Improvements in Motor, and Pedaled Bicycles, Tricycles, and other road Vehicles on which Pneumatic, or Rubber Tyres are used; and appliances connected therewith.
Year: 1896

page_text: Date of Application, 4th July, 1896
Complete Specification Left, 4th May, 1897-Accepted 3rd July, 1897
Improvements in Motor, and Pedaled Bicycles, Tricycles, and other
road Vehicles on which Pneumatic, or Rubber Tyres are used;
and appliances connected therewith.
I, THOMAS EDWARD LANE 659 Fulham Road London S.W. Hardware-man, do
hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as follows:-
This invention relates to a combination of improvements in motor, and pedaled
bicycles, and tricycles principally, but by varying their construction, application, and
attachment they may be equally, and essentially adapted to other road vehicles, on
which pneumatic, or rubber tyres, or the like are used.
The objects of this invention are:-
Firstly To provide an essential, and effectual composite consisting of all, or part
of the following inaterials:-ground, or sometimes finely granulated shells, granite,
lime stone, gravel, mixed with sand, steel filings, and pulverized rosen which can be
readily applied by automatic means, in cases of emergency, or whenever required,
on to the said tyres of wheels to prevent side slipping, and, of course, accidents
caused by same, and to render their action on the most slippery surfaces, it may be
found necessary to travel on, firm, reliable, and safe, also to facilitate persons riding
round short corners, dangerous inclines, or on sidelong ground with perfect safety;
likewise ascending, or descending steep hills, also traveling on wood pavement,
asphalte, or worn paving stones of slippery nature when rendered greasy in wet
weather, or when subjected by heavy traffic in dry weather, or by continuous frost,
or beaten snow, to a glazed, and dangerous condition, and furthermore, to prevent
mud, or any adhesive substance clogging or encumbering the brake wheel to incur
danger, or impede the progress of the rider..
The said composite-introduced by the same means-is also intended to facilitate
the action of the brake on the critical, and somewhat fragile pneumatic tyres, and
prevent them tearing, and to obviate violent concussion, and sometimes absolute
collaps of the machine, which is often the result of powerful application of the
ordinary brakes on fore wheels, especially when descending steep hills.
Secondly-To avoid cumbersome complications, and at the same time, provide for
four great, and distinct wants through the agency of one single self-adjustable spring
lever, the upper end of which is suitably constructed for its purpose, and firmly fixed
in a prepared, and most appropriate place in the back of any, but by preference,
special saddles, where it can be conveniently regulated by the back of the rider, and
by means of its compact, and substantial spring, being pivoted, or otherwise attached
at its lower end-to insure stability-to the middle, or main stay of the bicycle
frame, in front of the hind wheel, viz :-
1. A most convenient, and ready application of the said composite in suitable pro-
portions (in connection with bicycles) to both the tyres of their hind wheels, and to
their brakes, for the purposes set forth.
2. A quick, practical, and powerful application of the brake in cases of extreme
emergency, and to enable riders to avert the ever threatening, and most inevitable
perils of street traffic, also to insure them a safe, steady, and reliable descension of
unknown, fenceless, steep, and often precipitous hills, particularly when touring with
uncertainty, and at night.

page_text: 3. Ready means to visibly raise an aların, or instantaneously signal sign of danger,
or obstruction to mounted, or often, too speedily approaching followers in the dark,
by the variation of light from a miniature lamp-securely fixed in the lever supports
at the back of the saddle, precisely at the same moment as it is, of course, necessary
to apply the brake to avert such danger.
4. Also means to practically apply for use in tropical climates, or wherever intense
heat prevails and where, without something of the kind, such oppressive heat,
aggravated by absorption of dust, and pouring perspiration, creates violent thirst, and
renders cycling in the day time almost intolerable-one or more small rotary fans for
the purpose hereinafter described.
Whilst the aforesaid wants-as will be well understood-are attended with incon-
venience, and interfear with pleasure in a marked degree, it is obvious that a large
percentage of bicycle accidents are to be attributed to same, and in order to meet
these wants, and at the same time remove much danger, I,-in the first place,-
employ by means of the said self adjustable spring lever, as before stated, a suitably
constructed, pliable steel plate brake, adaptable in shape to the face of the tyres of
the wheels to which it is applied, and that may be practically eased on to same with
a delicate touch, or with a medium, or powerfal pressure, this pliable plate is com-
pactly fitted with great precission on, or in an essential curve of the lever which adapts
it to the shape of the wheel, and for the purposes set forth in the most convenient,
and most out of the way part of the entire machine, viz:-in between the upper part
of the three hind stays of the bicycle frame, where it can be more easily, and yet
by far-inore forcibly, and effectually applied than the original ones, or than any
other prior method of applying brakes would admit of, and to the most appropriate
part of the hind wheel instead of the fore one, which for the purpose, is altogether
impracticable. I may sometimes employ in lieu of this pliable steel plate brake, a
suitable one of rubber, or its equivalent, I may also by slightly varying the construc-
tion of the lever apply the brake on the top, or at the back of the hind wheel.
Furthermore I may, if essential, employ by means of the lever a suitable extension
rod to apply an additional brake to the front wheel.
At this point in a division, or prepared place in the said curve of the lever adjoining
the brake, and between the stays, or fork in which the hind wheel works, I employ a
small rubber roller leveled out in a suitable shape to fit precisely over the face of the
tyre of the wheel when brought into action by the lever for the purposes hereinafter
described,
Exactly over the said brake, and roller is securely fixed between the top of the three
hind stays of the frame--a small detachable composite container, which is partitioned
the upper part, from the lower, and encases in its lower part both the roller, and
brake; and its lower part also forms an extension to the mud guard. The upper
part has a suitably constructed outlet for running of the said composite in suitable
proportions, and which is regulated through the agency of the spring lever by the
abutment of the rubber roller, or by a small adjustable spring valve, which, when
necessary, can be used to keep the outlet permanently closed.
From this point, the lever is extended upward underneath the seat, terminating
with a T-shaped cross, or back-bar which I provide for convenient use in connection
with the lever a few inches above the back of the saddle, this back-bar may be
detachable, or otherwise, and it may be comfortably, and if desired, elegantly padded,
and thoroughly adapted for its purpose, and to the back of the rider, and it will thus
afford the most convenient application, also the most precise regulation of the lever
in connection with its spring, which holds it firmly in position at the back of the
saddle; at this point, the lever fit precisely between solid side supports which
extend from the saddle bar, or from the top of the bicycle frame, underneath the
back of the saddle, and which, in addition to those that occur below,--viz-between
the stays in which the hind wheel works-render the action of the lever doubly
perfict to perform the combined advantages of my invention as follows:-
The slightest pressure against the said back-bar lowers the rubber roller with
necessary force on to the tyre of the hind wheel, thus releasing the composite, which

page_text: -by its reversible action to that of the bicycle wheel-it transfers, and presses on to
the face of the tyre, to which it essentially adheres, and thus insures that safe, and
reliable action already claimed for it in a preceding page, and by the same means,
but with a little extra pressure against the back-bar, the composite, thus transferred,
so effectually facilitates the action of the brake as to enable the rider to reduce the
speed of, or stop his bicycle in much less time, and distance than he has hitherto
been able to, at the shortest notice.
For the further promotion of safety, I employ, and fix in between, or on the end of
the said lever supports at the back of the saddle, or in any other equivalent position,
the miniature signal lamp, already referred to, for use at night. The said lamp is
intended to show in the ordinary way a white light, but when obstacles suddenly
appear, or unexpected dangers of any kind momentarily arrise, by slight pressure
against the back-bar a small valve is forced back, and by this, or equivalent means, a
red light is instantly introduced in place of the white one as an unmistakable, and
timely warning to adventurous riders, or speedily approaching traffic in the rear, I
may also employ this signal lamp, by like, or equivalent means, in connection with
other road vehicles in order to facilitate the regulation of night traffic, and for the
general promotion of safety at night on the high ways.
In connection with the said rubber roller I may sometimes employ the small rotary
fans previously referred to, affixable by screw thred, or equivalent means, one in each
end; these fans may be made of aluminum or any other very light, and suitable
material, and readily applied for use, and they may be brought into action when, or
where ever strong, stifling, or intense heat prevails-to very great advantage, by the
saine means as, but independant of, and without applying, the brake, or the com-
posite by the rider simply reclining at ease against the back-bar to create, and cir-
culate an agreeable current of air about his person to refresh, invigorate, and sustain
him, and at the same time to help to dispel dust and winged insects which are often
found both in the heat, and shade of tropical clinates vastly prevalent, and which
persistently pursue, and infest travelers during extreme exposure, especially when
they have not their hands at liberty, or some means of protection.
I may also, when essential, employ detachable rubber rollers, or their equivalent,
to apply the said composite, also to work fans on the front wheels of bicycles, or to
the wheels back, or front of other road vehicles on which rubber, or pneumatic tyres,
or the like are used for the purposes herein set forth.
As all the foregoing improvements are detachable, any one or more may be con-
veniently removed, when desirable, without leaving any unsightly trace of their
attachment to the machine.
And although the said improvements relate principally to motor, and pedaled
bicycles, by slightly varying their construction, attachment, and prescribed methods
of applications, and their situation, and by a little modification of their parts, it is
intended to employ them in connection with tricycles, and likewise, when essential,
in connection with other road carriages, motor, or otherwise.
ALT.... 1900
THOMAS EDWARD LANE.
5
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in Motor, and Pedaled Bicycles, Tricycles, and other
road Vehicles, on which Pneumatic or Rubber Tyres are used,
and appliances connected therewith.
I, THOMAS EDWARD LANE 15, Leader Street Chelse London S.W. late of No. 6 Charles
0 Street St. Jameses Square London, Hardwareman do hereby declare the nature of this

page_text: invention and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly
described and ascertained in and by the following statement :-
This invention relates to, and consists of an actual, and absolute combination of
improvements, which, to answer my purpose with scrupulous effect, are obviously
essential one in conjunction with the other, to facilitate each others action,
particularly in connection with motor, and pedaled bicycles, and tricycles, on which
the primary features of the said combination, namely-the combined roller and plate
brake, are, practically, indispensable, as relatively employed on pneumatic tyres to
obviate the injurious effects of all tyre brakes, especially those of the plunger type
which are not only injurious, but often fatal in effect upon the critical, and collapsable
nature of pneumatic tyres, especially when fitted as brakes-however undesirable-
will continue to be to the front wheels of bicycles, like on tricycles, where, of course,
there is no alternative, and where they can be actuated by the ordinary hand lever.
This combination of improvements, although here only refered to, and fully described,
in connection with bicycles may, by slightly varying the construction of its parts, be
rendered equally applicable, like on bicycles, and tricycles, by any available means of
actuation, to any available part of other road vehicles without departing from the
nature of the said invention, or without employing it otherwise than for the objects
hereinafter described, and which are included, respectively, in my detailed description
of the invention as follows:--
In the first place, my object is to provide a suitable, and effectual composition
consisting of all, or part of the following ingredients:-ground,. or sometimes finely
granulated shells; ground to suitable degrees of fineness granite, lime stone, and
gravel; mixed with silver, and other sands, steel filings, and prepared, and pulverized
resin which can be readily applied by automatic means, namely-by the combined
action, or co-operation of a joint roller, and brake-plate, or spoon, on the tread of
pneumatic tyres, on which the smooth, and peculiarly sliding pressure of the latter
renders the said composition firmly adhesive as it is fed with preliminary pressure,
and uniform regularity under the face of it by the action of the roller, when required,
particularly in cases of emergency, to prevent side slip, and of course accidents caused
by same, and to insure a firm, and reliable tread on the most slippery surfaces of
road that may ever be found necessary to travel over, also to facilitate persons riding
with confidence, and safety round short corners, and over sidelong, and dangerous
pitching; and to assist them in steering clear of vehicles immerging suddenly, and
unexpectedly from side streets, particularly when such perilous patches of road have
to be encountered with, and where smooth surfaces such as wood pavements, asphalte,
and tram routes are rendered greasy by traffic, and rain, or subjected by continuous
frost, or beaten snow to a glazed, and dangerous condition.
The said composition, introduced by the same means, namely-by the essentially
reversible action of the said roller on the tyre tread on which, by the co-operation of
the joint brake plate, it is rendered firmly adhesive, is also intended to prevent mud,
or any slimy substance clogging, or encumbering the brake wheels, which ever they
may be, steering, or driving, but more particularly the steering wheels, they being
first, and most exposed to such, and most likely to incur danger, or impede the
progress of the rider. Furthermore, the nature of this composition being rendered,
by some of its ingredients particularly suitable, likewise the ready means for applying
same-which is obvious, by the peculiar, and essential assistance rendered by the
roller specially appropriate, it is intended to facilitate the action of the combined
brake plate on the flexible, and somewhat fragile pneumatic tyres, especially those
on the front wheels of bicycles, on which the most pliable, and efficient brake plate,
shoe, or spoon of the plunger type, is in itself hopelessly destructive, but which, in
combination with the roller, and assisted by the composition, is not only converted
into just the reverse, but its actual braking power is by the powdered resin, ground
lime stone, and other ingredients contained in the composition absolutely increased
with half the pressure otherwise necessary, while by the same means, ordinary tyre-

page_text: ware, by the brake, is entirely obviated. But for the promotion of safety, my chief
object is to be able, in cases of emergency, to powerfully apply bicycle, or tricycle
brakes with perfect confidence, and safety, and this I discover can only be done by
removing the danger of suddenly, and powerfully plunging ordinary metal plate,
spoon, or shoe brakes without anything to facilitate their action, and render them
more applicable on flexible pneumatic tyres, and this I accomplish by the introduction
of the said combination, which practically obviates all possibility of even the least
concussion, much more tyre tearing, and the collaps of the strongest bicycles, as will,
by reference to the accompanying drawings, be hereinafter understood.
My object, second in importance, is-as far as means, and circumstances will allow,
and where the following arrangements are desirable, to provide for four great, and
distinct wants through one, and the same agency, and thus entirely avoid, in a simple
way, cumbersome complications, namely:-by a single, self adjustable spring lever
pivoted, or otherwise attached at its lower end, to the main diagonal tube or stay of
the frame see 18, Figure 1, or in any equivalent position to ensure stability, and
answer my purpose, and from where it can be neatly, and compactly extended for
actuation at the back of the saddle.
I provide in the first place for a convenient, and ready application of the said
composition on to the tyres of rear wheels of bicycles, and their respective brakes, for
the purposes hereinafter described.
In the second place, a quick, practical, and powerful application of brakes in cases
of emergency, to better enable riders to avert the ever threatening perils of street
traffic, also to insure for them a steady, reliable, and safe descension of unknown, steep,
and dangerous hills which they very freequently have to encounter with, and quite
unexpectedly, particularly when touring.
In the third place ready means to raise an alarm, or instantaneously signal signs of
danger, or obstruction to speedily approaching followers in the dark by the variation
of light from a miniature signal lamp, preferably electric, furnished with a substantial
rechargable battery, and affixable on, or about the said lever supports, or to the frame
or saddle supports, or connections, or in any other suitable position about the rear part
of bicycles, and over their rear wheels; where small glow lamps will be unmistakably
perceptible in the rearward direction, and where their signals can be actuated by the
same means, and exactly at the same time as it is, of course, necessary to apply the
brake, to avert threatening danger that may suddenly, and unexpectedly arise.
the fourth place for the convenient actuation, by means of the brake roller, of one, or
more rotary fans, for use in Tropical climates, or wherever great, and opressive heat
prevails, and where, without something of the kind, such heat-aggravated by
absorbtion of dust, and perspiration-creates violent thirst and renders cycling, in the
day time, almost intolerable.
In
While the aforesaid wants are attended with much inconvenience, and interfear
with pleasure in a marked degree, it is obvious that a large percentage of bicycle
accidents are to be attributed to same, and although the aforesaid improvements in
connection with their front wheels, like on tricycles; will vastly contribute to their
safety I-in order to more fully, and effectually meet all these wants and at the
same time entirely remove many dangers through the agency of absolutely one simple
arrangement-prefer to adopt them, as far as possible, that is to say where means and
circumstances will allow, and the little extra expense is of no consideration, on the
rear wheels, as that, there is no doubt, is the most fit and proper place for them,.
particularly as they can be so easily, and effectually actuated by means of the said
self adjustable spring lever in the manner hereinafter described, and as the said
braking plate, essentially fitted in combination with the said roller, here, above all
other places, performs two most important functions, nainely-whilst it may be most
reliably, and safely applied here, on to the tread of the tyre with more than double
the force, and effect of any other brake, owing to the instrumentality of the roller,
which in its operation dresses, lowers, and delivers the tyre, rupture-proof, under the
influence of the brake plate, the peculiarly suitable sliding pressure of the latter
renders the composition doubly adhesive to the tyre tread of what, I term-the

page_text: responsible, driving, and weight carrying wheel, as will be better understood by the
following illustrated details.
In order to render the following descriptive details more intelligible reference may
be had to the accompanying drawings, which forms part of my specification, in which
similiar figures of reference indicate corresponding parts in all the figures.
Figure 1 is an illustration of the rear part of a bicycle equipped with the
combination of improvements as applied to the rear part of the frame and in
connection with the rear wheel, also, with the means for the actuation of the
said improvements by back, or buttock pressure, and the preferable position of the
signal lamp.
Figure 2 is a plan showing the combination of roller, and plate, or spoon which
constitutes the improved brake, applicable to either driving, or steering wheels of
bicycles, also to the steering wheels of tricycles.
Figure 3 is a plan showing composition container and its means of attachment to
the mud-guard, and its relative position with the said roller, and plate brake.
Figure 4 illustrates the combined roller, and plate brake as applied in connection
with the front wheels of bicycles, likewise the front wheels of tricycles, and its relative
position with the outlet for the composition, in the bottom of the steering post, which
I in preference, in connection with front wheels, utilize as a composite container.
Figure 5 shows a hollow, cup headed screw which is employed to secure the roller,
and plate brake in its place on the said lever, likewise, to regulate the outlet of the
composition container, in the manner hereinafter described.
By reference to Figure 1 in the accompanying drawings it will be readily
understood that the arrangement for actuating the said improvements on the rear
wheels of bicycles renders their application exceptionally substantial, and powerful
inasmuch as the purchase provided by the firm attachment of the lever 2 to the lug 5
Fig 1 the precision with which it works between its rigid side supports at 10 and 12
likewise the advantage afforded for the employment of a substantial spiral spring
which is concealed, and protected in the interior of the saddle bar 13 are mutually
sympathetic, and reliable in their action, and therefore can always be thoroughly
depended upon, and to further accelerate, and facilitate the actuation of the lever 2
and at the same time obviate vibration arising from the application of the brake
3 & 4. The upper end of the lever at 11 is suitably beveled in door catch style and
obtains an abutment, and has an upward, and downward sliding movement in the stout
concave plate when the rider presses, or leans back on the cushion 1 Figure 1 to
actuate the brake, or other improvements connected therewith, and when the said
pressure on the cushion the frame of which is firmly hinged, or otherwise attached to
the back of, or underneath the saddle frame, is discontinued, it is returned by the
spiral spring connected with the lever at 12, and concealed in the saddle bar at 13
with the lever firmly in position in, or against the back of the saddle, and thus the
brake and other attachments are instantaneously released and the said composition is
effectually shut of. The said lever may vary in its construction, attachment, and
method of actuation to suit a variety of machines, and carry into operation the said
improvements of my invention.
The metal plate or spoon-although the most durable, and in some respects the
most desirable of pneumatic tyred vehicle brakes-is, as before stated, by any prior
method of application of to rigid, and stubborn nature for strenuous operation,
particularly on the most resiliant, and fragile of pneumatic tyres. I therefore, in order
to obviate the injurious effects of such brakes employ, preferably in connection with
the driving wheels of of bicycles of special construction, or essentially suitable type by
means of the self adjustable spring lever 2 shown in Figure 1 a steel plate or spoon
jointly and carefully fitted in combination with the said roller as shown at 3 and 4
Fig 1 also shown, as detached by Figure 2. The said roller may be of any suitable
material, but preferably of rubber, or if in metal-in aluminium, or its equivalent.
This combination of roller, and brake plate is affixable by inserting the internally
screwthreaded brake socket on the surface of the brake plate as shown at 20 Figure 2
in the small curve of the lever at 8 Fig 1, from the underside, where it can be

page_text: substantially secured by the hollow cup headed screw as shown by Figure 5 being
firmly screwed down into the said socket from the upper side of the lever as shown at
8 Fig 1 which will effectually tighten it up in its place, and thus substantially secure
the combined roller, and plate brake'as shown at 3 and 4 Figure 1 in the curve
specially provided for it in the lever. This small, hollow, and cup headed screw, being
specially adapted, and thus employed, firmly abutts, and precisely fits over the out-
let 24 shown Fig 3 of the composition container, when the latter is fixed in its place in
the mud-guard, as shown at 7 Figure 1 and the actuation of the lever,-which has
at this point, both a backward, and forward, and a upward, and down ward movement,
-opens, and closes the outlet, and regulates the supply of the composition and the
said hollow cup headed screw shown by 25, 26, Fig 5 at the same time, as will be
readily understood, furnishes both a receptacle, and means for feeding, or transfering
the composition under the back of the roller which respectively presses, and delivers
it with the tyre tread on to the face of the combined plate 4. This entire arrangement
is all, except the top of the composition container, which appears as at 7 Fig I above
the mud guard 17 practically concealed underneath the hollow of the mud-guard,
this particular position not only affords a ready, and most convenient application of
the brake, and composition, but by means of the natural action, of both downward, and
backward pressure effected by the rider reclining-as he instinctively does-with the
muscular part of the buttock against the specially constructed cushion, and against
the back of which, where it has a sliding abuttment, and the lever is brought into
operation, it admitts of the combined roller, and plate brake being harmlessly eased
on to the tread of the driving wheel tyre with a delicate touch, or with a medium, or
powerful pressure.
The said plate, as before stated, being rendered by its combination with the said
roller peculiarly suitable for its purpose, and harmless, and effectual in operation, will
be found exceptionally economical, inasmuch as the essentially reversible revolution
of the said roller to that of the bicycle wheel, necessarily lowers, and transfers the
tread of the tyre well dressed with the said composition, as will be hereinafter
described; with uniform precision on to the face of the smooth metal plate which
than with half the pressure otherwise necessary possesses unique braking power, and
further more obviates inevitable danger, and destruction occasioned by the ridge of
rubber which is, without the actual, and combined instrumentality of the said roller,
unavoidably produced, by even moderate, much more strenuous application of all
other tyre brakes, but inore particularly with those employed on the front and
steering wheel where it is intended, when desirable to employ by means of the lever,
and a suitable extension rod as shown at 2 Fig 4 my improved roller, and plate brake,
as illustrated at 3, and 4, Fig 4 and which shows same as applied on both, bicycles,
and tricycles alike. Or this particular brake-unlike all others-as hereinbefore.
stated inay be adopted, by any available means, to any available part of the front
wheels of bicycles, like on tricycles, with obvious, and marked advantages over those
of primitive, or, in fact, any tyre brakes of prior type, and thus further my primary
object, namely, that of removing, as far as possible, personal danger arising from
pneumatic tyre difficulties in connection with brakes. I may also, in order to further
attain any object, by varying the construction, attachment, and method of actuation
of the lever (2) Figure 1, apply the said brake in slightly modified form by back, or
buttock pressure on to the top, or on the back, or on any other available place of the
driving wheel tyres. It is further intended, when ever desirable to employ in
combination with the said roller, in lieu of the metal plate, or spoon, a suitable block,
pad, or shoe of vulcanized rubber leather, bone, glass or their equivalent, or any other
suitable material, capable of effecting my purpose.
Having already explained the nature of the said composition, my object in, and
our method of, applying same, I wish it to be understood. I may add to, or deminish
the said ingredients if desirable, I may also vary the method of application of the
composition, likewise the construction, and situation of the container in order to
further my object, and without deviation of purpose. For instance the container
may for convenience, lightness and economy be reduced in size, and modified in

page_text: general construction, and may consist of one, or, as my provisional specification sets
forth, it may have a partition dividing its interior into two parts, but as a substantial
mud-guard will suffice for the lower one, which is simply utilized for the brake screen,
I prefer to adopt the mud guard as shown by that part in Figure 1 for the said
purpose, and the container, suited to same, as shown detached by 23 Figure 3. Also as
fitted for use see 7 in Figure 1 to exclusively contain, and necessarily descharge the
said composition in the manner hereinbefore described. The said composition
container may also, in construction, be rendered equally applicable to the front
wheels of bicycles, and tricycles, and may be affixable to correspond with the position
of the extension rod of the lever, and the back of the said roller, either in front, or
at the back of the steering post 22, but, of course, in the latter position if the roller,
and plate brake is applied by the extension rod of the lever being passed through the
steering post, but I, preferably, utilize the interior of the steering post as a
composition container, and furnish its lower extremity between the fork with a
small valve outlet which will automatically reliece the composition on to the back of
the roller, as will be understood from its position shown at 3 Figure 4 and under
which it is regularly passed by the reversable action of the tyre to facilitate the
operation of the brake plate 4 Fig 4 also to help the tyre to resist mud, and the like,
and effectually obviate the prevalent danger arising in connection with the front
wheels of bicycles, from adhesive matters clogging, and encumbering their brakes.
As the driving and weight carrying wheel is alone, or in fact is, in a very great
measure, responsible for what is known as side slip, the composition as regards
front wheels, is of course only required for the above purposes, the steering
post 22 would therefore contain sufficient composition for use when necessary,
throughout several long journeys, and the weight of same would only be a few ounces
and the expense of same two or three pence. Whilst, as obvious to all experienced
cyclists, this composition virtually consists of a combination of highly essential
ingredients for the said purposes, it has been my express object to render the
combined operation of the roller, and plate brake not only necessarily perfect, but
equally simple, and reliable, and to prove to riders that it is possible to discriminate
to the greatest nicety as to the exact pressure necessary-under any circumstances-
to brake their bicycle whatever the speed.
The said composition being so effectually applied-while capable of affording
unique braking power, of resisting mud, and like matter, and of giving the tyre a
firm and reliable tread-is also intended to render the latter resilient, and tough,
and to minimise ordinary wear.
For the further promotion of safety I provide, and adopt for use on cycles a rear
signal lamp, preferably electric, which for economy and convenience I fit in connection
with a rechargable battery capable of supplying this rear signal lamp which will only
be required to show behind a small lens a miniature light, also the lamp in front.
This signal lamp, fitted in connection with the said battery, is affixable, by
preference, to the lever supports see 10 Figure 1 which are rigidly secured to the
special lug 16 (through which and the top rail 19 Figure 1 the current passes to
front lamp) or in like manner to those extended from the saddle bar, and shown at 12
or in any equivalent position about the back of the saddle, or to the rear part of the
frame over the driving wheel, where it will issue a plain, open, and prominent light
rearward, and where the lamp signal can be conveniently actuated by any suitable
mechanical arrangement, of which there are many, by means of the lever 2 Figure 1
or by any equivalent arrangement by means of the hands. The said lamp is intended
to show in the ordinary way, a white light but any light may be substituted in order
to enable drivers of vehicles who often find it necessary to drive with unusual speed,
to conveniently, and safely steer clear when passing cyclists, who adopt the said lamp,
and who prefer to ride leisurely along, this lamp is especially necessary when cyclists
form into companies, and freequently indulge in long, and cool night rides, and are liable
to become scattered over dark roads, and who then are in danger without some visible
signes to indicate their exact position to any who may be speedily approaching them
in the rear. My object for the adoption and use of a danger signal in connection

page_text: with this rear lamp is obvious, inasmuch as-when danger suddenly arise, and
unforseen obstruction which, in great variety, result in a great measure from road
and street casualties, become first apparent it is most essential to instantaneously
signal signs of such. This may be effectually done by the actuation of the lever 2 in
Figure 1 in connection with any suitable, and simple mechanical contrivance which,
as already stated may be selected from amongst those already in existence to introduce
a red light, or one of any suitable colour in place of the white one as a timely
warning to any, but particularly to adventurous and reckless drivers of horses,
likewise to drivers and brakesmen of those vehicles of a more speedy type and now in
evidence as specimens of the new, and promised system of motor locomotion, and to
which with their available velocity, cyclists above all other occupants of the road will
have to show rearward signs of their position, or wherabouts on dark, and dangerous
roads at night.
Where the expense, and outlay is a consideration, an ordinary oil, or electric glow-
lamp may be substituted in lieu of the said signal lamp, but the latter is in all cases
preferable. This rear signal lamp and battery may be enlarged, and modified, and
rendered equally applicable for use in connection with other road vehicles, and its
battery may be adapted to supply one, or more lamps if desirable, and the lamp
signal may be actuated by the same, or by similar means, and arrangements as those
employed on cycles, or by any other equivalent or available arrangements, such for
instance as hydraulic, or pneumatic pressure by means of the body, or hands that
will substantially effect my purpose.
In order to remove the discomfort of cyclists traveling under the influence of
Tropical, or intense heat, particularly in those parts where it is found both strong,
and stifling, I employ one, or more small rotary fans of aluminium, or any other very
light, and suitable material, which can be brought into action whenever desirable by,
or through the medium of the brake roller, but preferably by a small special
detachable roller fitted with great nicety with appropriate, and detachable fans which
may be supplied extra. When the said fans are required for use, the ordinary brake
roller may be readily removed and quickly substituted by the above. These fans
may, by this roller, be conveniently brought into operation independant of, and
without applying the brake plate or spoon, as of course, the chief function of the
roller, in any case, is to lower, and feed the tread of the tyre under the plate, or
spoon, it is therefore obvious that a less pressure than that essential to apply the
brake plate is effectual in bringing the fans into perfect operation. Nevertheless
both, if necessary, may be actuated, or applied at the same time, and in either case.
the composition may (or may not) be shut of by a small valve, or by any simple
contrivance. In whatever part of the bicycle the said fans may be employed, small
light shields may be utilized to direct, and diffuse the agreeable current of air
created by the fans about the person of the rider to refresh, invigorate, and sustain
him, and to-at the same time-dispel dust, and winged insects which are to be
found both in the heat, and the shade of Tropical climates vastly prevalent, and
which persistently pursue, and infest persons traveling in such parts, exposed, and
like cyclists above all, in no way protected from such, or from the oppressive
heat of day.
The said fans may by the employment of light and small rubber bands, or their
equivalent to run in prepared grooves, or miniature pullies, at the one end of the
brake or a special roller, and a corresponding pully affixable on the spindle of the fan
be actuated in a more elevated position than on the wheels, for instance, by fixing
the bracket carrying the fan at the head, or near the head of the steering post. Or, if
in connection with the rear wheel, suitable brackets may be secured to the frame of
the bicycle in which fans may be actuated, entirely out of the way, underneath the
back, or sides of the saddle through the agency of the brake, or special roller, and
by means of the light rubber band as will be easily understood. The said fans
thus employed behind light, and suitable shields, while performing the aforesaid
functions will contribute to propelling power, and if substantially adopted over

page_text: the rear wheel, and partially under the back, and sides of the saddle they will be
found very instrumental as speed producers.
My object for the adoption of detachable rubber rollers, or their equivalent, that is
to say rollers of any suitable material, on the front wheels of bicycles, as proposed in
the last page of my provisional specification is not merely for the attachment of the
fans but for more important purposes, namely:-to always be able to employ a roller
of a material most suitable for the season and weather, to apply the said composition
and of course with the latter to best facilitate the action of the brake plate, or spoon
with which it is perhaps more on the steering wheel, than on the driving wheel
indispensably combined. This provision is otherwise equally essential, and therefore
also applies to the rollers employed on the rear wheels, which, being responsible for
side slip are in this respect not only dependant on the said composite but on the
combined, and effectual operation of the said roller and plate, or spoon for safety.
Detachable rollers of any suitable material may likewise be used with the same
object on wheels back, or front of other road vehicles, on which pneumatic tyres
are used.
Although the said improvements are, as before stated essentially employed in
actual combination to facilitate each other in their operation, and relate principally
to motor, and pedaled bicycles, by, if necessary, slight modification of their parts,
and their method of application they may, if desirable, be employed either
separately, or in combination for their respective purposes in, or on any available
parts of road vehicles of every description.
Having now particularly described, and ascertained the nature of my said
intention, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I claim is
Claim 1. In bicycles, and tricycles and other road vehicles on which pneumatic
tyres are used, the adoption, and use of the entire combination of improvements, or
in part, and in any suitable manner, to best facilitate each others action, or
operation in all the ways described, for the promotion of personal safety, and to
obviate danger and injurious effects caused by brakes on the pneumatic tyres
in every way hereinbefore fully set forth.
Claim 2. In connection with bicycles, and other road vehicles on which pneumatic
tyres are used, the actual combination of the roller 3, and metal plate 4 Figure 2, or
their equivalent, in material, so fitted adjoining each other as to substantially
perform their relitive, and respective purposes, and for the objects hereinbefore
fully set forth.
Claim 3. In bicycles, tricycles, and other carriages on which pneumatic tyres are
used, the employment of a suitable composition container, or the right of utilizing
the steering post 22 Fig. 4 as a composition container in the manner, and for the
purposes described in my specification.
Claim 4. In connection with all pneumatic tyres the use of the composition to
facilitate the action of the combined roller, and plate brake, also to prevent side slip,
and for other purposes hereinbefore set forth.
Claim 5. In connection with bicycles, and other vehicles the use of the signal
lamp 14 Fig. 1 for the purposes set forth.
Claim 6. The use of one, or more rotary fans to be employed as described, and for
the purposes set forth in my specification.
Dated this 4th July 1896
THOMAS EDWARD LANE.