Transport, Exploring, and other Purposes.
Year: 1887

page_text: Date of Application, 14th June, 1887
Complete Left, 12th Apr., 1888.
Complete Accepted, 8th June, 1888
Transport, Exploring, and other Purposes.
1, JOSEPH SINCLAIR FAIRFAX, of 433 Strand, London, in the County of Middlesex,
Consulting Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as
follows:-
My invention relates to vehicles, propolled by manual, pedal, animal or other power;
and while especially adapted for military operations and purposes,-whether offensive,
defensive, or transport, is also of service for exploring expeditions, ordinary
travelling, and other purposes.
By this invention, a vehicle may be so constructed as to serve many purposes; the
changes required, for the several uses to which it may be put, being readily made ;
the object in view being to make every part of it as light as may be consistent with the
rough usages to be encountered; and that each part shall be adaptable to as many
uses as possible. In this way, the amount of useless material to be conveyed from
one point to another is reduced to a minimum.
The invention will apply to the construction of vehicles standing upon any number
of wheels; but for military purposes, (which are the most exacting), it is best to have
one type of machine, to accommodate a certain number of men; and a description of
such a machine or vehicle will best illustrate the nature of my invention, and its
various uses, or capabilities.
The framework of this vehicle is constructed of light steel tubes, of somewhat large
diameter, screwed, or otherwise securely joined together. The two straight side
frames are placed on four large wheels, (two on each side), and are connected to each
other at the ends by a similar framework but jointed upon a pivot at the centre.
Each pivot is supported upon a small wheel, used for steering, and the links or tubes

page_text: which connect the pivot with the side frames are of such a length that when in
ordinary use, they project the small wheel at each end forward to a point beyond the
ends of the side frames. The ends of the side frames are also pivoted to the linked
end frames; and as the main wheels are supported upon short axles,-not extending
across, it will be seen that the framework of the machine or vehicle is capable of
being collapsed or extended. Suitable locking devices are used to secure the jointed
framework in any desired position; and at the ends provision is made for opening the
framework sections, as a door.
These tubular frames are arranged to carry water or oil, or both, within the tubes;
and suitable screw down, or other, valves are used at the upper and lower levels of the
same to admit and draw off the contents. When emptied, the size of the tubes afford
a comparatively large amount of displacement when immersed in water.
Attached to the framework are flaps, two tiers in height. These flaps are so hung
to the frame that they may be let down at right angles to the frame in order to form
sleeping berths or ambulance couches, either by day or night, and they are supported
by links, chains, wire rope, or other suitable means in the manner indicated; and
when not required in this way, can be folded up in their vertical position. The flaps
are constructed of a light framework of tubes, or bars, or both, with light cross bars
across at suitable distances to serve as ladders. The flaps are readily removable from
the frames to serve as litters for wounded, or to carry other weights upon; and they
are also adapted to serve as a railway track for the vehicles: provision being made to
join them end to end.
One or more layers of steel wire netting are attached to the frame, or to the flaps,
or to both; and is intended to be partially, or wholly, bullet proof. Stout waterproof
canvas, linoleum, or other suitable material, is used to cover the sides and the flaps ;
and it is preferred to add or substitute layers of cork or such other material as will
impart buoyancy to the same. This covering is removable when the flaps are used as
ladders, or light railway track; but may be kept on for the latter purpose when
crossing ice or very soft ground, in order to spread the weight over a larger area.
Extra rolls of waterproof canvas or similar material is carried for roof coverings and
the like; and suitable attachments are placed in their required positions upon the
framework for holding and fastening purposes.
The main wheels are of large diameter, coming up to a man's shoulder at least, for
defensive purposes. They are made close or tight, in box formin and may have one or
more layers of stout steel wire netting used in the construction; or they may be made
according to my former invention relating to wheels, drums, and pulleys; for which
Letters Patent have been granted to me, No. 5726 and dated 9th May 1885. But a
suitable way for the purpose in view is to construct the wheel of two layers of wood,
placed some distance apart at the hub, and one or both of the layers inclined from the
vertical at the rim so as to reduce the width at that point. It is however intended to
have the tread of the wheel made broad so that it may be used upon sand or soft
ground, and so formed or arranged to run upon an ordinary railway track, or upon
the frames of the flaps or side screens, as before mentioned. The space between the
layers of wood may be filled with cork, pitch, or other suitable material, or the same
put upon the outside; the intention being that they should not only afford additional
protection to the men, but that they should also be as floats in water, or have a large
amount of buoyancy. Various combinations of the above methods may be made, and
provision may be made for putting on, or taking off, the tyres.
These main wheels are preferably mounted upon axles which do not extend across
the vehicle. As arranged for ordinary running, the distance between the wheels will
be about the usual gauge, and accommodate three men sitting side by side between
the frames. In this position the frames are locked to the required width, but they
may be opened or collapsed to suit any gauge of railway encountered, or to pass
through narrow passages; and also locked to suit the new width required.
When the sides are fully extended apart the dimensions approach a square; the
linked end portions, formerly pointing outward,-now forming a right angle with
the side frames. In resisting the attack of an enemy, the interior would afford ample

page_text: fighting room for twelve or sixteen men ; while the sides furnish a ready made or
portable breast work, providing a large amount of shelter always available for
service. Where a limited number of men and these vehicles are attacked by an enemy
in force, the machines should be formed in echelon, if time does not permit them to
be properly extended and linked in square. When in echelon they afford the largest
amount of individual cover from a distant fire. But the machines or vehicles may be
opened out for fighting in line, or a number of them joined together in open
formation to make a large square or, rectangle; so that in this way, or the vehicles
placed end to end or otherwise, they always afford a sheltered breastwork or zarēba,
through which an enemy cannot crawl.
When halted for encampment, the frames are opened out to their full dimensions, a
light framework of tubes being erected and covered with canvas or similar material
in order to form a hut or tent. The flaps let down to form beds or tables, and one or
more oil lamps, (preferably two) at each end, are pivoted upon the framework to cook
the food required, to furnish light, and heat the interior if desirable. These lamps
may be swung inwardly or outwardly according to the climate and other circum-
stances and the cooking vessels may likewise be suspended from the framework
above the lamps. The oil supply for the latter is drawn from the tubular framework
which is arranged to carry the same, and another part of the same framework is
arranged to carry water, where a scarcity is expected. The lamps can also be used
for signalling. Suitable valves are employed to control the supply of oil and prevent
leakage.
A double line of seats are arranged across the vehicle, at or near the centre line of
the main wheels, at each end of the vehicle. Each line of seats will accommodate
three men, thus providing seats for twelve persons; and others may be added. When
constructed for propelling by pedals, suitable pedals, cranks, or the like are so
arranged that the outer man on each line of seats assists in propulsion, the remaining
four men in the centre being in reserve; but with the centre man in either the front
or the back line, steering the machine. The seats are arranged so that the men may
either front all one way, or one half in one direction and the other half in the opposite
manner. The seats are pivoted or made to slide for this purpose; the men being able
to pedal in either direction. While not confining myself to any special kind of
driving gear, (as it will be evident that various kinds may be used,) I prefer the
connecting rod or linkwork method of connection, with the pedals rising and falling
along the arc of a circle, or approaching a straight line. But for some purposes, chain
wheels and driving chains offer many advantages.
Saddle seats may be used, or box seats for carrying stores may be used instead, or
a combination of the two kinds adopted. These seats are supported upon a tubular
framework, the tubes of which are available for tube wells, telegraph posts, look out
stages, and other purposes; and the roof supports may be used for a similar purpose
or act as a substitute for the seat framing. This seat framing is so attached to the
main or side framing that it can removed readily when desired, and made collapsible
or extensible by a telescopic method of sliding tubes, or pivoted links; and to the
framing is suspended the pedals or driving gear. In some cases however,
pivot the same to the main or side framing, so that the whole may be folded back out
of the way, when not required.
may
The connections to the wheels may be made in any desirable way, either inside the
vehicle, outside, or the two methods combined. It has already been stated that it is
preferred in some cases to mount the wheels upon short axles, although the axles may
be extended across the vehicle. This system of short axles may be so arranged that
they are pivoted, so that the bearing portion on the wheels circumference may be
shifted, and the wheel itself inclined from the vertical or this may be done by au
eccentric; the periphery of the wheel being modified so that it may either run upon
a narrow surface, or a broad one, to suit the nature of the ground. Suitable springs
are combined with the axles and framework to make the riding easier. Provision is
made to communicate motion to the wheels, in their modified position, from the
cranks, pedals, or other driving arrangement used; and also to swing the wheels

page_text: under the framework when required to act as floats in crossing water. Springs are
.also combined with the steering wheels, not only to act in a vertical direction, but
also to keep the wheels in their normal position when not acted upon by the man
,steering. A ladder framework, or bed of the vehicle, may be used also.
These vehicles or machines may thus be adapted to many purposes, and readily
changed to suit sudden emergencies. It is proposed to use them in place of cavalry
in some cases, every man carried being able to pedal the machine and to aim and fire
his carbine or rifle at the same time; a large part of his body being protected at the
same time from bullet firo and sword. A vehicle of this character can also be used as
an ambulance, forge, store, telegraph, or farriers wagon; as a platform or carriage
for small arms or machine guns; and for many other purposes in cases of necessity.
Dated this 11th day of June 1887.
JOSEPH SINCLAIR FAIRFAX..

page_text: Improvements in Velocipedes and other Vehicles for Military,
Transport, Exploring, and other Purposes.
I, JOSEPH SINCLAIR FAIRFAX, of 433, Strand, London, in the County of Middlesex,
Consulting Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in what
manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in
and by the following statement :-
My invention relates to vehicles propelled by manual, pedal, animal or other power;
and while especially adapted for military operations and purposes,-whether offensive,
defensive, or transport,-is also of service for exploring expeditions, ordinary
travelling, and other purposes.
By this invention a vehicle may be so constructed as to serve many purposes: the
changes required for the several uses to which it may be put being readily made; the
objects in view being to make every part of it as light as may be consistent with
the rough usages to be encountered; and each part adaptable to as many uses as
possible. In this way the amount of useless material, or dead weight, to be conveyed
from one point to another, is reduced to a minimum.
The invention will apply to the construction of vehicles standing upon any number
of wheels; but for military purposes, (which are perhaps the most exacting) it is
advisable to have either one type of machine to accommodate a certain number of
men, or a division thereof; so that the divisions may be combined to form one or
more units for the general purpose. A description of a typical vehicle or machine
will illustrate the nature of my invention, and the various uses and capabilities of the
same.
In the accompanying drawings, Figs. 1 to 6 represent the general arrangement and
construction of a machine designed for military purposes; and Fig. 7 is a diagram, to
a smaller scale, of the same machine opened out to its fullest extent. The machine is
intended to be propelled as a velocipede, but it may also, or in addition, be drawn by
animal power, or motor.
The framework is constructed of light steel tubes of somewhat large diameter; say
three incles; screwed or otherwise securely joined and braced together. The two
straight side frames A, A, are each carried by two driving wheels, a, a. The side
frames A, A, are connected at each end by a similar but linked framework B, B,
pivoted at the centre C, C. Each central pivot is supported upon a small steering
wheel, b, b; and the linked framework which connect the pivots with the side
frames A, A, are long enough to project the small wheels b, b outward to a point
beyond the ends of the side frames; when in use as a vehicle. The linked frame-
work B, B, is pivoted to the side framework at the ends thereof, c, cc, c; and the
main wheels being on short axles D, D, the framework of the machine is capable of
being collapsed or extended. In the plan view Fig. 2, and in longitudinal section
Fig. 3, the seats E, E, are shown.hung. to the side frames by straps e, e, and thus-used

page_text: for locking the same in the required position for travelling. Other suitable locking
devices may be used to secure the jointed framework in any desired position, such as
hooked rods e¹, e', in plan Fig. 6; screwed rods, or similar devices; and these may
also be used at any part of the frame to withstand the working strains. By with-
drawing any of the pivots c, c, the adjoining linked framework B, will open as a
door; and, if all the locking devices are detached, the whole machine will open out
into a straight line of framework, as shown in plan diagram Fig. 7.
The tubular frames may carry water, oil, compressed gas, or solid materials, if
desired, within the tubes; suitable valves being attached at convenient points for
admitting or withdrawing the liquid or gas. When emptied, the size of the tubes
would displace a large amount of water, which would assist in supporting its weight in
crossing rivers. The wheels act in like manner, and with a few air bags the trans-
portation of these vehicles across water is readily accomplished.
In some cases, I attach flaps or mattrass frames to the framework, to which the
bedding or extra clothing of the men are strapped, and which fold up against the
framework the bedding occupying the space between the frames; Fig. 3. These
flaps are let down at or about right angles to the frame to form sleeping berths or
ambulance couches; and are supported by rods, links, or chains. They may thus be
used in the described position, Fig. 9, or detached and placed on the ground, and may
be used as stretchers, ladders, or the like; Fig. 10. In some cases they may be
placed across the vehicle. A light framework of tubes, with crossbars, covered with
steel wire netting, canvas, cork, or the like, form the flap; the frame thereof serving
as a light railway track in crossing ice or soft ground. prefer to cover or form the
outer surface of the frames with a waterproof canvas, sometime placed upon a layer of
hardened steel wire netting; or this latter dispensed with when the same material is
attached to the flaps; or even the two layers of wire netting. Apart from enclosing
the sides, the principal object in military machines is to render the sides partially or
wholly bullet proof. The canvas or other covering of the sides, the bedding or the
great coats of the men assist in this respect; and as it is difficult to pierce thick or
yielding wollen articles with a bullet, especially after it has been cut up, deflected,
and impeded by the hardened steel wire netting used, the sides may be considered
protected from small arms fire. Suitable attachments are placed in their required
positions upon the frame for holding and fastening the canvas covering and other
articles carried.
It is
The main or driving wheels are of large diameter in the example named, extending
up to, or about to a mans shoulder. They are made of box form; that is, without
open spokes, and may have one or more layers of wire netting in their construction,
or be made according to my former invention relating to wheels, drums, and pulleys,
for which Letters Patent No. 5726 of 1885 have been granted to me. But a suitable
method is shown by section in Fig. 11, in which two layers of wood are placed some
distance apart at the hub, and inclined together at the rim to reduce its width.
intended to make the tread broad so as to use it upon sand or soft ground, and it has
a removeable rubber tyre for hard roads. By removing the tyre, (and otherwise in
some cases), a groove is formed so that the wheels will run upon an ordinary railway
or upon the frames of the side screens shown in Fig. 10. The space between the two
layers of wood may be filled with cork, pitch, or other suitable material; the intention
being to afford additional protection to the men, and to have considerable buoyancy.
Various combinations of the above methods may be made, and for adding wide shoes
for special service, in the place of the removeable rubber tyres.
These main wheels are preferably mounted upon short axles; or axles which do not
of themselves extend across the vehicle. As arranged for ordinary travel the machine
illustrated by the Figs. 1 to 6, will accommodate three men sitting side by side between
the frames. In this position the frames are locked to the required width, either by
the seats, or special locking devices, or by both. By releasing the frames from the
locking devicos, they may be opened or collapsed to suit a guage of railway, or to
pass through narrow passages; and by withdrawing a pivot pin c at any of the angles,
the machine will open out, (as shown by the diagram Fig. 7,) into a straight line.

page_text: When the axles, with the side frames, are fully extended apart, the dimensions of
the framework approach a square, (shown by Fig. 6), the linked portions formerly
pointing outward, now forming a right angle with the side frames. In resisting the
attack of an enemy, the interior would afford ample fighting room for twelve or
sixteen men; the sides being a ready made or portable breastworks, providing a
large amount of defensive shelter, always available for service. When a limited
number of men, with these vehicles, are attacked by an enemy in force, the machines
arranged in echelon afford a large amount of individual shelter but they may be
readily extended and linked together to form a large square, or placed in other
formations, and used as a zereba or the like.
When halted for encampment, the frames are opened out as last described, and as
shown by Figs. 4, 5, and 6, to form a tent or hut. A light framework of tubes,
either temporarily or permanently erected and covered with water proof canvas or
similar material. The flaps let down to form the beds or tables, an: one or more
oil lamps are attached to the frame at each end to cook the food required, to
furnish light, and heat, if desirable. The oil supply for the lamps, and for labri-
cation of the running gear is drawn from the frames in which a large quantity can
be stored. The lamps may also be used for signalling.
;
A double line of seats is arranged across the vehicle, at or near the central line of
the main wheels at each end of the vehicle, as shown in Fig. 2. Each line of seats
will accommodate three men, thus providing seats for twelve persons; and two others
may be seated at each end, thus carrying sixteen men in all. When constructed for.
propelling by the feet, suitable pedals, cranks, or the like are arranged so that the
outer man on each line of seats is pedalling the centre man being in reserve; or by
making six throw crank shafts, all may be working at the same time; the end men
being in reserve. This arrangement is shown by Fig. 2. The seats are hung upon
the side frames and pivoted, so that the men may either front all one way, or some in
one direction and some the other; still acting upon the pedals for propelling. It is
evident that various kinds of driving gear may be used, (as shown in part by the
accompanying drawings), but I prefer some form of linkwork, as shown in Fig. 16,
with the pedals rising and falling along the are of a circle, or approaching a straight
line. But for some purposes, especially in the large machine shown by Figs. 1 to 6,
chain wheels and driving chains offer the advantage of conveniently reducing the
speed and is useful in other ways.
Saddle or box seats, or both combined may be employed the latter being used for
carrying stores and the like. The seats are sometimes supported by a framework of
tubes, available for tube wells, telegraph posts, look out stages, ladders, supports for
the tent or roof covering, and the like. This seat framing may be braced or trussed,
and sometimes used (as in Fig. 3) to support the crank shafts; or other driving gear.
The seat framing is so attached to the main framing that it can be removed with
facility, as in the example just named; or it may form a part of the same and made
collapsible or extensible by a telescopic method of sliding tubes or pivoted links; or
be pivoted to the main or side framing; and made capable of being folded back out of
the way, when not required; Figs. 14 and 15.
The driving connections to the wheels may be made inside or outside the framing,
or in both ways. It is preferred in most cases to mount the wheels upon short
axles; although the axles may be extended across the vehicle by a fixed or
removeable axle, used to carry propelling gear. or otherwise. This system of short
axles may be so arranged by pivoting, that the bearing portion on the wheels
circumference is shifted, as shown by the diagram Fig. 12; or by an eccentric motion
as in diagram Fig. 13, thus inclining the wheel more or less from the vertical. The
periphery of the wheel can thus be adapted to run on a narrow surface, or a broad
one according to the nature of the ground. Suitable springs are combined with the
axles and the framework to make the riding easier. The driving gear is preferably
applied to the wheels at a point least affected by the change in their normal position,
and the wheels may be otherwise shifted or removed when required as floats.
Springs are also combined with the steering wheels, acting in a vertical direction,

page_text: and also to keep the wheels in an axial line with the vehicle, when not acted upon by
the man steering. A ladder framework, covered with netting, may be used as the
bed of the vehicle. These vehicles or machines may thus be adapted to many
purposes and readily changed to suit sudden emergencies. It is proposed, in some
cases, to use them as cavalry, or in place of cavalry; every man carried being able
to pedal the machine, and to aim and fire his rifle at the same time. For this
purpose, a lighter and faster machine than the typical one shown by Figs. 1 to 6 is
desirable, and this may be accomplished in several ways, by modifications of the
same. By dividing the machine at X-X, Fig. 2, and reducing the width to suit two
men abreast, a useful machine is obtained of the tricycle type; or a four wheeled
machine made by virtually cutting off the ends.
Other modifications or combinations
may be made by varying the pivotal linkwork, and placing the steering wheel or
wheels in line with the others at the end of the side frames. These machines are
available in military service for ambulance, forge, store, telegraph, and other purposes
such as the support of machine guns, and they may serve similar purposes in
connection with exploring parties. For these especial purposes it is desirable that ono
type or unit of transportation be adopted, carrying a certain number of men, with all
requisites for a certain period, so as to be independent if cut off from a base of
supplies. The smaller the machine the less it can carry in proportion; but it should
be able to unite with the others in a definite manner for a common object. As
stronger machines are required for some purposes than for others it is desirable not to
change the unit type of outer dimensions; but to strengthen the same by using
stronger tubes, more firmly braced together; and for these animal
or other
power used. Unless used in an enemys country, the mantlets need not be carried
habitually. The same may be said of the framework for carrying the canvas or
roof covering if the men can resort to regular barracks. But for the protection of
the riders against inclemency of the weather, and for sleeping in; and for other
purposes, these tent covered machines will be useful in many ways; not only to soldiers,
volunteers and explorers; but also for ordinary tourists; for photographers and
artists; for caterers; for temporary postal and telegraph stations at reviews, races, or
the like; and for many other purposes.
In the accompanying drawings the same reference letters are used throughout, (in
the various figures,) to denote the same parts, or parts having the same function.
Fig. 1 is a general elevation of a typical machine of large size, to accommodate from
twelve to sixteen men. The sides, ends, and top of the machine are intended to be
covered with a light water proof canvas, the top being supported upon a fixed or
detachable framework of light tubes, preferably of hardened steel; but the canvas is
removed in the figures in order to show the construction. A, A represents the side
framework of the machine carried upon box form driving wheels a, a. B, B, is the
linked framework forming each end of the machine jointed at C upon a pivot which
carries a small steering wheel b; the framework B being also jointed to the main
framing A, by a removable tubular pivot c. The main wheels a, a, are mounted upon
short tubular axles D, D, which may serve as port holes.
Fig. 2, is a plan of Fig. 1, in which four lines of seats, E, E, are hung upon the
side frames by straps or other suitable devices, e, arranged to lock the sides together
in the position shown. The seats E are made of sheet metal resting upon or supported
by a trussed framework e shown in the longitudinal section Fig. 3, and are intended
to carry stores within them, and they may also act as floats. The seats are removeable
from the frames, and capable of movement along the same, as indicated by dotted
lines struck from the centre of the crank shaft F, to allow of the men facing in either
direction in propelling. This crank shaft F is centrally supported by rods e³ to resist
the thrust of propelling. The seats are adapted for three men each, and six throw
crank shafts are shown (without pedals), so that each man assists in propelling. The
crank shafts F, are either made square at the ends, to fit into corresponding orifices in
the chain wheels f,f, working in suitable bearings f¹, f, secured to the framing A;
or rigidly secured to the chain wheels f, and provision made for lifting each crank
shaft with its attached chain wheels out of the bearings f',', when it is desired to

page_text: extend the width of the machine. In this latter arrangement the crank shaft acts as
locking gear for the side frames in addition to its usual function.
The chains pass from the chain wheels f,f, on either side over a double chain
drum, secured to each main or driving wheel a.
This drum is larger in
diameter than the chain wheelf in order to reduce the speed, as it is not desirable to
attempt to drive machines of this character at a very rapid rate; especially over rough
ground.
The steering can be done at either or both ends by the steering wheels, b, b,
working in a fork b¹, the extension of which, within the tubular pivot C, is controlled
by the steering handle . The fork is extended upward into a sleeve ³ to which
signal handles *, & are attached; and the sleeve being prolonged, terminates in a
metallic flag of a different colour on either side, the handles for which, 4, can be
used for short distance signalling. A lamp or mirror may also be attached for long
distance signalling by light. A double insulator &, is either secured to b³ or mounted
loosely thereon so as not to partake of its movements, and serves to carry a line of
field telegraph. In the detail drawings Figs. 18 & 19 are shown a small reel intended
to carry about fifty yards of insulated wire, with a Morse sounder key attached to the
same. This is attached to the sloevo 63 and hooked over the signal handles ₁ so as to
form a transmitting and receiving table; a suitable small battery being easily
carried and connected to the line. Thus, machines about fifty yards apart, connected
by lines from one to another, will furnish a complete telegraph line across a field,
high enough for men on horseback to pass beneath complete in all respects for
actual service, either on the battle field, or for outpost duties, at reviews, or for
temporary postal telegraph purposes.
:
Upon the sides, and at each end, of the machine is shown a light tubular
structure G; preferably made of hardened steel tubes. These may be permanently
attached to the general framework of the machine, or made detachable, as desired.
They are intended to be covered with a light waterproof canvas; beneath which
may be placed upon the tubes at the top, light and fine wire netting to keep out
arrows and assegais. The parts g, y, at the ends, are pivoted upon 63 so as to partake
of the motion of the link work frame B, B, when opened or closed at the knuckle
joints in the same, upon the pivots C, C, and c, c, c, c. The supports gg₁ are placed
at a short distance from the ends of the framework A and B respectively, so that
when the ends are closed, a rectangle is formed for use as a tent or fighting square,
(as shown in the plan Fig. 6; and an orifice is left at each angle. At each or all
of these angles, a machine gun may be pivoted upon the tube c, or upon an attach-
ment thereto, so that a wide range of firo can be obtained from the same. The
upper part of the structure G, upon each of the side frames A, las a pivotal motion
at the points gg, so as to partake of the collapsible or extensible motion of the side
frames A, A; as indicated by the end elevation in Fig. 4. The dotted lines in this
figure indicate the position of the longitudinal part of the structure G when travelling;
and the full lines denote the position of the same when the machine is halted and
the sides extended to their full distance apart. In this position it is used as a hut or
tent access to the interior being obtained at the space left at each angle; as before
described. The water proof covering for the top is divided into two halves, running
longitudinally. Each half is connected to the corresponding longitudinal tube g³, g³;
at the top of the structure. The ends of these tubes, and those next below them are
prolonged, and close against the end structure G, G, when in the position shown in
Fig. 4; and may be locked in that position if required. By removing either of the
pivots c, c, the end framework is capable of opening to any desired extent: either as a
door, or into a straight line as indicated in the diagram Fig. 7. The structure G
participates in this movement, and to avoid a leakage along the ridge line of the
canvas when the machine is in the position of Fig. 4, an apron or flap of the covering
extends from one side to the other, and is secured thereto by suitable straps or the
like. These must be unfastened, when the machine is to be opened out into line.
Fig. 4 is an end elevation, Fig. 5 a side elevation and Fig. 6 a plan of the niachine
in the form of a rectangle, and as used for sleeping or fighting in. To obtain this
R

page_text: form, the seats are lifted off the side frames, the cranks withdrawn, and any locking
gear that may be used, is released. The linkwork ends are drawn in and the sides
opened outward, and may be locked in this position readily as shown by angle
stays e¹ in Fig. 6. In Fig. mantlets of hardened steel wire is shown hung upon,
or secured to the sides, and with the bedding or great coats of the men hung upon
or placed against the sides, the same are made practically bullet proof. The spaces
covered by the wheels a, a, are additionally secure. A machine gun, having a pin
beneath, may be pivoted upon either one of the four corner tubes c, c, or to an
attachment thereto; or one used at each corner; as before stated.
is
The structure G is intended to be of hardened steel tubes, and the lowest one, g*,
about six feet from the ground. If attacked by cavalry, the heads of the men
within are protected against sword cuts by two or three lines of hardened steel tubes.
The hollow axles D may be used as port holes to fire through, or to observe the
enemy's movements.
Fig. 7 is a plan diagram upon a reduced scale, of the machine opened out into a
straight line, after withdrawing a pivotal tube c. In this position it covers a wide
front, and is available as breastworks, (with or without entrenchments,) for the side of
a square; or zereba, for transit along a narrow road, or over a mountain pass, or the
like. Any similar machine may be joined to it at any point marked c and thus it
lends itself to many different forms or arrangements.
tlic
Fig. 8 is a section through the side framing A. Upon the inner side are shown
two tiers of flaps H, H, to which the bedding, men's great coats, or the like are
strapped, the dotted lines indicate the position of the same when used for sleeping or
as au ambulance. The chain h at the top, and the rod at the bottom (to stand upon
the ground line) indicate suitable means of support to the flaps, which may be
removeable. Upon the outer side of the framework A are shown mantlets ', in this
case supported by studs screwed into the frame. Between the mantlet and the flap,
bedding and clothing may be stowed away neatly, and in itself this forms a good pro-
tection from flying bullots. The hardened steel wire netting of the mantlets, and that
covering the flap, increase this protection to the men within. It is intended to use the
mantlet netting to cut up, impede, and deflect the bullets striking the sides, rather
than to keep them entirely out, (for that would require much extra woight); after
which the passage through woollen clothing would be much more difficult, the
tendency being for the bullets to strike sideways rather than end on; and then the
netting covering the flaps is an additional resistance to use up the energy originally
stored in the bullet. It will be understood, however, that the machine may be used
without either mantlets or flaps, and that protection is still given by the wheels, and
the framing; further supplemented by the men's clothing. A canvas covering his
placed outside the frame, and is looped up at the bottom and secured there when
travelling. At night this bottom piece is let down to the ground, where it may be
pegged or weighted with stones.
Fig. 9 shows a proposed arrangement of wire netting upon one form of flap H.
The wires are drawn widely apart to show one method of construction, but it is in-
tended that they shall lay closely together. Fig. 10 is a ladder form of flap, covered
with netting, cork, linoleum, or the like. These may be joined end to end as shown in
Fig. 10 the bottom end being slipped into the corresponding top end of the next
ladder as shown in the detailed figure. In this form it becomes a portable railway;
the sides forming the rails, which are level throughout. Thus formed it may be used
for crossing ice, soft ground, as a stretcher, and for other uses.
Fig. 11 is a section through a driving wheel and axle, showing the manner in which
two layers of wood a¹ are disposed at some distance apart so as to effect a large
amount of displacement. The space between may be filled up with cork shavings and
pitch, or the like, but it is desirable to make each layer waterproof. At the periphery
of the wheel a dovetail groove is formed to receive a detachable india rubber tyre a²
of corresponding form. This tyre a², need not be placed in the centre, as shown, as
I may sometimes place it at or near the edge of the periphery; and a special shoe,
fitted in its place, may be used for exceptionally yielding ground. A double angle

page_text: shaped plate or tyre a³, is fitted to the circumference, and serves to secure the parts
firmly together and receives the wear and strain when the same is used directly on the
ground, on the removal of the rubber tyre. A chain drum f' is fitted to the centre
of the wheel on the inner side, and firmly secured thereto and to the flanged
sleeve d, by which it is revolved upon the hollow axle D. Attached to the axle D'or
forming a part thereof, is a pivot or pivots d' upon which the axle, and with it the
revolving sleeve pivots and this pivotal point d' is braced or secured to the frame by
top and bottom rods d² and d. Stout spiral or other springs take the strain of the
wheel and distribute it upon the frame. The wheel, therefore has a limited motion
along the arc of a circle struck from the pivot, as shown by the diagram Fig. 12. In
some arrangements of the frame, this would admit of the wheel being swung beneath
the same, to act as a float, and for other purposes. The axle may be made much
shorter, (as shown in the plan Fig. 6), by forming circular boxes on each side of the
sleeve, playing, surrounding, and working upon corresponding vertical tubes in the
frame, against suitable springs.
To provide for sudden changes in the character of the road, and to avoid frequent
removals of the tyre, the latter is sometimes placed near one edge of the circum-
ference, and the wheel tipped into or placed in another plane of rotation as shown by
the dotted lines in Fig. 13. One way of doing this is by mounting the wheel on an
axle formed with an eccentric at the inner end which is rotated one half its circum-
ference when the change is required. At the norinal plane of rotation the wheel
runs upon the rubber tyre, but when this plane is changed, the bearing is upon the
broad flat part of the circumference which is bevelled for that purpose to the required
angle. Suitable means are used for locking the axle in either position.
Fig. 14 is a plan diagram of a type of machine similar to the typical one, but in
which each rider sits over and propels a wheel. All the wheels, a, a, are attached to
the longitudinal framing A, A, but the wheels b, b, at the extreme ends have a pivotal
motion by which the machine is steered. This machine is also capable of a collapsing
or extension movement, as indicated by the dotted lines; but the linkwork B is
without a joint in the centre. Suitable locking gear e¹ is used to lock the machine in
any required position.
Fig. 15 is a plan of a four wheeled machine (principally in diagram) for four or
more riders; which has also an extensible and collapsible frame. The large tube
framework A, A, carries at each point of the right angle, a fixed wheel a, a. Smaller
tubes B, B, slide within the larger ones and carry at, the corresponding corners,
steering wheels b, b. The machine can be extended at either one side or one end of
the rectangle, or both, as shown by the dotted lines; and by using knuckle joints at
each angle of the frame, the machine can be collapsed into a rhomboidal figure. Suit-
able locking gear is used as before stated to secure the frame in any desired position.
It is convenient in this type to have front or direct driving gear to the two front
wheels; and rear driving to the others. Other seats may be placed between or upon
the frame to carry more than four persons; who may assist in propelling.
Fig. 16 is an elevation, and Fig. 17 is a plan, (both partly in diagram) of a three
wheeled machine to carry three or five riders; all assisting in propelling.
The
wheels a, a, are carried between forks, preferably secured to the frame A the lower
part of which is opened out to receive the central part of each wheel. The front
wheel is a steering wheel, and is shown with a "Facile " linkwork F, for driving
the same; a similar arrangement being shown upon the other wheels. In addition
to this, however, an additional pair of cranks, and chainwheel are mounted upon
the frame A, A, (as indicated) and arranged to assist in propelling the wheels a, a, by
the chains and chain drums f, f2, upon the axis of the same. Two wheels may be
used in the front of this machine instead of one, in the manner indicated by Fig. 15.
This type of machine can be made very light for fast riding, and is a modified sub-
division of Figs. 1 and 2 narrower in width, and with seats upon the frame.
The frame of this machine is likewise extensible; but in length instead of in width.
Tubes slide telescopically within the main tubes of the frame (as in Fig. 15), in the
manner indicated by dotted lines. The structure G is likewise extensible in length,

page_text: and in the same manner, for height; the supporting tubes glsliding within the corner
tubes or guides g². They may be kept at any desired height or position by a pin or
pins passing through orifices in the tubes, or by other suitable means. This structure G
is detachable, and may be stowed away upon the frame while travelling. Tubular
supports for the frame when halted, are mounted upon the lower extensoins of the
corner tubes, or of the supporting tubes, and are arranged to slide up and down upon
a fixed pin within a slot; a bayonet joint top and bottom of the slot, serving to
secure the support h in position. A hinged rod, h, as in Fig. 8, may be used for this
purpose instead of the sliding tube. At the back end of the frame a seat or store
box E is hooked upon eye bolts attached to the frame, and serves to lock the two sides
together. Angle tie rods, el, are shown at the front end for the same purpose; and
these may be used as gun racks.
It will be understood that other modifications and combinations may be made of the
several parts or features of my invention, and that any suitable metal or alloy, other
than steel, may be used in construction. I am aware that folding or telescopically
sliding axles have been used for reducing the width of velocipedes to enable them to
pass through narrow openings, but this is apart from the invention herein
described.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said Inven-
tion, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is
1. A velocipede or vehicle constructed principally of tubes and adapted to be
propelled by the muscular power of its riders, comprising; an extensible frame;
box formed wheels; buoyant seats adapted to carry stores; a framework adapted for
use as a receptacle or receptacles, or as a portable breastwork; a tent or hut; a
support for a telegraph line; or any of these features; substantially as described.
2. A velocipede adapted to be used for sleeping purposes; substantially as
described.
3. In a velocipede, a framework forming the sides or ends, or both, and having
therein one or more vertical sections attached by a fixed or removeable pivot or pivots ;
substantially as described.
4. In a velocipede, a jointed or extensible linkwork combined with one or more
steering wheels, partially or wholly supporting the said linkwork; substantially as
described.
5. A velocipede or vehicle having a linked or extensible framework, adapted to be
drawn out or extended in one or more directions, and to occupy a larger area of space
than that required in travelling; substantially as described.
6. In a velocipede or vehicle, a rectangular or rhomboidal form of framework,
adapted to receive a machine or quick firing gun at one or more of the angles thereof;
substantially as described.
7. A velocipede or vehicle, having wheels adapted to bear upon a wide or narrow
portion of the circumference thereof; substantially in the manner and for the purpose
specified.
8. In a velocipede or other vehicle, the combination of a short tubular axle, a
sleeve capable of revolving upon the said axle, a wheel fixed to the sleeve, and suitable
devices for pivoting the said axle, whereby the plane of revolution of the wheel may
be changed; substantially as described.
9. In a velocipede, the combination of a framework of rectangular or rhomboidal
form, with three or more driving wheels mounted upon short axles, and driving
gear for two or more of the said wheels secured upon the said framework; substan-
tially as described.
10. In a velocipede, the combination of side frames with one or more seats
adapted to lock or support the said frames at a fixed distance apart, substantially as
doscribed.
11. In a velocipede, the combination of two side frames fixed at a distance apart
and mounted upon three or more wheels in stable equilibrium, with driving gear

page_text: adapted for two or more riders to act upon and propel each driving wheel;
substantially as described.
12. In a velocipede, the combination of an extensible framework with a wheel
situated at an angle of the said framework, or at a pivotal point therein; substantially
as described.
13. In a velocipede, the combination of an expansible or folding framework, driving
wheels supporting the said framework, and driving gear partially or wholly detachable;
substantially as described.
14. In a velocipede or other vehicle, the combination of a framework principally or
wholly constructed of metal tubes, wheels upon which the said framework is carried,
and a folding, collapsible or extensible structure above the said framework, adapted to
carry a protective covering; substantially as described.
15. In a velocipede, the combination of a waterproof covering, or a mantlet, or
both, with the framework of the machino; substantially as described.
16. In a velocipede a fixed or detachable support adapted to carry a canvas or other
covering substantially as described.
17. In a velocipede the combination of one or more insulators with a support for
carrying the same attached to or forming a part of the machine; substantially as
described.
18. In a velocipede or other vehicle, constructed principally of metal tubes, the
combination of one or more insulators, a support for the same, a coil of line wire,
mounted upon the said support, and signalling devices; substantially as described.
19. A velocipede or the several parts thereof when the same is adapted to serve
one or more purposes in addition to its usual function substantially in the manner and
for the purpose or purposes described.
20. The several novel forms and arrangements herein described and illustrated by
Figs. 1 to 17 inclusive; substantially as set forth.
Dato this 15th of Al 1000
JOSEPH SINCLAIR FAIRFAX.