Electric Recording System for Navigational Purposes.
Year: 1898

page_text: Date of Application, 9th Apr., 1898-Accepted, 15th Oct.,
1898
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Electric Recording System for Navigational Purposes.
I, CHARLES LUDWIG JAEGER, of 59, East 59th Street, in the City, County and
State of New York, one of the United States of America, Electrical Engineer, dó
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:
My invention has reference to improvements in electric apparatus for continuously
recording on one piece or strip of paper the direction, distance, speed, time, variations
of and signals used during a vessel's movements, in other words, for recording the
distance sailed, the direction sailed, the variation of the compass, the speed and the
variation of the speed, the signals given, and the time of the several records. To
this end, I provide, firstly, a recording attachment for the compass composed of a
light, metallic curved conductor which moves freely with the compass card, or needle,
and constitutes a recording conductor. Adjacent to the recording conductor, but not
touching the same, is arranged a straight conductor which is usually placed parallel
Between the radial con-
to the keel and participates in the movements of the vessel.
ductor and the recording conductor is arranged a chart or continuously moving strip
of paper, which is actuated by an electro-magnetic feed controlled by a chronometer:
The record chart, or paper, is previously printed with continuous lines representing
the various points on the compass card and with intersecting lines representing the
time and also with a series of continuous lines for the various other records. The
spiral and radial conductors are each separately connected with wires to an induction
coil, and consequently a disruptive discharge from this coil is continually passing
between the spiral and straight conductors at the point where they cross, but do not
touch; this point corresponds to the position of the vessel in relation to the magnetic
needle, and is recorded by the position of the perforation through the paper.
Secondly, I provide a log arranged to record in the compass and on the same paper;
the knots covered by the vessel; which log is constructed with a contact device that
closes the circuit connected with the compass and the coil used for the compass record.
The circuit is closed every knot or fraction of a knot; the current passing through a
special division on the paper. By counting the number of perforations between the
hour lines, the speed and variations thereof can be ascertained. I also provide,
thirdly, revolution and other indicators, the operation of which is recorded on the
same paper; suitable relay circuit closers being interpolated between the instruments
and the induction coil, as well as between the latter and the log, so as not to
necessitate the passage of a high tension current through the several indicators and
the log, and to insure the formation of perforations at individual points only, so as
not to form continuous lines or slits in the paper. Signal keys may also be provided
and indications of their use made on the same paper. I also provide, fourthly, an
automatic switch for throwing in a battery circuit in case of failure of the dynamo,
combined with means for giving visible and audible indications of such transfer
from one generator to another. I provide, fifthly, means for indicating an interrup-
tion in the action of the induction coil; sixthly, an improved form of vibrator for the
induction coil, and lastly, I so construct the automatic contact breaker that it is ren-

page_text: dered self starting and is not liable to become inoperative; all for the object of
providing a plant not liable to become inoperative and so cause a loss of record on the
chart or strip.
The nature of my invention will best be understood when described in connection
with the accompanying drawings, in which-
Figure represents a side elevation, partly in section and partly broken away, of a
compass embodying my improved recording attachment-Fig. 1* is an enlarged view
of part of Fig. 1.
Figure 2 is a plan view, with part broken away.
Figure 3 is a vertical section on the line 3-3, Figure 1, illustrating part of the
electro-magnetic device for uniformly turning the chart.
Figure 4 is a detail view illustrating part of the means for attaching the chart to
its actuating mechanism.
Figure 5 is a vertical section of the electro-magnet of the chart actuating mechanism,
the winding being omitted.
Figure 6 is a horizontal section on the line 6-6, Figure 1, showing part of the
support for the recording arin.
Figure 7 is a face view of the chart adapted for use in the compass shown in
Figure 1.
Figure 8 is a side elevation, partly in section, showing an actuating mechanism for
an endless strip or tape to be used in place of the chart.
Figure 9 is a plan view of the same, part being broken away.
Figure 10 is an elevation of a detail of said actuating mechanism.
Figure 11 is a vertical section of the same.
Figure 12 is a diagrammatic view illustrating the construction and operation of the
spiral recording conductor.
Figure 13 is a side view, on an enlarged scale, of a portion of said
conductor.
Figure 14 is a similar view illustrating a modified form for the same.
Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the relative distance between the several
conductors.
Figure 16 is a plan view of one of the relay circuit closers used in connection with
the log and the several indicators.
Figure 17 is an elevation of the same, partly in section, and Fig. 17* is an enlarged
view of part thereof.
Figure 18 is a section on the line 18-18, Figure 17, illustrating the
construction of a detail part of the relay circuit closer, drawn to the same scale
as Fig. 17*.
Figure 19 is an elevation of an automatic contact breaker used in connection with
the induction coil and the switch.
Figure 20 is a plan view of the same.
Figure 21 is a plan view of the switch for changing the circuits in case the primary
generator breaks down.
Figure 22 is a side elevation of the same.
Figure 23 is a section on the line 23-23, Fig. 21.
Figure 24 illustrates in elevation a modified form of said switch.
Figures 25, 26 and 27 are diagrains illustrating different methods of winding the
coil of the automatic contact breaker used in connection with said switch.
Figure 28 is a section on the line 28-28, Figure 24, taken through the switch
lever.
Figure 29 is a diagrammatic view showing the connections and arrangement of
the several co-operating devices of the apparatus.
Figure 30, Sheet 4, is a longitudinal section of a circuit closer used in connection
with the relay circuit closer of the log, speed and signal indicators.
Figure 31 is a diagram illustrating the electrical connections when the switch
shown in Figure 24 is used.
Figure 32 is a face view of a log provided with a contact device.

page_text: Figure 33 is a similar view of a speed indicator adapted to close separate circuits
when running ahead or back.
Figure 34 is a detail face view of a modified forin for the contact hand.
Figure 35 is a sectional elevation, with part broken away, showing a recording
instrument having a helical recording conductor.
Similar letters and numerals of reference designate corresponding parts throughout
the several views of the drawings.
Referring at present to Figures 1 to 7 of the drawings, wherein I have shown
the recording attachment for the compass, and the chart on which the record is
made, the letter A designates the bowl of a compass constructed in the usual
inanner. In the present example I have shown what is known as a liquid compass,
but it is, of course, to be understood that the invention could be equally well
applied to a dry compass. The stationary part, or head, of the recording apparatus
is connected with the bowl A by the levelling screws 1 passing through an annular
base 2, to which is secured by suitable posts 3 two rings 4 and having between
them a disc 6 made of mica, or other suitable insulating inaterial.
To the rings is
hinged a cover 7 carrying a mica disc 8 located between suitable rings and also the
mechanism for rotating the chart C. The cover 7 is secured to the rings 4 and 5,
that is, to the lower part of the head, by a suitable latch (not shown), so that it may
be readily opened for the insertion of the chart C. The curved conductor D, which
is made spiral in form, as shown in Figure 12, and, which I shall hereafter term
the recording conductor, is attached by means of a spindle 9 to the axis of the
magnetic needles (not shown), and participates in the movements thereof. It is
arranged directly below the mica disc 6, and above said mica disc and connected to
the cover 7 is arranged a radial conductor E, preferably made of platinum, and'
attached to a strip of insulating material 10 secured to the central cross-bar on
the cover 7. The terminal 121 of a wire is brought in close proximity to the
spiral recording conductor D, it being secured in a binding post 12 of non-conducting
material, and the terminal 120 of a wire passing through a similar binding post
carried by the cover 7 extends through the insulating strip 10 and touches the radial
conductor. Said wires are connected with the induction coil I, Figure 29, in a
manner bereinafter described. It is evident that sparks will continuously pass
between that point of the recording arm D directly opposite to the radial con-
ductor E and the latter, thus perforating the paper and making a record of the ship's
course. The mica disc 6 is provided with a radial slit 14 adjacent to the radial
conductor E, through which the sparks pass.
For actuating the chart C, I have provided a peculiar driving mechanism
constructed for the purpose of insuring accuracy and uniformity in the turning of the
chart, when a circuit is closed once every second by a chronometer.
In the present,
instance, I have shown the mechanism adapted to turn the chart through one
revolution every 12 hours, but, of course, it could be turned once in every 24 hours
if so arranged. The chart is attached to the arbor of a gear wheel 15 having a bearing.
formed in the cross-bar of the cover 7 and provided with a head 16 having therein a
series of holes for the reception of prongs formed on a cap 17, by means of which cap
the chart can be secured to said head (Figures 1 and 4). The driving mechanism for
the chart is mounted on a swinging fraine 18 hinged to the cross-bar of the cover and
secured by means of a screw 19 entering said cross-bar, thus permitting the
driving mechanisin to be swung clear of the gear 15 for permitting the adjustment of
the chart to the proper time with respect to the radial conductor E. Said driving
mechanism consists of an electro-magnet 20 attached to the swinging frame and
having its arinature lever 21 provided with a feed pawl 22 (Figures 1, 2 and 3)
adapted to engage a ratchet feed wheel 23 mounted on a horizontal worm shaft 24.
The worm shaft engages a worm wheel 25 mounted on a vertical shaft having at its
lower end a pinion 26 meshing with the gear wheel 15. The armature lever 21 is
provided with a spring 27 and an adjusting screw 28 by means of which the stress on
the pawl 22 can be regulated, as the pawl acts to turn the feed wheel 23 on its return
stroke and its movement is limited by the set screws on opposite sides of its fulcrum.

page_text: The armature 20+ is adjustably secured to the lever 21 by a usual adjusting screw.
The electro-magnet 20 is connected by wires 100 and 101 with a chronometer T
(Figure 29) provided with a circuit breaker of a usual construction adapted to close
the circuit every second. In order to obtain the greatest magnetic efficiency and to
concentrate the magnetic field near the armature of the electro-magnet for operating
the feed device for the chart, I construct the electro-magnet 20 in the form of a hollow
cylinder of soft iron, slotted as usual, and having a central core 29 around which the
wire is wound to form the coil (Figure 5). The electro-magnet 20 is placed in line
with the axis of the magnetic needles to prevent the magnet action from affecting the
latter. The weight of the compass head and driving mechanisin may be balanced by
a suitable weight. 30 mounted to swivel.
.
To the top of the glass plate forming part of the cover of the bowl A
and in line with the axis of rotation of the magnetic needles is secured a vertical
cylinder 31 closed at its top by a cap 31+ provided with an opening forming a bearing
for the spindle 9. The purpose of this cylinder is to prevent the liquid in the
compass bowl from spilling. To prevent evaporation of the liquid, the cylinder may
be partially filled with oil. To insulate the spiral recording conductor from the
cylinder 31 and the lower part of the compass, a mica dise k is attached to the said
conductor, as shown in Figure 1.
The chart C (figure 7) is divided by radial lines a representing time and by circular
lines b representing direction, and also by circular lines c dividing it into spaces for
the various other records.
In place of the rotary chart, a travelling strip may be used to indicate the ship's
course, etc.
In the example illustrated in Figures 8 to 12, I have shown the compass
adapted for an endless strip C' propelled by a time mechanism. The endless strip is
provided on opposite sides with rows of perforations 32 adapted to be engaged by
teeth 33 on a feed roll 34; said strip being stretched over suitable guide rolls 35
and 36 and passing below a radial conductor E¹ which may be made in the form of a
roll. The wheel 23 is actuated as described in connection with Figures 1 to 3 by an
electro-magnet 20 and armature lever 21 provided with a feed pawl 22. The worin on
the worin shaft 24 engages with a worm wheel 25 rigidly mounted on the shaft of the
feed roll and so turns the latter to advance the endless strip. The outer end of the
worm shaft 24 is mounted in a box 37 which can be moved vertically in a support 38
and is subjected to the action of a spiral spring 39 located in said support and
tending to move said box upwardly. To the support 38 is pivoted a latch 40 adapted
to engage with a pin 40+ on the box, to hold the same down upon the support.
When the latch is withdrawn to release the box, the worm on the shaft 24 becomes
disengaged from the worm wheel 25 and so permits the strip to be adjusted by hand
to the correct time. To facilitate this adjustment, I provide an indexed head 41 for
the shaft of the feed roll 34 and a second indexed head 42 on the worm shaft 24;
both said heads being provided with stationary index hands 43 and 44 respectively.
By means of the head 41, the strip can be set approximately to the correct time,
while the worm on shaft 24 is out of engagement with the worm wheel 25, and then
the strip can be set accurately according to the time indicated by the chronometer
by means of the head 42, after the worm and worm wheel have been thrown into
engagement.
The tension of the endless strip may be adjusted by any suitable means, for instance,
by mounting the guide roll 35 in a movable bearing 45 on the cover 7 subjected to
the action of a spring 46. A lever 47 engaging with said bearing and with a rack 48
serves to adjust the position of said guide roll and, consequently, the tension on the
paper strip. To permit the endless strip to be slipped on the rollers, the lever 47 is
thrown over to draw in the roll 35.
By inserting feed rolls of different diameters in place of the feed roll 34, the speed
of the endless strip C¹ can be varied with the same number of contacts at the
chronometer. It is, of course, to be understood that a magnetic time feed could be
used for feeding a strip by winding from one roll to another.

page_text: In Figure 12, I have shown a diagrammatic view illustrating the construction of
the spiral recording arm and also the divisions on the endless strip for indicating
direction and time.
The recording arm D, or the radial conductor E, or both, may be in the form shown
in Figure 14, that is provided with a series of equidistant projections corresponding
to the points on the compass.
In place of a spiral conducting arm, a helical recording arm D2, such as shown
in Figure 35, may be used, the same being attached at its upper end to an
insulator 161 secured to the compass needle and card 162 and 163. Adjacent to this
conductor is arranged a straight vertical conductor E2 and between said conductors is
passed a strip C2, which is passed over rolls, as shown, and fed forward by a suitable
non-magnetic clock movement of any suitable construction. On the insulator 161 is
fastened a conducting ring 164 to which the upper end of the helical conductor is
electrically connected. Adjacent to said conducting ring, but not in actual contact
therewith, is arranged the end of a wire 121, and a wire 120 is connected with the
vertical conductor E³, said wires being in the circuit of the secondary coil of the
induction coil I.
In connection with the compass, I also provide means for indicating on the chart
or strip C or C, the distance covered by the vessel; said means being adapted to form
perforations in one of the spaces formed by the lines c on the chart or strip. This
record of the distance sailed is made from a log L (Figures 29 and 32) provided with
a circuit closing attachment, and I provide an improved relay circuit closer R for
obtaining a momentary closing of the circuit only, the object being to produce points
and not lines. As shown in Figures 16, 17 and 18, the relay circuit closer, which is
interpolated in the circuit of the log and conductor arranged adjacent to the radial
conductor E, as shown in Figures 1 and 29, cousists of a base 50 supporting on
pillars 51 a table 53 made of.non-conducting material and provided with two metallic
contacts 52 arranged diametrically opposite and screwed into the pillars. Above this
table is mounted to turn on a spindle 54 a diametrical contact arm 55 which is
insulated from said spindle at 55+ and is adapted to sweep over the contacts 52, but
not to come into actual contact with the same. The contact arm is turned through
half a revolution whenever a circuit is closed by the log or other instrument, by the
following means--
On the base plate 50 is mounted an electro-magnet 56, the armature lever 57 of
which is provided with a segment 58 engaging a pinion 59 mounted on the spindle 54.
The armature lever is subjected to the action of the spring 60 to draw it normally
against the stop 61 in which position of the armature the contact arm 55 is in a
position midway between the two contacts 52. The tension of the spring 60 is
regulated by an adjusting screw 62, as usual. When the magnet 56 is vitalized and
the armature attracted and drawn against stop 63, the segment 58 quickly turns the
contact arm through half a revolution, thus closing the circuit through the induction
coil I momentarily. To prevent retrograde movement of the contact arm 55 on the
return stroke of the armature 57 when the magnet 56 is devitalized by the breaking
of the circuit at the circuit closing instrument, the pinion 59 is loosely mounted on
the spindle 54 and a ratchet wheel 64 is connected to the pinion 59, by a clutch 65,
said ratchet wheel being made fast to the spindle and engaged by a spring pressed
holding pawl 66. The armature lever 57, therefore, on its return stroke merely
turns the pinion 59 on the spindle 54 without turning the latter. The stops 61
and 63 are both adjustable so as to obtain the proper throw for the armature. To
the periphery of the ratchet wheel are secured two tappets z arranged diametri-
cally opposite to each other and adapted to engage with an abutment on the
armature lever 57 at each half revolution of the spindle 54, thereby abruptly
arresting the movement of the contact arm 55 midway between the contacts 52,
so as to prevent multiplicity of contacts. The stop 61 and the segment 58 are both
insulated from the metallic frame. Suitable binding posts 67 and 68 are
connected with the electro-magnet 56, and binding posts 67+ and 68+ are
connected respectively with the metallic frame and with the armature lever for

page_text: closing a bell or other signal circuit when the armature is against the stop 63
which also forms a contact.
The construction of the log L is shown in Figure 32, the said log having a large
dial 150 and radial indicating hand 151 and the small dial 152 and the small revolv-
ing hand 153, all as usual. Two contact plates 154 and 155 are separated by
insulation 156 which is secured to the casing of the log. The contact plate 155
extends across the path of the hand 153 and is forced into contact with the plate 154
whenever it is engaged by the hand 153, that is once in each revolution of said
hand. The wires leading from the two contact plates 154 and 155 are connected
with the relay R, as shown in Figure 29. If the circuit is to be closed and broken
several times during each revolution, a hand 153 having a number of radial projec-
tions, such as shown in Figure 34, may be substituted for the hand shown in
Figure 32.
The log line is attached to the spindle 157 which is thereby caused to rotate and
turns the bands through the usual mechanism.
The instrument shown in Figure 33 is adapted for use to indicate speed in either
direction and is of the same construction as that shown in Figure 32, with the
exception that the contact devices are adapted to close two separate circuits with a
source of electricity common to both circuits, so that when the hand 153 turns in
one direction, one circuit is made and broken, and when it turns in the opposite
direction, the second circuit is made and broken. The contact device consists of a
pivoted contact arm 158 placed between two contact plates 159 and 160 and adapted
to be engaged by the hand 153, to force it against one contact plate or the other
according to the direction of rotation of said hand, thus closing one circuit or the
other through the contact arm and the corresponding contact plate.
To obtain reliability of action at the induction coil which is so essential for the
proper operation of the instruments, I have provided means to insure the attraction
of the contact breaker and to prevent its sticking to the contacts. The means for
accomplishing this end, I have shown in Figures 19 and 20 where J designates the
bobbin of the electro-magnet placed in the circuit of the generator of electricity,
jits core, and the contact breaker. The contact breaker is provided with a spring
arm 70 arranged adjacent to and adapted to engage with two contacts 71 and 72
72 for making and breaking the circuit, as usual. On the opposite side of the
electro-magnet and in line with its core is arranged an armature 73 carried by a
very flexible arm 74 suitably attached to a bracket 75 adjustably mounted on the
base of the instrument by means of the screw 76 and a slot formed in said bracket,
so that the distance of the auxiliary armature from the core may be adjusted. The
coil and the contact 72 are in shunt with the source of electricity. The contact 71
is used to make and break the circuit through the coil. When the core j is
magnetized, the auxiliary armature 73 is attracted immediately and strikes the core j
before the armature j¹, of the contact breaker, and by the increased amount of soft
metal so obtained for the core, the magnetic lines are lengthened. When the
auxiliary armature 73 strikes the core, the blow causes the immediate release of the
contact breaker J¹ from the contacts 71 and 72 in case it sticks to the breaker, thus
forming a self-starting contact breaker. After the contact breaker has been started
by the first movement of the auxiliary armature toward the core of the electro-magnet
and the contact breaker continues to vibrate, the current becomes intermittent, and
the magnetic force at the core is decreased. By properly adjusting the position of
the auxiliary armature relatively to the core j, said armature assumes its normal
position and retains the same owing to the diminution in the strength of the magnetic
field. In case the contacts stick during the further operation of the contact breaker,
the increase in magnetic force again causes the auxiliary armature to strike the core
for effecting the release of the contact breaker as before.
For automatically switching in a battery in case of failure of the dynamo circuit,
and to give audible and visible indications of such change, I make use of the
switch S shown in Figures 21 to 23, in which 80 designates the switch lever provided
with an armature 81 arranged opposite the core of an electro-magnet 82 placed in

page_text: shunt circuit with the dynamo or other source of electricity. The switch lever 80 is
subjected to the action of a spring 83 tending to draw it away from the electro-
magnet and against a stop 84. The several contacts d d, e e, ff, gg, for the several
instruments in the dynamo circuit, and those d¹ d¹, e¹¹, fif, g g for the
instruments in the battery circuit, are arranged on opposite sides of the centre line
of motion of the switch lever, and said switch lever is provided with a series of
insulated contacts 85 adapted to bridge and connect the several contacts dd, e e, etc.,
or the contacts d¹ d¹, e¹ e¹, etc., when in a position over either of said series of contacts.
The contacts de etc. are made in the form of spring arms bent upwardly and
inwardly, but may have any other suitable form. The upper end of the switch
lever 80 is provided with a segment. 86 engaging a pinion 87 on the shaft of a fan 88,
which fan acts as a check or break to the motion of the switch lever. In case of
interruption of the dynamo circuit, the spring 83 draws the switch lever 80 from its
position over the contacts dd etc., to a position over the contacts dd etc., thus
closing the circuit from a battery or other source of electricity-as the contacts d¹¹
are those closing the circuit through the battery and the contacts d d are those
closing the circuit of the dynamo. The remaining contacts close the circuit through
the automatic contact breakers, induction coil, etc., as will be hereinafter explained.
The contacts are so disposed that the contacts g g for the induction coil are broken
during the first movement of the switch lever 80 when the inagnet 82 is devitalized
by the failure of the dynamo to act and the battery circuit is closed at the
contacts d' d' before the circuit through the induction coil is closed at the contacts gl¹ġ¹ ;
the contacts e e¹, ff for the contact breaker are then closed, and finally the
contacts g¹ glare closed, thereby giving the automatic contact breaker an opportunity
to act before the induction coil is vitalized.
In Figure 24, I have shown a modified form for the switch and the automatic
contact breaker, in which the switch S' controls but one automatic contact breaker J*
common to both the dynamo and battery circuits. In this construction, the
contacts e e, ff and e¹ e¹ and f¹ fare omitted and in place of the same two contacts h h¹
are used, and the current from either the battery or the dynamo is conducted through
the switch lever 80 by wire 113. These contacts h h¹ are made yielding so as to
follow up the movements of the switch lever 80, in order that the circuit to the
contact breaker J2 is closed before the circuit to the induction coil I, and the wire 142
leading to one of the contacts 72 of the contact breaker J2 is common to both the
dynaino and battery coil. The contacts dd, d¹¹ are also made yielding.
In Figure 24, the battery and dynamo wires are wound about the core in two
helices and . In Figure 25, the dynamo wire is coiled about the entire core, as
at j³, and the battery wire connected to the same at or about the centre of the coil.
In Figure 26, the battery coil is surrounded by the dynamo coil 3, and in Figure 27,
one-half of the core is covered with the dynamo coil ³ and the other half with the
battery coil j.
In connection with the several apparatus above described, devices are also employed
for indicating the speed of the engines ahead and back, the time, number and
duration of the whistles and other special signals, as may be required. The means
for indicating the speed ahead may be a usual speed indicator F arranged to make
and break a circuit through a relay, such as R¹, previously described, at any pre-
determined number of revolutions, thereby closing a circuit through the induction
coil to the contact point located below the radial conductor E, Figure 29, the
indications thus made showing the number of revolutions of the wheel or propeller
shaft. A similar indicator F may be used to indicate the speed of engine after
reversal. Signal contact keys F4 of proper construction may also be used for
perforating the strip or chart.
Referring now to Figure 29 of the drawings, wherein I have shown diagrammat
cally the several instruments and their electrical connections for forming the indica-
tions on the chart or strip and for giving the several signals, numeral 20 designates
the feed magnet for imparting the necessary motion to the chart or strip and 20+ is
the compensating coil or magnet for neutralising the magnetic action of the feed

page_text: magnet on the magnetic needles. This magnet may or may not be used. The
inake and break chronometer T is connected by wires 100 and 101 to the terminals
of the coil of the feed magnet, the compensating magnet, and local battery B². I is
the induction coil which is operated, primarily, by the current produced by the
dynamo D, and secondarily, in case of failure of the dynamo, by the battery B,
both of which are connected to the primary coil of the induction coil, with the
interpolation of a switch S, the contact breakers J, J+, described in Figures 19 and 20,
and an adjustable condenser L' connected in a usual manner. The electrical con-
nections are made as follows-
The second
The coil 82 of
One wire 102 from the dynamo is connected with a rheostat N which latter is
connected by a wire 103 with one of the contacts f¹ of the switch S, and also by a
wire 104 with the condenser L¹. The second wire 105 is connected with one of the
contacts d. One wire 106 from the battery B is connected with a rheostat N¹
which is connected by wire 107 to wire 103 leading to the contact f¹.
wire 108 from the battery B connects with one of the contacts .
the switch S is in shunt circuit with the dynamo circuit by wires 109 and 110.
The contact breaker J for the dynamo circuit is connected with one of the con-
tacts e of switch S by a wire 111, and by a wire 112 with one of the contacts f;
the other contact being connected with the contact f¹ adjacent to that in con-
nection with wire 103 connected to the dynamo and the battery. The wire 113
from the coil of the contact breaker J is connected with one end of the primary
coil of the induction coil 1, and said wire is also connected with the con-
denser L
The contact breaker J+ for the battery circuit is connected by a wire 114 to
one of the contacts e¹, and the contact el adjacent to said contact is connected
with the contact e opposite to the contact e¹ to which the wire 111 from the
contact breaker J is connected. The second wire 115 is connected with one of
the contacts f¹ adjacent to the contact f¹ to which the wire 112 is attached. The
coil of J is connected by a wire 116 to the wire 113 leading to the induction
coil I.
The other wire 117 of the induction coil is connected with one of the contacts g¹
and with one of the contacts g. A wire 118 connects the opposite contacts g and gl
with the connection between the contacts e and e¹ of the switch S. The contact d
adjacent to the contact d connected with the dynamo is connected by a wire 119 with
wire 113 connecting with the induction coil I and the condenser L,
The secondary coil of the induction coil is in connection with the radial conductor E
by wire 120, and with the recording conductor D by a wire 121.
In the example illustrated in Figure 29, I have shown seven circuits for making
records on the chart or strip besides the regular direction record.
F is an indicator for recording the revolutions of the engines ahead, and F¹, a
similar indicator for recording the revolutions with engines reversed. F2 and F3 are
similar devices for closing circuits for special purposes.
F4 and F5 are signal keys, one of which may be used to record the time and
duration of whistles, and the other for any special purpose. 1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16
are the conductors arranged adjacent to the chart or strip and directly opposite
the radial conductor E; the same corresponding to the several instruments L, F,
F, F, F3, F4 and F5. R, R1, R2, R3 and R are the relays of the instruments L,
F, F1, F2 and F3; said relays being shown in Figures 16 and 17 and adapted to give
a momentary contact for producing a single perforation at a time, as previously
described. B¹ is the battery for the various relay circuits. A primary wire 122 leads
from one pole of said battery and is common to all the relays R. The other wire 123
from the battery forms a common return from all the contact instruments L, F, F¹,
F2 and F3. The intermediate wires 124, 125, 126, 127 and 128 connect the
separate contact devices with the relays. The contacts of the relays R R¹ etc. are
connected by wires 129, 130, 131, 132 and 133, with the conductors 1, 11, 12, 13
and . The signal keys F4 and F5 are connected by wires 134 and 135 with the
conductors 15 and 16.

page_text: To indicate visibly or audibly when the induction coil I is not properly working, I
make use of the device shown in connection with the induction coil in Figure 29, the
same consisting of an armature lever O which plays between two contacts o o¹. The
tension of a spring acting upon said lever is so adjusted (taking into consideration
the magnetic attraction exerted by the coil) that normally the armature lever
vibrates without coming into connection with either of the contacts o o¹. When
the core becomes demagnetized, the armature lever comes into contact with the
lower, and when the core becomes strongly magnetic, the lever moves against the
upper contact.
In either case, the circuit of the battery B3 is closed through a
lamp Por a bell P1, thus indicating irregularity of action on the part of the contact
breakers or the breaking of a circuit.
To obtain similar indications when the switch lever 80 of the switch is moved to
close the circuit of the battery B, I make use of a circuit including a battery B*,
lamp P2 and bell P³, which circuit is closed in this movement of the switch lever by
contacts 84 and 84+ (see also Figures 21 and 24) and so causes the lamp to be lit or
the bell to ring. As a further precaution a lamp P is placed in the dynamo circuit
which remains lit so long as the dynamo is running normally.
Ordinarily the dynamo circuit is used for operating the induction coil, but in the
diagram have assumed that the action of the dynamo has been suspended. As
before described the cessation of the dynamo current has caused the magnet 82 of
the switch S to become devitalized and the spring 83 to draw the switch lever 80 to
throw in the battery B, and to disconnect the contact breaker J for the dynamo and
to throw in the instrument J+ for the battery circuit previously to the closing of the
circuit of said battery through the induction coil I. The current from battery B
passes over wire 108, contact d¹, wire 136, wire 119, wire 113, induction coil I,
wire 117, contacts g¹, wire 118, contacts e¹, wire 114, automatic contact breaker J+,
wire 115, contacts/1, wire 103, wire 107, rheostat N¹, wire 106, back to the battery;
also through wire 113 to the induction coil I, wire 117, contacts gl, wire 118 to the
contacts and back over wire 114 to J+. This starts the contact breaker J+.and
opens and closes the current through wires 114 and 115 automatically.
secondary current passes over wire 120 to the radial conductor E, through the
moving chart or strip C, to the spiral conductor D, thence over wire 121 back to
the coil.
The
When the circuit is closed momentarily at the relay R of the log, the current
passes over the wire 121, wire 137, relay R, switch 8, wire 129, to the small
conductor l, through the chart or strip, leaving a single perforation, thence to the
radial conductor E, wire 120, back to coil I. The action with the other instru-
ments F, FF2 and F3 is the same, they being similarly connected. In closing the
signal keys F and F5, the current passes through the switches 85 and 8 over
wires 134 and 135 to the conductors 15 and 1e, through the paper, leaving a dot
dash in the chart or strip C according to the duration of the contact, as
telegraphy.
or
in
I
Instead of employing separate batteries B, B2, B3, and Ba common battery B₁
may be used and the connections made as indicated by broken lines in Figure 29.
The switches 8, above referred to, are shown in Figure 30, Sheet 4, and consist
each of a casing m of non-conducting material having at its bottom a contact screw n
and containing a metallic plunger p extending through a cap q of insulating material
screwed to the top of the casing m, and provided with an insulated handle r. A
binding screw tis passed radially through the casing and is in contact with the
plunger p.. If the plunger is drawn out past the radial binding screw t, the circuit is
broken between wires u and wand the passage of sparks is prevented.
In Figure 15, I have shown a diagram illustrating the proper relative distances
between the recording conductors to insure the passage of sparks at the proper
points. The length of the line X-Y indicates the distance between the conductor 121
and the curved recording conductor, length of line X-X¹ indicates the distance
between the curved and the radial conductor; length X-X2, the distance between
the extremne outside of the curved recording conductor and the innermost signal

page_text: conductor ; length X2-X³, the distance between the conductors 1, 11, 12, 1, etc. and
the radial conductor, and length X³-X4 the lateral distance between the said
conductors 1, 11, 12, etc.
The rheostats N and N¹ shown in Figure 29 are utilized for adjusting the current
to obtain the same length of spark from the induction coil I, with the use of either
the battery or the dynamo.
In the diagram, Figure 31, I have shown the circuits when the switch S¹, shown in
Figure 24, is used. The electrical connections from the battery B and dynamo D to
the induction coil I, and the condenser L', are substantially the same as described in
connection with Figure 29. The battery contact h¹ is connected by a wire 140 with
one end of the coil of the automatic contact breaker J, and the dynamo contact h
is connected by a wire 141 with one end of the other coil 3 of the same. Wire 113
is connected to the pivot of the switch lever 80. A common wire 142 connects both
coils ja, with the contact 72 of the contact breaker J².
I do not wish to confine myself to the use of instruments embodying the exact
constructions herein described, or to the particular arrangements of circuits, as it is
evident that both can be modified without departing from my invention.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said inven-
tion, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is:-
1. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of a curved recording con-
ductor, a conductor arranged adjacent to said curved conductor, neans for electrically
moving a paper between said two conductors, and means for causing the passage of
sparks between the two conductors, substantially as described.
2. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of a curved recording con-
ductor, a conductor arranged adjacent to said curved conductor, means adapted to
move a paper between said two conductors, means adapted to actuate electrically said
first means at predetermined periods to move the paper a predetermined distance,
and means for causing the passage of sparks between the two conductors, sub-
stantially as described.
3. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of a curved recording con-
ductor, a conductor arranged adjacent to said curved conductor, an electro-magnet,
a chronometer provided with a circuit closer actuated at predetermined intervals
and placed in circuit with the electro-magnet, means operated by said electro-
magnet for moving a paper between the two conductors, and means for causing
the passing of sparks between the two conductors, substantially as described.
4. In an electrical recording instrument having a magnetic needle, the combina-
tion of a curved recording conductor, a conductor arranged adjacent to said curved
conductor, an electro-magnet arranged in line with the axis of the needle, a circuit
closer for making and breaking an electric circuit through said electro-magnet,
means operated by said electro-magnet for moving a paper between the two con-
ductors, and means for causing the passage of sparks between the two conductors
substantially as described.
5. In an electrical recording instrument, the combination of a curved recording
conductor, a conductor arranged adjacent to said curved conductor, an electro-
magnet, a chronometer provided with a circuit closer actuated at predetermined
intervals and placed in circuit with the electro-magnet, means operated by said
electro-magnet for moving a paper between the two conductors, means for causing
the passage of sparks between the two conductors, and means for disconnecting the
driving mechanism of the paper for setting the latter to the time with reference
to the conductor, substantially as described.
6. In an electric recording instrument the combination of two conductors ar-
ranged adjacent to each other and one of the same being connected with the
magnetic needle, a cylinder 31 attached to the top of the compass bowl through
which the connection between the said conductor and the magnetic needle passes;
said cylinder preventing spilling of the liquid, means for feeding a paper between

page_text: the two conductors, and means for causing the passage of sparks between the two
conductors, substantially as described.
7. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of two conductors arranged
adjacent to each other and relatively movable, a non-conducting plate interposed
between the two conductors and having a slit to permit the passage of sparks between
the conductors, means for feeding a paper between the two conductors above the
non-conducting plate; which latter forms a support for the paper, and means for
causing the passage of sparks between the two conductors, substantially as
described.
8. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of two recording conductors
arranged adjacent to each other, rolls adapted for the reception of an endless strip
passed between the two conductors and over said rolls, one of said rolls being a feed
roll, means for actuating the feed roll to carry the strip along, and means for causing
the passage of sparks between the two conductors, substantially as described.
9. In an electric recording instrument the combination with an automatic contact
breaker of an auxiliary armature arranged in line with the magnet coil and adapted
to strike the same, substantially as described.
10. In an electric recording instrument the combination with an automatic contact
breaker, of an auxiliary armature mounted on a flexible arm and arranged in line
with the magnet core; said auxiliary armature being adapted to strike the magnet
core when the latter is magnetized, substantially as described.
11. In an electric recording instrument, a conductor provided with a series of equi-
distant projections, substantially as described.
12. In an electric recording system, the combination of an induction coil, a contact
breaker for the same, two electrical circuits, and a switch adapted to close either
circuit, by first closing the circuit through the contact breaker and subsequently
thereto the circuit of the induction coil, substantially as described.
13. In an electric recording system, the combination of an induction coil, two con-
tact breakers for said induction coil, two electrical circuits, each including one of said
contact breakers, and a switch adapted to close either circuit by first closing the
circuit through the corresponding contact breaker and subsequently thereto the circuit
of the induction coil, substantially as described.
14. In an electric recording instrument a contact breaker having its core wound
with two coils, substantially as described.
15. In an electric recording system, the combination of a recording instrument
provided with means for moving a paper and with conductors between which the
paper is moved, an induction coil provided with a contact breaker, two sources of
electricity, a switch controlling the circuits of said two sources and adapted to throw
in the secondary source when the primary source fails, means operated by the move-
ment of the switch to give audible or visible indications of such change, a series of
contact instruments, a series of relay circuit closers included in the circuit of the
contact instruments, and a series of conductors, one for each relay circuit closer
arranged adjacent to one of the conductors at the recording instrument and placed
in the circuit of the induction coil for making records of the contacts made by the
contact instruments, substantially as described.
16. In an electric recording system, the combination of a recording instrument
provided with means for moving a paper and with conductors between which the
paper is moved, an induction coil provided with a contact breaker, two sources of
electricity, a switch controlling the circuits of said two sources and adapted to throw
in the secondary source when the primary source fails, a series of contact instruments,
a series of relay circuit closers included in the circuit of the contact instruments,
and a series of conductors, one for each relay circuit closer arranged adjacent to one
of the conductors at the recording instrument and placed in the circuit of the
induction coil for making records of the contacts made by the contact instruments,
substantially as described.
17. In an electric recording system, the combination of a recording instrument
having two conductors, means for moving a paper between said conductors, a break

page_text: and make circuit chronometer for actuating said means, an induction coil, a contact
breaker for said coil, two sources of electricity, a switch in the circuit of the primary
source and contolling the circuits of both sources and adapted to close the circuit of
the secondary source when the primary source fails and to close the circuit of the
contact breaker in advance of that of the induction coil, means operated by the
movement of the switch to give audible or visible indications of the change from
the primary to the secondary source, a series of contact instruments, a series of
relay circuit closers included in the circuit of the contact instruments, a series of con-
ductors at the recording instrument placed in the circuit of the induction coil for
making records of the contacts made by the contact instruments, signal keys placed
in the circuit of the induction coil, and conductors arranged adjacent to one of
the conductors of the recording instrument, for making records of the contacts
made at said signal keys, substantially as desoribed.
18. In an electric recording instrument, the combination of a recording
instrument provided with means for moving a paper and with conductors between
which the paper is moved, an induction coil, a source of electricity, a signal key
in the circuit of the induction coil, and a contact connected with the signal key
and arranged adjacent to one of the conductors of the recording instrument,
substantially as described.
19. In an electric recording instrument the combination with the moving arm
of a distance measuring or speed indicating device, of an electric circuit adapted
to be closed and broken by said arm, a magnet forming part of said circuit, two
contacts alapted to be connected and disconnected instantly by the armnature of
said magnet, an induction coil terminating in said contacts and having a break,
and a regularly movable strip adapted to travel through the break; whereby the
making and breaking of the circuit through said coil will cause sparks to jump
across its break and through the strip making holes in the same, all as set forth.
20. In an electric recording instrument, the combination with the moving arm
of a distance measuring or speed indicating device, said arm being adapted to
travel in two opposite directions, of three contact plates, one being between the
other two and extending over the course of said arm, two electric circuits each
having the middle plate for one terminal and the two other plates for the other
terminals respectively, two magnets adapted to be respectively vitalized by the
closing of the two circuits, an induction coil having a branch line, and the two
terminals of said coil and branch being provided with contacts, and said contacts
of the coil and branch being respectively adapted to be connected and disconnected
instantly by the armatures of the respective magnets, and a recording device
adapted to be operated by making and breaking the circuits of said coil and
branch, all as set forth.
Dated this 0th day of Anvil 1900
HARRIS & MILLS,
23, Southampton Buildings, London, W.C., Agents.