents of electricity in several distinct circuits, and which consists in providing
the stationary electro-magnets of such machines with a number of separate insulated
coils, having one group of their free ends connected with one of the commutator
brushes, and their opposite free ends connected respectively with a corresponding
number of binding posts, to which are connected respectively a like number of line
wires whose opposite ends are connected with the other commutator brush. By
this improvement an ordinary dynamo-electric machine is converted into a multiple
circuit machine without adding any commutator or commutators to it.
Secondly. A peculiar mode of winding upon the armature two systems of coils,
by which each system is wound in separate divisions traversing the exterior of the
armature, and each division is connected with the next adjoining division by a
loop, the bight of which is connected to one of the commutator strips, the two free
ends of each system of coils being respectively connected to the same two
diametrically opposite strips of the commutator. The two systems of coils are thus
connected with each other as though they were composed of an endless wire. As
a result of this mode of winding the armature two currents generated in two
parallel wires are communicated to the two strips which are in contact with the
commutator brushes, and the whole double system of coils is constantly employed
in the generation of the current. It is an incidental feature of this part of the
Invention that the loops or wires connecting the coils with the commutator strips
are all carried through one of the journals of the armature shaft, that is to say,
through a bushing of insulating material inserted in a metallic shoulder or collar
upon the shaft.
Thirdly. Certain improved features in the organization and construction of the
dynamo-electro machine as heretofore constructed. The outer ends of the cores of
the stationary electro magnets are secured to standards formed with foot pieces, and
wrought iron is now substituted for the cast iron bars heretofore used in the slotted
poles of the stationary magnets. The poles of the stationary magnets are also kept
apart by means of bracing pieces made of brass or some other non-magnetic material,
which bracings also afford bearings for the armature shaft. Devices are also provided
for accurately adjusting the brushes. The binding posts are arranged upon the
upper stationary magnetic pole and are separated therefrom by an insulating
material; finally, the armature core is formed of thin wrought iron discs.
The fourth part of the Invention consists of a modification of the form of machine
described in the Patent granted to William Robert Lake, and dated December,
One thousand eight hundred and seventy seven, No 4903, whereby each of the
separate divisions of the stationary coils is directly connected with the free ends of
separate operative circuits, and the armature is charged by means of electricity
from another machine or battery.

page_text: The second head of the Invention consists of three improvements in electric
lamps, viz.
:-
First. An electric torch composed of two carbon electrodes arranged parallel to
and near each other, and combined with a device for introducing.into the electric
arc at the points of the electrodes a conducting vapor, which by lessening the
resistance to the passing current affords an effectual means of retaining the arc in a
prescribed path, and by its combustion increases the illuminating power of the arc.
The mode of attaining this end consists in combining with one or each of the carbon
electrodes, but preferably with the positive electrode only, a cylinder or stick of any
material, which although not placed between the electrodes is capable of being
slowly volatilized by the heat of the electric arc, and when volatilized affords a
vapor of superior conductivity, which vapor by its combustion affects the illuminating
qualities of the arc, and by its passage over the end of the positive electrode to the
end of the negative electrode so diminishes the resistance as to fix and maintain the
position of the arc. In the electric torch nothing is interposed between the carbons,
and there is nothing to prevent the arc from being formed below the points of the
electrodes excepting the excess of conducting vapor discharged over the upper end
of the positive electrode to the negative electrode. This vapor is produced by the
volatilization of a cylinder composed of lime, glass, or of compounds of infusible
earths and metallic salts, silicates, double silicates, mixtures of the silicates with
other salts of metals, fluorides, double fluorides, fusible oxides, or combinations of
the fusible oxides with the silicates, the requirement, so far as the material is con-
cerned, being that it shall be capable of volatilization when placed on the outer
side of the electrode to which it is attached, and when volatilized shall afford a con-
ducting vapor which tends to pass to the other electrode. The foreign material
added to the carbon may be incorporated into the electrode by being mixed with
the carbon of which the electrode is composed, or it may be introduced into a
tubular carbon, but it has been found best to place it in a groove formed longitu-
dinally in the side of the positive electrode which is made of about twice the area
in cross section of the negative electrode. It is an essential feature of this part of
the Invention that the foreign material applied to the positive electrode shall be
placed upon the side opposite to the side adjacent to the negative electrode. The
object of this arrangement is to insure that the vapor generated from the added
material by the heat of the arc shall be obliged to pass over the upper end of the
positive electrode in order to reach the negative electrode, and hence to ensure that
the path of least resistance shall be definitely fixed in a curved line, the crown of
which is slightly distant from the ends of the electrodes, so that the electrodes will
burn evenly at their ends, and there will be no possibility of a change in the
position of the arc by which it shall be established otherwise than at the upper
ends of the electrodes.
Secondly. In combining an igniter with an electric torch or candle, in which the
position of the arc changes as the electrodes are gradually consumed. This igniter
is a moveable piece of carbon, so arranged and operating that upon the extinction of
the arc it enters the space between the points of the two electrodes, and by thus
bridging the gap in the circuit re-establishes the arc. The igniter has the capacity
to re-establish the arc in whatever position the arc happens to be; that is to say,
in the various positions which the are occupies as the electrodes gradually consume.
The igniter is embodied in two forms, one consists of a stick of carbon having the
same length as the original length of the torch, and arranged in close proximity
with the torch, and mounted in a tilting holder, which by the action of a spring
when the circuit is broken is so moved as to tilt the igniter toward the torch and
cause it to enter between the ends of the electrodes. When the circuit is re-
established an electro magnet, polarized by the current, acts upon the tilting holder
of the igniter and rocks the igniter away from the torch. In the other form of the
igniter it is arranged in line with the space between the electrodes, and has an end-
wise motion toward and from the torch. In the latter case a spring or weight
serves to lower the igniter until by the entrance of the lower end of the igniter into

page_text: the space between the upper ends of the electrodes composing the torch the arc is
re-established. An electro magnet polarized by the current actuates a movable
clutch, which grips and raises the igniter away from the torch a prescribed distance.
In other words the igniter is freed from the clutch when the current ceases, and
permitted to move downward whatever the distance it may have to go to reach the
end of the torch; but it has a limited range of movement upward from whatever
may have been its starting point, the starting point being subject to variation
by the gradual reduction of the length of the torch as the electrodes are consumed.
Thirdly. In incorporating the principle of the tilting igniter into the construction
of an electric lamp by making one electrode stationary, and making the tilting igniter
constitute the other electrode; or by mounting both electrodes in tilting holders
geared or otherwise connected together, and having parallel axes of oscillation.
In the accompanying Drawings Sheets I. and II. illustrate the first head of the
Invention.
In Sheet I. Fig. 1 is a front elevation of the machine; Fig. 2 is a side elevation;
Fig. 3, a vertical section through the line x, x, on Fig. 1; Fig. 4 is a partial longi-
tudinal section; and Fig. 5, Sheet II., is a plan view of the same; Figures 6 and 7
are diagrams illustrating the mode of winding and connecting the two systems of
coils upon the armature.
A, A, are the parallel stationary magnets arranged horizontally and connected at
their outer ends by the iron standards A', A', which are provided with the laterally
projecting flanges or foot pieces A2, A2, for the support of the machine. The
standards A are also provided with the strengthening webs As, and are cast with
a series of parallel slots A6, which are intended to provide for the circulation of
air through the standards into and from the spaces between the upper and lower
magnets.
In the machine as formerly constructed the curved pole of the stationary magnets
was provided immediately opposite the armature with parallel slots formed in the
casting; but it has been found important that the slots or openings in the curved
poles shall be exactly in line with the spaces between the several discs composing
the armature, and therefore wrought iron bars are now substituted in place of cast
iron bars; and these wrought iron bars are incorporated into the cores by placing
them in the mould in which the cores are cast, the spaces between the bars being
previously filled with plaster of Paris, which after the casting bas been made
easily removed.
By reference to Fig. 1a, Sheet I., it will be seen how the wrought iron bars are
bound together and separated by plaster of Paris preparatory to being deposited
in the mould. The bars B are each concentrically curved on their inner edges, and
are notched at the ends B¹, and are separated from each other by the gibs B2 and
plaster of Paris B³. Two bolts or rivets B pass transversely through the ends of
the bars and through the gibs, and bind the mass together. The mass of bars
thus bound together is heated to a red heat and placed in the mould in which the
cores of the stationary magnets are to be cast. The molten metal being then
poured in finds its way into the open spaces between the ends of the bars and fills
the space above and below the notched ends of the bars, as shewn in Fig. 3. The
bars B, which are thin wrought iron plates, are by this means securely incorporated
into the casting, and made to occupy equidistant parallel positions. It will be
understood that the upper side of the mass of bars conforms to the face of the
mould opposite the convex surface upon which the mass of bars rests.
The armature (composed of a series of parallel discs) which is used in combination
with the magnets constructed as above described is made of thin wrought iron
plates or of the rings B³, shewn in Fig. 3; and in either case the rings or discs are
made of the same thickness as the bars B, and are arranged upon the armature shaft
exactly in line with the bars B, as shewn in Fig. 4, Sheet I., for the purpose of
providing free exits through the spaces between the bars B for air drawn into the
interior of the rotating armature, and discharged therefrom at its periphery through
the spaces between the discs or rings.

page_text: In order to maintain independent currents of electricity simultaneously in several
distinct circuits a number of separate insulated coils are wound upon the cores C of
the stationary magnets, as shewn in Figures 3 and 5. The number of separate insu-
lated wires coiled on the cores of the stationary magnets may be varied at will. The
Drawings show four, which may be advantageously wound, as shown in Fig. 3, in
which it will be seen that the separate coils form four superposed layers, and the
order in which they are superposed is indicated by the black dots representing the
course of one of these coils in passing around the four sections of the core. By this
mode of arrangement each coil has not only the same number of convolutions
around the cores but is of the same length. One group of the free ends of the coils.
are joined together in the cable c, which is connected to one of the commutator
brushes as shewn in Fig. 5, and their other opposite free ends C¹, C², C³, and C4, are
respectively connected to the binding post C1, C2, C3, and C, which are supported
in a bed of insulating material secured to the top of the curved pole of the upper
stationary magnet. The binding posts are also connected with the line wires
C5, C6, C7, and C8; each of these line wires is carried to an electric lamp or other
apparatus where work is to be done, and from such apparatus is carried back to
the machine, and the several line wires are formed into the cable C, which is con-
nected with the other commutator brush. By this mode of construction four
indepedent operative circuits are obtained from one commutator on the machine.
It has been heretofore proposed to divide the line wire of a single circuit machine
into branches or loops, thus forming a number of derived circuits, but in such case
a break in the continuity of either of the branches diverts the entire current into
those of the branches which remain unbroken. In this Invention, on the contrary,
the operative circuits are wholly independent of each other, and a break in one
simply renders that portion of the coil with which it is connected inoperative,
leaving the other portions of the coil as before, to continue the generation of
currents for the unbroken circuits respectively; and the same thing will be true of
any number of circuits formed as described by including as a part of each of them
a separate insulated wire embodying an independent portion of the coils around the
cores of the stationary magnets.
In order to explain the above mentioned method of winding the armature with
two systems of coils the armature core is shewn in the Drawings as divided into
eight sections, and it is therefore adapted to carry four separate divisions of the
coils. In this case the coils on the armature are practically composed of an endless
wire, but they may be most conveniently considered and described as two similar
systems of coils, the free ends of which are connected with each other. Fig. 6 is a
diagram representing these coils as they would appear if their free ends were dis-
connected from each other, and if the coils were detached from the core and laid
alongside of each other upon a flat surface. One system of coils is represented by
the full lines, and the other system by the dotted lines. Heavy black lines 1, 2, 3,
and 4 within the groups of coils are arbitrary representations of the armature core;
Fig. 7 is an arbitrary representation of the end of the armature showing the
relative positions of the several divisions of the coils, and also showing the loops for
connection with the commutator. Similar letters of reference used in Figures 6
and 7 indicate like parts which appear in both Figures.
In tracing the mode of winding it will be convenient to start from the top of
Fig. 6, at the upper end D of one system of coils; from this point the wire traverses
the core longitudinally in, for example, a vertical plane, which may be represented
by the vertical lines E, on Fig. 7. Having made the desired number of turns on
this division of the core a long loop D' is left for connection with one of the com-
mutator strips, and the wire is then wound upon the next adjoining division of
the core in a plane at an angle of forty five degrees as represented by the lines E',
on Fig. 7. Having completed the number of turns on this angle the loop D2 is
then wound longitudinally around the core in a horizontal plane represented by the
lines E2 in Fig. 7. The loop D³ is then formed and the wire wound around the
next division of the core on the reverse angle of forty five degrees, as represented.

page_text: in Fig. 7 by the lines E³. Having completed the number of turns around this
division of the core the free end D is brought out and connected with the free
end F of the other system of coils, or in other words, connected to that strip of the
commutator with which the free end F is connected.
To trace the course of the other system of coils it will be convenient to commence
near the top of Fig. 7 at F, whence the wire proceeds as indicated by the dotted
lines either overlapping or lying alongside of the first system of coils, and having
made the proper number of turns, forming the loop F¹, from which the wire is
carried to the next division, and is there wound longitudinally either upon or along-
side that division of the first coil, which is wound on an angle of forty-five degrees.
The loop F2 is then formed, and the wire is carried to the next division, where it is
wound in a horizontal plane, and is then brought out to form the loop F³, from
which it is carried to the next division and wound in a plane at a reverse angle of
forty five degrees, and the upper end F is carried out and connected with the free
end D of the first system of coils, or otherwise is connected with that strip of the
commutator with which the free end D is connected. Each loop is connected with
a separate strip of the commutator: The loop of each division of the first system
of coils is connected with the commutator strip, which is diametrically opposite to
the strip which is connected with the loop of the overlapping or adjoining coil of
the same division. For example, the loop D' is connected with the strip diametri-
cally opposite the strip with which the loop F is connected, and so on. Assuming
one of the brushes to be in contact with that strip of the commutator with which
the loop D¹ is in contact, and the other brush to be in contact with the strip diame-
trically opposite with which the loop F¹ is connected, and assuming that the loop D¹
is positive and the loop F¹ is negative, the direction of the currents simultaneously
generated in the coils is indicated by the arrow heads, from which it will be seen
that two currents starting from the loop D¹ diverge and pass in opposite directions
through the double systeins of coils, and meet in the loop F', by which they are
conveyed to the commutator strip immediately opposite that with which the
loop D¹ is connected.
It will thus be seen that the whole of the double system of coils is utilized for
the production of each electrical impulse collected by the brushes.
The commutator G consists of a cylinder provided with eight separately insulated
strips, and the division between the strips, instead of being parallel with the axis
of the commutator as usual, are slightly inclined thereto, or are spiral. There is
therefore no break in the circuit as the commutator revolves, because the brushes
before they lose contact with one strip acquire contact with the next following strip,
and this arrangement of the commutator with reference to the brushes and in con-
nection with the armature coils wound in the peculiar mode described, results in
the production by this machine of a continuous current. The continuity of the
current results from the fact that when, for example, the positive brush is in
contact with the strips connected with the two loops D1 and D2, and the negative
brush is in contact with the strips connected with the two loops F' and Fe, the
diagonal divisions E¹ of the coils are alone short circuited, the other divisions
remaining more or less active in the generation of the current.
The commutator G is mounted on one of the projecting ends of the armaturo
shaft, which is provided with bearings in the bracing pieces H, H, composed of brass
or some other non-magnetic material. Each of these bracing pieces has flanges H', H²,
which are securely bolted to the upper and lower edges of the poles of the stationary
magnets respectively. The pieces H, H, thus serve the double purpose of affording
the bearings for the armature shaft and of firmly bracing apart the poles of the
stationary magnets. The commutator brushes I and I' are supported in the slotted
studs 12 and 13, which are respectively inserted in the concentric slots I and I³³ in
the adjustable oscillating plate K, which is loosely mounted on the outside of the
bearing of the commutator shaft, and is provided with the set screw K¹, by means
of which it may be fastened in any desired position. The hub of the oscillating
plate K is provided with the radially projecting pointer K² for employment in con-

page_text: nection with a curved scale, which is formed upon the upper curved edge of the
sector K³ affixed to the bracing H immediately in the rear of the oscillating plate.
The range of oscillation of the plate K is such that the brushes when adjusted at
the proper lengths in their respective holders may be moved from the point where
the current collected by them from the commutator is of the minimum intensity
to the point where the current so collected will be of the maximum intensity, and in
order to provide for accuracy in operating the adjusting mechanism for regulating the
intensity of the current, curved wires K and K³ are attached to each of the studs I²
and Is. These curved wires serve as gauges for indicating respectively the length
required for that portion of each brush which projects from the side of the stud
towards the commutator. It will be seen that either brush may be made to bear
at different points of the commutator by being lengthened or shortened, and by
means of the guage wires K and K an accurate indication is given for such an
arrangement of the brushes that their bearing points upon the commutator will be
respectively at the opposite ends of a line or plane bisecting the axis of the com-
mutator.
The improvements in the second form of dynamo electric machine, whereby it is
converted into a compound multiple circuit machine, are shewn in Sheet II. at
Figures 8 and 9. In this case the stationary coils h (four in number) traverse the
exterior of a skeleton cylinder. Fig. 8 is an end view of the coils so wound upon
the cylinder, shewing the two free ends of each coil carried to two binding posts p, n.
The two ends of four independent coils are connected respectively with the four
pairs of binding posts.
As there are four separate divisions of coils this machine supplies four operative
circuits, and the armature which is shewn in isometrical perspective in Fig. 9 is
charged from a battery or other source of electricity by means of the line wires
L, L, respectively connected with the brush standards L2 and L³ which support the
brushes L and L. The brushes bear respectively upon the collars L° and L', one
of which is mounted on the insulated bushing L on the armature shaft, and is
thus insulated from the other collar. The two free ends of the armature coil are
respectively connected with the two collars, as shewn. The free end LP is connected
with the innermost collar, which is insulated from the shaft by the non conducting
bushing L, and the free end L10 is connected with the shaft, and hence is in
electrical connection with the collar L7, which is mounted directly upon the shaft.
By this organization currents generated in the stationary coils are conducted directly
into the operative circuits without the intervention of commutators, and it will be
seen that in this case each of the operative circuits is independent of all the
others.
The improvements in electric lamps are shewn in Sheets, III. and IV. Fig. 10
is a side elevation of an electric torch provided with an igniter; Fig. 11 is a front
elevation thereof; and Fig. 12 is a top or plan view.
In this part of the Invention the torch, which may be used either with or without
the igniter, consists of two stationary carbon electrodes fixed parallel to each other
in metallic holders, which are respectively connected to the opposite poles of a
battery or other source of electricity. The two electrodes may be made of the same
size if alternating currents are to be employed, but as it is preferable to use a current
of unchanging polarity the positive electrode M is represented as having twice the
area in cross section of the negative electrode N. The positive electrode is longi-
tudinally grooved upon one of its wider sides. On the outer side of the positive
electrode, that is, upon the side opposite to that which is adjacent to the negative
electrode, a cylinder or prism of lime glass M¹ or other material, such as has been
described, is placed for the purpose of affording by volatilization at its point an
excess of conducting vapor, which vapor by its passage over the end of the positive
electrode to the negative electrode defines the path of least resistance for the current,
and hence keeps the arc at the points of the electrodes. The metallic holders M²
and N¹ of the electrodes are insulated from each other, and are respectively

page_text: connected with the binding posts M³ and N2, to which the circuit wires are to be
connected:
In operation when the torch is required for use the binding posts are connected
with the line wires M* and Ns respectively, and a piece of carbon or other conducting
matter is introduced between the points of the electrodes, thus bridging the gap in
the circuit at that point, and causing the establishment of the arc. The distance
between the parallel electrodes is fixed with reference to the capacity of the current
employed to leap across from one electrode to the other, and after the arc is once
established the intervening piece of carbon or other conducting matter is removed.
If the current be kept up the arc will continue to be maintained until the electrodes
are consumed.
An automatic lighter may be employed in connection with the electric torch,
which consists, as above stated, of a bar of carbon or other conducting material.
This carbon is shewn at O, and is mounted in a tilting holder O¹, the hub of which
is provided with a laterally projecting arm 02 of iron; the arm 02 is the armature
of an electro magnet O³, the coil of which is included in the circuit. The electro
magnet O³ is thus polarized by the current which supplies the torch, and so long as
the arc is established the arm 02 is attracted by the electro-magnet, and the igniter
is thus held back from the torch in the position shewn by the dotted lines in
Fig. 10. If the arc be disestablished the electro magnet loses its polarity, and the
rocking holder O₁ being then subjected to the preponderating influence of the
spring O is rocked in the opposite direction, thus causing the igniter to enter
between the points of the electrodes, as shewn by the solid lines in Fig. 10. By
this entrance of the igniter between the points of the electrodes the gap in the
circuit is closed, and the arc is re-established. Upon the establishment of the arc
the electro-magnet is again polarized, and the igniter is again rocked backwards.
As the igniter oscillates in a plane which coincides with the space between the
parallel electrodes it will be seen that the burning down of the torch does not
prevent the igniter from performing its functions. When the torch is long the
igniter rocks but a short distance before reaching the points of the electrodes, and
as the torch becomes shorter the igniter rocks further. In any case so soon as any
portion of the igniter is interposed between the points of the electrodes the arc is
established, and the igniter rocked back ward out of the way.
The Invention it will by seen provides for the automatic ignition of a torch in
which both the electrodes are stationary, and which therefore is subject to constant
reduction in length as the electrodes are consumed. It will of course be seen that
there are various ways in which the operation of the automatic igniter may be
governed by the current other than that chosen for illustration. Thus the functions
of the electro magnet and spring may be relatively reversed, the force of the spring
or of gravity may be made to withdraw the igniter from proximity with the
electrodes, and the force of an electro magnet or electro helix may be employed to
move the igniter up to the electrodes for the re-establishment of the arc when
required. To effect this result the line wires will be connected directly with the
two clectrode holders, and the electrode holders will be connected with a differential
circuit containing an electro-magnet or an electro helix, and also containing a
rheostat of suitably proportioned resistance. In this case the force of the electro
maguet will be so proportioned as to be insufficient to overcome the force of the
spring, excepting when by the extinguishment of the are the entire current
is compelled to pass over the differential circuit. Instead of using an electro
magnet two helices or coils may be employed, one being fixed in position and the
other attached to the rocking arm 02 of the igniter. In this case, as before, the
action of a spring or of gravity is enlisted to move the igniter in one direction, and
the force due to the polarization of the helices or coils, tending to alter their positions
relatively to each other, acts upon the igniter in the direction opposite to that in
which the spring acts.
Figures 13 and 14 shew in front and side elevation an igniter that has a vertical

page_text: reciprocating motion. In these Figures P, is a rod of carbon affixed to the lower
end of a rack P¹, which is driven by a pinion P2. The shaft P³, upon which the
pinion is mounted, is provided with a pulley P, which is connected by a band or
belt P5 with another pulley P. A lever Q oscillating upon the pivot Q' is provided
upon its shorter arm with the armature Q². This armature is acted upon by the
electro magnet Q3, the coil of which is included in the circuit which supplies the
torch R. The longer end of the lever Qis provided with a clutch composed of
the stationary jaw S and the pivotted jaw S'. A spring S2 tends to rock the face
of the pivotted jaw against the stationary jaw S.
When the arc is dis-established
and the current ceases to flow the electro magnet Q³ is depolarized, and the longer
end of the lever Q, under the influence of gravity, then drops down until the pro
jecting arin S3 of the jaw S¹ strikes against the stop pin S. This lifts the jaw S¹,
and thus opens the clutch and allows the band P3 which is introduced between the
jaws of the clutch to move freely. Under these circumstances the weight of the
rack P¹ causes it to fall, thus dropping the carbon P down until its lower end enters
the space between the upper ends of the electrodes. By this method of arrange-
ment it will be seen that the igniter is allowed to fall any distance that may be
required to enable it to reach the torch. When it has reached the torch it bridges
the gap between the electrodes, and the arc is immediately reestablished. This
polarizes the electro magnet Q³, and causes it to attract the armature Q2, and thus
rock the longer end of the lever Q upward; the effect of this is to lift the arm S³ of
the pivotted jaw from the stop S4, thus allowing it to press the band P5 against the
face of the stationary jaw. By this means the band P5 is firmly clutched, and is
moved upward with the longer arm of the lever by the force of the electro magnet.
The upward movement of the side of the band upon which the clutch acts is
transmitted by the pinion P2 to the rack P¹, which is thus lifted a prescribed
distance, that is to say, two, three, or more inches, or whatever distance the gearing
is arranged for. This motion of the rack elevates the igniter, which remains elevated
above the torch until the arc is again extinguished, when it immediately drops down
and reestablishes the arc as before. It will be observed that the peculiarity of this
arrangement is that the igniter has a variable range in its downward movement,
but a limited range in its upward movement. It is only necessary to lift the
igniter a short distance from the end of the torch, and thus it is so lifted from such
variable starting points as may be due to the gradual reduction in the height of the
torch.
In Sheet IV. Figures 15 and 16 show a modification of the torch, one of the
electrodes being made capable of tilting so as to act also as an igniter. In this
case the holder of the stationary electrode will be connected with one pole of the
battery or other source of electricity, and the tilting holder will be connected with
the other pole, the mechanism for operating the tilting holder being substantially
the same as that already described. If desired both electrodes may be mounted in
tilting holders which are geared or otherwise so connected as to oscillate together
in the same plane as shewn in Fig. 17. For many purposes an electric lamp con-
structed upon this principle will be found of superior usefulness. Either the
stationary electrode or the tilting electrode may be provided with the cylinder of
lime, glass, or other material which will in this case also effectually preserve the
arc at the points of the electrodes.
This part of the Invention includes the combination with the electro magnet
and spring which operates the electrodes of a curved lever or cam, by means of
which the force with which the spring acts upon the tilting electrode holder
is varied to correspond as nearly as possible with the variable attractive force
of the electro magnet upon the armature in the different positions which the
armature occupies as the electrodes diminish in length.
In the apparatus represented in Figures 15 and 16 the negative electrode holder T
is stationary, and like the other electrode holder is provided with a sleeve T¹, wherein
the lower end of the electrode U is held by the set screw T. The positive electrode

page_text: U is similarly mounted in a sleeve affixed to the end of the lever a, which is
pivotted upon a standard a' affixed to a metallic plate a². The longer end of the
lever a rests upon the curved upper edge of the lifter b, which is pivotted at its
end to the standard b', and is lifted by the action of a spring 62 linked to the
outer end b³ of the lifter, and secured to the lower end of the adjusting screw 64,
supported in an intermediate standard 65. An electro magnet c the coil of which
c¹ is included in the circuit, has its core so inclined that its longitudinal axis bisects
the axis of the lever a. The armature upon which the magnet acts is a bar of
iron c² affixed transversely to the lever a, one end of the coil of the electro magnet
is affixed to the binding post c³, and the other end is affixed to the inclined metallic
standard c, to which the core of the magnet is attached, and is thus electrically
connected through the plate a³, standard a¹, and lever a, with the electrode U¹.
It may be convenient to use two electro magnets as shewn in Fig. 16, the coils of
both being included in the circuit. The other electrode U is electrically connected
with the binding post T3; when the arc is established between the points of the
electrodes the electro magnet is polarized and attracts the armature c², causing it
to swing toward the centre of the magnetic field without contact with the core.
As the arc moves downwards the points of the electrodes are separated, and the
resistance being thus increased the force of the electro magnet is diminished. The
spring b² then acts in the contrary direction, tending to move the point of the
tilting electrodes towards the point of the stationary electrode. It is an casy matter
to so adjust the relative forces of the magnet and of the spring that the points
of the electrodes are maintained at the proper distance apart.
It will of course be understood that it is immaterial whether the negative elec-
trode be mounted in the Stationary holder or the tilting holder. In Fig. 15 the
positive electrode is represented as being mounted in the tilting holder, and being
provided upon its outer side with the cylinder or prism U2 of lime glass, or other
foreign material added to the electrode, for the purpose of affording an excess of
conducting vapor at the point where the arc is to be maintained. Fig. 17
simply illustrates a lamp of this class in which both electrodes are mounted in
rocking holders, the rocking holders e and f having parallel axes of oscillation e¹
and f, and being geared together by means of the toothed sectors e² and f¹. If
desired the electro magnet lifter and spring may be duplicated as shewn, acting in
one case upon the longer end e³ of one lever, and in the other case upon the longer
end f of the other lever, but this will not ordinarily be necessary. The longer
end f of the lever which carries the holder f may be weighted to counterbalance
the weight of the electrode and a single electro magnet will then answer to operate
both rocking holders by means of the geared sectors e² and f³ which connect them.
It will of course be seen that the electrodes instead of being mounted in tilting
holders may be mounted in laterally sliding holders and in relatively inclined
positions, so that the points of the electrodes can be brought together by a spring
or springs tending to move the sliding holder or holders in one direction, and can
be separated by a magnet or magnets tending to move the sliding holder or holders
in the opposite direction.
.
Having now set forth the nature of the Invention of "Improvements in Apparatus
"for Generating Electric Currents and for Producing Electric Light," as communi-
cated to me from abroad, and having explained the manner of carrying the same
into effect, I wish it to be understood that under the above in part recited Letters
Patent I claim,-
First. A system of independent operative circuits established by winding upon
the cores of the stationary magnets, separately insulated wires, the opposite ends of
each wire being electrically connected, the one with one of the commutator brushes,
and the other with an outside circuit or line wire, the opposite ends of such line
wires being electrically connected with the other commutator brush, substantially as
and for the purpose set forth.
Second. In a dynamo-electric machine substantially such as shewn and des-

page_text: cribed, the iron standards A', A¹, connecting the outer ends of the stationary
magnets and provided with the series of parallel slots A, as and for the purpose
set forth.
Third. Constructing the stationary magnets with curved parallel plates of wrought
iron (constituting the poles thereof), as and for the purpose above described.
Fourth. In combination with the curved stationary magnets the bracing pieces
H, H, composed of brass or some other non-magnetic material, and affording the
bearings for the armature shaft, substantially as shewn and described.
Fifth. The binding posts C1, C2, C3, and C, arranged upon insulating material
placed upon the upper curved pole, substantially as shewn and described.
Sixth. In combination with the commutator and brushes of a dynamo electric
machine the fixed gauges K and K³, substantially as and for the purpose set forth.
Seventh. An armature wound with a double system of coils in separate divisions,
such divisions being looped together and the loops connected with the commutator
strips, substantially as and for the purpose described.
Eighth. A double system of armature coils wound and connected, substantially
as shewn and described in combination with a commutator composed of separately
insulated strips, divided from each other on lines at an angle to the axis of the
commutator shaft, and two brushes, each adapted to hold contact with one strip
until after it has acquired contact with the next adjoining strip, substantially as and
for the purposes set forth.
Ninth. A system of separated stationary coils having their free ends respectively
connected with separate operative circuits in combination with an armature rotating
within the stationary coils and having its coil electrically connected with an out-
side machine or other source of electricity, as described with reference to Figures
8 and 9.
Tenth. In an electric lamp or torch the combination of one or each of the
electrodes with a cylinder or prism composed of lime, glass, or other material
which is capable of volatilization by the heat of the arc, and which, when
volatilized, affords a vapor of superior conductivity, as and for the purpose set
forth.
Eleventh. An electric torch composed of two stationary electrodes mounted in
suitable holders in parallel positions and respectively connected with the
opposite poles of a battery or other source of electricity and having cemented
or otherwise attached to the outer side of one or each electrode a cylinder
or prism of lime glass or other material, substantially as and for the purpose set
forth.
Twelfth. In combination with an electric lamp, candle, or torch, in which the
position of the arc varies as the electrodes are consumed, an automatic igniter com-
posed of a moveable conducting rod, a spring, and an electro magnet or helix, the
coil of which is included in the circuit which supplies the current for the arc, the
spring operating to move and hold the igniter against or between the points of the
electrodes when the arc is extinguished, and the electro magnet operating to move
and hold the igniter away from the points of the electrodes when the arc is established,
substantially as described.
Thirteenth. In combination with the negative electrode N of an electric lamp or
torch of the positive electrode M of greater area in cross section than the negative
electrode and provided with a longitudinal groove in which is cemented or otherwise
secured the cylinder or prism M' of lime, glass, or other material, as and for the
purpose set forth.
Fourteenth. In combination with an electric torch or candle of an igniter operated
in one direction by a spring or by gravity, and in the other direction by an
electro magnet or electro helix, and having an endwise movement towards and
from the torch or candle, in a line coinciding with the space between the
electrodes composing the torch or candle, substantially as and for the purpose set
forth.

page_text: Fifteenth. In combination with an electric torch or candle in which the position
of the are varies as the electrodes are consumed, of an igniter having variable ranges
of movement substantially as and for the purpose set forth.
Sixteenth. In combination with an electric candle or torch of the apparatus
shewn in Figures 13 and 14 for operating an igniter affixed to the end of a re-
ciprocating rack or slide moving in line with the torch, substantially as shewn and
described.
Seventeenth. In combination with an igniter for an electric lamp, candle, or torch
of a self-adjusting moveable clutch adapted to grip and operate the mechanism
for withdrawing the igniter from the electrodes when the arc is established, and
to free itself from such mechanism for the purpose of allowing the igniter
to approach the electrodes when the arc is disestablished, substantially as shewn and
described.
Eighteenth. I claim, broadly, in combination with an electric lamp, candle, or
torch, in which the position of the arc varies as the electrodes are consumed, of an
igniter which has a variable capacity of movement and is automatically governed in
its operation by the current, substantially as described.
Nineteenth. An electric lamp provided with electrodes of cylindrical or prismoidal
form placed in nearly parallel positions in the same plane; one or both of the elec-
trodes being mounted in a moveable holder or holders, whereby the points of the
electrodes are maintained in the required proximity as the electrodes are progressively
reduced in length by their combustion.
Twentieth. In an electric lamp electrodes of a cylindrical or prismoidal form ar-
ranged in nearly parallel positions in the same plane and mounted, one or both of
them, in a moveable holder or holders in combination with an electro-magnet or
magnets and a spiral spring or springs so arranged with reference to the electrode
holders that the outer ends of the electrodes are separated when the attractive force
of the electro magnet or magnets preponderates over the force of the spring or
springs, and the outer ends of the electrodes are brought together when the force of
the spring or springs preponderates over the attractive force of the magnet or magnets
substantially as described.
Twenty first. In an electric lamp two tilting or rocking electrode holders having
parallel axes of oscillation and geared or connected together in combination with an
electro magnet and a spiral spring, whereby the forces of such electro magnet and
spring act upon one only of the tilting or rocking holders and are transmitted to the
other rocking or tilting holder by means of the gearing or other connection of the
electrodes with each other, substantially as described.
Twenty second. In an electric lamp provided with one or two tilting electrodes
an electro magnet and an armature adapted to swing across the magnetic field
in front of the core of the magnet in combination with a spiral spring and a
curved arm or lifter for the purpose of transmitting the force of the spring
to the armature carrier with a variable leverage substantially as shown and
described.
In witness whereof, I, the said Alfred Vincent Newton, have hereunto set
my hand and seal, the Fourth day of June, in the year of our Lord One