IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND WORKING OF ELECTRIC TELEGRAPHS, AND IN APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH, PARTLY APPLI- CABLE TO OTHER PURPOSES
Year: 1846

page_text: TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, MOSES.
POOLE, of the Patent Office, London, Gentleman, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her present most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her
Royal Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland, bearing date at Westminster, the Fourteenth day of
December, in the tenth year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and
successors, give and grant unto me, the said Moses Poole, my exors,
adñiors, and assigns, Her especial licence, full power, sole privilege and
authority, that I, the said Moses Poole, my exors, adiñors, and assigns,
or such others as I, the said Moses Poole, my exors, admors, or assigns,
should at any time agree with, and no others, from time to time and at all
times during the term of years therein expressed, should and lawfully might
make, use, exercise, and vend, within England, Wales, and the Town of
Berwick-upon-Tweed, and in the Islands of Guernsey, Jersey, Alderney, Sark,
and Man, and in all Her said Majesty's Colonies and Plantations abroad,
the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND WORKING OF
ELECTRIC TELEGRAPHS, AND IN APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH, PARTLY APPLI-
CABLE TO OTHER PURPOSES," communicated to me from abroad; in which said
Letters Patent is contained a proviso that I, the said Moses Poole, should
cause a particular description of the nature of the said Invention, and
in what manner the same is to be performed, by an instrument in writing.
under my hand and seal, to be inrolled in Her said Majesty's High Court

page_text: of Chancery within six calendar months next and immediately after the date
of the said in part recited Letters Patent, as in and by the same, reference
being thereunto had, will more fully and at large appear.
NOW KNOW YE, that in compliance with the said proviso, I, the said
Moses Poole, do hereby declare that the nature of the said Invention, and the
manner in which the same is to be performed, are fully described and ascer-
tained in and by the following statement thereof, reference being had to
the Drawings hereunto annexed, and to the figures and letters marked thereon,
that is to say :-
The first part of the improvements relates to the suspension and insulation
of the telegraphic wires.
The following is the mode at present in use:-Strong posts called stretching
posts are set up at intervals, and to the upper part of these posts the ends of
long lengths of wire are attached by the intervention of a peculiar apparatus
for stretching the wire with which the stretching posts are fitted up. In the
interval between the stretching posts smaller posts called standards are crected,
having tubes of pottery ware or glass bolted to them, through which tube the
wire is passed, and from which it derives insulation and support. The lateral
strain thus brought to bear against the stretching posts to which the ends of
the lengths of wire are attached acts as a great leverage, and is therefore
very considerable, and renders it necessary that they should be stronger than
the ordinary standards. The stretchers are also costly, and as they have a
considerable metallic surface in contact with the film of moisture which in wet
weather covers the insulators, they give rise to a large proportion of the total
leakage or waste of electric fluid.
According to my improved mode the posts are never exposed to the longi-
tudinal strain of the wire, which is not in any case fastened to them by its
ends but only supported by them at intermediate points of its length. The
first length of wire is fastened by one end to an adjacent building or to the
ground, and by the other end to the succeeding length of wire, which again is
fastened to the next length, and so on to the last length, which is fastened like
the first to an adjacent building or to the ground. Figure 3, Sheet I., shews
the wire a fastened to the ground at b, care being taken to prevent the escape
of electricity by interposing a non-conducting link at c, and also to incline the
first post & so that the angles it forms with the wire on both sides shall be
equal. Figure 1, Sheet III., shews the mode of insulating the wire A, A.
Figure 1 is the top of a post. 6 is a saw-cut in it, in which is lodged the
wire c, wrapped round at this part with cotton or tow, imbued with shellac or
other insulating matter, and kept in its place by the piece of wood d nailed

page_text: there for that purpose.
Another mode is shewn at e, which is a hole drilled
through the post and lodging the wire f, which is insulated by a wrapping as
above described.
Another mode is shewn at g. A number of plugs of wood are baked at a
gentle heat for twenty-four hours, and then placed in an iron cylinder from
which the air is exhausted by a pump, and into which melted lac. or other
suitable enhydrous and insulating matter is allowed to rush, so as to be driven
by atmospheric pressure into the pores of the wooden plugs, which thus become
impervious to damp, and very good insulators. These plugs are driven into
holes made in the post, as shewn at 9, and may be supported by a piece of
hoop iron h nailed to the plug, and the post and the wire i may be lodged in
the saw cut k. Similar plugs are shewn at land m, having an iron hook o, or
an iron eyo p, screwed into them to receive the wire. q is a similar plug of
conical form useful in going round curves to resist the pull of the wire.
The wedge r may be employed for the same purpose. s shews an insulator of
wood similarly resinized, but nailed or screwed to the post instead of being
driven into a hole in it like the plugs. Figure 2 shews the mode of drawing
up the wire, the peculiarity of which is that it is effected at an intermedinte
point between two posts, and with apparatus not attached to the posts but to
the wire only. The apparatus for drawing may be much varied, and may
cither be left attached to the wires or only temporarily fixed. I prefer the
form shewn in the Drawing, consisting of two cast-iron clamps a and c,' having
each a groove b, b, to receive the wire, and two binding screws d; d; to hold
it. To these clamps is linked the drawing tackle e, e, having a lever f to
wind up the cord forcibly so as to tighten the wire, which when tightened
enough may be fastened by looping together (see g, Figures 2, and 3), or in
any other suitable way, and then the screws d, d, are unscrewed and the
apparatus is withdrawn.
With respect to Part A, I claim,-First, the plan of stretching the wire
by apparatus applied to the wire only in the interval between two posts, so
as to avoid the extra leakage occasioned by the stretchers hitherto used.
Secondly, I claim the plan of insulating suspended telegraphic wires
without any iron fastenings in poles or saw cuts of the posts themselves. .
Thirdly, I claim the insulation of suspended telegraphic wires by resinized
wooden plugs driven into the posts as described.
Part B. The next part of the improvements consists of an improved
communication for alternately making and breaking an electro-telegraphic or

page_text: Having its circumference inlaid with ivory and brass alternately, and ä spring
pressing against the circumference so as to touch alternately the conducting
and insulating surface as the wheel turns round. By long use portions of
brass are carried on to the ivory, which then ceases to insulate, and there
are twenty-four points of metallic contact around this wheel to keep in order.
Moreover, the letters being placed upon the circumference of the wheel, a
portion of them are always presented to the eye upside down: In my com
municator it is impossible that the insulation should be imperfect; there are
but two points of metallic contact to keep in order; and all the letters afè
always presented right side upward to the eye; and always in the same place:
Figure 1, Sheet II. represent my improved communicator, à; ā, d, a, being
the dial with all the letters placed. so as to be upright to the eye; b; b, añ
indicator which is fixed to the axle d, and can be turned round to any letter
by means of the handle c: Figure
Sheet II: shews the communicator
with the top removed so as to exhibit the interior imechanism. e is a wheel
(which may be of wood) carried by the axle d, and moving consequently
with the indicator. ffff; äre a series of small permanent magnets placed
around the wheel, so that as the wheel turns they will each in succession
attract the small iron armaturé g, so as to cause a light spring h, to which it is
ched, to leave the metal point i; but when the magnet has passed, and
the armature ceases to be attracted, the spring h falls back into contact with i.
The dotted lines k, k, and l, l, indicate wires connecting i and h' respectively
with the binding screws m and n, which are connected respectively with the
battery or rheomoter and the escapement telegraph, so that the action described
lias for its effect alternately to make and break the galvanic circuit. The
stop p prevents the armature g' from ever coming into actual contact with
the magnets as they pass. o, o; represents a magnet placed nearer the axle,
and having its poles opposite an armature and spring, q, q, similar to ġ, h;
and so arranged that once in each revolution of the wheel, when the indicator
b, b, stands opposite a given character on the dial (say, for instance, the cross);
the spring 9, q, is drawn by the magnet into contact with the metallic point s,
while at other times it falls back against the stock r. Now d being connected
with the telegraphic circuit, and s with the binding screw t, and by it with
the earth, when q and s are in contact the battery is thrown out of the circuit,
and the apparatus is in a fit state to receive instead of sending messages. u, v,
is an axle carrying a hammer w and a wheel x,.having cogs on a part of its
circumference which take into corresponding ratchet teeth on the under
side of the wheel e, so that when the wheel'e is turned, the axle v, v, is
furned also and the hammer w raised.. This is more clearly seen in Figure 3

page_text: where the last-described parts are in elevation. When the hammer is raised
into the position shewn by the dotted lines, Figure. 3, it rests against the
lever a', which carries at its other end the piece of nickel, which is placed
opposite to two cylinders of nickel c and d wound round with fine wire
covered with silk. When an electric current is sent through the coils
the nickel cylinders become magnetic and attract the piece of nickel b, and
cause the lever al to push the hammer resting against it in the position z,
so as to make it quit the perpendicular and fall down and strike the bell e¹.
The spring flifts it a little to allow the bell to vibrate and the hammer
remains down till the communicator is turned round to answer the signal,
when the hammer is again raised by the ratched teeth and cog wheel, and
the hammer returns to its upright position ready to give another stroke.
gis a reacting spring which restores the lever a² after such attraction to its
former position, which is regulated by the adjusting screw h. The dotted lines
and indicate the connection of the coils by one end with the binding
screw t, by the other with the binding screw p', which is connected with
the alarum division of an ordinary turn-plate, and so communicates when
required with the telegraphic circuit. By this arrangement all the advantages
of an alarum is obtained without a maintaining power, the hand furnishing
the power required to restore the hammer to its upright position, and as the
sounding of the alarum is always answered by turning, the communicator.
completely round, the hammer is always raised after each stroke ready to give
another.
Part B. With respect to Part B I claim,
First, the plan of employing the attraction of permanent magnets placed
around a wheel in correspondence with letters to make and break telegraphic
circuits, and to throw out the battery at one point of each revolution.
Secondly, the arrangement by which there are only two points of metallic
contact to be kept in order instead of twenty-four, as usual.
Thirdly, the employment of the rotation of the communicator to raise a.
hammer so as to obtain the advantage of an automatic alarum, yet dispensing.
with the cost of a maintaining power.
Fourthly, the employment of attractive force developed in nickel by the
action of electric currents to move or govern mechanism for sounding alarums.
I am aware that it has been proposed to connect a duplicate alarum
apparatus with each end of a set or series of combined conducting wires,
having a set of buttons or finger keys, and a dial with magnetic needles at
each end of the set, and I therefore disclaim that plan.
I am also aware that it has been proposed to use alarums and duplicates

page_text: thereof, with telegraphic conductors hung in a peculiar way, with stretching
posts to which they are attached by their ends, and stretching apparatus
attached to the posts, and pottery or glass tubes for insulators, and I therefore
disclaim using alarums, or duplicates thereof, with telegraphic conductors so
hung and fitted up.
Part C.-The next part of the improvements is an indicating apparatus,
which
'may be used in any of that class of telegraphs called escapement tele-
graphs, but which I prefer to work by a peculiar driving mechanism hereafter
described. (See Part D.) All escapement telegraphs hitherto proposed have
either an indicator which turns round so as to point out characters on a fixed
dial, or else a dial which turns round and exhibits various characters in
succession behind a hole. In the former case all the letters are constantly
uncovered, and presented at once to the eye, which distinguishes less clearly
than when the characters to be read are presented to it singly. In the
latter case the characters are indeed presented singly to the eye, but then they
do not retain each a determinate position, and similar letters, such as B and R;
O and Q appearing in succession behind the same hole, may be mistaken
for each other. The object of this part of the improvements is to combine the
hitherto incompatible advantages of showing the letters singly to the eye, yet
shewing each always in one and the same invariable position. The mode of
effecting this is shewn at Figures 1 and 2, Sheet 3. (a, a,) Figure 1, is an
axis hearing a series of twenty-four arms (b, b, b,) spirally arranged, and
carrying each a small disc having a character painted on it. (See A, B, C,
D, E, F, &c.) The axis (a, a,) is so disposed behind the slit, see (d, d,)
Figure 2, that as the axle is turned, the letters appear singly through the slit,
but each always in one position, A at the beginning of the slit Z, or at
the end, the other letters (or other signs), as for example F, (see Figures 1
and 2,) in intermediate positions. The letters correspond to those on the
communicator described in Part B, and the axle is fitted with a rocket wheel
and driving mechanism (e, e, f, f), as described in Part D, so that when
placed with the communicator in a telegraphic circuit, including a battery or
rheomoter, by turning the indicator of the communicator to any required letter,
the same letter will appear through the slit (d, d).
Part C. In respect of Part C, I claim generally the construction of the
escapement telegraphs, combining these two characteristics :-First, that the
letters may
be exhibited singly and separately to the eye; and, secondly, that
each may be exhibited always in one and the same determinate position.
And I also claim particularly the arrangement of letters or signs on

page_text: of the modes of shewing letters by dials or indicators, as heretofore
practised.
Part D. The next part of the improvements consists of a new escapement
or driving mechanism for giving intermittent rotatory movement in one
direction to an axle for telegraphic. purposes by the force of electric current
sent from a distance, and without any maintaining power. Attempts have
been made to. produce telegraphs of this kind, but the arrangements hitherto
proposed have involved so much more frictional resistance than is involved in
the mere removal of a detente from a train of wheels worked by a spring or
weight, that the latter plan has been found practically the most efficient and
convenient. This has, depended on the number of moving and rubbing parts
in the apparatus proposed, or on their disposition, or on both causes combined.
Thus in an escapement telegraph without maintaining power, proposed by
Mr. Wheatston, the piece which carries the pallettes, slides through guides,
the friction of which would always prevent the practical success of the
apparatus. And in this and other similar proposed instruments, there are
cither no means indicated for preventing more than one tooth passing at a
time, or else the means proposed are such as add to the friction. It will be
seen that the improvements remedy these defects, reduce the friction to a sum
total which is hardly sensible, reduce the working parts to one only (besides
the dial wheel), and above all interpose at each oscillation a check, which,
without any friction whatever, prevents the passage of more than one tooth.
The result is that the improved escapement or driving mechanism for tele-
graphic axles can be worked with actually less power than is required to work
an ordinary escapement telegraph with a maintaining power. Figures 5 and 6,
Sheet Four, represents the improved apparatus in one of its simplest forms.
(a) is a wheel with rochel teeth, placed on the axle to be turned, (which may
carry a dial, as shewn in Figure 6, or a series of spiral arms, as described in
Part C,) and the wheel (a) should have as, many teeth) as there are positions
to be assumed by the axle. (b) is a vertical slender slip of brass bent
longitudinally at an angle, to make it stiff yet light, oscillating below on 'a
pivot (c), and carrying above three arms, videlicit, (d) and (e), which are
exceedingly light springs) carrying the pallettes that act on the teeth, (d)
pulling a tooth when (6) oscillates to the left, (e) pushing a tooth when (b)
oscillates to the left, (e) pushing a tooth when (6) oscillates to the right,)
and f, a central rigid slip passing across the middle of the toothed
wheel (a), and curved a little so as not to touch. This arm f has

page_text: two small transverse branches (9) and (h) so adjusted that when the piece (6)
vibrates to the right the branch (9) enters between the teeth of the wheel (a),
but without touching them, so as to interpose an obstacle in case .more than
one tooth should tend to pass, and when the piece (6) vibrates to the left, the
"branch (h) enters between two teeth in like manner and with like effect, and
the adjustment is such that g enters between two teeth on one side before (h).
has moved out of it on the other, and vice versa, so that there is a moment
in the passage of each tooth when (9) and (h) are simultaneously between the
teeth, presenting the curious and paradoxical spectacle of a wheel apparently
turning within the space between two stops, which space is less than the
wheel's diameter. d and e may be armed with rubies at the tips to diminish
friction, but this is not essential, as the apparatus works very weil with metal
palettes. (i) is a small armature attached to the vertical piece b, and it
is opposite to the attracting apparatus (k), (which may be either an ordinary
electro-magnet or a pair of nickel cylinders, as described in Part-,) so that
when a current is sent, (6) oscillates to the right; when the current. ceases,
the reacting spring (m) presses (6) back to the left. Zand.n are adjusting
screws, by which the distance of (k) and the force m may be varied. o, o, are
two small screws limiting the motion of the piece b. p and p are 'the
bridges carrying respectively 'the axles of the piece b and of the wheel α, and
sometimes jewel the holes in which these pivots work, not so much to reduce
the friction there, which is hardly sensible, but to prevent the oxydation of the
oil about them. 9 is a stud, by touching which the piece (6) may be made to
vibrate, and its use is to bring the axle to any required position without the
aid of the battery. The piece 6, instead of being pivotted below, may be fixed
to the stand of the instrument, 'as the flexibility of the portion below (i) (when
properly reduced for that purpose) is sufficient to allow the slight oscillation
required. It is, however, more easy to adjust the palettes with a pivot to
(b), which mode I accordingly prefer. Figure 6 is a front view of the
apparatus, and it shews the axle fitted with an ordinary dial r. I have availed
myself of this Figure to exhibit another of my improvements, which constitutes
part E.
In respect of Part D, I claim the plan of giving rotatory motion in one
direction to an axle for telegraphic purposes, by means of a single vibrating
piece carrying three arms or branches, whereof two act as palettes, one to pull,
the other to push, a tooth at each vibration, while the third is so formed and
adjusted as to pass in and out between the teeth at each vibration without
friction, so as to limit the number of teeth that can pass without augmenting
the resistance.

page_text: .
Part E. The next part of the improvements consists in employing the
reversal of the direction of the electric current used to turn an axle, so as
that for every position assumed by the axle, either of two signals at pleasure
may be given. Figure 6, Sheet 4, shews one of the various arrangements by
which this may be effected. (s) is the outermost of a pair of magnetic
needles placed astatically on the axis t, and governed by the galvanometer coils
(2), so as to incline to right or left against the stops (v) and (w), according
as the current passes through the coils in one direction or the other. (1) is a
dial with the letters placed thereon in couples, so that the needle in inclining
to right or left points to one or other of the couple opposite to it. The com-
municator has the letters placed in couples to correspond, and there are only
as many magnets to the communicator, and only as many teeth to the
racket wheel which turns the axle, as there are couples of letters. The
communicator is furnished with an ordinary current reversion, which may
be worked by a finger key or pedal. The current by which the driving
mechanism or escapement of the telegraph is worked is to be sent in
one or other direction, according as it is wished that the needle should incline
to right or left, and should point out one or other of the couple of signals
exhibited as being the one intended to be understood, or the needle may carry
a small paper screen, so as in inclining to right or left to cover the letter not
intended to be read. In some cases the extra coils for the needle may be dis-
pensed with, and the needle may be placed with one end between the poles of the
electro-magnet that works the escapement so as to be deflected thereby to right
or left, according to the direction in which the current is sent.
And it need
hardly be remarked that a magnetic armature, or any small magnet so sus-
pended or balanced that the reversal of the current may vary its position, may
be used instead of the needle to indicate which of the two signs is intended
to be understood, or to cover the one not intended to be read. By this means
signals may be given with an average passage of half the number of teeth per
character, by which means the speed of the apparatus is considerably
increased.
Claim, Part E. In respect to Part E, I claim employing the reversal of
the current and the coupling of the characters in escapement telegraphs in
such manner as to reduce by one half the average number of teeth passed per
character telegraphed.

page_text: hitherto in use. a, a, Figures 1 and 2, represents in section an inverted cup
of earthenware shaped with internal ledges (b, b, on which rest the branches
(c, c,) of the iron supporters (d, d, which hold the wire (e, e). The internal
shape of this cup is shewn in plan at Figure 4; it is such that the branches
may be passed up, and then by turning the iron supporter half round they
catch upon the ledges (b, b). (f.f.) indicates a groove surrounding the cup
to lodge the staple by which it is-secured to the post. The iron supporter may
be forged, as shewn in Figure 1, or may be made of a piece of wire bent, as
shewn in Figure 2. Figure 3 is another form of insulator, also made of porcelain,
having above a hole (a), through which passes the wire (e), and below a vertical
cylindrical cavity (b) slightly bell-shaped at the extremity (c), into which passes
up the iron (d), driven at (d) into the post (f). (g) is a small zine disc to
prevent the rain beating up from below. The advantage of these insulators
is that the point of contact where leakage of electricity could take place is
protected as well from rain blown sideways or upwards as from rain arriving
vertically, and this (in the form Figures 1 and 2) by the insulator itself
without the use of sheds or extra coverings.
Claim of Part F.-In respect to Part F, I claim generally the mode of
making earthenware insulators which of themselves, and without extra casings
or sheds, preserve the points of contact where leakage of electricity might
take place, as well from rain blown latterally as from rain descending vertically.
Part G. The next part of the improvements is an improved stretching
apparatus, suitable to be used for lines set up with stretching posts, according
to the usual mode, and of a cheaper construction. It is shewn in Sheet 2,
Figure 4, and its peculiarity consists in its having the drum (a), the racket
wheel (6), and the axle (c), all cast in one piece instead of having as usual a
separate wrought-iron axle. The two sides d, d, are cast separately to allow
of the axle being inserted into its bearings at (g, g¹), but the bolt (e) passing
through both d and d³, and secured by the nut f, holds all fast. (h) is the
clicker rivetted at (i), and taking into the racket teeth of the wheel (6) as
usual.
Part G, claim. With respect to Part G, I claim generally the plan of
making stretching apparatus for telegraphic wires, having the drum, rocket
wheel, and axle all of cast iron, and all cast in one piece.
Part H. The next part of my improvements consists in a.protective
system applicable to suspend telegraphic wires, more especially where they
pass through crowded thoroughfares, as railway stations, or the streets of a.

page_text: town, and where, in the event of their fracture they might do mischief by
striking bystanders. Accidents from this cause have already happened. Men
have been wounded seriously by the sudden flying of the highly stretched wires ;
and on the Orleans Railroad a broken wire catching in the wheels of a passing
train caused a part of this line to be torn down and dragged along the line, a
circumstance obviously involving considerable danger. To obviate this evil I
apply to suspended telegraphic lines a protective system adapted to check and
confine the violent impulse of the stretched wire when broken. The simplest
and inost efficient forms of this protection system as shewn in the series of
Figures in Sheet 5. a, b, c, d, Figure 1, represent portions of the four wires
of an electric telegraph, but the arrangement is applicable to any number of
wires, from two upwards. e¹, ell, ell, ellll, represents a hoop of any suitable
tenacious material, but I prefer to employ iron wire, which is fastened, by
twisting and soldering or otherwise at e, to the telegraphic wire a, and hangs
down around the wires b, c, and d, but without touching them. The fastening.
of the hoop at e¹ should be so arranged as to keep the .hoop as steady as
possible, both in the lateral and longitudinal directions, so that it may not
swing against and touch the wires around which it hangs. As a further pre-
caution against metallic contact a portion of non-conducting matter, as a series
of coils of cotton or hemp inibued with shellac or other suitable insulator, may
be placed around that part of the telegraphic wire which the hoop of it should
oscilliate would be liable to touch, as shewn at f. And moreover the size and
shape of the hoop should be such that the greatest vibration produced among
the wires by the wind should not bring them contact with the hoop. A good
medium shape and size of the hoop is shewn at Figure 2, in which the wires
a, b, c, d, are seen in section, the latter with its insulation f. It will be observed
that the hoop is somewhat larger below than above to allow for the greater
extent of any oscillation as the distance from the centre of suspension
moreases. The hoop, of whatever material it may be, must be thick, and
strong enough to check and confine one or more wires in the event of fracture.
I find iron wire of one-eighth inches diameter a good size for the purpose.
Figure 10, Sheet 5, shews the application of a protection system to a tele-
graphic line, p, p, are standards fixed in the ground t¹, t, and supporting the
wires a, b, c, d. e, e, e, e, e, &c., represents the hoops fastened to the wire a at
intervals, which may vary in different cases, and should be shorter as the tele-
graphic standards are less elevated, and placed nearer to the place which it is
desired to protect from the results of their fracture; but I find 5 yards to be
a good average distance from hoop to hoop in all ordinary cases. However;

page_text: where the wires pass over the platforms of railway stations, the distance from
protector to protector should be at least seven feet less than the height of the
lowest wire above the ground. It is obvious that these hoops will operate as
an effectual protection against the wires in the event of their rupture, without
at all impairing the efficiency of the telegraph nor materially augmenting its
expense. Figure 2 shews a mode of forming the hoop of the telegraphic wire
itself by twisting a portion of its length into a loop and soldering the twist,
but it is not a mode I should recommend. Figure 4 shews a good plan of
fastening the hoops in cases where it may be particularly desirable to prevent
oscillation; for the telegraphic wire (a) are substituted two smaller wires a, a",
and the hoop e, e¹, el, el, is fastened to a at the top, and to a" at the bottom,
the metallic contact being in this case unobjectionable, as a and a are used
conjointly, and in fact constitute together but one conductor. In this case it
will not be necessary to make the hoop larger below than above, but it may
have the shape shewn in the Figure. Figure 5 shews in section a mode of
insulating the hoop e, e, el, e, from the wire a, to which it is fastened by means
an insulating material g, which may be felt imbued with shellac.or other suitable
insulating material between the wire a and the coils by which the hoop e, el, ell,
el, is fastened to it. Figure 6 is a lateral view of the arrangement of the insu-
lator g, and the fastening of the hoop over it, and out of contact with the wire.
Figure 7 shows a mode of applying an insulating material h, h', to the lower
part of the hoop, where it is liable in oscillating to come into contact with the
wired; when good insulation is thus obtained it becomes of less importance
to prevent occasional contact, and the narrow straight form of hoop, Figure 5,
may be adopted with a saving of material and without impairing the efficiency
of the telegraph.
Figure 9 shows a form which it is sometimes useful to adopt for each ele
ment of the protective system when the telegraphic wires pass near a wall or
other erection. a, b, c, are the telegraphic wires. e, e¹, e¹¹, represents one of
the protectors fastened by screws k, k, into the wall or other erection 2, l. It
is obvious that the mode of applying a protective system to guard against the
mischiefs of the fracture of telegraphic wires may be carried out in a variety
of forms more or less advantageous in point of cheapness, lightness, and
efficiency, but all equally coming under the terms of this part of the present
improvements. One of these modifications is shewn by way of example at
Figure 8, in which, as in the former Figures, a, b, c, and d, represent the
telegraphic wire, whilst i, 2, 1, 21, represent one of a protective system of
cords or bands fastened at intervals to each wire, so as to tie them all together,

page_text: the said cords or bands being made of or imbued with a non-conducting
niaterial, and, if necessary, still further insulated from the wires by non-
conducting material suitably interposed for that purposed at 9, g³, 9"; g¹¹¹.
This mode is, however, inferior to that above described, because the film of
water, which in wet weather would adhere to the surface of the cords or bands.
i,,,, and of the insulating material g¹, g¹, 9", gl, would act as a conductor,
occasioning a small leakage of the electric power, which, repeated at numerous
points of a long line, would occasion a considerable aggregate loss. I would
here point out the strong line of demarcation which exists between this
protective system above described and à plan which has been proposed for
steadying the wires of a telegraph in the middle of their suspended length
between two points against the action of the wind. It has been proposed for
this purpose to apply on each wire in the middle of its suspended length a
tube of potteryware or glass, and then to tie or lash these tubes to a piece of
would: But this plan, though very well adapted to steady the wire (the
purpose for which it was designed), would not prevent either of the wires, in
the event of its fracture near the middle of its length, from flying forcibly
asunder, and lashing out sideways or downwards, so as to strike forceably
against a bystander, or to be projected upon the rails of a railway adjacent, so.
as to produce the dangers above set forth; for the broken end of one half of
the wire would be free at the instant of the rupture, and the broken end of'
the other half of the wire would instantaneously slip through the glazed tube,
so that each half of the wire would be free in its whole length to fly violently
asunder under the impulse of its weight and tension, either sideways or down-
wards, as the case might be. It is evident therefore that the connection of
the wires at the middle part of this suspended length, by placing on each wire
a tube, and then tying these tubes together, though it may be useful for
steadying the wire against the wind so long as they remain unbroken, can
never act like this protective system as a safeguard against the wires when
they break, and consequently does. not interfere with the Invention herein
described and claimed. For this protective system presents a series of
eléments so disposed throughout the length of à telegraphic line, or of a part
of telegraphic-line, that in the event of the fracture of a wire or wires there.
may never be à free portion of. sufficient length to fly violently against..
bystanders or upon the rails, so as to cause the serious danger abové set forth.
Part H, claim. In respect to Part H of my improvements, I claim
generally the plan of applying to suspended telegraphic wires a series of pro-
tective elements placed at suitable intervals, so as to constitute a regular
protective system adapted to check and confine the forcible impulse of a

page_text: stretched wire, in the event of its rupture, in such manner as to prevent the
possibility of its striking a person standing on the ground immediately beneath
it, or in any other position equally near to it.
. I also claim the applying to a set of suspended telegraphic wires a protective
system, which, tough it protects all of the number of wires to which it is
applied, is not in contact with all of them, by which avoiding of contacts the
required protection is obtained, without increase of the leakage or transit of
electricity from the channels which it is required that it should pursue.
.
Part I. The next part of the Invention relates to the conductors of tele-
graphs. It has hitherto been practised to employ iron wire, reduced by the
proper diameter by drawing it through holes; but I have found by experi-
ments that iron wire, produced entirely by rolling through cylenders, and not
drawn at all through holes, answers better for electric conductors, being
cheaper and less brittle, and offers less resistance to the passage of electricity;
and I therefore employ iron wire so prepared in the construction of electric
telegraphs. Moreover, the metal zinc has never hitherto been employed as a
material for telegraphic conductors, because its resistance is three times as
great as copper conductors of the same area; but I have ascertained, by
experiments, that keeping in view the relative weight and cost of zinc and
copper, as well as their relative resistance to electric currents, zinc is a cheaper
and more advantageous conductor than copper. Moreover, the metal lead
has never hitherto been employed for conducting electricity, because its resist-
ance is twelve times as great as copper. But I have ascertained that lead
wire can be made at a very cheap rate by hydraulic pressure (in a manner
similar to that by which lead tubes are made), and its resistance is no
objection where intellegence is only to be conveyed a short distance, as for
example from point to point of a town, or from statation to station of a railway,
and thongh it would be unfit to be used to carry electric currents long dis-
tances, I have ascertained that it will carry them well and sufficiently through
short distances.
And I claim the employment of lead wire for telegraphic conductors when
enclosed in tubes. But note, I do not consider it fit to be used for suspended
conductors, on account of its want of tenacity. And. as it very often happens
that electric conductors running parallel in the same tubes, or on the same
posts, may be destined to carry intelligence to very different distances, so one
such conductor may with impunity be made of a metal offering great resist-
ance to the current, such. as lead, on account of the shortness of the circuit;
while another, on account of its length, may be made of a less resisting metal,

page_text: as, for example, copper; and this consideration has suggested the plan of con-
structing telegraphs with conductors of different metals, the cheapest and most
resisting being employed for the shorter telegraphic channels, the dearer and
less resisting for the longer telegraphs channels. Thus, on a railway, copper
may be adapted for the longest circuit, iron or zinc for the circuits of inter-
mediate length, and bead for the shortest circuits from station to station.
Figure 10, Sheet 3, represents a portion of a tube, containing three insu-
lated conductors, (a, a,) of zinc, (b, b,) of iron, and (c, c,) of copper, suitable
for conveying currents of different distances according to the above-described
mode.
In respect to Part I of the improvements, I claim―
First, the employment for telegraphic conductors of wire produced entirely
by rolling between cylinders instead of wire reduced partly by drawing holes
as hitherto practised.
Secondly, the employment of zinc and lead wire for telegraphic conductors
when enclosed in tubes.
Thirdly, I claim the plan of enclosing in the same tube, or carrying along
the same posts, conductors of materials differing in resisting power, and
employed according to their resistance to convey electric currents to different
distances; but I do not claim the employment of wires made of materials
differing in resistance in the same tube or on the same posts when such wires
are employed conjointly to form compound conductors, or when the more
resisting and less resisting wires are employed indifferently to carry currents
to like distances, my Invention and the claim being limited to the application
of wires of different resistances in the same tubes or on the same posts to
convey currents to different distances, the wire of greater resistance being
employed' to form the shorter circuits, the wire of less resistance being employed
to form the longer circuits.
.
Part K. The next part of the improvement relates to the small electro-
magnets employed to work or govern telegraphic apparatus. Hitherto soft
iron has always been employed in the construction of electro-magnets for tele-
graphic purposes, but I find iron apt to vary much as to the quantity of
transient residuary magnetism it will retain after the current closes, whereas
nickel, which has never hitherto been employed in electric telegraphs,
is very equable in its action, and though less magnetic than iron-is quite
strong enough for the purpose, and on the whole I believe it to be more
advantageous.
Figures 9 and 10. Sheet 4. shew the construction which I prefer for electro-

page_text: magnets of nickel, Figure 9 being an end view, and Figure 10 a longitudinal
section. (a, a,) are the nickel cylinders joined by the nickel crosspiece (b)
screwed to them. (c, c, c, c,) are the brass end pieces to retain the wire coils
(d, d, d, d). These end pieces are not slipped on to the cylinders but merely
applied to their extremities, and fixed there by screws (6, e). An opening is
cut in the end pieces next the poles of the electro-magnet, to allow the arma-
ture (9) to approach the nickel. The advantage of this arrangement is that it
allows the coils to be wound around the nickel up to its very extremity, so as
to excite it to the utmost, which cannot happen when the end pieces are put
on in the usual way, so as to occupy a portion of space around the nickel.
The armature (9), also of nickel, is curved into a form analogous with the
magnetic curves, which increases the force with which it is attracted.
Figure 11 shews another mode of employing nickel to work telegraphic
apparatus. The insulated wire coils (d, d,) are wound around tubes (9,9), and
the nickel is disposed in the form of a fork (h, h,) so placed that its two prongs
enter into the tubes, and when electricity is sent through the coils they are
drawn further in, giving motion to any light detent or other light telegraphic
mechanism to which they may be attracted at (i). This attractive force thus
obtained is feeble, but it has the advantage of being entirely unattended by
residuary attraction when the current ceases.
Figure 12 shews a mode of employing the attractive power of an electric
current without the aid of any magnetic metal whatever. (d, d, d, d,) are a
series of insulated wire coils, wound around tubes (g, g). (k, k,) are a
pair of smaller coils wound in a reverse direction to the coils (d, d, d, d,)
upon the prongs of the small brass fork (h, h,) which is attached at (i) :
to the detent or other mechanism to be moved or governed, and the electric
current being sent through all the coils the small one will be drawn further
into the tubes 9, 9, carrying with them the detent or other mechanism to
which they are affixed. In this case, as in the last, there is no residuary
attraction after the cessation of the current.
With regard to Part K, I claim,-
First, the construction of electro-magnets for telegraphic purposes, as shewn
in Figures 9 and 10, Sheet 4.
Secondly, the employment for telegraphic purposes of a nickel fork attracted
by coils, as shewn in Figure 11.
Thirdly, the employment for telegraphic purposes of the mutual attraction
of coils arranged as shewn in Figure 12, and conveying electric currents.
Fourthly, the employment of nickel in the construction of electro-magnets.
for telegraphic purposes.
{

page_text: Part L.-The next part of the improvements relates to magneto-electric
machines employed to work escapement telegraphs. In the magneto-electric
machines hitherto in use for working escapement telegraphs the armature
does not come into contact with the magnet, and the object of this part of my
improvements is to obtain stronger magneto-electric action by bringing the
armature into actual contact with the magnet; and then suddenly withdrawing
it each time that an electric current is to be generated for transmissioni
through an escapement telegraph.
Figure 7, Sheet 4, shews the arrangements I adopt for carrying this im-
provement into effect. (a, a.) is the magnet. (b), the armature fixed to the
arm (c), which turns on the axle (d), the bearings of which are omitted to
simplify the Drawing. The arm (c) carries a tooth (e) of steel, agate, or other
hard material, against which work the peculiarly-shaped teeth of the wheel
(fff). The strings (9) are so adjusted as to counterbalance the attraction
of the magnet for the armature with a slight excess of force, so that the arma-
ture is always pressed away from the magnet as far as the screw (h) will
allow it to go. The vertical axle (i) of the wheel (f) carries a letter wheel
with spokes and letters corresponding to the dial of the escapement telegraph,
as is well understood. When the wheel (f.f.f.f.) is turned round from left to
right, each tooth as it passes acts on the arm (c) by the tooth (e), so as to bring
the armature (6) into contact with the magnet (a, a), and there retain it till the
portion (K, K,) of the tooth has passed, when the armature is again pressed from
the magnet by the springs (9). One end of the coils of the armature (b) is
soldered to the piece 7, which is itself soldered to the end plate of the armature,
and vibrates with it. The other end of the coils of the armature (6) is
soldered to the pillar (m), to which is fixed the elastic fork (n, n',) the two
prongs of which are so arranged by the adjusting screws (o, o',) that (n)
touches when the armature is in contact with the magnet, and n²
touches (1) when the armature falls back against (h); while in the middle
of its course, neither (n) nor (n¹) touch (1). (p. p.) is a second wheel
screwed upon the wheel (f, f.) and turning with it; its teeth (of the form
shewn) work against the tooth (9) of the lever (r), which is pressed against
the wheel (p) by the spring (s), which has an adjusting screw (t). The
relative form and position of the teeth of the wheels (f) and (p) are such
that (e) and (g) are raised alternately, so that the resistance to the hand during
the rotation of the wheel is rendered uniform. This is a great advantage, as
it enables the machine to be worked with a more equable motion. (v) is a
lever turning on a fixed pivot at (w), connected at (a) by the piece (y) with
the lever (r), and connected at (2) with the long clicker (a'), which drops
into the teeth of the wheel (U', 6'), which is screwed to the wheel (f, f.) and

page_text: moves with it. The parts are so disposed that (a¹) falls between two teeth
of (6) an instant before (2) falls between two teeth of (p, p'), and
that (a) is pressed against a tooth of (6) so as to aid in urging tho wheel
onward exactly whilst (e) is being raised, so as to resist the rotation of
the wheel. By this means the resistance which the spring (s) opposes to
the wheel in one part of its course is compensated by the motive force
which (s) gives back in another part of its course, and the alternate aid and
resistance are by the relative form and position of the teeth thrown in exactly
at the moment when they are required to equalize the movement of the
wheel. The spring c¹ dropping between the teeth of the wheel (f. f.) steadies
it, when at rest. The binding screws e¹ and f¹, connect the machine with the
telegraphic circuit; and the dotted lines (9') and (h¹) show the connections of
these binding screws respectively with (d) and (m). The teeth of the
wheels (ff) and (p, p,) should be full three quarters of an inch broad, and
faced with steel, so as not to wear. The letter wheel and the various bearings
are omitted to simplify the Drawing, but their dispositions will be immediately
apprehended by persons conversant with magneto-electric machines. This
reciprocating movement will be found to give much stronger currents than
Clarke's rotatory movement, on account of complete contact taking place
in the improved instrument between the magnet and the armature.
Claim, Part L.-With respect to the Part L, I claim,-
First, this plan of constructing the magneto-electric machines, adapted to
work escapement telegraphs in such manner that the armature and magnet
come into contact every time a tooth passes.
Secondly, I claim the plan of so constructing the said machines that, when
at work, the time during which the armature and magnet touch shall exceed
the time during which they are separate.
Thirdly, I claim the plan of counterpoising the variable attraction of the
magnet for the armature in the said machines, by a corresponding variable
elastic force acting in the opposite direction.
Fourthly, I claim the plan of equalizing the movement of a wheel, which, in
turning, bas to overcome a variable or intermittent resistome A, by causing
another resistance (B) to oppose it during the cessation or diminution of
the resistance A, to the end that the total resistance opposed to the wheel
at each point of its progress may be equalized (or nearly so) with the total of
resistance opposed to it at each other point of its progress. And I further
claim the plan of causing the force exerted in overcoming the supple-
mentary resistance B to be not wasted, but restored as motive force, aiding
to turn the wheel while engaged in overcoming the resistance A. And note,
I claim this mechanical combination, not merely in its application to tele-

page_text: graphic purposes, but generally in all cases where it is desired to equalize the
movement of a wheel having to overcome intermittant or variable resistance.
Fifthly, I claim generally the plan of bringing the two ends of the con-
tinuous coils of the armature of a telegraphic magneto-electric machine into
contact twice at each vibration, once while near the magnet, once while away
from it, the said ends of the coils being, during the interval between these
two contacts, in connection with the telegraph circuit.
Part M. The next part of the improvements relate to the armatures of
magneto-electric machines, and consists in the adaptation of a regulating
mechanism, by which a greater or less number of coils may be taken into the
circuit, according as the current generated has to overcome a greater or less
amount of external resistance.
Figures 8, Sheet 4, shews an end view of the armature, (a, a',) are the
end plates, and (b, 6',) the iron cross piece fixed by the screws (c, c,) to
the iron cylinders, round which the coils are wound. The coils are wound
round both cylinders in the same direction; the inner end of the coils were
around the land hand cylinder is soldered to the end (d) of the iron
wire (d, d.) and the wire coiled around the right-hand cylinder is fastened in
like manner by its inner end to the end (d) of the iron wire (d, d). (k) and (k)
are two small quadrants of wood, fastened respectively to the end plates (a)
and (a), and having the brass discs (g, h, i) (g, h, i,) inlaid near their
circumference. In making the armatures when the wire has been coiled
on to the thickness indicated by the dotted circle (¹), a loop is brought
through a hole in the plate (a), and soldered to the disc (9); then the coiling
is continued till the thickness indicated by the dotted circle (m) is attained,
and then a loop is in like manner soldered to the disc (h); the coiling is again
continued till the armature is filled, (as indicated by the dotted circle (n).
and the end of the coil is soldered to the disc (i). The wire coiled around the
right-hand cylinder is in like manner soldered at intervals, indicated by
(6', m', n'), to the discs (g, h, i). (f) and (f) are brass hands turning respec-
tively on the axes (e) and (e¹), and pressing by their extremities on one
or other of the brass discs (g, h, i,) (g, h, i). (p and p¹) are pieces
of wire soldered respectively by the axes (6) and (e¹) of the indicators
(f) and (f). These wires (p) and (p¹) are to be taken as the ends of the
coils and connected as such with the apparatus through which currents are to
be sent. It is obvious that according as the indicators (1) and (¹) are set
respectively to (9), (h), or (i), and to (h¹) or (¹), a greater or less number
of coils will be included in the circuit, and the currents generated in the inner

page_text: coils will be opposed by a greater or less resistance within the armature itself.
Thus by setting the indicators f and f¹ to the discs g and g¹, the armature will
be fitted to work in a short time; by setting them to (h) and (h¹) it will be
adapted for a longer line; by setting them to (v) and () it will be adapted
for the longest line to which its powers extend. Care must be taken that the
parts d, e, f, g, h, i, k, p, and d³, e', ef, g, h, i, k', and p', are well insulated by
the wooden quadrant from the plates a and a, and from each other, and care
must also be taken that the wire of the coils is every where well insulated
from the plates (a) and (a'). I find it very advantageous for magneto-electric
machines that are to be used in very long telegraphic lines to make the coils
with wires of different finesses, using the finest wire for the innermost coils,
and joining on length of wire thicker in succession as the winding is continued.
The result is that in proportion as the coils by their encreasing distance from
the cylinders contribute less to the total electro-motive force, so also they
add less to the resistance. This will be found of great importance in cases
where the length of telegraph lines begins to approach the limits of the powers
conveniently attainable with magnetic electric machines.
Claim, Part M. With respect to Part M, I claim, first, the construction of
armatures for telegraphic magneto-electro machines, so that a greater or less
length of the coiled wire may at pleasure by introduced into or excluded from
the circuit.
Secondly, I claim the construction of the helical coils for telegraphic pur-
poscs, with lengths of wire of different fineness united end to end, the thickness
increasing as the coils recede from the interior of the helix.
Part N.-The next part of the Invention relates to the steel magnets used
for telegraphic purposes. Hitherto these magnets have been forged to a
horseshoe form from bars of steel. The forging is expensive, impairs the re-
tentivener of the steel for magnetism, and renders it very apt to warp in hard-
ening, so that the workman, to avoid loss is tempted not to bring the steel to
a sufficient hardness. Nor can the steel plates be conveniently forged so thin
as desirable in order to attain a high magnetic power. To avoid forging I
make the magnets of a set of straight bars joined at one end by bolts running
through them with cross ties and nuts, either in the form of a V, as shewn at
Fig. 7, Sheet 3, or of a paralellogram, as shewn at Fig. 8, in which last case
each pair of bars hold a piece (a) between them at one end. Each pair of
bars may be magnetized conjointly as a horseshoe bar is magnetized, or each
bar may be magnetized separately, taking care that the north pole of one is
joined to the south pole of the other. But I recommend in preference as

page_text: being far the best and cheapest mode, this improved plan of producing the
blades of horseshoe magnets, shewn at Figure 6, Sheet 3, in which (a, a,)
represents a piece of sheet steel, out of which the magnet blades are cut, one
in the other, as shewn shewn by the darker tints in the Figure. The pieces-
(b, b, b,) and (c, c, c,) may be stamped out with punches in a fly press, an:l
the rest of the cutting may be done with shears, chisels, and drills, as usual
in cutting steel plate, or each horseshoe may be stamped out entire by a pow-
erful press. (To avoid waste the curved ends d, d, d, are made eliptical instead
of semi-circular. The hole for the screws may also be stamped instead of
drilling them. The horseshoes then obtained may be finished, magnetized, and
combined in magnetic batteries as usual. The half pieces e and e may be
combined into magnets, as shewn at Figure 9. The thickness of steel plate
adopted may vary, but I find that from th to th of an inch is a good
thickness to employ. By this improvement magnets very highly saturated
and very retentive may be procured with a great saving on the present cost, a
very important advantage, seeing that the magnets are one of the most costly
parts of the telegraphic apparatus.
With respect to Part O, I claim,-
First, the employment of telegraphic purposes of magnets formed of steel
undeteriorated by reforging and curving as hitherto practised.
Secondly, the employment for telegraphic purposes of double-bar magnets
joined directly in a V form, or having a piece interposed between their
connected ends.
Thirdly, the plan of employing for telegraphic purposes permanent horse-
shoe magnet blades, cut one in the other out of steel plate.
Fourthly, the employment for telegraphic purposes of permanent magnets
having blades or plates of a thickness not exceeding th of an inch.
Part O. The next part of the improvements has for its object to increase
the number of signals that can be given by a telegraphic wire by employing
differences in the force of the current sent to produce different signals.
Figure 4, Sheet 1, shews a simple form of mechanism for effecting the
object. (a) is an enlargement; (6) the small keeper when it attracts. (c, d, e,)
a light three-branched piece, pivotted at f, balanced with a small weight (g).
and passing freely through a hole in the bright upright rod (h), so that when
(b) is attracted (c) rises and lifts (h), which is pivotted above at (i) to a
light indicator k, which is pivotted at (s), and points, according as (h) is raised
more or less high, to one or other of a series of characters on the light scale (1, 1),
which is supported at the extremity of a magnetic needle (m) which forms

page_text: one of an astatic pair fixed on the axis (n), and arranged in the usual way, one
inside and one outside the galvanometer coils (0, 0). (p) is a small weight at
the end of the needle (m) outweighing a little the screen (1, 2) and causing
the needle to rest against the stop (9), except when a reversal of the current
deflects it against the stop (r), (h), terminates below in a light scale pan (t),
shewn in side view and magnified for clearness sake at (t), Figure 5. (u, u,)
are a series of delicate weights formed of pieces of wire supported each a
little higher than the preceding one, so that the scale pan (t), in rising, lifts
them successively. This arrangement is shewn more clearly and enlarged in
the side view Fig. 5, (u, u, u, u,) representing the ends of the wires, and (v)
the frame supporting them. The arrangement is such that as (6) approaches
(a), (t).takes up the wires (u, u,) in succession till when (6) is close to (a),
(*) supports the whole of the wires. Thus the advance of (6) towards (a) is
resisted by a weight, which augments at intervals by sudden determinate
increments, so that with a current of a certain force producing a given
attractive power in (a), (b) will balance till (6) has taken up the first weight,
but will be stopped by its encountering the second with an augmented force of
current; (t) will take up the second weight but be stopped by the third, and
so on through the series till all the weights are taken up at each side of the
scale pan (t). The needle (k) will point to a higher division of the scale (1, 1),
and the higher or lower of the two characters in each division will be brought
opposite to the point of (k) according as the current (which is sent through
the coils (o, o,) as well as through those of the electro-magnet (a), is sent in
one direction or the other. By this means with one wire as many different
signals can be given as increments of electric force can be conveniently sent
along it, care being taken that the increments of force and of weight be
adjusted to each other so as to cause the pointer K to rise by successive degres.
In order that a pair of these variable power instruments may work well in
correspondence in the same circuit, this near and remote instrument repeating
correctly each other signals, it is necessary that the current passing through
both be of equal force, notwithstanding the loss which the current sustains by
leakage before reacting the remote instrument. For this purpose it is
necessary that only a part of the current sent shall pass through the near
instrument, a proportion equivalent to the loss by leakage being sent through a
separate channel to the remote instrument. Fig. 6, Sheet 1, shews the mode
of effecting this, and generally the arrangements for working the instrument.
The range of 12 metal keys, each bearing two characters, are tinted yellow.
The range of batteries (diminished to bring them into a diagram) are shewn
above, from (a) to (n), connected to each other, so that when the extreme

page_text: poles (a) and (n) are joined they form one continuous battery. The positive
pole (a) of the first battery is connected with the metal bar (0, 0); the
negative poles of the batteries if connected each with a key as shewn.
Either of the keys, when depressed, comes into contact with the metal bar
(p. p). (q) is a pedal rheotrope shewn sideways in the diagram for clearness
sake, as also is another pedal (r), but in reality working in the vertical sense
by the pressure of the foot. The metal branches (s, s,) are connected with the
earth; the metal centre (t) is connected with one binding screw of the variable
power apparatus (u) just described, and also with one end of a set of resistance
coils (v). The pedal (9) is kept by a spring habitually in the position shewn
(t) in contact with (o) and (s) in contact with (p); the pressure of the
foot brings (s) in contact with (o) and (t) in contact with (p), so as
to reverse the direction of the current; (t) and (s) are of course insulated
from each other. The pedal (r) carries a brass point (w), and another (a).
(w) is connected with the other end of the resistance coils (2), with the same
binding screw with which (t) is connected. (y) is a piece of metal with which
(w) comes in contact when the pedal (r) is pressed down; it is connected to the
binding screw (b) of the turn-plate (a¹). (2) is a piece of metal, with which
(a) is always in contact, except when the pedal is pressed down; it is connected
with the earth. The alarum (e') is connected by one binding screw with the
carth, by the other with the binding screw (d') of the turn-plate. The
binding screw (e) of a turn-plate is connected on the one hand with the axis of
the moveable indicator (ƒ³), on the other hand with the telegraphic line, which
can thus be put in communication at pleasure with either the alarum (e') or
the telegraph (u). All these connections are shewn in the diagram by dotted
lines, and will be readily traced by persons accustomed to follow the com-
plicated course of electric currents through telegraphic apparatus. By these
arrangements the current of the remote battery passes wholly through the
alarum (e) or the telegraph (u), according as the indicater (f¹) is turned to
right or left, but the current of the near battery is divided, part going through
the telegraph (u) and the remainder through the resistance coils (v). The
amount of this remainder may be varied by varying the length of the resistance
coils, and it should be made equivalent to the loss which the current sustains
by leakage in passing to the remote instrument. If the letter E is to be sent,
the key bearing E and D is pressed down, and also the pedal q; if D is
to be sent the same key is pressed down without the pedal 9; and it is the
same for the other characters and keys. The pedal (r) is always kept down
while sending signals, always lift up while receiving them. The batteries
should consist of small but very numerous elements feebly excited to obtain

page_text: greater constancy; but the arrangements for procuring electric currents may
be varied without varying the principle of the instrument.
Part O, claim. With respect to Part O, I claim generally the obtaining
a variety of telegraphic signals by varying the force of electric currents sent
along a wire.
I also claim, secondly, the contrivance for stopping the action at a series of
determinate points, by causing the attractive force generated to act against a
series of resistances coming into action one after the other by what may be
called an intermittent augmentation (as contradistinguished from a gradual or
uniformly progressive augmentation) of resistance; and for this purpose I
particularly claim.the employment of a series of weights lifted successively.
I claim, thirdly, the equalization of the action of a near and a remote
telegraphic instrument by diverting from the former a proportion of the current
equivalent to the loss diverted by leakage from the latter, the portion so
intentionally diverted being however returned into the main current beyond
the near instrument, so that there is no enfeeblement of the current; and the
arrangement being reciprocal, so that each instrument may be the near and
remote instrument by turns.
And I claim, fourthly, the combination of change of the direction of current
electricity, with variation of its force, for the purpose of obtaining varieties of
telegraphic signals.
Part P.-The next part of my improvements relates to that form of tele-
graph in which characters are impressed upon paper by the blow of a hammer,
and this improvement has for its object to cause the blow to. be struck imme-
diately that the required type is brought round over the paper, and also to
simplify the mechanism. In the hammer printing telegraph, as hitherto made,
there is an interval long enough to turn the type wheel completely round
between every two blows of the hammer. Thus, suppose A has been printed,
and B is to be printed after it, the type B is brought over the paper by the
escapement of a single tooth, but the blow is not delivered' till as much time
has elapsed as would be requisite to bring round Z by the escapement of twenty-
three teeth. In this improved printing telegraph the hammer suffers B to
pass where it is not intended to be printed, but falls down and strikes it when
it is intended to be printed, without an instant loss of time, and the same with
all the letters.
⚫ Sheet 6 shows the apparatus for performing this. (a, a,) is the paper
cylinder, the middle part of. which is suppressed in the Drawing to show the
parts behind. (b, b.) is the long screw on which the paper cylinder travels in

page_text: turning. (c,c,) is a long pinion turned by the spring and train (d, e, f,) and
taking into the toothed wheel (g), carried by the cylinder (a, a). h is the type
wheel seen edgwise, carried by the vertical axle i, which also carries the rocket
toothed wheel k, which is worked by an escapement, driving mechanism, z,
and electro-magnet (m, m), exactly similar to that herein-before described, and
figured at Figure 5, Sheet 4, except only that it is placed horizontally instead
of vertically. (n) is a hammer centred on a pivit (o), and having a tail p, to
which is attached the light spring 9, which is retained by the latch (r), which is
pivoted at (s), and pressed upward by the light spring t. u is a detent pivotted
at (v), and taking into a tooth (w) on the periphery of the wheel (ƒ), so as
to stop the motion of the train. x is a branch of this detent piece so disposed
that when the hammer (n) falls, its tail p strikes x and rises the detent so as to
release the train. y is a small pin projecting from the wheel f, and so disposed:
that as the wheelf turns the pin y comes against the tail p of the hammer, so
as to raise the hammer n and to press the spring q within the tooth of the
catch r.
It will be remarked that the detent u drops directly the tail P of the
hammer is withdrawn from beneath it by the pin y, so that the tooth (w), on
coming round, meets the detent, which thus hinders the wheel from making
more than one revolution. The latch r has a small iron armature at z, acted
on by the electro-magnet a', and the hammer n has a small iron armature
at b acted on by an electro-magnet c'. The hammer n is so adjusted that when
raised, as in the Drawing, it is nearly in equilibrium, but not quite, so that it
will fall down on the letter if released, though owing to its own approach to
equilibrium the commencement of its movement will be comparatively slow,
so slow that more than the sixteenth of a second elapses before the armature b¹
is removed in falling beyond the influence of the magnet c'. The electro-
magnet m, m, of the escapement, and the electro magnets c¹ and d, are all
connected, so that the current goes through them all simultaneously. In
working escapement telegraphs at the ordinary rate the teeth escape at the
rate of about sixteen or seventeen per second, that is, the current is sent and
the electro magnet attract sixteen or seventeen times in a second. The action
of the mechanism will now be easily understood. Suppose A has been printed
and the next letter B is to be printed, the communicator by which the instru-
ment is worked (in the usual way as well known) is advanced one spoke; one
current is sent; 'the three magnets attract once each (m,.m.), causing. one tooth
to escape and bringing B over the paper, (a), drawing room the catch. (r,) and
releasing the hammer (C), holding the hammer back for an instant so as to :
prevent it from beginning its fall till the current.has ceased. Directly the
current has ceased the. hammer falls, strikes the type and prints the letter, at..
the same time raising with its tail (p) the detent ("), so as to allow the

page_text: wheel (f) to turn. The wheel (ƒ) by its pin (y) raises the hammer, restores
the spring (9) to its former position within the tooth of the catch (2), and is
stopped by the tooth w meeting the detent (u), so that all is as
before, ready for printing another letter. But if, instead of the next
ensuing letter the tenth letter has next to be printed, then ten spokes
of the communicator will be turned at the rate of sixteen per second; the
three electro magnets will attract ten times at the same rate. In
the case of the magnet (a¹), its first attraction will draw down the
catch (r), release the spring (9), and leave the hammer ready to fall,
and its nine ensuing attractions will produce no further effect, except to
make the catch (7) vibrate uselessly up and down. In the case of the magnet
(m, m), each of its ten attractions will advance the escapement one tooth; in
the case of the magnet (c), the first attraction will retain the hammer for an
instant, then it will begin to fall, but the second attraction coming only the
sixteenth of a second after the first, before the armature (6') has got beyond
the influence of the magnet (c'), the hammer will be again retained for an
instant; it will then again begin to fall, again be retained by the third
attraction, and so on to the last attraction of the tenth; then the letter
required being in its place over, the paper, and no more currents being sent,
the magnet (c) will cease to attract and retain the hammer, which will fall,
strike the type, print the letter, release the detent (u), set in motion the
wheel (w), and by its action be raised as before for a new operation. The
tenth letter has of course been mentioned only to facilitate the description,
which applies equally to all the letters.
With respect to Part P, I claim the employment of intermittent but
rapidly reproduce electro-magnetic attraction, to retard the descent of a
hammer until the type which it is wished to strike has been brought round to
receive the blow.
Part Q-The next part of the Invention consists in the application of a
registering apparatus to the keys of electric telegraphs, so that in the act of
working the telegraph a record of the signals sent is produced without trouble
to the operator, and by a mechanism which (if so desired) can be placed beyond
his controul. Figures 8; 4, and 5, Sheet 3, shew respectively a plan, front
elevation, and side elevation of a simple form of mechanism for this purpose.
In each Figure similar letters indicate similar parts. (A), (B), (C), and D,
are the keys (as, for example, of a double needle telegraph) working on axles
at E, F, G; and H, I, I, is an axle having a branch K under each key, and
another branch. y, near the end I, pivotted to the arm M, which catches by the
tooth N into the rocket wheel (O); fixed on the axle of the lower of a pair of

page_text: rollers P, P, and P1, P1, which are pressed together by the springs, so as
firmly to grip the paper R, R, R, supplied by the roller S, S, which is pressed
by a side spring t, to steady it, and has a handle (u) to wind the paper on with.
V, V, V, V, are steel prickers, made elastic, so as not to tear the paper, into
which they prick holes as it passes between the plates W, W', to the rollers
P, P, P, P. Every time a key is depressed, a prick is made in the paper
underneath it, and by the action of the levers R, L, and M, a fresh surface of
paper is by each depression of either key brought forward to receive a new
prick. is a spring which restores (1) to its position after each prick, and
advances (n) to take another tooth. (y) is a spring which presses up (n)
between the teeth of the wheel (o). It is obvious that the action of the keys
will be found recorded in the shape of four rows of pricks on the paper, which
will be delivered through the slit (Z) in the case of the instrument, and may
be cut off as convenient.
With respect to Part Q, I claim the adaptation of recording mechanism to
the keys or buttons of electric telegraphs, so as to register their action without
trouble to the operator.
In conclusion, I would observe that I have had to refer to many portions of
mechanism which are old and well known, and in respect of which I make no
claim whatever, I claim nothing but what is defined in the foregoing claims;
but, on the other hand, I do not limit myself to the specific details of material
and form set forth, so long as the distinctive characters of the several parts of
the Invention, as herein-before set forth, be retained.
In witness whereof, I, the said Moses Poole, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Fourteenth day of June, in the year of our
Lord One thousand eight hundred and forty-seven.
MOSES (L.s.) POOLE.
AND BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the Fourteenth day of June, in the
year of our Lord 1847, the aforesaid Moses Poole came before our said Lady
the Queen in Her Chancery, and acknowledged the Specification aforesaid,
and all and every thing therein contained and specified, in form above written.
And also the Specification aforesaid was stamped according to the tenor of
the Statute made for that purpose.
Enrolled the Fourteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and forty-seven.