IMPROVEMENTS IN ATING OF RATTIAN
Year: 1873

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Edward Tyer, of No. 15, Old Jewry Chambers,
in the City of London, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN
ATING OF RATTIAN "
Sealed the 15th July 1873, and dated the 21st May 1873.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Edward Tyer at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on the
21st May 1873.
I, EDWARD TYER, of No. 15, Old Jewry Chambers, in the City of
London, do hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "Im-
PROVEMENTS IN ELECTRIC TELEGRAPHIC APPARATUS POR TRAIN SIGNALLING ON
RAILWAYS," to be as follows:-
My Invention relates to improved arrangements of apparatus for
giving angular motion to the indices, semaphore arms, or other visual
signal employed in telegraphs for train signalling on railways.
In my former Specification, No. 3015, 1861, I describe an arrangement
of apparatus for accomplishing like purposes, wherein a split iron ring
presenting a flat surface horizontally is mounted on an axle and placed
=
A

page_text: in close proximity to a permanent magnet so as to become magnetic by
induction. In this arrangement I found that the mutual attraction
between the poles of the permanent magnet and the flat surface of the
iron ring causes a considerable amount of friction preponderating upon
one pivot of the axle, thereby necessitating an augmentation of battery
power to overcome such inequality.
Now in my improved arrangement I dispense with the iron ring, and
substitute a hollow cylinder, either of soft iron or steel, mounted on an
axle passing through a cross plate fixed in the cylinder; steps or deep
notches being cut parallel with the axle, and in some cases dividing the
cylinder into two portions, the width of these steps being determined by
the amount of oscillation necessary for producing the requisite signal.
The cylinder and axle being thus constructed is mounted with a per-
manent magnet, preferably of a circular or of a horse-shoe form, so
arranged that the north and south poles are almost touching two opposite
portions of the periphery of the cylinder. An electro-magnet provided
with suitable horns or keepers is also fixed in such manner that its
opposite poles are likewise brought very near to two opposite portions of
the same cylinder. Thus the poles of the permanent magnet and of the
electro-magnet are at right angles to each other, and the cylinder being
rendered magnetic by induction freely oscillates in equilibrium, and is
attracted and repelled by the horns of the electro-magnet according to
the direction of the current traversing the coils of such magnet, and
imparting polarity to the armatures or " horns thereof. The friction,
therefore, on the pivot is neutralized, the oscillations are produced with
a minimum of battery power, and the indices are deflected permanently
according to the direction of the last current traversing the coils of the
electro-magnet.
"
I employ the above arrangement not only for actuating the indices of
train signalling telegraphs, but also convert the oscillating motion into a
rotary motion by ratchet and pawl, or otherwise, and so propel step by
step signalling instruments; and the same arrangement may be employed
for sounding alarums and other like purposes.
My Invention relates also to improved arrangements of keys for trans-
mitting and receiving signals on railways from one station to another.
In order to render telegraphic apparatus employed in train signalling
free from all interruptions that may be caused by atmospheric electricity,

page_text: aurora borealis, earth currents, line contacts, &c., I arrange to secure
such important immunity by keeping the indicating portions of such
apparatus entirely disconnected from the line circuit, only connecting
them thereto for a definite period of time when the signalmen are in the
act of transmitting and waiting the reception of the required visual
signal.
A
In carrying out this portion of my Invention I employ a wheel com-
mutator and disc (for indicating the signal last sent) combined with a
transmitting key arranged in the following manner:-A spring in con-
nection with the line wire is caused to press against a stop, being in
electrical communication with a suitable bell and earth circuit.
"plunger" is so mounted that on being depressed it forces this line.
spring away from the stop, then puts the indicating transmitting appa-
ratus into circuit with the battery line and earth by means of suitable
contact springs placed beneath, and thereby transmits the required call
signal to the distant station. Upon the operator releasing the "plunger
the spring in returning towards its normal position is arrested and
detained by a catch which, being in electrical connection with the
receiving apparatus, allows the incoming current to operate thereon and
records the required visual signal in reply to the previous call. After
such reply signal has been duly received it is necessary to again throw
out of circuit the receiving apparatus by releasing the catch and restoring
the bell circuit through the line spring, coming again in contact with
its stop.
"
In order to carry out this arrangement for releasing the catch I attach
thereto a lever in combination with an hydro-dynamical, pneumatical, or
mechanical, or other contrivance, so constructed and arranged that
whenever the plunger is depressed it not only transmits the required
signal as before described, but it likewise brings into action either of
these contrivances, by which means an interval of time is secured before
such contrivance can act upon the lever and release the catch.
In constructing the hydro-dynamical contrivance I employ one of my
commutators as described and illustrated in the Specification of my
Patent, No. 2007, 1869, with choked chambers or reservoirs, containing
any suitable conducting fluid (preferably mercury), for connecting up a
circuit with the present described transmitting key. This is accom-
plished by the operator depressing the plunger, thereby tilting this
commutator on its axle, when the conducting fluid after an interval of
2

page_text: time flowing through the choke in the chamber gradually rises to tho
regulated height and makes contact with the desired circuit, wherein is.
an electro-magnet having an armature so designed and arranged as to
relcase a spring that retilts the commutator to its former position as well
as simultaneously releasing the catch that detains the line spring of the 5
transmitting key.
In constructing the pneumatical contrivance I employ an air chamber
fitted with a valve and spring in such manner that on compression by
means of the operator depressing and releasing the plunger of the trans-
mitting key the air is suddenly forced through the valve, and again 1
gradually obtaining entrance (through the spring recovering its original.
position) the desired interval of time is secured. As soon as the air
chamber becomes re-filled it thereby releases the catch detaining the
line spring of the transmitting key.
In constructing the mechanical contrivance I employ a train of wheels 1
with an escapement to regulate the interval of time required, which
operates on the lever and catch of the transmitting key.
The operator upon depressing and releasing the plunger of the trans-
mitting key winds up the mechanism, which immediately commences to
run down, and after the regulated interval of time has clapsed releases 2
the catch detaining the line spring of the transmitting key. The wheel
commutator disc and transmitting key being thus arranged and combined
it performs the following functions consecutively :-
Firstly. The line wire is connected with the bell and carth, leaving
out of circuit the whole of the indicating apparatus.
Secondly. On the plunger being depressed it connects up the trans-
mitting indicator portion of the apparatus with the line, earth, and
battery, and at the same time transmits the required signal to the
distant station.
Thirdly. The rising of the plunger disconnects the transmitting a
indicator portion and connects up the line and earth with the receiving
indicator portion of the apparatus so as to render the same capable of
permanently recording the signal to be sent from the distant station.
Fourthly. After an interval the time apparatus releases the line spring
automatically, and forthwith the line spring resumes its normal position;

page_text: Tyer's Improvements in Signalling on Railways.
disconnecting the whole of the indicating portions of the apparatus from
the circuit.
The wheel commutator is for the purpose of reversing the battery
connections with the transmitting key and the disc for indicating
3 mechanically not only that the proper reversal has been made, but like-
wise the signal that will be simultaneously produced electrically at both
stations immediately the operator depresses the plunger.
My Invention relates also to improved arrangements of apparatus for
communicating in a train between one part and another.
In carrying out this portion of my Invention my plan and purpose is
to enable the guards of a railway train to communicate with each other
or with the driver, as well as the passenger with the guards, in such
manner that during the transit of the train the guards shall be able to
interchange a complete code of signals with each other. A passenger
shall be able to call the attention of the guards by interrupting the circuit
(by a suitable apparatus herein-after described), and such circuit shall
after a regulated interval of time become established automatically for
intercommunication. In accomplishing this I so arrange my apparatus
that a current of electricity shall be kept continuously flowing from one
end of the train to another.
I place in the guard's van an electrical apparatus for giving visual or
audible signals, and I fix in the several carriage compartments an
automatic commutator.
The current of electricity generated either from a battery or magneto,
electric machine kept in continuous action is caused to traverse the coils
of the electrical apparatus, thence along the conducting wire fixed to
each automatic commutator throughout the train, having at its termina-
tion a corresponding electrical apparatus, and completing the circuit
through a return wire or carth.
The coils of the electrical apparatus are wound differentially, so that the
electric current traversing them in opposite directions produces no electro-
mechanical result, while the guards thereby are assured that the line
circuit is in correct working order.
The automatic commutator fixed in the several carriage compartments
is a modification of the transmitting key described in the second part of

page_text: my Invention, and so constructed that a passenger using it cannot restore
it to its normal position, but it remains fixed as evidence by an attached
indicator, either inside or outside the compartment, until the guard
releases it.
1
This modification consists in fixing to the axle carrying one of my
mercurial commutators, a ratchet and pawl in such manner that the
commutator being tilted through the agency of the passenger the pawl
falls into the teeth of the ratchet and securely detains it. As soon as
this movement has taken place the mercurial contact is severed, and the
conducting wire circuit is thus interrupted, and the electro-magnetic
apparatus in the guards' vans are called into action to produce the
necessary visual and audible signals.
After a regulated interval of time has elapsed the mercury in rising
into the lower chamber or reservoir of the commutator again connects up
the conducting wire circuit, and thus re-establishes intercommunication
between guard and guard.
I prefer the mercurial arrangement for disconnecting and re-establishing
the electrical circuit, as well as for securing the desired interval of time
for prolonging such interruption, but the pneumatical or the mechanical
arrangement, as before described, are both applicable for this purpose.
In constructing magneto machines to actuate the before-mentioned
apparatus I fix four coils on the poles of the permanent magnets, the
centres of their cores forming the four equidistant corners of a square.
Upon each core I fix a very thick and broad iron armature or horn
directed towards the centre of the square, of such length that in
describing a circle from the centre of the square I shape off the ends of
these armatures respectively, following the line of such circle at that
point where their breadth will exactly equal the intervening space
between each in succession, thus dividing the circle into eight equal
parts. I mount a rotating armature in the centre of the circle, and
shape off its two ends to correspond with the curvature at the end of the
armatures of the cores. Upon each side of this rotating armature I
screw an iron plate of the same width, but extending beyond it, and
overlapping the ends of the two opposite armatures of the cores.
Motion is to be imparted to this machine either by hand or by any
suitable mechanical power. A required number of finger studs or
plungers are so arranged as to short circuit the currents generated by

page_text: this machine when employed to actuate the step-by-step signal appa-
ratus. A disc or index is geared to the main driving shaft in such
manner as to bring into view the required visual signal in accordance
with the depression of any particular stud or plunger.
The above described magneto machine, combined with the step-by-step
signal instrument, I employ for communicating between guard and
guard or guard and driver.
In galvanic batteries which I employ for train signalling on railways
in lieu of a porous cell, as hitherto employed, I substitute a cell con-
structed of any nonconducting material, perforated with a considerable
number of small holes. Near to the upper rim of this cell there is fixed
a collar having narrow slots through it. At the lower portion of this
cell near the base there is a groove or channel cut all round, and pro-
jecting beyond there is a flat foot or stand perforated with several large
openings. This cell thus constructed I place upon a ledge in the upper
portion of the battery jar containing the solution. I place the electro-
negative element inside the cell. Mercury is poured into the channel or
groove outside, and I slide through the slots zinc plates, their lower ends
resting in the mercury. To the electro-negative element I fix a binding
screw, and attach an insulated wire thereto, having its other end dipping
into the mercury in the next cell, so as to make metallic contact with
the next electro-positive metal, and thus through the series.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent,
filed by the said Edward Tyer in the Great Seal Patent Office
on the 21st November 1873.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, EDWARD
TYER, of No. 15, Old Jewry Chambers, in the City of London, send
greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her
Letters Patent, bearing date the Twenty-first day of May, in the year
of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-three, in the
thirty-sixth year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors,
give and grant unto me, the said Edward Tyer, Her special license
that I, the said Edward Tyer, my executors, administrators, and

page_text: assigns, or such others as I, the said Edward Tyer, my executors,
administrators, and assigns, should at any time agree with, and no.
others, from 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 5
Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, an Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN
ELECTRIC TELEGRAPHIC APPARATUS FOR TRAIN SIGNALLING ON RAILWAYS, " upon
the condition (amongst others) that I, the said Edward Tyer, my exc-
cutors or administrators, by an instrument in writing under my, or
their, or one of their hands and seals, should particularly describe and 1
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 imme-
diately after the date of the said Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE, that I, the said Edward Tyer, do hereby declare 1
the nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the same is to be
performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement thereof, that is to say :-
My Invention relates to improved arrangements of apparatus for
giving angular motion to the indices, semaphore arms, or other visual 2
signal employed in telegraphs for train signalling on railways.
In my former Specification, No. 3015, 1861, I describe an arrange-
ment of apparatus for accomplishing like purposes, wherein a split iron
ring presenting a flat surface horizontally is mounted on an axle, and
placed in close proximity to a permanent magnet, so as to become mag- 2
netic by induction. In this arrangement I found that the mutual
attraction between the poles of the permanent magnet and the flat
surface of the iron ring causes a considerable amount of friction pre-
ponderating upon one pivot of the axle, thereby necessitating an
augmentation of battery power to overcome such inequality.
23
Now in my improved arrangement I dispense with the iron ring, and
substitute a hollow cylinder either of soft iron or steel mounted on an
axle passing through a cross plate fixed in the cylinder, steps or deep
notches being cut parallel with the axle, and in some cases dividing the
cylinder into two portions, the width of these steps being determined by 3
the amonnt of oscillation necessary for producing the requisite signal.
The cylinder and axle being thus constructed is mounted with a per-

page_text: 5
manent magnet, preferably of a circular or of a horse-shoe form, so
arranged that the north and south poles are almost touching two
opposite portions of the periphery of the cylinder. An electro-magnet
provided with suitable horns or keepers is also fixed in such manne
that its opposite poles are likewise brought very near to two opposite
portions of the same cylinder. Thus the poles of the permanent magnet
and of the electro-magnet are at right angles to each other, and the
cylinder being rendered magnetic by induction freely oscillates in
equilibrium, and is attracted and repelled by the horns of the electro-
magnet, according to the direction of the current traversing the coils of
such magnet, and imparting polarity to the armatures or "horns"
thereof. The friction therefore on the pivot is neutralized; the oscil-
lations are produced with a minimum of battery power, and the indices
are deflected permanently, according to the direction of the last current
traversing the coils of the electro-magnet.
Figures 1, 2, 3, Sheet 1, illustrate this arrangement where A, A,
represents the hollow cylinder; B, B, the axle passing through the
cross plate C; D, D, the steps or deep notches cut into the cylinder A, A,
parallel with the axle; E, E, the permanent magnet with its two
poles N, S; F, F, the coils of the electro-magnet, with G, G, the horns
or keepers. The same letters refer to the same parts in each Figure.
H, in Figure 1, represents a needle or disc index placed edgewise; and
I, in Figure 2, a miniature semaphore arm; and K, in Figure 3, by the
dotted lines shews the position for suspending the indices of whatever
form required. The index is shown in the position it occupies when
resting against its lower stop, and it rises to a horizontal position, where
another stop retains it.
In fitting up instruments for train signalling on railways working by
intermittent currents I usually duplicate this arrangement on one and
the same instrument, as is shown by Figures 4 and 5, the former being
a front elevation shewing the arrangement of parts without the indices'
or dial plate, the latter representing the side view. The same letters
refer to the same parts in each Figure.

page_text: In Figure 5 the poles are represented elongated either by the ends of
the magnets being turned up at right angles, or by small pieces of steel
screwed into the said poles; F, F, the coils of the electro-magnets with
their horns; G, G, and H, H, the needles or indices. The poles N, 8,
and N, S, of the permanent magnets E, E, impart magnetism by
induction to the cylinders A, A, and whenever currents of electricity
traverse the coils, F, F, of the electro-magnet the horns G, G, become
magnetic, and attract or repel the cylinder A, A, in accordance with the
direction of such current, and thereby causing the cylinder to oscillate
freely within the space determined by the width of the notches. On
the face of the dial plate can be engraved the requisite train signals,
such as train on line, line clear, locked, free, in, out, &c.
Figures 6 and 7, Sheet 1, represent the method of arranging the
cylinder and electro-magnet with persistent currents, and for this
purpose I usually dispense with the permanent magnet.
A, A, represents the cylinder; B, B, the axle passing through the
cross plate C; D, D, the steps or deep notches; E, E, the coils of the
electro-magnet; F, F, the horns; G, the needle, disc, semaphore arm,
or other index. Upon transmitting currents of electricity through the
coils E, E, the semaphore arm G is raised or lowered according to the
position of the notches D, D, with respect to the horns F, F. In this
arrangement the index falls by gravity.
By the arrangements above described great directing and retaining
power is obtained in consequence of the oscillating cylinder remaining
always in close proximity to the poles of the magnets in all positions of
the index.
I employ the above arrangements not only for actuating the indices of
train signalling telegraphs, but also I convert the oscillating motion into
a rotary motion by ratchet and pawl or otherwise, and so propel step-by-
step signalling instruments, and the same arrangement may be employed;
for sounding alarums and other like purposes.
Figure 8, Sheet 1, represents the arrangement for converting the
oscillating motion of the cylinder into a rotary motion where the pin A,
acting as a pallet between two wheels B, B, (preferably crown wheels)
propels them forward step-by-step in conformity with the alternate a
pulsations engendered by the electric current passing through the coils

page_text: In order to carry out this arrangement for releasing the catch I attach
thereto a lever in combination with an hydro-dynamical, pneumatical, or
mechanical or other contrivance, so constructed and arranged that when
ever the plunger is depressed it not only transmits the required signal as
before described, but it likewise brings into action either of these con
trivances by which means an interval of time is secured before such
contrivance can act upon the lever and release the catch.
In constructing the hydro-dynamical contrivance I employ one of my
commutators as described and illustrated in the Specification of my
Patent, No. 2907, 1869, with choked chambers or reservoirs containing
any suitable conducting fluid (preferably mercury) for connecting up a
circuit with the present described transmitting key. This is accom-
plished by the operator depressing the plunger, thereby tilting this com-
mutator on its axle, when the conducting fluid after an interval of time
flowing through the choke in the chamber gradually rises to the
regulated height and makes contact with the desired circuit wherein is
an electro-magnet having an armature so designed and arranged as to
release a spring that retilts the commutator to its former position as well
as simultaneously releasing the catch that detains the line spring of the
transmitting key.
Figures 10, 11, 12, Sheet 1, represent the wheel commutator and disc
and transmitting key. The other instruments in combination with
which it is employed are the indicator Figures 4 and 5, Sheet 1, and the
permitting key herein-after described and shewn at Figures 1 and 2,
Sheet 2.
In Figures 10, 11, and 12, Sheet 1, A, A, is a wheel of ebonite or
other suitable non-conducting material mounted on an axle divided into
two parts insulated from cach other; B³, B³, B³, B', 4 metallic studs let
into the face of the ebonite, with B¹ and B' in metallic connection with
the front portion of the axle, and B2, B3, with the back portion of the
axle; C and D are two cocks supporting the axle and wheel com-
mutator; E and F two springs mounted on suitable terminal plates G
and H, G being in connection with the positive pole of the battery,
and H with the negative. The terminals J and K on the cocks C and D
are respectively in connection with the terminals J' and K'. The
spring L in connection with the line wire is caused to press upwards
against the bridge piece or stop M. Three springs N¹, N2, N3, are fixed

page_text: in the positions represented. Upon the spring L is fixed an insulated
cross bar O, O. Upon a hollow axle Q is fixed a flat disc or screen P',
P2, P3, whereon are engraved any two suitable signals, say "train on
line," and "line clear." Upon one end of this axle and at right angles
thereto is fixed a pin or lever U working freely in a fork piece V which
is attached to the wheel commutator. Upon the other end of the axle
external from the instrument is a hand button R for imparting motion
to the disc or screen and also to the pin U, and thereby to the fork
piece V. Through the hollow axle passes a piston rod S, S, encircled
with a helical spring and fitted externally with a plunger button T.
The method of working this wheel commutator disc and key is as
follows: Whenever a current from a distant station arrives at the line
wire terminal it passes along the spring L to the stop M, and from.
thence to the permitting key hereafter to be described, and there sounds
a bell; the signalmen in replying to such signal has simply to depress
the button T, when a current will be transmitted from his home battery
by means of the wheel commutator connecting up the poles thereof to
the line spring L, and the springs N¹, N³, N³, and such reply signal will
be in harmony with any previous signal he may already have transmitted
to the distant station.
Whenever it is necessary for the signalman to reverse the position of
any signal at the distant station previously transmitted by him, he has
simply to turn the hand button R, thereby changing the position of the
wheel commutator and causing the stud B2 to take up the position
previously occupied by B¹, likewise the stud B' into the position of B³.
This operation reverses the battery poles with respect to the terminals J¹
and K. Consequently the signalman on depressing the.plunger button T
reverses the signal at the distant station while his own transmitting
indicator, Figure 4, works in unison, and the disc bearing the engraved
signal appears through an opening in the front of the instrument case.
The permitting key to be used in combination with the foregoing
wheel commutator and disc is illustrated by Figures 1 and 2, Sheet 2,
the same letters being applicable to both Figures.
A is a spring (in connection with the stop M, Figure 10, Sheet 1)
pressing upwards against the bridge piece or stop B. Upon this
spring A is fixed an insulated cross bar C, C; three springs D', D³, D³,
are fitted in the positions represented; the upper terminal on B is

page_text: connected with the relay E, E, which is employed to bring into action
by means of a local battery the electro-magnet F, F. The dotted lines
G, G, represent the position of the plunger H; the catch J is the lever
in connection with the mercurial commutator K fully described in my
Patent No. 2907, 1869. L is an arm fixed to the axle of the mercurial
commutator and is operated on by a corresponding cam surface M,
Figure 2, attached to the end of the plunger G, thereby causing the
mercurial commutator to tilt on the depressing of the plunger. N,N, are
two nibs, one fitted to the mercurial commutator K and the other to the
rocking lever J; motion is imparted to the rocking lever J by means of
the armature O, O; mounted on separate bearings, attached to this
armature O, O, is a bell hammer P in such manner that whenever the
coils of the electro-magnet F, F, are excited the armature O, O, becomes
attracted, the bell hammer P strikes a bell, the nibs N, N, separate, the
catch H is released, and a spring O acting on the pin X attached to the
arm L immediately restores the mercurial commutator K to its former
position. The screw pin R is to be attached to the battery terminal S
and the screw pin T to the relay terminal U. So long as the line wire
spring A is pressing upwards against the bridge stop B there is no
metallic connection between A and the catch H, therefore an incoming
current from a distant station must pass along A to B, thence to the
relay E, E, and finally to earth without affecting the indicating portion
of the receiving apparatus, the same being entirely disconnected from
the line circuit; thus no interruption to the same can occur through
atmospheric or other extraneous electricity.
Whenever a signalman wishes to use his permitting key in order to
permit the operator at the other end to record a visual signal on his
receiving indicator (Figure 4, Sheet 1), he depresses the plunger G which
forces the line spring A away from the stop B past the catch H, and
makes contact with the spring D₁ simultaneously, the insulated cross
bar C, C, connects up the springs D³, D³, and these being in combination
with the wheel commutator the battery current passes through A direct
to the distant instrument and there gives the call signal upon releasing
the plunger G. The line spring A is left detained by the catch H but is
out of contact with D1, D2, D³, therefore any incoming current or signal a
in reply must pass along A to H, thence by the lever J to the bed plate
supporting the coils F, F, thence by terminal V to the receiving
indicating apparatus (Figure 4,. Sheet 1), returning by W to bridge

page_text: stop B, thence to relay E, E, and finally to earth, and in its transit
recording the required visual signal. It further in actuating the relay
closes the local circuit through the coils F, F, and thereby releases the
catch H, restoring the line spring A to its normal position. The
receiving instrument will also be thrown out of circuit independently of
the action of the operator at the other end after an interval of time by
means of the mercurial commutator K, which on depressing the
plunger G is tilted into the position shewn. After the lapse of a definite
interval of time the mercury contained in the commutator flows from
the upper reservoir to the lower and there makes contact with the
screws R, T, thus completing a local circuit through the electro-
magnet F, F, whereupon the armature O, O, is attracted, the nibs N, N,
separate, the catch H is liberated from A, the commutator K. is retilted
into its normal position by the spring O, whilst the spring A coming
again into contact with the stop B, the coils of the receiving apparatus
are once more thrown out of circuit.
In constructing the pneumatical contrivance to give a time interval I
employ an air chamber fitted with a valve and spring in such manner
that on compression by means of the operator depressing and releasing
the plunger of the permitting and transmitting key the air is suddenly
forced through the valve, and again gradually (obtaining entrance
through the spring recovering its original position) the desired interval
of time is secured. As soon as the air chamber becomes refilled, it
thereby releases the catch detaining the line spring of the transmitting
key.
Figure 3, Sheet 2, represents this arrangement, where A', A³, A³, is
the air chamber with the valve B; C, C, a spring permanently fixed to
the frame A³; D a spring in connection with the line wire; E a bridge
piece or stop; F a catch; G a piston rod in connection with a plunger,
similar in construction to G, Figure 2.
Upon depressing the piston rod G the stud H fixed thereto comes into
contact with a plate J attached to the front framework A', and a second
stud K. forces away the line wire spring D from the stop E. A cam L
fitted to A¹ allows the catch F to take up the position shewn by the
dotted lines, and as soon as the plunger is released the line wire
spring D is detained by the catch F until the air chamber becomes
gradually inflated through the small hole M, when the cam L forces

page_text: away the lever attached to the catch F, releases the une spring and
restores it to its normal position against the stop E.
This apparatus can be substituted in the place of the mercurial com-
mutator K in Figure 1; Sheet 2, for producing similar results.
In constructing the mechanical contrivance to obtain a like result I
employ a train of wheels with an escapement to regulate the interval
of time required, which operates on the lever and catch of the trans-
mitting key.
The operator upon depressing and releasing the plunger of the trans-
mitting key winds up the mechanism, which immediately commences
to run down, and after the regulated interval of time has clapsed releases
the catch detaining the line spring of the transmitting key.
'
Figures 4 and 5, Sheet 2, represent this arrangement, the same letters
referring to the same parts in each Figure, where A is the train of
wheels; B, the escapement; C, the plunger; D, D, a cross bar fitted to
one end of piston rod of same; E, E, two studs fixed on cross bar; F, a
lever attached to the ratchet wheel G, and through this lever a pin H
passes which is pressed upwards by the spring J, J; K, a lever fitted to
the axle L giving motion to a catch M; N, the line wire spring
pressing against the bridge piece or stop O; P, P, P, three springs fixed
in the positions shewn; Q, an insulated cross bar attached to the line
spring N.
The operator on depressing the plunger C causes the stud E¹ to force
away the lever F, and the ratchet G attached thereto gathers up several
teeth, at the same time the stud E² forces away the line spring N from
the stop O and connects up the same and its cross piece Q with the
springs P, P, P. Upon releasing the plunger the line spring N is
detained by the catch M, and the train of wheels being liberated com-
mence running down, and the lever F, after the regulated interval of
time coming into contact with the set screws at the end of the lever K
releases the catch M, and the line spring N resumes its normal position
against the stud O.
The wheel commutator, disc, and transmitting key being thus arranged
and combined it performs the following functions consecutively:-
Firstly. The line wire is connected with the bell and earth, leaving 3
out of circuit the whole of the indicating apparatus.

page_text: other and also with the terminal F, and E², E*, are likewise in con-
nection with each other, and also with the insulated terminal G; from
thence a wire leads along the carriages to the guard's van, its continuity
being maintained by means of any suitable clip for connection and
severance between the carriages. The current from the battery G,
Figure 1, flows from P to terminal H, thence through the coils of the
electro-magnet A, A, to terminal J, thence to terminal K on the finger
key, thence to L, thence to G, Figure 2, thence to E³, to E¹, to F, and
finally to earth. The continuity between E' and E being maintained
by the mercury in the commutator rising to the level H, H, as shewn by
the dotted lines. The current from the battery G, Figure 1, likewise
flows from P through the coils A, A, and from thence to N through the
spring F and thus the apparatus remains in quiescence.
Whenever a passenger requires to call the attention of the guard he
can tilt the commutator from left to right to the position shewn by the
dotted lines K, K, by turning the button J, Figure 3, and thereby breaks
the continuity of the circuit between E¹ and E, and the bells in the
guard's van are immediately called into action during the lapse of a
regulated interval of time when the mercury in the commutator
connects up E³ and E' and thereby re-establishes the continuity of the
circuit and the bells in the guards' vans cease to ring, and are again
ready for intercommunication between guard and guard by means of
the finger key E. The passenger having once tilted the commutator
the pawl C catches into the ratchet B and the commutator being.
thereby securely fixed it remains as evidence and cannot be restored by
the passenger. The guard by inserting a suitable key on the pin H
fitted to the cock J liberates the pawl by the key pressing against the
tail piece L and the commutator becomes tilted to its normal position.
Should it be desirable to have an external indicator outside the carriage,
the axle of the commutator can be prolonged through the side of the
carriage and can give motion to a semaphore arm, disc, or other desired
visual signal.
In constructing magneto machines to actuate the before mentioned
apparatus I fix four coils on the poles of the permanent magnets, the
centres of their cores forming the four equidistant corners of a square;
upon each core I fix a very thick and broad iron armature or horn
directed towards the centre of the square, of such length that in
describing a circle from the centre of the square I shape off the ends of

page_text: hese armatures respectively, following the line of such circle at that
oint where their breadth will exactly equal the intervening space
etween each in succession, thus dividing the circle into eight equal
arts. I mount a rotating armature in the centre of the circle and
hape off its two ends to correspond with the curvature at the end of the
rmatures of the cores. Upon each sido of this rotating armature I
crew an iron plate of the same width but extending beyond it and
verlapping the ends of the two opposite armatures of the cores.

page_text: plate M. The cock L at the same time short circuits any superfluous
currents generated by the magneto machine by means of the cock O.
This apparatus is to be used in combination and in connection with a
step-by-step instrument, Figure 8, Sheet 1, as previously described.
In galvanic batteries which I employ for train signalling on railways,
in lieu of a porous cell as hitherto employed I substitute a cell con-
structed of any non-conducting material perforated with a considerable
number of small holes. Near to the upper rim of this cell there is fixed
a collar having narrow slots through it. At the lower portion of this
cell near the base there is a groove or channel cut all round, and pro-
jecting beyond there is a flat foot or stand perforated with several large
openings. This cell thus constructed I place upon a ledge in the upper
portion of the battery jar containing the solution. I place the electro-
negative element inside the cell, mercury is poured into the channel or
groove outside, and I slide through the slots zinc plates, their lower ends
resting in the mercury. To the electro-negative element I fix a binding
screw and attach an insulated wire thereto having its other end dipping
into the mercury in the next cell so as to make metallic contact with
the next electro-positive metal, and thus through the series.
Figures 1, 2, and 3, Sheet 5, represent this arrangement of galvanic
battery, where A is the cell; B, the collar; C, C, the slots or openings in
the same; D, D, the groove channelled all round; E, E, the flat foot or
stand perforated with large holes; F, G, G, a ledge in the outer cell or
battery jar; H, the electro-negative element placed within the cell A;
J, J, mercury poured into the channel or groove; K, K, the zinc plates
passing through the slots C, C, their lower ends resting in the mercury; L,
a binding screw to which is to be attached one end of an insulated wire,
the other end dipping below the surface of the mercury in the next
adjoining cell.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the

page_text: Iyer & improvements on Nuylowy N
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of electro-magnets combined with permanent magnets, substantially as.
described in respect to Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, Sheet 1.
2nd. The arranging cylinders of iron or steel on an axle giving motion
to the indices of train signalling apparatus, such cylinders being severed
or partly severed by deep steps or notches, and operated by means of
electro-magnets, substantially as described in respect to Figures 6 and 7,
Sheet 1.
3rd. The arrangement for giving motion to step-by-step apparatus,
and also for actuating relays and sounding alarums and other like
purposes, substantially as described in respect to Figures 8 and 9,
Sheet 1.
4th. The arrangement of a commutator in combination with a per-
mitting key and indicator in such manner that the indicating portions
of the apparatus are entirely severed from the line circuit, and are only
called into operation by the signalman using such permitting key, sub-
stantially as described in respect to Figures 10, 11, and 12, Sheet 1, and
Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, Sheet 2.
5th. Also in combination with the permissive key and indicating
apparatus I claim the various means described of throwing the indi-
cating portion of the apparatus out of circuit after the lapse of an
interval of time, substantially as described in respect to the Figures on
Sheet 2 of the Drawings.
6th. The arranging of electro-magnetic apparatus for communication
between passenger and guard in such manner that after the circuit has
been interrupted by the passenger it is reinstated automatically, sub-
stantially as described in respect to Figures 1, 2, and 3, Sheet 4.
7th. The arranging of magneto machines with revolving armatures
overlapping the poles of the fixed magnets, substantially as described in
respect to Figures 4, 5, and 6, Sheet 4.
8th. The apparatus substantially as described in respect to Figures 4,
5, and 6, Sheet 4.
9th. The arrangement of galvanic batteries in which the negative
element is contained in a perforated cell, and the positive elements
supported in slots or holders around the exterior of the cell, with their
lower ends immersed in a mercury trough formed around the foot of

page_text: I respect to Figures 1, 2, and 3,
Sheet 5.
In witness whereof, I, the said Edward Tyer, have hereunto set
my hand and seal, this Twenty-first day of November, in the
year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-three.