A New or Improved Method of and Apparatus for Electrically Controlling or Adjusting the Position of Rudders, Guns, Signals, and the like.
Year: 1896

page_text: Date of Application, 12th May, 1896
Complete Specification Left, 27th Jan., 1897-4ccepted, 1st May, 1897
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION.
A New or Improved Method of and Apparatus for Electrically
Controlling or Adjusting the Position of Rudders, Guns,
Signals, and the like.
I, MATHIAS PFATISCHER, of Philadelphia, in the State of Pennsylvania
United States of America, Engineer do hereby declare the nature of this invention
to be as follows:-
The object of my invention is to produce a simple, reliable, and effective
controlling apparatus for operating ship's steering gears and other devices with
great ease and delicacy from a distance. By "other devices" to which my
invention is applicable I include signal apparatus for transmitting orders at a
distance, devices for directing guns, and indeed all devices where it is desired to
move apparatus at a distance and to have absolute control over its position. The
power, whether steam, water, or electricity, which does the work, is controlled by
my electrical controlling system. The controlling system is of so simple a nature
that a single circuit, from a handle by which the device is controlled to the engine,
steering gear, signal apparatus, or other mechanism which applies the power,
replaces the multiplicity of circuits usually heretofore found desirable or
necessary.
In the drawings
Fig. 1 shows in diagram my invention as applied to an electrically actuated
steering gear, gun mounting, or other adjustable device.
Fig. 2, shows a modification of the invention as applied to steam actuated
mechanism;
Figs. 3, 4, 5 and 6, show modifications of the same; and
Fig. 7, shows a modification.
Throughout the drawings like letters of reference indicate like or equivalent
parts.
Referring to Fig. 1, B indicates the electric generator of the whole electrical
system. Where my invention is applied to steering ships that are lighted by
electricity this generator B may be the generator which supplies the lighting and
other circuits. CC are the mains. I have, for convenience, indicated that one is
positive and the other negative, though of course I do not mean thereby to preclude
the use of alternating currents, if it is desired to adapt the system to such current.
At D is shown the controlling hand switch; and at E a switch moving with some
movable part of the steering gear, gun mounting, signalling apparatus, or other
mechanism to be controlled. It will be hereinafter shewn that the switch arm E
will be caused to follow the motions of the switch arm D, and that as soon as the
switch arm D changes its position the switch arm E follows to the corresponding
position. The mechanism to which the switch arm E is connected is of course
The two switch arms D
adjusted in a corresponding or proportionate manner.
and E are connected by the conductor F which I will call, for convenience, my
"balance wire" or "balance circuit." The switches D and E make contact with
the series of fixed contacts e and d connected with sub-divisions of the two sets of
resistances e and d¹ connected across between the mains C. From this it will be
clear that no current will pass through the balance wire or circuit F so long as

page_text: the switch arms D and E are upon the contacts having equal potential. This is the
normal condition of the circuit F when the apparatus is at rest. If, however,
the switch arm D is moved in one direction or the other, on to the adjacent contacts,
a current will flow through the circuit F in one direction or the other, corresponding
in direction to the movement of the switch arm D. By means of this current
I control the adjusting apparatus for the mechanism to be adjusted, as at m, and
I cause the same to be adjusted until the arm E is again turned to a contact e of
equal potential to that upon which the arm D rests; thereby causing the steering
gear, gun, signal device, or other mechanism, to follow and be absolutely
controlled by the motions of the arm D. In Fig. 1 this is accomplished in the
following manner:
At J is shown a steam engine driving the two armatures 9 and of two
generators G and H. An electric motor or other motor may of course replace the
steam engine J as will be apparent from the other figures of the drawing. The
field magnet windings of the generator G are included in the balance circuit F,
and the windings are so proportioned that the small current passing through the
circuit will strongly energize these magnets. This generator His merely the
exciter of the generator G, being the exciter circuit. At Z may be included a
rheostat or other current controller. The generator G supplies current to the
arinature of the motor K by means of the circuit k¹. Field magnets of the
motor Kare constantly energized from the mains by the circuit k". This motor K
supplies the power which adjusts the steering or other mechanism by any desired
connection, snch, for instance, as the worm and sector L. For convenience of
illustration I have shown the rudder in dotted lines at M and the rudder post m,
the worn and sector L directly turning the rudder post m and the switch arm
being mounted directly upon the rudder post. Of course these mechanical
connections are diagrammatic and do not fully represent the more complicated
mechanism necessary to multiply and to apply the power, in most satisfactory
manner, to the rudder, gun, signal, or other apparatus to be controlled.
It will now be seen from this figure of the drawing that if the circuits are
properly arranged so that the currents will flow in the right direction, the movement
of the arm D will cause a proportionate movement of the rudder post or shaft m,
which will bring the switch arm E to the position at which current through the
balance circuit F will cease. When a small current flows through the balance
eircuit F, it energizes the field magnets of the exciter H sufficiently to strongly
excite, or saturate the field magnets of the power generator G. The current
developed by the generator G drives motor K and adjusts the rudder, gun, or
other adjustable mechanism until the movement of armi E stops the current
flowing through the balance circuit F and thereby instantly de-energizes the
generators.
In the remaining figures of the drawing no exciter H is used, but the circuit F
includes field windings of a small generator H which generates sufficient current to
move the valves of a steam engine; the steam providing the necessary energy for
moving the rudder or other mechanism to be adjusted, and restoring the switch
arm E to the position of equilibrium or balance in the balance circuit F.
Throughout all these figures J indicates an electric motor energized from the
mains C. This motor J takes the place of the steam engine J of Fig. 1, and
drives the generator H. In all these figures also the field magnets of this
generator H are energized directly by the current flowing in the balance circuit F.
In Fig. 2 the current produced by the generator H is led through the circuit p
to an electro-dynamic device P. The field magnet of this electro-dynamic device
may be supplied from the mains through the windings and connections p; and the
armature or movable member may be supplied with the current flowing in the
circuit p. Of course these relations may be reversed, and circuit p connected to
the stationary part while pl energizes the movable part of the electro-dynamic
device. This electric dynamic device P may be directly connected with and
thereby move the valve niechanism Q, for the steam, bydraulic, pueumatic, or other

page_text: power employed to do the work of adjusting the steering gear, gun, or other
adjustable mechanism at m.
In Fig. 3 the motor J', the generator H driven thereby, and the balance wire or
circuit and its connections are identical with Fig. 2, but the shaft of the
motor Jis mechanically connected to and turns the gearing; which drives at a
substantially constant speed the spur wheel or pinion R. In showing this feature
diagrammatically I have had to show the pinion R both in side and in face view.
so as to indicate in what manner the pinion R is utilized. The current from the
generater H instead of directly actuating the valves Q, drives the electro-dynamic
device P taking current in the same manner as the electro-dynamic device P
already described in connection with Fig. 2. This electro-dynamic device P
is connected mechanically with the rotating pinion R in such a manner that it can
shift the position of the rotating pinion R and force it into engagement with either
of the opposing racks S S¹. These racks S S' are mounted upon the valve stem q
so that the engagement of the pinion K with the rack S will cause the valve stem
to move in one direction while the engagement of the pinion with the opposite
rack S will cause an opposite motion. The details of the valves Q are of course
immaterial, but they should preferably be arranged to shut off steam and stop the
engine as soon as the pinion R leaves the racks. I have shown at T in Figs. 2, 3,
4, 5, and 6, an arrangement of springs by which the valve is automatically returned
to its central position to stop the steam engine, ram, or other motor used to move
the rudder, gun, or other adjustable mechanism. The details of these opposing
and balanced springs will be apparent from these figures, especially Fig. 4, without
further description. Of course any other equivalent device may be used instead.
At r in Fig. 3 I have shown a universal connection for the pinion R whereby it
may be continuously rotated and at the same time be laterally adjustable as
described, by means of the electro-dynamic device P¹.
In Fig. 4, I have shown a pinion R' somewhat similar in function to pinion R,
but in this case acting directly upon a segmental rack U which turns upon the
centre u and carries the projection u' provided with a friction roller as shown.
This projection ' moves the valve stem g of the valve Q by means of the two
opposing plates U. When the segmental rack U is turned to the right it is clear
that the projection u¹ is forced to the left, carrying with it the valve stem g, and
moving the valve accordingly. The spring mechanism T will restore the valve
stem and valve to a central position as soon as the rack U is free to return to its
central or normal position as shown in the figure. The pinion R' is rotated and
caused to turn the rack U by means of the motor or electro-dynamic device P".
One member of this motor or electro-dynamic device is energized from the mains,
and the other receives current from the generator H. In other respects than those
mentioned the apparatus and connections of Fig. 4 are the same as those of Figs. 2
and 3.
4.
In Fig. 5 an electro-dynamic device P supplied with current from the
generator H, as in the other figures, is caused to turn a switch V and thereby
short circuit one or the other of the two electre magnets, or solenoids, W, WI,
which are supplied by current from the mains C C. These two magnets or
solenoids W Ware connected in series and are wound and placed to balance each
other in their action upon the pivoted lever arm w which may be connected directly
to the valve stem q as shown. When the switch V is in its central position as
shown in the drawing the two magnets or solenoids W W receive a certain
amount of current, in series, but being substantially balanced, the springs T keep
the valve or valves Q central. When, however, the movement of the switch V
short circuits one or the other of the windings of the solenoids W W and thereby
cuts out half the resistance in the solenoid circuit, between the mains C, one
solenoid becomes de-energized, and the other receives twice the energizing current
causing it to throw the lever arm w and actuate the valve Q in the proper
direction to admit steam, water or other pressure to the engine, ram, or other
motor, which moves the rudder, gun, or other adjustable mechanism at m. When

page_text: the switch arm E is again brought to a position to balance the electro-motive-forces
in the balance wire or circuit F, the motor H being de-energized, as already
described in connection with Figs. 1, 2, 3, and 4, allows the switch arm V to return
to its central position under the action of its spring e, thereby again balancing the
magnets or solenoids W W and permitting the springs T to restore the valves to
their central position and shut off steam, water, or other motive power.
In Fig. 6 a slight modification of Fig. 4 is shown-the difference being that the
field magnets of the motor J' which drives the generator H, and the field magnets
of the electro-dynamic device or motor P", which drives the pinion R, are
combined into a single magnet energized by a single circuit across the mains C.
I have not attempted to show the details of the steam engine, hydraulic ram, or
other motive power used to adjust the rudder, aim the gun, set the signal device.
or operate the other adjustable mechanism to which my electrical controlling
system is applied, save in Fig. 1 and Fig. 7. Nor have I attempted in diagram-
matically illustrating the valve or valves Q of the steam, hydraulic, pneumatic, or
other fluid power, to show the practical working details of such valves, for these
valves must be variously modified for the different uses, and the details are not
pertinent to the present invention.
I will now briefly describe the operation of the complete apparatus as illustrated
in Fig. 1, and from this the differences in details and operation of Figs. 2, 3, 4, 5
and 6 will be apparent:
In Fig. 1, let M be the rudder of a ship which is attached and turned by the
shaft or rudder post m. As shown the rudder is amidships. If the controlling
handle D is moved to the left onto the adjacent contact d', a current will flow
from the switch arm D through the balance wire or circuit F to the switch arm E.
This current energizes the field-magnets of the exciter H and thereby excites the
field magnet of the power dynamo G, which provides electric energy for the
rudder-operating motor K, causing it to turn in a direction to shift the arm E to
the left. This action continues until the switch arm E comes on to a contact e
corresponding with the contact d upon which the switch arm D rests, thereby
restoring the electrical balance in the balance circuit F and bringing the action to
an end. It will be seen that the motive power is derived from the steam engine J.
The controlling current which flows through the balance wire or balance circuit F
does none of the actual work. It merely energizes the field magnets of the
exciter H, the exciter H producing the stronger current which energizes the
field magnets of the power dynamo, G. The energy developed in the exciter
circuit is derived from the steam engine J and the energy developed by the
power dynamo G comes also from the same source J and operates the motor K.
In this respect all the forms of the invention shown in Figures 1 to 6 are similar.
In no instance is the balance circuit F relied upon to do work or provide the
motive power. Furthermore, the circuits are never interrupted and no sparking
can occur.
In Figs. 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, the energy required to adjust the rudder, gun, signal,
or other adjustable mechanism is provided directly by the steam, hydraulic, or
other motor that is used. Even the energy required to shift the valve is derived
directly from the mains, us in the case of the solenoids W W in Fig. 5, or directly
from the constant speed motor J' which turns the armature and thereby generates
the current of the dynamo H. This, also, in Fig. 3, supplies the mechanica
power, through the mechanical connections j, r and the pinion R. In Figs. 4 and
the generator H driven by the motor J, drives in turn the motor P and s
develops the mechanical power for shifting the valves. In Fig. 2, the current
from the generator H operates an electro-dynamic device which directly shifts the
valves. In Fig. 3 the electro-dynamic device P merely applies the mechanica
power of the motor J to shift the valve. In Fig. 5 the electro-dynamic device P
shifts a switch which applies electric energy directly from the mains C, to one o
the other of the two solenoids W W, and thereby indirectly shifts the valves.
By employing the current which flows through the balance circuit F as

page_text: magnetizing current for a suitably driven constant speed dynamo or generator H,
produce a controlling current which may be fifty or one hundred times greater
than the current which flows in the balance wire or circuit F and yet afford no
rupture of the circuits and therefore sparking. Moreover, as it is clear that the
current produced by a dynaino, other things being equal, depends upon the strength
of the field, and as the strength of the field is varied but little, by an increase of
the field magnet current when the field magnet has become saturated, I am enabled
by my system to generate maximum current by means of the generator H even
when the controlling switch arm V has been moved but slightly from the position
of balance. So that the movement of the switch arm D through a quarter or even
an eighth of the length of the resistance d' may be sufficient to nearly saturate the
field magnets of the generator H, and the current produced by this generator H
will nearly be the maximum.
The various forms of electro-dynamic devices which may be employed may be
greatly varied without in any way departing from the principle of my systen, and
by "electro-dynamic " I mean all forms of electric motors.
In the bread aspect of my invention the switches and sub-divided resistances D, d',
E, el, constitute two sources of variable electro-motive-force included in a balance
circuit F, and normally balanced; one of the said sources being manually controlled
as at D, and the other turning with and actuated by the rudder, gun, signal, or
The
other adjustable mechanism to which my controlling system is applied.
generator H, receives its power from any suitable source, such as those which
I have described; it is excited by the current flowing in the balance circuit and
is thereby caused to send a current corresponding to the direction in which the
switch arm D has been moved, the energy being taken from an entirely different
source. The power which adjusts the rudder, guu, signal, or other adjustable
mechanism, is derived from any suitable electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, steam, or
ether source, and the controlling current generated by means of the dynam>> H
serves solely to control and direct the application of such motive power.
In the form or inodification of my invention shown in Fig. 7, the balance circuit
which is lettered F¹ includes the armatures of two electric generators or electric
motors d', e. This balance circuit F may directly control an electric switch P;
the switch arm of which V controls the solenoids W W1, which operate the
valves of the steam engine as above described. In this form of the invention,
however, the controlling handle D' turns the brushes d upon the commutator of
the generator d', and so introduces a powerful current into the balance circuit
rendering unnecessary the interposition of the separate generator, the coils of
which are excited by the current in the balance circuit. When the rudder or other
mechanism is adjusted by the steam engine, it shifts the brushes el upon the
commutator of the generator e' until they counterbalance the current in the balance
circuit F. It must be understood that these generators d', e', derive their power
from suitable steam engines, or they may be motors running without load and
driven from the mains C. In the latter case, the commutator brushes d" and ell
are extra brushes which may bear on the main commutator of the motor, or a
separate commutator especially provided. In either case it will be understood that
the commutator and these extra brushes act as electric generators deriving power
from suitable sources, whether steam or electricity.
J. G. LORRAIN, M.I.E.E., M.I. Mech. E.,
Norfolk House, Norfolk Street, Strand, London, W.C.,
Chartered Patent Agent.

page_text: A New or Improved Method of and Apparatus for Electrically
Controlling or Adjusting the Position of Rudders, Guns,
Signals, and the like.
I, MATHIAS PFATISCHER, of 2734 Montgomery Avenue, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, United States of America, Engineer, do hereby declare the nature
of this invention and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be
particularly described and ascertained in and by the following statement :-
The object of my invention is to produce a simple, reliable, and effective
controlling apparatus for operating ship's steering gears and other devices with
great ease and delicacy from a distance. By other devices" to which my
invention is applicable I include the signal apparatus for transmitting orders at a
-distance, devices for directing guns, and indeed all devices where it is desired to
move, apparatus at a distance and to have absolute control over its position. The
power, whether steam, water, or electricity, which does the work, is controlled by
my electrical controlling system. The controlling system is of so simple a nature
that a single circuit, from a handle by which the device is controlled to the engine,
steering gear, signal apparatus, or other mechanism which applies the power,
replaces the multiplicity of circuits usually heretofore found desirable
necessary.
or
In the drawings left with the Provisional Specification.
Figure 1 shows in diagram my invention as applied to an electrically actuated
steering gear, gun mounting, or other adjustable device.
Figure 2, shows a modification of the invention as applied to steam actuated
mechanism;
Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6, show modifications of the same; and
Figure 7, shows a modification.
Throughout the drawings like letters of reference indicate like or equivalent
parts.
Referring to Figure 1, B indicates the electric generator of the whole
electrical system. Where my invention is applied to steering ships that are
lighted by electricity this generator B may be the generator which supplies the
lighting and other circuits. CC are the mains. I have, for convenience, indicated
that one is positive and the other negative, though of course I do not mean
thereby to preclude the use of alternating currents, if it is desired to adapt the
system to such current. At D is shown the controlling hand switch; and at E
a switch moving with some movable part of the steering gear, gun mounting,
signaling apparatus, or other mechanism to be controlled. It will be hereinafter
shown that the switch arm E will be caused to follow the motion of the switch
arm D, and that as soon as the switch arm D changes its position the switch arm E
follows to the corresponding position. The mechanism to which the switch arm E
is connected is of course adjusted in a corresponding or proportionate manner.
The two switch arms D and E are connected by the conductor F which I will
call, for convenience, my "balance wire" or "balance circuit." The switches D
and E make contact with the series of fixed contacts e and d connected with
sub-divisions of the two sets of resistances e and d' connected across between the
mains C. From this it will be clear that no current will pass through the balance
wire or circuit F so long as the switch arms D and E are upon the contacts having
equal potential. This is the normal condition of the circuit F when the apparatus
is at rest. If, however, the switch arm D is moved in one direction or the other,
on to the adjacent contacts, a current will flow through the circuit F in one

page_text: direction or the other, corresponding in direction to the movement of the switch-
arm D. By means of this current 1 control the adjusting apparatus for the
mechanism to be adjusted, as at m, and I cause the same to be adjusted until the
arm E is again turned to a contact e of equal potential to that upon which
the arm D rests; thereby causing the steering gear, gun, signal device, or other
mechanism, to follow and be absolutely controlled by the motions of the arm D.
In Figure this is accomplished in the following manner:
At J is shown a steam engine driving the two armatures 7 and h of two
generators G and H. An electric motor or other motor may of course replace
the steam engine J as will be apparent from the other figures of the drawing.
The field magnet windings of the generator H are included in the balance.
circuit F, and the windings are so proportioned that the small current passing.
through the circuit F will strongly energize these magnets. This generator H is
merely the exciter of the generator G, being the exciter circuit. At Z may be.
included a rheostat or other current controller. The generator G supplies current
to the armature k of the motor K by means of the circuit k¹. Field magnets of
the motor K are constantly energized from the mains by the circuit . This
motor K supplies the power which adjusts the steering or other mechanism by any
desired connection, such, for instance, as the worm and sector L. For convenience
of illustration I have shown the rudder in dotted lines at M and the rudder post m,.
the worm and sector L directly turning the rudder post m and the switch arm
being mounted directly upon the rudder post. Of course these mechanical con-
nections are diagrammatic and do not fully represent the more complicated
mechanism necessary to multiply and to apply the power, in most satisfactory
manner, to the rudder, gun, sigual, or other apparatus to be controlled.
It will now be seen from this figure of the drawing that if the circuits are-
properly arranged so that the currents will flow in the right direction, the
movement of the arm D will cause a proportionate movement of the rudder post
or shaft m, which will bring the switch arm E to the position at which current
through the balance circuit F will cease. When a small current flows through the
balance circuit F, it energizes the field magnets of the exciter H sufficiently to
strongly excite, or saturate the field magnets of the power generator G. The
current developed by the generator G drives motor K and adjusts the rudder, gun
or other adjustable mechanism until the movement of arm E stops the current
flowing through the balance circuit F and thereby instantly de-energizes the
generators.
In the remaining figures of the drawing no exciter H is used, but the circuit F
includes field windings of a small generator H which generates sufficient current
to move the valves of a steam engine; the steam providing the necessary energy
for moving the rudder or other mechanism to be adjusted, and restoring the switch
arm E to the position of equilibrium or balance in the balance circuit F.
Throughout all these figures J¹ indicates an electric motor energized from the
mains C. This motor J' takes the place of the steam engine J of Figure 1, and
drives the generator H. In all these figures also the field magnets of this field
generator H are energized directly by the current flowing in the balance
circuit F.
In Figure 2 the current produced by the generator H is led through the circuit p
to an electro-dynamic device P. The field magnet of this electro-dynamic device
may be supplied from the mains through the windings and connections p; and the
armature or moveable member may be supplied with the current flowing in the
circuit p. Of course these relations may be reversed, and circuit p connected to
the stationary part while pl energizes the moveable part of the electro-dynamic
device. This electric dynamic device P may be directly connected with and
thereby move the valve mechanismi Q, for the steam, hydraulic, pneumatic, or
other power employed to do the work of adjusting the steering gear, gun, or other
adjustable mechanism at m.

page_text: In Figure 3 the motor J', the generator H driven thereby, and the balance wire
or circuit F and its connections are identical with Fig. 2, but the shaft of the
motor Jis mechanically connected to and turns the gearing ; which drives at a
j
substantially constant speed the spur wheel or pinion R. In showing this feature
diagrammatically I have had to show the pinion R both in side and in face view,
so as to indicate in what manner the pinion R is utilized. The current from the
generator H instead of directly actuating the valves Q, drives the electro-
dynamic device P¹ taking current in the same manner as the electro-dynamic
device P already described in connection with Figure 2. This electro-dynamic
device P is connected mechanically with the rotating pinion R in such a manner
that it can shift the position of the rotating pinion R and force it into engagement
with either of the opposing racks S S. These racks S S are mounted upon the
valve stem q so that the engagement of the pinion R with the rack S will cause
the valve stem to move in one direction while the engagement of the pinion with
the opposite rack S will cause an opposite motion. The details of the valves Q
are of course immaterial, but they should preferably be arranged to shut off steam
and stop the engine as soon as the pinion R leaves the racks. I have shown at T
in Figures 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, an arrangement of springs by which the valve is
automatically returned to its central position to stop the steam engine, ram, or
other motor used to move the rudder, gun, or other adjustable mechanism. The
details of these opposing and balanced springs will be apparent from these
figures, especially Figure 4, without further description. Of course any other
equivalent device may be used instead. At in Figure 3 I have shown a
universal connection for the pinion R whereby it may be continuously rotated and
at the same time be laterally adjustable as described, by means of the electro-
dynamic device P.
In Figure 4, I have shown a pinion R' somewhat similar in function to pinion R,
but in this case acting directly upon a segmental rack U which turns upon the
centre and carries the projection provided with a friction roller as shown.
This projection u' moves the valve stem g of the valve Q by means of the two
opposing plates U'. When the segmental rack U is turned to the right it is clear
that the projection u' is forced to the left, carrying with it the valve stem g, and
moving the valve accordingly. The spring mechanism T will restore the valve
stem 9 and valve to a central position as soon as the rack U is free to return to its
central or normal position as shown in the figure. The pinion R' is rotated and
caused to turn the rack U by means of the motor or electro-dynamic device P",
One member of this motor or electro-dynamic device is energized from the mains,
and the other receives current from the generator H. In other respects than
those mentioned the apparatus and connections of Figure 4 are the same as those
of Figures 2 and 3.
in Figure 5 an electro-dynamic device P¹ supplied with current from the
generator H, as in the other figures, is caused to turn a switch V and thereby short
circuit one or the other of the two electro magnets, or solenoids, W, W', which are
supplied by current from the mains C, C'. These two magnets or solenoids W W
are connected in series and are wound and placed to balance each other in their
action upon the pivoted lever arm te which may be connected directly to the valve
stem g as shown. When the switch V is in its central position as shown in the
drawing the two magnets or solenoids W W receive a certain amount of current,
in series, but being substantially balanced, the springs T keep the valve or valves Q
central. When, however, the movement of the switch V short circuits one or the
other of the windings of the solenoids W W and thereby cuts out half the
resistance in the solenoid circuit, between the mains C, one solenoid becomes
de-energized, and the other receives twice the energizing current causing it to
throw the lever arm w and actuate the valve Q in the proper direction to admit
steam, water or other pressure to the engine, rain, or other motor, which moves the
rudder, gun, or other adjustable mechanism at m. When the switch arm E is

page_text: again brought to a position to balance the electro-motive-forces in the balance wire
or circuit F, the motor H being de-energized, as already described in connection
with Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4, allows the switch arm V to return to its central position
under the action of its spring v, thereby again balancing the magnets or
solenoids W W and permitting the springs T to restore the valves to their central
position and shut off steam, water, or other motive power.
In Figure 6 a slight modification of Figure 4 is shown the difference being that
the field magnets of the motor J₁ which drives the generator H, and the field
magnets of the electro-dynamic device or motor P", which drives the pinion R¹,
are combined into a single magnet energized by a single circuit across the
mains C.
I have not attempted to show the details of the steam engine, hydraulic ram, or
other motive power used to adjust the rudder, aim the gun, set the signal device,
or operate the other adjustable mechanism to which my electrical controlling
system is applied, save in Figure 1 and Figure 7. Nor have I attempted in
diagrammatically illustrating the valve or valves Q of the steam, hydraulic,
pneumatic, or other fluid power, to show the practical working details of such
valves, for these valves must be variously modified for the different uses, and the
details are not pertinent to the present invention.
I will now briefly describe the operation of the complete apparatus as illustrated
in Figure 1, and from this the differences in details and operation of Figures 2, 3,
4, 5, and 6 will be apparent :
In Figure 1, let M be the rudder of a ship which is attached and turned by the
shaft or rudder post m. As shown the rudder is amidships. If the controlling
handle D is moved to the left on to the adjacent contact d, a current will flow from
the switch arm D through the balance wire or circuit to the switch arin E.
This current energizes the field-magnets of the exciter H and thereby excites the
field magnet of the power dynamio G, which provides electric energy for the
rudder-operating motor K, causing it to turn in a direction to shift the arm E to
the left. This action continues until the switch arm E comes on to a contact e
corresponding with the contact d upon which the switch arm D rests, thereby
restoring the electrical balance in the balance circuit. F and bringing the action to
an end. It will be seen that the motive power is derived from the steam engine J.
The controlling current which flows through the balance wire or balance circuit F
does none of the actual work. It merely energizes the field magnets of the
exciter H, the exciter H producing the stronger current which energizes the field
magnets of the power dynan:o, G. The energy developed in the exciter circuit h
is derived from the steam engine J and the energy developed by the power
dynamo G comes also from the same source J and operates the motor K. In this
respect all the forms of the invention shown in Figures 1 to 6 are similar. In no
instance is the balance circuit F relied upon to do work or provide the motive
power. Furthermore, the circuits are never interrupted and no sparking can
occur.
In Figures 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, the energy required to adjust the rudder, gun,
signal, or other adjustable mechanism is provided directly by the steam, hydraulic,
or other motor that is used. Even the energy required to shift the valve Q
is derived directly from the mains, as in the case of the solenoids W W' in
Figure 5, or directly from the constant speed motor J' which turns the armature
and thereby generates the current of the dynamo H. This, also, ia Figure 3,
supplies the mechanical power, through the mechanical connections 1, and the
pinion R. In Figures 4 and 6 the generator H driven by the motor J¹, drives in
turn the motor Pii and so develops the mechanical power for shifting the valves.
In Figure 2, the current from the generator H operates an electro-dynamic device
which directly shifts the valves. In Figure 3 the electro-dynamic device P¹
merely applies the inechanical power of the motor J¹ to shift the valve. In Figure 5.
the electro-dynamic device P' shifts a switch which applies electric energy directly

page_text: from the mains C, to one or the other of the two solenoids W W', and thereby
indirectly shifts the valves.
By employing the current which flows through the balance circuit F as a magne-
tizing current for a suitably driven constant speed dynamo or generator H, I produce
a controlling current which may be fifty or one hundred times greater than the
current which flows in the balance wire or circuit F and yet afford no rupture of
the circuits and therefore sparking. Morcover as it is clear that the current
produced by a dynamo, other things being equal, depends upon the strength of the
field, and as the strength of the field is varied but little, by an increase of the field
magnet current when the field magnet has become saturated, I am enabled by my
system to generate maximum current by means of the generator H even when the
controlling switch arm V has been moved but slightly from the position of balance.
So that the movement of the switch arm D through a quarter or even an eighth of
the length of the resistance d may be sufficient to nearly saturate the field
magnets of the generator H, and the current produced by this generator H will
nearly be the maximum.
The various forms of electro-dynamic devices which may be employed may
be greatly varied without in any way departing from the principle of my system,
and by "electro-dynamic" 1 mean all forms of electric motors.
In the broad aspect of my invention the awitches and sub-divided resistances D,
à¹, E, el, constitute two sources of electro-motive-force included in a balance
circuit F, and normally balanced; one of the said sources being manually controlled
as at B, and the other turning with and actuated by the rudder, gun, signal, or other
adjustable mechanism to which my controlling system is applied. The generator H,
receives its power from any suitable source, such as those which I have described;
it is excited by the current flowing in the balance circuit F and is thereby caused
to send a current corresponding to the direction in which the switch arm D has
been moved, the energy being taken from an entirely different source.
The power
which adjusts the rudder, gun, signal, or other adjustable mechanism, is derived
from any suitable electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, steam, or other source, and the
controlling current generated by means of the dynamo H serves solely to control
and direct the application of such motive power.
In the form or modification of my invention shown in Figure 7, the balance
circuit which is lettered F' includes the armatures of two electric generators or
electric motors d', e'. This balance circuit F may directly control an electric
switch P; the switch arm of which Vu controls the solenoids W W¹, which
operate the valves of the steam engine as above described. In this form of the
invention, however, the controlling haulle D' turns the brushes d upon the
commutator of the generator d', and so introduces a powerful current into
the balance circuit rendering unnecessary the interposition of the separate
generator, the coils of which are excited by the current in the balance circuit.
When the rudder or other mechanism is adjusted by the steam engine, it shifts the
brushes el upon the commutator of the generator e' until they counterbalance the
current in the balance circuit F. It must be understood that these generators d, e,
derive their power from suitable steam engines, or they may be motors
running without load and driven from the mains C. In the latter case, the
commutator brushes and are extra brushes which may bear on the main
commutator of the motor, or on a separate commutator especially provided.
In either case it will be understood that the commutator and these extra brushes
act as electric generators deriving power from suitable sources, whether steam or
electricity.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of this inven
tion and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is :-
1. The method of electrically controlling and adjusting from a distance, a ship's

page_text: rudder, gun, signal apparatus, or other adjustable mechanism, by introducing into
the field magnet circuit of an electric generator, a current corresponding in:
direction to the deviation of the controlling handle or device; causing the current
thereby generated to control and apply the motive power for adjusting the said
adjustable mechanism; and causing such adjustment to introduce an opposing and
equal electro-motive force or current into the said balance circuit and thereby stop-
the said adjustment, substantially as set forth.
2. In combination in a system for controlling the position of a rudder, gun,.
signal apparatus, or other adjustable mechanism (as at m) from a distance, and with
suitable motive power for adjusting the said mechanism, two or more sources of
variable electro-motive-force, a balance wire or circuit F extending between the
said sources, one of the said sources being manually controlled as at D and the
other being controlled (as at E) by the position of the said rudder, gun, signal
apparatus, or other adjustable mechanism, a suitably driven generator H having its
field current supplied or controlled by the said balance circuit F, and an electro-
dynamic device receiving current from the said generator and controlling the said
motive power, substantially as set forth.
3. In combination in a system for controlling the position of a rudder, gun,.
signal apparatus, or other adjustable mechanism (as at m) from a distance, and
with suitable motive power for adjusting the said mechanism, one or more sources
of electric energy, the balance circuit F, a mannally controlled switch (as at D).
and connections for introducing more or less electro-motive-force at will into the
said balance circuit F, the switch E and connections for introducing more or less
opposing electro-motive-force into the said balance circuit, the said switch E.
co-operating with and being moved by the said rudder, gun, signal apparatus, or
other adjustable mechanism, a suitably driven generator H, the field windings of
which are included in the said balance circuit F, and an electrically actuated
controlling device for the said motive power, receiving current directly or indirectly
from the said generator H, substantially as set forth.
4. In combination with steering or other adjustable mechanism and motive power
therefor, an electrically actuated controlling device for the said motive power, a
suitably driven generator H supplying a controlling or actuating current for the
said electrically actuated controlling device, a source or sources of electric current
(as C), a balance circuit F, the current in which determines the field magnetism of
the said generator H, means for introducing at will into the said balance circuit
more or less electro-motive-force, and other means for introducing into the said
circuit an opposing or balancing electro-motive-force-the last said means being
automatically adjusted by the said adjustable mechanism, substantially as set
forth.
5. With the steering or other adjustable mechanism, and with electric mains or
other sources of electric power, a motor supplied from the said source, a generator H
driven thereby, an electro-dynamic device (as P, P1, P") receiving current from
the said generator H, a balance circuit F including, or connected with, the field
windings of the said generator, H, a switch D adjustable at will to introduce more
or less electro-motive-force into one end of the said balance circuit F, a second
switch E mechanically connected with the said steering or other adjustable
mechanism and adjustable therewith to introduce more or less opposing or balancing
electro-motive-force into one end of the said balance circuit F, motive power for
the said steering or other adjustable mechanism, and controlling mechanism for the
said motive power mechanically connected with the said electro-dynamic device,
substantially as set forth.
6. In combination with a gun, rudder, or other mechanism and motive power for
turning it, an electrically actuated controlling device therefor, a motor or generator
armature, having a commutator and adjustable brushes included in a balance circuit
as F with the said controlling device, a second such armature, commutator, and
adjustable brushes, also included in said circuit, and mechanical connections with

page_text: said gun, rudder or other mechanism adjusting the last said brushes simultaneously
with the said mechanism, substantially as set forth.
Dated this 27th day of January 1897.
or the Applicant,
J. G. LORRAIN, M.I.E.E., M.I. Mech. E.,
Norfolk House, Norfolk Street, London, W.C.,
Chartered Patent Agent.