New or Improved Apparatus for Testing Velocipedes.
Year: 1894

page_text: Date of Application, 31st Oct., 1894
Complete Specification Left, 2nd Sept., 1895-Accepted, 31st Oct., 1895
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION.
New or Improved Apparatus for Testing Velocipedes.
We, JOHN JAMES HENRY STURMEY of No. 19 Hertford Street, Coventry
in the County of Warwick, Journalist, and GEORGE DOUGLAS LEECHMAN of
No. 18 Hertford Street, Coventry, aforesaid, Engineer, do hereby declare the
nature of this invention to be as follows:-
Our invention relates to apparatus for testing the strength, rigidity, friction and
the like of velocipedes.
"
When it is desired to test a bicycle under conditions similar to those existing
when such a velocipede is being actually ridden, we connect to it one or more
suitable weights, the weight or weights being disposed at a suitable distance below
the level of the velocipede and we make the connections between the machine and
the weight or weights sufficiently rigid laterally to maintain the former in a normally
upright position. The connections pass through or beside the surface on which
the machine is tested. For example, in the case of the kind of bicycle, commonly
known as the "rear-driving safety we may take two rods and secure one end of
each to the handle-bar at a suitable distance apart and secure the other ends to a
transverse bar, which in turn is secured to or placed on the saddle, saddle pillar or
other suitable part of the machine. From one or both or each of these rods we
may suspend another rod which may pass through one or more suitable clips or
guides attached to the machine and which carries below the level of the machine
a weight or weights sufficient to maintain it in the position above mentioned. To
allow of the machine moving in the direction of its length the surface is slotted to
accomodate the weight carrying rod or rods, or if a weight or weights be arranged
on each side of the plane of the machine, the necessity of the wheels travelling
directly on the slot in the surface is avoided and the surface may be contracted to
a mere beam with a weight carrying rod passing down each side of it, or the rod or
rods may be forked, bent or cranked to avoid the necessity of a central slot. The
weight or weights may be suspended from the axles, crank bracket or other
suitable part or parts of the machine and they are preferably adjustable lengthwise
and transversely.
When a bicycle is so supported and weighted any extension from its normal
unstrained condition may be noted. In making this test on tricycles and other
self supporting velocipedes, an ordinary level surface may be employed and the
weight or weights applied more directly to the machines.
To ascertain the loss of power between the cranks and the tire of the driving
wheel (or wheels in the case of some tricycles and the like) we attach a drum or
part of a drum or the like to one of the cranks or to some other part of the machine
so that its curve is concentric with the centre of the crank axle and so that it (the
said drum or part of a drum) is free to rotate with the said crank axle. Over the
curve from the back towards the front we pass a suitable chain, strap or the like,
securing the rear end to the drum and the other end to a bar. This bar is
preferably secured by its upper end to a suitable part of the weight carrying
apparatus and the lower end bears on the front curved surface of the drum and has
one end of the chain, strap or the like connected to it. The two ends of the bar
are made capable of approaching each other by making the bar telescopic or by
other suitable means and a suitable spring tends to extend the bar and an indicator

page_text: registers the power of any force tending to compress it. Means may be provided for
compressing the bar and spring and for retaining them thus at any desired pressure.
We suspend another weight by a chain, strap or the like hanging over the extreme
backward part of the driving wheel tire attaching the other end of the chain,
strap or the like to a suitable part of the said wheel. The difference between the
pressure indicated by the spring and the weight supported at the tire will or may
be made to show the loss. Under such circumstances, at the same time, the
tension of the chain may be ascertained by severing two of the links in the upper
"'run and introducing a spring indicator provided with suitable connections. To
ascertain the tractive force of the machine the weight and strap should be removed
from the driving wheel and a connection through a spring indicator be effected
between the driving wheel axle or some other suitable part of the machine and a
rigid body situated in the same longitudinal plane as the machine; or a cord,
pulley and weight may be employed, the pulley being secured to the same rigid
body.
"
To ascertain the lateral rigidity of the machine we provide suitable grips to hold
the machine preferably by the wheels, in its normal or vertical or other suitable
position. We also provide in rigid connection with the same grips, a standard or
the like adapted to be connected by a pulley and weight or a suitable spring with
the crank bracket or other suitable part of the machine so as to produce a lateral
strain on the said machine. To measure the deflection a rigid lath or the like may
be laid or stretched against the said grips or against a suitable part or parts of the
machine and the distance therefrom of the bracket or other suitable part before,
during and after the application of the strain, read off by means of an ordinary
rule. Under certain conditions, as when the machine is tested when in a horizontal
position, the standard or the like above referred to may be dispensed with and the
deflection read off from the surface. To ascertain the want of rigidity generally
in the front frame of a direct steering machine we utilise some or all of the
apparatus herein before described as in testing for the loss of driving power. The
upper end of the extension rod is connected to one of the rods attached to
the handle-bar at a suitable distance from the centre thereof. We provide a
suitable grip or grips to hold the rear wheel and if desired the rear part of the
frame or part thereof firmly in position. We provide a small trolley or carriage
readily capable of a transverse motion for the front wheel to rest on. On application
of power to the drum, the deflection of the front part of the frame in various
directions may be measured by an ordinary rule from fixed standards or the like
provided for the purpose.
To ascertain the want of torsional rigidity in the said front frame we provide
suitable grips to hold the front wheel or the front spindle firmly in position, the
frame is then brought into a convenient position and an arm (in some cases the
handle-bar might be employed) secured firmly thereto in a suitable position. A
weight or spring is attached to this arm and in the case of a spring the other end
is firmly secured to a standard or the like in rigid connection with the grips, so as
to produce a torsional strain on the frame the effect of which may be read off by a
rule from a standard as before.
The want of torsional rigidity in the rear frame and in the whole frame may be
ascertained by employing similar apparatus suitably modified.
To ascertain the friction in pedals we secure the pedal pin to a suitably rigid
standard and attach to the pedal, at right angles to its axis, a light, stiff and
evenly balanced cross bar provided at one end with means for the attachment of
weights, and weights are applied until the inertia is overcome. Or one end of the
bar may be provided with a divided scale and a sliding weight. We also provide
suitable means for the attachınent of pressure weights about the centre of the pedal
so that it may be tested as if in work. Any deflection of the pedal pin may be
tested at the same time. Pressure weights and balances may be similarly applied
to other revolving parts.
To ascertain the want of rigidity in the handlebar, we provide a suitable clamp

page_text: adapted to hold the bar by the stem or by the centre of the bar itself or by some
other convenient part and preferably in an inverted or partly inverted position, we
then attach a weight or weights to one or both ends of the bar or to some other
convenient part or parts and note the deflection by a standard or rule or other
suitable means.
To ascertain the resiliency of the pneumatic or other elastic tires, we provide a
rocking frame working on a horizontal hinge and having means for securing a
wheel fitted with the tire to be tested, in a vertical position and preferably at
right angles to the hinge on one side of the hinge, and a recording marker
travelling with the frame on the same or the opposite side of the hinge. We
provide a rigid table for the wheel to rebound on and a suitable drop mechanism,
which may consist of a thread attached to a suitable support so that it may be
adjusted for height and attachable to a suitable part of the wheel. A cutter may
be fitted for severing the thread or it may be burnt. The marker is caused to
make a record on a surface movable at a regular and fixed speed by clock-work or
other suitable means. The record of any particular tire may be compared with
that of others or with a standard record, to ascertain its resiliency.
The apparatus is preferably made adjustable so that it may be applied to different
machines. Weights and springs may be interchanged as may be found convenient.
Dated this 30th day of October 1894.
JOHN JAMES HENRY STURMEY.
GEORGE DOUGLAS LEECHMAN.
We, JOHN JAMES HENRY STURMEY of No. 19 Hertford Street, Coventry in
the County of Warwick, Journalist and GEORGE DOUGLAS LEECHMAN, of
No. 18 Hertford Street, Coventry aforesaid, 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 :-
Our invention relates to apparatus for testing the strength, rigidity and friction
and the like of velocipedes, and in order that the same may be well understood we
append five sheets of drawings which show how the several parts thereof may be
carried into practical effect, but we do not confine ourselves to the precise details
shown therein, as modifications may be made without exceeding the limits of our
invention.
On Sheet 1-
Figure I is a side view of a rear driving safety bicycle mounted on a stand and
fitted with certain apparatus constructed according to our invention.
Figure II is a plan drawn to an enlarged scale of part of the apparatus shown in
Figure I and
Figure III is a similar view of a guide employed in connection with part of the
apparatus shown in Figure I.
Ou Sheet 2-
Figure IV is a plan of part of the apparatus shown in Figure I Sheet 1.
Figures V and VI are plan and side views respectively of a pedal fitted with
apparatus constructed according to our invention and
Figure VII is an end view of a pedal fitted with part of other such apparatus.
On Sheet 3-
Figure VIII is a plan, Figure 1X is a side view and Figure X is an end view
of grips for holding the wheels of a bicycle.
Figure XI is a front view showing the front wheel of a bicycle mounted on a
trolley according to our invention.

page_text: Un Sheet +
Figures XII and XIII are end and side views respectively of a clip which
may be used in connection with our invention and Figure XIV is a plan of a part
of such clip.
Figure XV is a side view and Figure XVI is a plan of apparatus for testing
the resilience of pneumatic or other elastic tyres according to our invention.
On Sheet 5-
Figure XVII is a side view of apparatus for testing the want of torsional
rigidity in the front part of a bicycle.
Figure XVIII is a side view of apparatus for testing the want of rigidity in the
handle-bar of a velocipede.
Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the drawings.
When it is desired to test a bicycle under conditions similar to those existing
when such a bicycle is being actually ridden, we connect to it one or more suitable
weights, the weight or weights being disposed at a suitable distance below the
level of the velocipede. The weight or weights and distance below the level of
the velocipede are made sufficient to counterbalance the bicycle, and we make the
connections between the bicycle and the weight or weights sufficiently rigid
laterally to maintain the former in a normally upright position. The connections
pass through or beside the surface on which the velocipede is tested. The weight
or weights may be added to until the velocipede breaks down under the strain,
either at once or after an interval, thus showing its ultimate strength; the elastic
limit may be shown at an earlier stage. Similarly other tests hereinafter described
may be carried far enough to show the limit of elasticity and ultimate strength of
the parts tested. For example, as shown at Figure I on Sheet 1, and Figure IV
on Sheet 2 in the case of the kind of bicycle known as the "rear-driving safety,"
we may take two rods 2 and secure one end of each to the handle-bar 3 by suitable
clips 40 at a suitable distance apart and secure the other ends to a transverse bar 4,
which in turn is secured by a staple, cross bars and nuts 82 to, or merely placed on
the saddle, saddle-pillar 5 or some other suitable part of the machine. Or the
bar 4 may be dispensed with and the rods 2 secured to, or placed directly on the
saddle, saddle pillar or other suitable part.
The clips 40 may be of any convenient construction but we prefer to make each,
as shown in Figures XII, XIII and XIV on Sheet 4, of a band 75 bent into
U form and having an aperture through the centre and another through each end,
the two latter being in line. This band is passed over one (3) of the two rods or
the like 2, 3 to be joined together and is bolted to the other (2) by a bolt and
nut 77 passing through an aperture formed through such other rod 2. A screw 78
passes through the hole in the centre of the band and works in a tapped hole in a
block 79 adapted to bear in the curve of the U; the point of the screw 78 may
bear directly on the rod 3 but we prefer to interpose a saddle 80 which distributes
the pressure on the rod 3. By tightening the screw 78 the rod 2 is securely
attached to the rod 3 and by rounding the end of the rod 2, with half its transverse
diameter as radius and the axis of the bolt hole as centre, the rod 2 may be set at
any angle between 0 and 180 degrees with the rod 3.
From one or both, but preferably from each, of the rods 2 we suspend another
rod 6 which passes through one or more suitable clips or guides 7, attached to the
chain stays 8 or other convenient part of the machine so as to prevent the said
rods 6 swinging sideways. Each rod 6 carries below the level of the machine a
weight or weights 9 sufficient to maintain it (the machine) in the position above
mentioned. By regulating the position and quantity of the weight, the strain on
the machine may be made to closely resemble that induced by the rider when
mounted. To allow of the machine moving in the direction of its length the surface
on which it rests may be slotted to accomodate the weight carrying rod or rods 6,
but we prefer to arrange a weight or weights on each side of the plane of the
machine so that the necessity of the wheels travelling on a slotted surface is
avoided and the surface may be contracted to a mere beam 10 carried on trestles 86

page_text: as shown, with a weight carrying rod passing down each side of it. The trestles
and beam are preferably formed into one rigid structure. Or the rod or rods 6
may be forked, bent or cranked to avoid the necessity of a central slot. The
weight or weights 9 may be suspended from the axles 11, 12, crank bracket 13, or
other suitable part or parts of the machine, and they are preferably adjustable
lengthwise and transversely. To provide for the lengthwise adjustment, the rods 6
are preferably perforated at intervals with holes 14 into any of which suitable
Shooks 15 may be hitched, the other ends of the hooks 15 being adapted to carry
the weights 9. To provide for the lateral adjustment of the weights, we provide
guides 7 each consisting of a screw threaded bar 16 carrying two flexible metal
band clips 17, 18 and four nuts 19. The clip 17 is opened and fitted round the
stay 8 and gripped thereon by two nuts 19 so that the bar 16 projects out
horizontally from the machine; the other clip 18 lies at right angles to the first 17
and the rod 6 passes down through it and is gripped by the other two nuts 19. By
altering the positions of the clip 18, or clips 17 and 18, and nuts 19 on the bar 16
the rods 6 may be set further apart or nearer together. The lower ends of the two
rods may conveniently be braced together by a cross bar or any other suitable
means, and the weight or weights may be carried by such cross bar or the like.
When a bicycle is so supported and weighted, any extension from its normal
unstrained position may he noted by measuring any increase of distance between
the wheel axles. In making this test on tricycles and other self-supporting
velocipedes an ordinary level surface may be employed and the weight or weights)
applied directly to the saddle pillar, handle bar or other suitable parts of the
machine.
To ascertain the loss of power between the cranks and the tyre of the driving
wheel (or wheels in the case of tricycles and the like,) we proceed as shown in
Figures I, II and III on Sheet 1 and Figure IV on Sheet 2. We attach a drum
or part of a drum or the like 20 to one of the cranks 21 or to some other part of
the machine so that its edge is concentric with the centre line of the crank axle 22
and so that it (the said drum or part of a drum), is free to rotate with the said
crank axle. The drum is preferably provided with a central aperture to receive
the end of the crank axle 22 which frequently projects slightly beyond the face of
the crank 21, and it may be attached to the crank by two staples 23 embracing the
arm of the crank and projecting through holes perforated therefor in the web of
the drum and held tight by nuts 25. Set screws 24 are screwed in through the
sides of the staples so that cranks of various sizes and forms may be firmly held.
Over the curve of the drum from the back towards the front we pass a suitable
strap 26, chain or the like, rivetting or otherwise securing the rear end to the
drum and the other end to a block 29 which is attached to a bar 27 by a clip 40.
The bar 27 is preferably secured by a clip 40 at its upper end to the rod 2, or to
some other suitable part of the weight carrying apparatus, and the lower end bears
on the front curved surface of the drum and has one end of the chain, strap or the
like connected to it, by the block 29 and clip 40 as before mentioned. The weight
of the drum, strap, bar 27 etc. is preferably counterbalanced by making the two
weights 9 unequal, the one on the drum side being proportionately lighter than that
on the other. The weight of other parts of the apparatus may be counterbalanced
as circumstances may require. The two ends of the bar 27 are made capable of
approaching each other by making the bar telescopic or by other suitable means.
A suitable spring 30 tends to extend the bar and an indicator, consisting of a
tapped and milled collar 31 working on the inner screw threaded part 33 of the
rod 27 and a scale 32 marked on a flat on 33 registers the power of any force
tending to compress it. Any suitable means such as the tapped and milled collar 31
working on the inner screw threaded part 33 of the rod 27, a collar 34 fixed to 27
for the spring to bear on and a set screw 35 passing through the said collar into
a recess in the inner part 33, may be provided for compressing the bar and
spring and for retaining them thus at any desired pressure. A spring catch
may be conveniently substituted for the set screw 35. To ascertain the power

page_text: lost in overcoming the inertia and friction in starting the machine, the set
screw 35 or catch is released so that the two parts of the bar 27 are free
to move telescopically and the machine and apparatus are adjusted so that
the indicator shows a pressure of 0 lbs. on the spring.
The collar 31 is then
screwed down until the machine is just on the point of moving forward,.
when the pressure indicated shows the power lost. To ascertain the power lost
when the progress of the machine is further resisted by an incline, we raise the
front end of the beam to the same degree as the incline and then apply pressure
to the spring until the machine is on the point of running forward. The surface
of the beam may be roughened to represent a rough road. To represent the effects
of a head wind, we may use a blast or we may suspend another weight 36 by a
strap 37, a chain or the like hanging over the extreme backward part of the
driving wheel tyre 38 attaching the other end of the strap, chain or the like to a
suitable part of the said wheel. To obtain more clearance between the weight 36
and the beam 10 a cross bar 39 with dropped hooked ends may be attached to the
hanging end of the strap 37 and the weight 36, in two parts, hooked on to the
ends of the said bar. The loss of power may be then calculated as follows:-
Let a = the effective length of the lever on the crank axle, in inches.
b = the number of teeth of the larger chain wheel 83, or radius to the pitch
line, in inches.
C =
the number of teeth of the smaller chain wheel 84, or radius to the pitch
line in inches.
d = the radius of the driving wheel measured from the axle to the beam, in
-
e=
p
inches.
the radius of the driving wheel measured to the centre of the thickness
of the strap 37, in inches.
the pressure of the spring 30, in pounds.
w the weight on the strap 37, in pounds.
Then when the machine is on the point of moving forward if there were no loss
66
will show the actual loss in pounds. Under such circumstances, at the same time,
the tension on the chain 28 may be ascertained by severing the upper
run" and
introducing a spring indicator provided with suitable connections preferably
including the adjusting device 76, 86 described in the next succeeding paragraph.
To ascertain the tractive force of the machine the weight 36 and strap 37 should
be removed from the driving wheel and a connection through a spring indicator 41
be effected between the driving wheel axle 12 or some other suitable part of the
machine and a rigid body, such as the standard 42 situated in the same longitudinal
plane as the machine (see Figure I Sheet 1). Two parts of the connections holding
the said spring indicator preferably take the form of screw threaded rods 86, one
having a right thread and the other a left. These two rods are united by a
corresponding double screw nut 76 the turning of which causes the two rods to
approach or recede in the well known manner; or other suitable means may be
provided for adjusting the tension of the spring 41 without varying the distance
between the points to which it is connected. A loop 43 passing through a vertical
slot in the standard 42 and adjustable on a screw 44, and connected to the
standard 42 and indicator 41, may be provided to allow a horizontal pull in every
case. Or a cord, pulley and weight may be employed, the pulley being secured to
the said standard 42 or other rigid body. A variation of pressure on the spring 30
when the rod 27 is free to extend or contract will be accompanied by a variation
in the indicator 41; the adjusting device 76, 86 or the like should be operated to
prevent or annul longitudinal movement of the bicycle while the test is made.

page_text: The
To ascertain the want of lateral rigidity in the machine we provide suitable
grips to hold the machine, preferably by the wheels, in its normal or vertical or
other suitable position. These grips may conveniently take the form shown in
Figures VIII, IX and X on Sheet 3, where four blocks 45 of wood, metal or
other suitable material are fixed side by side in two pairs to a base 47. The
opposing faces of the blocks 45 are set at a suitable. angle and between them slide
wedge pieces 46. A metal standard 48 is fixed centrally near each set of blocks
and carries a screw 49, nut 50 and cross head 51; the cross head 51 engages with
eye bolts 52 fixed to the smaller ends of the wedge blocks 46. The blocks 45
and 46 are constructed and arranged regularly so that when the nut 50 is tightened
on the screw 49 the opposing faces of the blocks 46 are brought closer together
parallel and equally, and when the nut is loosened they can be moved back and
apart. A second nut 53 may be threaded onto the screw 49 to move the pieces 46
back, and guide straps 54 preferably of metal, may be formed on or fixed to the
inner edges of the blocks 45 to prevent the wedge pieces 46 from rising.
grips are fixed to the base at a distance apart corresponding to the length of
the bicycle, and the construction described allows rins and tyres of various widths
to be gripped without setting the wheels out of line. If desired, boards or the like
may be placed between the opposing faces of the wedge pieces 46 and the parts of
the wheels to be held by the grips, such boards being arranged to move laterally
but not longitudinally so that the longitudinal movements of the wedge pieces may
not be imparted to the wheels of the machine, thus avoiding any tendency to
compress or extend the velocipede lengthwise when gripping the wheels.
provide, in rigid connection with the said grips, a standard 42 or the like adapted
We also
to be connected by a pulley and weight or a suitable spring, (such as the adjustable
spring indicator 41 shown in Figure I on Sheet 1.) with the crank bracket 13 or
other suitable part of the machine so as to produce a lateral strain on the said
machine. To measure the deflection, a rigid lath or the like may be laid or
stretched against the said grips or against a suitable part of the machine and the
distance therefrom of the bracket or other suitable part, before, during, and after
the application of the strain read off by means of an ordinary rule; or the distance
may simply be measured from the crank bracket or other part to a point on the
said standard. Under certain conditions, as when the machine is tested when in a
horizontal position, the standard or the like above referred to may be dispensed
with and the deflection read from the surface of the gripping apparatus.
To ascertain the want of rigidity generally in the front part of a direct steering
machine, we utilise some or all of the apparatus herein before described as in testing
for the loss of driving power. The upper end of the extension rod 27 is connected
to one of the rods 2 attached to the handle bar 3 at a suitable distance from the
centre thereof. We provide a suitable grip such as that lastly herein before
described with reference to Figures VIII, IX and X on Sheet 3 to hold the rear
wheel and if desired a further grip to hold the rear part of the frame or part
hereof firmly in position. We provide a small trolley or carriage 55 (see
Figure XI on Sheet 3) capable of a transverse motion on a platform, which may
be an extension of the base 47, for the front wheel to rest on.
ower to the drum 20, the deflection of the front part of the frame may be
On application of
measured by an ordinary rule from fixed standards or the like provided for the
purpose, as hereinbefore described. The top of the trolley is preferably somewhat
concave to prevent its slipping from under the wheel; and the top is mounted on
wo or more wheels or rollers adapted to run transversely to the machine, as
hown.
To ascertain the want of torsional rigidity in the said front part of the machine
re provide a suitable grip to hold the front wheel such as that herein before
escribed, or a rigid metal fork 81 to which the front fork is bolted by the
pindle 11 as shown in Figure XVII Sheet 5. The front frame is then brought
to a convenient position and an arm, such as the handle bar 3, is secured firmly
hereto in any suitable position. The remainder of the velocipede may be left

page_text: free of or may be detached from the front part. A weight or a spring is attached
to this arm and in the case of a spring the other end is firmly secured to a
standard 42 or the like in rigid connection with the grips or fork and a device,
such as the screws 86 and double nut 76, is preferably employed to produce an
adjustable torsional strain on the frame, the effect of which may be read off by a
rule from a standard as before, or from the varying distance between the points to
which the spring 41 is connected. If a fork be used the wheel may be raised clear
of the base when it (the wheel) will not be reckoned in the result. The want of
torsional rigidity in the rear frame and in the whole frame may be ascertained by
employing similar apparatus suitably modified.
Or
Referring to Figures V, VI and VII on Sheet 2. To ascertain the loss of
power in the pedals, we secure the pedal pin 57 to any suitable rigid standard
either directly, or more conveniently owing to the variety of methods for attaching
pedals to cranks, by attaching the crank to such a standard. We attach to the
pedal at right angles to its axis, a light stiff and evenly balanced cross bar 60
provided at one end with a hook, scoop (58) or other suitable means for the
attachment of weights, and weights are applied until the inertia is overcome.
one end of the bar may be provided with a divided scale 85 as shown in Figure VI
We also provide
and a sliding weight be used thereon in the well known manner.
suitable means for the attachment of pressure weights about the centre of the pedal
such as the bolts and nuts 61 passing through apertures in the weights 62 shown in
Figure VII (where the bar 60 is omitted) so that it may be tested as if in work.
Any deflection of the pedal pin may be tested at the same time, by measuring the
variation of distance between the free end of the pin and the base on which the
standard is fixed. Pressure weights and balances may be similarly employed to
other revolving parts of the machine.
To ascertain the want of rigidity in the handle bar 3 we provide a suitable
clamp 61 adapted to hold the bar by the stem 62 or by the centre of the bar itself
or by some other convenient part and preferably in an inverted or partly inverted
position as shown in Figure XVIII on Sheet 5 so that the strain put on it may be
similar to that to which it is subjected when a cyclist pulls at bis handles when
climbing a hill. We then attach a weight 9 to one or both ends of the bar 3 or to
some other convenient part or parts thereof and note the deflection by a standard
or rule or other suitable means as hereinbefore described. The method of using
the weight is shown on the right hand side of Figure XVIII; if desired we may
employ instead, a spring indicator as shown on the left hand side of the same figure.
The bar 3 is held by the stem 62 in an angular or other convenient position in the
clamp 61. A spring indicator 41 is connected at one end to the bar 3 and at the
other end to a ring bolt 56 secured to the base 47 and a double screw nut 76 is
introduced into the connections for the adjustment of the tension on the spring
indicator 41. The deflection may be read as before.
Referring to Figures XV and XVI on Sheet 4. To ascertain the resiliency of
the pneumatic or other elastic tyres we provide a rocking frame 63 similar to a
cycle fork, working on a horizontal hinge 64 which may conveniently be con-
structed like a cycle crank axle bearing, the ends of the axle 22 being held by
halved lugs on a forked standard 65. The wheel fitted with the tyre to be tested
is preferably bolted by its axle 11 to the ends of the frame 63 in a vertical position
and preferably at right angles to the hinge, on one side of the hinge; and a
recording marker travelling with the frame is fitted on the same or, preferably
the opposite side of the said hinge. The recording apparatus preferably consist
of a pencil 66 enclosed in a bolder 67 attached by a link 68 to the short end of th
frame 63 and adapted to travel up and down in a vertical guide 69. A revolvin
cylinder 70 fitted with a recording paper 71 and adapted to rotate by any suitabl
well-known means at a constant speed, is fixed upright in a suitable positio
opposite the pencil holder 67. The pencil 66 is adapted to mark the paper 71 an
the point of the pencil is kept in contact with the paper by a compression spring i
the holder or by other suitable means. We provide a rigid table 47 to mount th
5

page_text: apparatus on and for the wheel to rebound on; also a suitable drop mechanism,
which may consist of a thread 74 attached to a suitable support 72 having an
overhanging arm 73. The lower end of the thread is attachable to the axle 11 or
other suitable part of the wheel so that it may be adjusted for height. A cutter
may be fixed for severing the thread or the thread may be burnt in two. The
wheel is first held in a raised position, at some predetermined height from the
table 47 as shown in dotted lines, by the thread; when the thread is severed
the wheel drops on to the table 47, this motion is communicated by the frame 63
to the pencil 66 which makes a corresponding upward mark on the paper 71 as the
cylinder revolves; when the wheel rebounds a downward mark is made, and so on
with diminishing movement, until the wheel and pencil come to rest. The record
thus made of any particular tyre may be compared with those of other tyres or
with a standard record, to ascertain its resiliency.
The apparatus generally is preferably made adjustable by any suitable means so
that it may be applied to different machines. Weights, or weights cords and
pulleys, and springs may be interchanged as may be found convenient.
or bars 2, 4 and 6 may conveniently be made of weldless steel tube.
The rods
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of our said inven-
tion and in what manner the same is to be performed we declare that we are
aware that apparatus for testing the resiliency of pneumatic tyres and for testing
velocipedes has already been constructed and we do not claim such apparatus
broadly, but what we do claim is :-
1. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, connecting with sufficient lateral rigidity,
to a bicycle to be tested, one or more weights, below the level of the bicycle, as
and for the purpose set forth.
2. In apparatus for testing a bicycle, maintaining such bicycle in a vertical or
approximately vertical position by a weight or weights disposed below the level
thereof and counterbalancing the said bicycle, substantially as herein described.
3. Apparatus for testing the limit of elasticity and ultimate strength of a bicycle,
consisting of a weight or weights suspended below the level of the bicycle and
connections for attaching such weight or weights to the said bicycle, substantially
as herein described.
4. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of rods such as 2, suspension rods
such as 6, guides such as 7, weights such as 9, a surface such as 10, with or without
a cross bar such as 4, combined, arranged and operating with and on a velocipede
to be tested, for the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and
illustrated in Figure I on Sheet 1 and Figure IV on Sheet 2 of the accompanying
drawings.
5. Apparatus for testing the loss of power between the cranks and the tyre or
tyres of the driving wheel or wheels of a velocipede, consisting of a drum or part
of a drum or the like attached to one of the cranks or to some other suitable part
of the velocipede, a strap, chain or the like attached at one end to the drum and at
the other to one end of a bar, which bar is attached at its other end by suitable
means to the upper part of the velocipede and has its ends capable of approaching
each other, a spring tending to extend the bar, means for compressing the spring
and an indicator showing the power of any force tending to compress the said spring,
with or without a strap or straps or the like hanging over the back of the said
tyre or tyres of the said driving wheel or wheels, attached at one end to the said
wheel or wheels and carrying a weight or weights at the other end, substantially
as herein described.
6. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a drum or the like such as 20,
a strap or the like such as 26, a telescopic or like bar such as 27, a spring such
as 30, a collar such as 31 and a screw thread such as 33, and an indicator such as 31
and 32, with or without a strap or the like such as 37 and a weight or weights such
as 36, combined, arranged and operating with and on a velocipede to be tested,
B

page_text: for the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and illustrated in
Figure I on Sheet 1 of the accompanying drawings.
7. Apparatus for testing the tension on the chain of a velocipede, consisting of
the apparatus herein described and referred to in Claim for testing the loss of
power between the cranks and tyre or tyres, with the addition of a spring indicator
introduced into the upper run of the chain, substantially as herein described.
8. Apparatus for testing the tractive force of a velocipede, consisting of a
drum or part of a drum or the like attached to one of the cranks or to some other
suitable part of the velocipede, a strap, chain or the like attached at one end to
the drum and at the other end to one end of a bar, which bar is attached at its
other end by suitable means to the upper part of the velocipede and has its ends
capable of approaching each other, a spring tending to extend the bar, means for
compressing the spring and an indicator showing the power of any force tending to
compress the said spring and a spring indicator connected to the driving wheel axle
or other suitable part of the velocipede and to a rigid body situated in the same
longitudinal plane as the said velocipede, substantially as herein described.
9. In apparatus for testing the tractive force of a velocipede the use of a drum
or the like such as 20, a strap or the like such as 26, a telescopic or like bar such
as 27, a spring such as 30, a collar such as 31 and a screw thread such as 33, an
indicator such as 31 and 32, a spring indicator such as 41, and a standard such
as 42. all combined, arranged and operating with and on a velocipede to be tested,
for the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and illustrated in
Figure I on Sheet 1 of the accompanying drawings.
10. Apparatus for testing the want of lateral rigidity in a velocipede, consisting
of grips for holding the wheels thereof, a standard or the like rigid with the said
grips, and a pulley and weight or a spring indicator connecting the said standard
or the like with the crank bracket or other suitable part of the velocipede, the said
pulley and weight or spring indicator being adapted to produce a lateral strain on
the said velocipede, and means for measuring the deflection, substantially as herein
described.
11. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a grip or grips for holding
one or more of the wheels of a velocipede to be tested, each grip cousisting of a
base such as 47, to which are fixed blocks such as 45 having their opposing faces
set at an angle, wedge pieces such as 46 adapted to slide between the blocks 45,
and means for drawing the said wedge pieces equally in a lengthwise direction such
as the standard 48, screw 49, nut 50, crosshead 51 and eye bolts 52, with or without
guide straps such as 54 to keep the wedge pieces down, and with or without boards
or the like to prevent the movements of the wedge pieces being imparted to the
wheel or wheels of the velocipede, substantially as herein described and as
illustrated by Figures VIII, IX and X on Sheet 3 of the accompanying drawings.
12. Apparatus for testing the want of rigidity generally in the front part of a
velocipede, consisting of the apparatus herein before described and referred to in
Claim 5 for testing the loss of power between the cranks and tyre or tyres, a grip
to hold the rear wheel and if desired a further grip to hold the rear part of the
frame or part thereof, together with a trolley or carriage capable of a transverse
motion for the front wheel to rest on, and means for measuring the deflection
substantially as herein described.
13. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a trolley or carriage, such
as 55, for the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and as illustrated
in Figure XI on Sheet 3 of the accompanying drawings.
14. Apparatus for testing the want of torsional rigidity in the front part of a
velocipede, consisting of a grip to hold the front wheel or a rigid fork to which is
bolted the velocipede fork by the front spindle, an arm secured firmly to the front
frame, a standard rigid with the said grip or fork, and a weight or a spring adapted
to produce a torsional strain on the said front part, and means for measuring the
deflection substantially as herein described.

page_text: 15. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a rigid fork such as 81, an
arm such as 3, a spring indicator such as 41, and a standard such as 42, all
combined, arranged and operating with and on the front part of a velocipede to be
tested, for the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and illustrated
in Figure XVII on Sheet 5 of the accompanying drawings.
16. Apparatus for testing the want of torsional rigidity in the rear frame, and
in the whole frame, of a velocipede, substantially as herein described.
17. Apparatus for testing the loss of power in velocipede pedals, consisting of a
standard for bolding the pedal either directly or by means of a crank, a cross-bar
attached to the said pedal and a weight or weights adapted to be applied to such
cross-bar until the friction and inertia are overcome, substantially as herein
described.
18. In apparatus for testing velocipede pedals, the use of a cross-bar such as 60
adapted to receive a weight or weights for the purpose set forth, substantially as
herein described and illustrated in Figures V and VI on Sheet 2 of the accom-
panying drawings.
19. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a weight or weights applied
about the centre of a revolving part or parts, for the purpose set forth, substantially
as described herein and illustrated by way of example as applied to a pedal in
Figure VII on Sheet 2 of the accompanying drawings.
20. Apparatus for testing the want of rigidity in the handle-bars of velocipedes,
consisting of a clamp adapted to hold the handle-bar by some convenient part, a
weight or a spring indicator adapted to put a strain on the said handle-bar and, if
a spring indicator be used, a ring-bolt or the like rigid with the said clamp, and
means for measuring the deflection, substantially as herein described.
21. In apparatus for testing velocipedes, the use of a clamp such as 61, and a
weight such as 9 or a spring indicator such as 41 and a ring-bolt such as 56, for
the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and illustrated in
Figure XVIII on Sheet 5 of the accompanying drawings.
22. Apparatus for ascertaining the resiliency of pneumatic or other elastic tyres,
consisting of a rocking frame working on a horizontal hinge adapted to carry a
wheel fitted with a tyre to be tested, and a pencil adapted to mark on a paper fitted
to a revolving cylinder, a suitable drop mechanism, such as a severable thread
connected to a support at its upper end and to a suitable part of the wheel at its
lower end, with or without a cutter for severing the said thread, substantially as
herein described.
23. In apparatus for ascertaining the resiliency of pneumatic or other clastic
tyres, the use of a rocking frame such as 63, a recording marker such as the pencil 66,
enclosed in a holder such as 67, attached by a link such as 68 to the said rocking
frame travelling in a guide such as 69, a revolving cylinder such as 70 fitted with a
recording paper such as 71, a drop mechanism such as the thread 74 and support 72,
all combined, arranged and operating with a wheel carrying a tyre to be tested, for
the purpose set forth, substantially as herein described and illustrated by
Figures XV and XVI on Sheet 4 of the accompanying drawings.
24. The new or improved apparatus for testing velocipedes substantially as
herein described and illustrated.
Dated this 31st day of August 1895.
G. DOUGLAS LEECHMAN.
J. J. HENRY STURMEY.