IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER.”
Year: 1865

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Adderley Sleigh, Knight of the Most Noble and Ancient
Order of the Tower and Sword, formerly R.N., Captain late H M. Army
Transport Corps, M.R.H.S., and M.R.S.L., of No. 12, Upper Belgrave
Place, Eaton Square, Middlesex, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN
THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER.”
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Adderley Sleigh at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on the
4th August 1865.
I, ADDERLEY SLEIGH, Knight of the Most Noble and Ancient Order of the
Tower and Sword, formerly R.N., Captain late H.M. Army Transport Corps,
M.R.H.S., and M.R.S.L., of No. 12, Upper Belgrave Place, Eaton Square,
Middlesex, do hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVE-
MENTS IN THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER," to be as
follows:-
I fix two wheels vertically of the same diameter (having a proper number
of spokes) on an honzontal axle at any desirable distance apart; this axle
revolves in bearings supported by perpendicular framework. To eight segments
of equal extent round the periphery of these wheels are adapted eight hollow

page_text: water-tight metal segment cases; the size of each of these segment cases
corresponds to the lateral distance between the two wheels and to the extent
of each of the eight segments round the wheels; their radial depth from
the periphery outwards may be more or less than the extent of each segment.
The lower corner nearest the axle of each segment case is fitted with round
metal eye-loops. These eight segment cases are attached to the periphery of
the wheels at the division between each segment by round pivot or suspension
bars passing horizontally and transversely through these eye-loops and through
corresponding eye-bolts inserted in the outer part of the periphery of the
wheels. Thus ananged the pivot or suspension bars which attach or suspend
the segment cases to the wheels will be at the lower inner and nearest corner
of the segment cases on the right-hand side of the wheels, while those pivot
bars will be at the upper and inner corner nearest the axle of the segment
cases on the left-hand side of the wheels, viewed from one faed and transverse
point. The eight segment cases being attached to the wheels, as before
described, the upper parts of the segment cases on the superior night-hand
segment of the wheels are allowed, from their centre of gravity overhanging
the pivot or suspension bais, to tilt over and outwards to a distance equal to
two-thirds of their radial depth, which movement increases the distance of the
upper part of those cases on the right-hand side of the wheels from the axle,
equal to the extent they had fallen from the periphery (chains are attached to
the upper and inner corners of each segment case, and to the periphery
of the wheels to resti ain them in this position), while those segment cases on
the left-hand side of the wheels, whose pivot bars are consequently at the
upper and inner coineis next the axle, rest close into and on the periphery of
the wheels, thus destroying the equilibrium by the extension of leverage and
the increased distance of weight from the axle on the right-hand side of the
wheels, which consequently descends. Within each of these eight segment
cases is fitted a lesser sized moveable thin metal air or gas tight chamber,
about one-fourth the depth of the segment case; a straight position rod, equal
in length to the height of the segment case, is fitted into the centre of the top
of the moveable chamber, which rod passes through a stuffing box in the centre
of the upper part of the segment case (the upper parts on the right-hand side
of the wheels become the lower parts on the left-hand side). This rod is
attached by a cross head to two external outwardly cuived from the axle side
rods, one-fourth longer than the piston rod; to the two lower ends of these
external rods are fitted rollers which work between fixed guide rods on each
outside of the segment cases.
These outward curved rods are united at their

page_text: upper extremities by a strong cross head, to which is fixed a mass of heavy
metal proportionate to the capacity of the segment case, and proportionate
to the capability of the buoyant power of the inner moveable gas or air
chamber, when surrounded by water or any other liquid contained in the
segment case; this mass of metal is also supported on the cross head of the
curved rods by a moveable arm extending from a hinge attached to the outer
side of the segment case to the above-mentioned cross head. The eight
segment cases and their inner moveable chambers are arranged and fitted as
above described. To the points that divide the eight segments on each wheel
are fixed two spokes, which extend a little distance outside and beyond the
segment cases; the extremities of these spokes are joined by a strong cross
bar passing horizontally from side to side through the two spokes. To this
cross bar is attached a collapsing and expanding chamber, the transverse
superficies of which may be equal in extent to the back of the segment case,
its vertical form being that of an acute triangle with its apex downwards on
the right-hand side of the wheels, it being collapsed on the left-hand side, its
size and shape being the same as the space left betweon the segment case and
the periphery of the wheels when it has fallen out or tilted over on its pivot
bar. The sides of this expanding chamber are formed of cloth or other
material impervious to air and water stretched on flexible ribs; the back is that
pait nearest the axle, and next to the back of the segment case it is metal,
and is fixed immoveably to the spokes by the cross bar; the face of this
chamber is also metal and is most distant from the axle, and being moveable
on a hinge at the apex, like the upper part of a bellows, compresses and
expands the chamber. To each of the cross bars connecting the projecting
spokes at the points where the eight segments meet is fixed a chamber of this
description. Each alternate chamber, and every intermediate one also, are
united by tubes which enter into the fixed metal backs; through these tubes
water flows freely from each alternate and from each intermediate chamber.
To the upper part of each is fitted a self-acting valve that opens to admit the
air, and closes to prevent the escape of water To the upper and outer edge
of each segment case is fitted a latch bar that falls outwards against the
moveable face of the chamber when the segment case is at the right hand and
superior segment of the wheels, so that by the tilting or falling out of the
segment case the latch bar forces out the chamber. On filling the eight
segment cases with water or with quicksilver, and on filling the inner move-
able chambers with air or gas, and on filling two of the chambers and all the
tubes with water, the effect will be that the upper parts of the segment cases

page_text: on the supeno right-hand segment of the wheels will tilt over or fall out from
the peeiphery, which motion and force opens and expands the chambers on that
side of the wheels, drawing up by suction the water from the lower chambers
into the upper ones. Simultaneously with this action the buoyancy of the
inner moveable chambers at the right-hand or descending side of the wheels
buoys up and throws out to a considerable extent, at a tangent from the
wheels, by means of the before-described straight piston and curved rods, the
metallic weights before mentioned, while the moveable chambers of those
segment cases on the lower left-hand and ascending side of the wheels draw
in and up towards the axle the metallic weights, thus keeping continually at
one side of the wheels an additional weight and quantity of fluid, extending
the leverage at the same side, by which the equilibrium is always destroyed by
the action of buoyancy, gravity, and hydraulics, as herein described
limit myself to exact or relative dimensions, or to the number of segment cases in
which I use water, quicksilver, or other fluids, possessing the greatest amount
of buoyancy. I use in the moveable chambers withm the segment cases air,
or the most attenuate gas or vacuum. for the purpose of obtaining the greatest
amount of buoyancy I place one or more of these wheels on the same or
separate axles; on any of these wheels I use conjointly or separately with the
hollow segment cases solid metallic blocks to give greater power of suction to
the collapsing and expanding chambers. I claim the application of this my
Invention by the usual means and methods to every description of machinery
and to all objects requiring motion and power.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent
filed by the sand Adderley Sleigh in the Great Seal Patent Office on
the 3rd February 1866.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, 1, ADDERLEY
SLEIGH, Kright of the Most Noble and Ancient Order of the Tower and
Sword, formerly R.N., Captain late H.M Army Transport Corps, M R.HS,
and M R.S.L., of No. 12, Upper Belgrave Place, Eaton Square, Middlesex
send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letters
Patent, bearing date the Fourth day of August, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and sixty-five. in the thirtieth year of Her
reigu, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors, give and grant unto

page_text: me, the said Adderley Sleigh, Her special licence that I, the said Adderley
Sleigh, my executors, administrators, and assigns, or such others as I, the
said Adderley Sleigh, my executors, administrators, and assigns, should
at any time agree with, and no others, fiom time to time and at all times
thereafter during the term therein expressed, should and lawfully might
make, use, exercise, and vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, an Invention for
"IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER,"
upon the condition (amongst others) that I, the said Adderley Sleigh, my
executors or administrators, by an instrument in writing under my, or then.
or one of their hands and seals, should particularly describe and ascertain
the nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the same was to be
performed, and cause the same to be filed in the Great Seal Patent Office
within six calendar months next and immediately after the date of the said
Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE, that I, the said Adderley Sleigh, do hereby declare
the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to
be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement:-
I fix two wheels vertically of the same diameter (having any number of
spokes) on an horizontal axle at any desuable distance apart; this axle
evolves in bearings supported by perpendicular framework, as shown in Plate
No 1, Figures A and B. To eight segments of equal extent round the
periphery of these wheels are adapted eight hollow water-tight metal segment
cases; the size of each segment case corresponds to the lateral distance
between the two wheels and to the extent of each of the eight segments
1ound the wheels, their radial depth from the periphery outwards may be
more or less than the extent of each segment, as shown in Plate No. 1,
Figure A, Numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. The lower corner nearest the axle
of each segment case is fitted with round metal eye-loops; these segment
cases are attached to the perphery of the wheels at the division between each
segment by round suspension bais passing through those eye-loops and
through corresponding eye-bolts inserted into the outer part of the periphery
of the wheels at each side, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters a, b, c, d, e, f,
g, h. The eight segment cases being thus attached to the wheels as before-
described, the upper part of the segment cases on the superior right-hand
segment of the wheels, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters 1, k, l, m, are
allowed, from their centre of gravity overhanging outwards the suspension

page_text: bars, to tilt over and outward to a distance equal to one-half of their radial
depth, which movement increases the distance of the upper part of these
section cases from the axle at the right-hand side of the wheels equal to the
extent they had fallen from the periphery
Chains attached to the upper
and inner corners of each segment case and to the periphery restrain them
in this position, while those segment cases on the left-hand side of the wheels,
vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, Numbers 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 14 15, 16, 1est
close into and on the penphery of the wheels Within each of the segment
cases is fitted a lesser sized square hollow moveable thin metal air or gas
tight chamber, about one-fourth the depth of the segment case, and one inch
less on each of its sides in its square than the segment case; rollers are
fitted to each corner of this moveable chamber to work on four guide plates
fitted perpendicularly in the four corners of each segment case, vide Plate
No. 1, Figure A, letters P, P, P, P, P, P, P, P; a straight piston rod equal
in height to the depth of the segment case is fixed in the centre and top of
the moveable chamber, this rod passes through a stuffing box in the centre of
the top of the segment case, and is attached by a cross head to two external
straight side rods, the lower ends of which rods at each side are attached by
moveable joints to two external outwardly curved side rods, one-fourth longer
than the piston rod; these external curved rods are united at their upper
ends by a cross head, and to the centre of this cross head is attached a mass
of metal, equal in weight to the power of buoyancy of the inner moveable
air or gas chamber when the segment case is filled with water or any other
liquid or fluid of the greatest buoyant property. To the centre of the outer
part of the segment case is fitted a binged bracket, to which is attached a
movable arm that reaches to the metal weight, which rests on the end or
palm of this aim, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C, letters a, b, c, d, d, d, e, f, g,
h, k To the points that divide the eight segments on each wheel are
fitted two spokes that extend a little beyond the segment cases; the
extremities of these spokes are joined by a strong cross bar passing horizon-
tally from side to side. To this cross bar at each of the above eight points
is attached a collapsing and expanding chamber, the transverse superficies of
which may be equal to the back of the segment case, the vertical form of
this chamber is that of an acute angle, vide Plate No 2, Figure C, letters k,
t, l, l, m, its size being the same as the space left between the segment case
and the periphery of the wheels when it has fallen out or tilted over on its
suspension bar. The sides of these chambers are formed of cloth impervious
air or water, which is stretched over thin moveable ribs, the back is metal.

page_text: and is that part nearest the segment case; it is firmly fixed to the spokes by
the cross bar; the face of this chamber is also metal, is most distant from the
axle, and being moveable on a hinge fixed to the cross bar at its apex, like
the upper part of a pair of bellows, shuts and opens the expanding and
collapsing chambers when force is applied to it. To the upper and outward
edge of each segment case is fitted a latch bar that falls outwards and down-
wards against the movable face of the expanding and collapsing chamber,
when the section cases at the right-hand superior side of the wheels fall out
or tilt over, by this movement the latch bar forces open the expanding and
collapsing chambers at the upper part of the wheels, vide Plate No. 2,
Figure C, letters n, n. Each alternate collapsing and expanding chamber,
and every intermediate one also, are united by tubes which enter into the fixed
metal back, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters p, p, p, p, p, p, p, p, through
those tubes water flows freely from one to the other. To the upper part of
each chamber is fitted a self-acting valve that opens to admit the air, thus
preventing hydrostatio pressure, and closes to prevent the escape of water.
At a distance from and to the right-hand side of the axle, equal to about one-
fifth of the semi-diameter of the wheels, is fixed on a framework at the same
height as the axle a bearings, in which is placed the axle of a light ratchet
wheel of the same diameter as the main wheels; this wheel works outside and
close to the framework, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters 9, 9, 9, 9; the
purpose of this wheel is to throw out the segment cases at a much higher
point than they otherwise would of themselves by the following arrangement :-
To the upper and inner edge of each section case is fitted a small arm extend-
ing beyond the wheels at each side, which works on a pivot, and springs out
at right angles from the segment case at the summit of the main wheels, and
rests on the ratchet wheel, which lifts the segment cases as the main wheel
revolves, vide Plate No 2, Figure C, letters 1, r. At the opposite side of the
engine is a moveable perpendicular spoke or arm with a quadrant at its upper
extremity; this arm is the length of the spoke, and works vertically in a slot
by means of a small eight-pointed cam wheel, which is fixed on the main
axle, by the movement of which the quadrant receives on its arc the projecting
arms of the section cases that have been the instant before lifted by the
ratchet wheel on the other side of the engine, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C,
letters s, s, s, s, s, t. Or to effect this purpose of throwing out the segment
cases at a higher up point, I connect the outward and uppermost edges of
each successive segment case by a small tilting rod, which presses over an
outward extending spur from the bottom of each segment case, equal in

page_text: extent to the radial depth of each case, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C, letters
v, w, x, y, z.
To the framework under the main axle is fixed an excentric
band, in which play the eight rollers attached to the inner extremities of eight
rods, the opposite ends of which are attached to the upper and inner corners
of each section case, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters B, B, B, C, D, E,
F, G, H, K, and Plate No. 2, Figure C, Nos. 7, 11; these aims or rods
are intended to draw up the segment cases as each case comes nerely under
the axle, or I accomplish this latter operation by rods and chains extending
from the upper part of every alternate and every intermediate segment case,
and passing over rollers between the periphery of the two main wheels, and
regulated by spurs inwards from the main wheels, vide Plate No. 2, Figure B,
letters Z, Z, Z. On filling the eight segment cases with water or with quick-
silver, and on filling the inner moveable chambers with air or gas, and on
filling two of the collapsing and expanding chambers and all the tubes with
water, the effect will be that the upper parts of the segment cases on the
superior right-hand segment of the wheels will tilt over or fall out from the
periphery, which motion and force opens and expands the collapsing and
expanding chambers on that side of the wheels, drawing up by suction the
water from the lower chambers into the upper ones. Simultaneously with
this action the buoyancy of the inner moveable chambers at the right-hand or
descending side of the wheels buoys up and throws out to a considerable
extent at a tangent from the wheels, by means of the before-described straight
piston and curved rods. the metallic weights before mentioned, while the
moveable chambers of those segment cases on the lower left-hand and
ascending side of the wheels draw in and up towards the axle the metallic
weights, thus throwing continually at one side of the wheels an additional
weight and quantity of fluid, extending the leverage at that side, and keeping
incessantly destroyed the equilibrium by the action of buoyancy, gravity, and
hydraulics, as herein described. I do not limit myself to exact or relative
dimensions, or to the number or exact shape of the segment cases. I use in
the cases water, quicksilver, or other fluids possessing the greatest amount of
buoyancy. I use in the moveable chambers within the segment cases air, or
the most attenuate gas or vacuum. I place one or more of these wheels on
the same or separate axles; on any of these wheels I use conjointly or
separately, with or without the hollow segment cases, solid metallic blocks,
or blocks of other substances, to give greater power of suction to the
collapsing and expanding chambers, or I also divide or split vertically the
whole of the segment cases or blocks into two or more parts.

page_text: I apply this engine or motive power by the ordinary or any other desirable
means or mechanical arrangement to all work, operations, or bodies requiring
power and motion separately or combined, and I claim the combinations and
application of all the principles as I have herein described, and their adaptation
to the purposes herein stated, as my Invention.
In witness whereof, I, the said Adderley Sleigh, have hereunto set my
hand and scal, this Second day of February, A.D. One thousand
aight hundred and sixty-six
(L.S.) ADDERLEY SLEIGH.

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Adderley Sleigh, Knight of the Most Noble and Ancient
Order of the Tower and Sword, formerly RN, Captain late II M. Army
Transport Corps, M.R.H S, and M R.S.L., of No 12, Upper Belgrave
Place, Eaton Square, Middlesex, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Adderley Sleigh at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on the
4th August 1865.
I, ADDERLEY SLEIGH, Knight of the Most Noble and Ancient Order of the
Tower and Sword, formerly R.N., Captain late H.M Army Transport Corps,
M.R.H.S., and M.R.S.L., of No. 12, Upper Belgrave Place, Eaton Square,
Middlesex, do hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVE-
MENTS IN THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER," to be as
follows:-
I fix two wheels vertically of the same diameter (having a proper number
of spokes) on an horizontal axle at any desirable distance apart; this axle
revolves in bearings supported by perpendicular framework. To eight segments
of equal extent round the periphery of these wheels are adapted eight hollow

page_text: water-tight metal segment cases; the size of each of these segment cases
corresponds to the lateral distance between the two wheels and to the extent
of each of the eight segments round the wheels; their radial depth from
the periphery outwards may be more or less than the extent of each segment.
The lower corner nearest the axle of cach segment case is fitted with round
metal eye-loops. These eight segment cases are attached to the periphery of
the wheels at the division between each segment by round pivot or suspension
bars passing horizontally and transversely through these eye-loops and through
corresponding eye-bolts inserted in the outer part of the periphery of the
wheels. Thus arranged the pivot or suspension bars which attach or suspend
the segment cases to the wheels will be at the lower inner and nearest corner
of the segment cases on the right-hand side of the wheels, while those pivot
bars will be at the upper and inner corner nearest the axle of the segment
cases on the left-hand side of the wheels, viewed from one fixed and transverse
point. The sight segment cases being attached to the wheels, as before
described, the upper parts of the segment cases on the superior night-hand
segment of the wheels are allowed, from their centre of gravity overhanging
the pivot or suspension bars, to tilt over and outwards to a distance equal to
two-thirds of their radial depth, which movement increases the distance of the
upper part of those cases on the right-hand side of the wheels from the axle.
equal to the extent they had fallen from the periphery (chains are attached to
the upper and inner corners of each segment case, and to the periphery
of the wheels to restrain them in this position), while those segment cases on
the left-hand side of the wheels, whose pivot bars are consequently at the
upper and inner corners next the axle, rest close into and on the periphery of
the wheels, thus destroying the equilibrium by the extension of leverage and
the increased distance of weight from the axle on the right-hand side of the
wheels, which consequently descends. Within each of these eight segment
cases is fitted a lesser sized moveable thin metal air or gas tight chamber,
about one-fourth the depth of the segment case; a straight position rod, equal
in length to the height of the segment case, is fitted into the centre of the top
of the moveable chamber, which rod passes through a stuffing box in the centre
of the upper part of the segment case (the upper parts on the right-hand side
of the wheels become the lower parts on the left-hand side). This rod is
attached by a cross head to two external outwardly curved from the axle side
rods, one-fourth longer than the piston rod; to the two lower ends of these
external rods are fitted rollers which work between fixed guide rods on each
outside of the segment cases.
These outward curved rods are united at their

page_text: upper extremities by a strong cross head, to which is fixed a mass of heavy
metal proportionate to the capacity of the segment case, and proportionate
to the capability of the buoyant power of the inner moveable gas or air
chamber, when surrounded by water or any other liquid contained in the
segment case; this mass of metal is also supported on the cross head of the
curved rods by a moveable arm extending from a hinge attached to the outer
side of the segment case to the above-mentioned cross head. The eight
segment cases and their inner moveable chambers are arranged and fitted as
above described. To the points that divide the eight segments on each wheel
are fixed two spokes, which extend a little distance outside and beyond the
segment cases; the extremities of these spokes are joined by a strong cross
bar passing horizontally from side to side through the two spokes. To this
cross bar is attached a collapsing and expanding chamber, the transverse
superficies of which may be equal in extent to the back of the segment case,
its vertical form being that of an acute triangle with its apex downwards on
the right-hand side of the wheels, it being collapsed on the left-hand side, its
size and shape being the same as the space left betweon the segment case and
the periphery of the wheels when it has fallen out or tilted over on its pivot
bar The sides of this expanding chamber are formed of cloth or other
material impervious to air and water stretched on flexible ribs; the back is that
part nearest the axle, and next to the back of the segment case it is metal,
and is fixed immoveably to the spokes by the cross bar; the face of this
chamber is also metal and is most distant from the axle, and being moveable
on a hinge at the apex, like the upper part of a bellows, compresses and
expands the chamber. To each of the cross bars connecting the projecting
spokes at the points where the eight segments meet is fixed a chamber of this
description. Each alternate chamber, and every intermediate one also, are
united by tubes which enter into the fixed metal backs; through these tubes
water flows freely from each alternate and from each intermediate chamber.
To the upper part of each is fitted a self-acting valve that opens to admit the
air, and closes to prevent the escape of water. To the upper and outer edge
of each segment case is fitted a latch bar that falls outwards against the
moveable face of the chamber when the segment case is at the right hand and
superior segment of the wheels, so that by the tilting or falling out of the
segment case the latch bar forces out the chamber. On filling the eight
segment cases with water or with quicksilver, and on filling the inner move-
able chambers with air or gas, and on filling two of the chambers and all the
tubes with water, the effect will be that the upper parts of the segment cases

page_text: on the superior right-hand segment of the wheels will tilt over or fall out from
the peerphery, which motion and force opens and expands the chambers on that
side of the wheels, drawing up by suction the water from the lower chambers
into the upper ones. Simultaneously with this action the buoyancy of the
inner moveable chambers at the right-hand or descending side of the wheels
buoys up and throws out to a considerable extent, at a tangent from the
wheels, by means of the before-described straight piston and curved rods, the
metallic weights before mentioned, while the moveable chambers of those
segment cases on the lower left-hand and ascending side of the wheels draw
in and np towards the axle the metallic weights, thus keeping continually at
one side of the wheels an additional weight and quantity of fluid, extending
the leverage at the same side, by which the eqmlibitum is always destroyed by
the action of buoyancy, gravity, and hydraulics, as herein described. I do not
limit myself to exact or relativo dimensions, or to the number of segment cases in
which I use water, quicksilver, or other fluids, possessing the greatest amount
of buoyancy. I use in the moveable chambers within the segment cases air,
or the most attenuate gas or vacuum, for the purpose of obtaining the greatest
amount of buoyancy. I place one or more of these wheels on the same or
separate axles, on any of these wheels I use conjointly or separately with the
hollow segment cases solid metallic blocks to give greater power of suction to
the collapsing and expanding chambers. I claim the application of this my
Invention by the usual means and methods to evory description of machinery
and to all objects requiring motion and power.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent
filed by the sand Adderley Sleigh in the Great Seal Patent Office on
the 3rd February 1866.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, ADDERLEY
SLEIGH, Knight of the Most Noble and Ancient Order of the Tower and
Sword, formerly R.N, Captain late H.M. Army Transport Corps, M R.II.S,
and M R.S.L., of No. 12, Upper Belgrave Place, Eaton Square, Middlesex,
send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letters
Patent, bearing date the Fourth day of August, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundied and sixty-five, in the thirtieth year of Her
reign, did, for Herself,' Her heirs and successors, give and grant untó

page_text: me, the said Adderley Sleigh, Iler special licence that I, the said Adderley
Sleigh, my executors, administrators, and assigns, or such others as I, the
said Adderley Sleigh, my executors, administrators, and assigns, should-
at any time agree with, and no otheis, fiom time to time and at all times
thereaften during the term therein expressed, should and lawfully might
make, use, exercise, and vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, an Invention for
"IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MEANS OF AND MECHANISM FOR OBTAINING MOTIVE POWER,"
upon the condition (amongst others) that I, the said Adderley Sleigh, my
executois o administrators, by an instrument in writing under my, or their.
or one of their hands and seals, should particularly describe and ascertain
the nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the same was to be
performed, and cause the same to be filed in the Great Seal Patent Office
within six calendar months next and immediately after the date of the said.
Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE, that I, the said Adderley Sleigh, do hereby declare
the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to
be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement.―
I fix two wheels vertically of the same diameter (having any number of
spokes) on an honzontal axle at any desuable distance apart; this axle
revolves in bearings supported by perpendicular framework, as shown in Plate
No 1, Figures A and B. To eight segments of equal extent round the
periphery of these wheels are adapted eight hollow water-tight metal segment
cases; the size of each segment case corresponds to the lateral distance
between the two wheels and to the extent of each of the eight segments
1ound the wheels, then radial depth from the periphery outwards may be
more or less than the extent of each segment, as shown in Plate No 1,
Figure A, Numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. The lower corner nearest the axle
of each segment case is fitted with round metal eye-loops, these segment
cases are attached to the periphery of the wheels at the division between each
segment by round suspension bais passing through those eye-loops and
through corresponding eye-bolts inserted into the outer part of the periphery
of the wheels at each side, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters a, b, c, d, e, f,
g, h. The eight segment cases being thus attached to the wheels as before-
described, the upper part of the segment cases on the superior right-hand
segment of the wheels, vide Plate No 1, Figure A, letters j, k, l, m," are
allowed, from their centre of gravity overhanging outwards the suspension

page_text: bars, to tilt over and outward to a distance equal to one-half of their radial
depth, which movement increases the distance of the upper part of these
section cases from the axle at the right-hand side of the wheels equal to the
extent they had fallen from the periphery. Chains attached to the upper
and inner corners of each segment case and to the periphery restrain them
in this position, while those segment cases on the left-hand ile of the wheels,
vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, Numbers 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 14, 15, 16, 1st
close into, and on the penphery of the wheels Within each of the segment
cases is fitted a lesser sized square hollow moveable thin metal air or gas
tight chamber, about one-fourth the depth of the segment case, and one inch
less on each of its sides in its square than the segment case; rollers are
fitted to each corner of this moveable chamber to work on tour guide plates
fitted perpendicularly in the four corners of each segment case, vide Plate
No. 1, Figure A, letters P, P, P, P, P, P, P, P; a straight piston rod equal
in height to the depth of the segment case is fixed in the centre and top of
the moveable chamber, this rod passes through a stuffing box in the centre of
the top of the segment case, and is attached by a cross head to two external
straight side rods, the lower ends of which rods at each side are attached by
moveable joints to two external outwardly curved side rods, one-fourth longer
than the piston rod; these external curved rods are united at their upper
ends by a cross head, and to the centre of this cross head is attached a mass
of metal, equal in weight to the power of buoyancy of the innci moveablo
air or gas chamber when the segment case is filled with water or any other
liquid or fluid of the greatest buoyant property To the centre of the outer
part of the segment case is fitted a hinged bracket, to which is attached a
movable arm that reaches to the metal weight, which rests on the end or
palm of this aim, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C, letters a, b, c, d, d, d, e, f, g,
h, h To the points that divide the eight segments on each wheel are
fitted two spokes that extend a little beyond the segment cases; the
extremities of these spokes are joined by a strong cross bar passing horizon-
tally from side to side To this cross bar at each of the above eight points
is attached a collapsing and expanding chamber, the transverse superficies of
which may be equal to the back of the segment case; the vertical form of
this chamber is that of an acute angle, vide Plate No 2, Figure C, letters k,
t, l, l, m, its size being the same as the space left between the segment case
and the periphery of the wheels when it has fallen out or tilted over on its
suspension bar. The sides of these chambers are formed of cloth impervious
to air or water, which is stretched over thin, moveable ribs, the back is metal,

page_text: and is that part nearest the segment case; it is firmly fixed to the spokes by
the cross bar; the face of this chamber is also metal, is most distant from the
axle, and being moveable on a hinge fixed to the cross bar at its apex, like
the upper part of a pair of bellows, shuts and opens the expanding and
collapsing chambers when force is applied to it. To the upper and outward
edge of each segment case is fitted a latch bar that falls outwards and down-
wards against the movable face of the expanding and collapsing chamber,
when the section cases at the right-hand superior side of the wheels fall out
or tilt over, by this movement the latch bar forces open the expanding and
collapsing chambers at the upper part of the wheels, vide Plate No. 2,
Figure C, letters n, n. Each alternate collapsing and expanding chamber,
and every intermediate one also, are united by tubes which enter into the fixed
metal back, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters p, p, p, p, p, p, p, p, through
those tubes water flows freely from one to the other. To the upper part of
each chamber is fitted a self-acting valve that opens to admit the air, thus
preventing hydrostatic pressure, and closes to prevent the escape of water.
At a distance fiom and to the right-hand side of the axle, equal to about one-
fifth of the semi-diameter of the wheels, is fixed on a framework at the same
height as the axle a bearings, in which is placed the axle of a light ratchet
wheel of the same diameter as the main wheels; this wheel works outside and
close to the framework, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters 9, 9, 9, g; the
purpose of this wheel is to throw out the segment cases at a much higher
point than they otherwise would of themselves by the following arrangement:―
To the upper and inner edge of each section case is fitted a small arm extend-
ing beyond the wheels at each side, which works on a pivot, and springs out
at 1ight angles from the segment case at the summit of the main wheels, and
rests on the ratchet wheel, which lifts the segment cases as the main wheel
revolves, vide Plate No 2, Figuro C, letters r, r. At the opposite side of the
engine is a moveable perpendicular spoke or arm with a quadrant at its upper
extremity'; this arm is the length of the spoke, and works vertically in a slot
by means of a small eight-pointed cam wheel, which is fixed on the main
axle, by the movement of which the quadrant receives on its are the projecting
arms of the section cases that have been the instant before lifted by the
ratchet wheel on the other side of the engine, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C,
letters s, 8, 8, 5, 8, t. Or to effect this purpose of throwing out the segment
cases at a higher up point, I connect the outward and uppermost edges of
each successive segment case by a small tilting rod, which presses over an
outward extending spur from the bottom of each segment case, equal in

page_text: extent to the radial depth of each case, vide Plate No. 2, Figure C, letters
v, w, x, y, z. To the framework under the main axle is fixed an excentric
band, in which play the eight rollers attached to the inner extremities of eight
rods, the opposite ends of which are attached to the upper and inner corners
of each section case, vide Plate No. 1, Figure A, letters B, B, B, C, D, E,
F, G, II, K, and Plate No. 2, Figure C, Nos. 7, 11; these aims or rods
are intended to draw up the segment cases as each case comes nerely under
the axle, or I accomplish this latter operation by rods and chains extending
from the upper part of every alternate and every intermediate segment case,
and passing over rollers between the periphery of the two main wheels, and
regulated by spurs inwards from the main wheels, vide Plate No. 2, Figure B,
letters Z, Z, Z. On filling the eight segment cases with water or with quick-
silver, and on filling the inner moveable chambers with air or gas, and on
filling two of the collapsing and expanding chambers and all the tubes with
water, the effect will he that the upper parts of the segment cases on the
superior right-hand segment of the wheels will tilt over or fall out from the
periphery, which motion and force opens and expands the collapsing and
expanding chambers on that side of the wheels, drawing up by suction the
water from the lower chambers into the upper ones. Simultaneously with
this action the buoyancy of the inner moveable chambers at the right-hand or
descending side of the wheels buoys up and throws out to a considerable
extent at a tangent from the wheels, by means of the before-described straight
piston and curved rods, the metallic weights before mentioned, while the
moveable chambers of those segment cases on the lower left-hand and
ascending side of the wheels draw in and up towards the axle the metallic
weights, thus throwing continually at one side of the wheels an additional
weight and quantity of fluid, extending the leverage at that side, and keeping
incessantly destroyed the equilibrium by the action of buoyancy, gravity, and
hydraulics, as herein described. I do not limit myself to exact or relative
dimensions, or to the number or exact shape of the segment cases. I use in
the cases water, quicksilver, or other fluids possessing the greatest amount of
buoyancy. I use in the movcable chambers within the segment cases air, or
the most attenuate gas or vacuum. I place one or more of these wheels on
the same or separate axles; on any of these wheels I use conjointly or
separately, with or without the hollow segment cases, solid metallic blocks,
or blocks of other substances, to give greater power of suction to the
collapsing and expanding chambers, or I also divide or split vertically the
whole of the segment cases or blocks into two or more parts.

page_text: I apply this engine or motive power by the ordinary or any other desirable
means or mechanical arrangement to all work, operations, or bodies requiring
power and motion separately or combined, and I claim the combinations and
application of all the principles as I have herein described, and their adaptation
to the purposes herein stated, as my Invention.
In witness whereof, I, the said Adderley Sleigh, bave hereunto set my
hand and scal, this Second day of February, A.D. One thousand
eight hundred and sixty-six.
(L.s.) ADDERLEY SLEIGH.