IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING AND REGISTERING FIRE AND BURGLAR ALARM AND OTHER SIGNALS
Year: 1876

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Robert Lake, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake,
"
& Co, Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings, London, for the Invention
of IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING AND REGISTERING
FIRE AND BURGLAR ALARM AND OTHER SIGNALS." A communication from
abroad by William Barney Watkins, of Jersey City, New Jersey, United States
of America.
Sealed the 28th July 1876, and dated the 8th February 1876.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Robert Lake at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 8th February 1876.
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patent Agents,
Southampton Buildings, London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING
AND REGISTERING FIRE AND BURGLAR ALARM AND OTHER SIGNALS."
A coin-
munication.
The object of the said improvements is to afford the means for automatically
detecting the accidental outbreak of a fire at its commencement, or attempted
burglary in buildings or places where the said apparatus may be placed, by more
effectually transmitting intelligible signals of the same to fire department or other
signal receiving stations, while at the same time the telegraph circuits may be used
for other purposes.
According to the said improvements I construct a main metallic and auxiliary
earth circuit of galvanic electricity whereby two simultaneous and independent
signals may be transmitted at the same instant to the receiving signal station for
different purposes by means of suitable telegraphic signaling apparatus connected
therewith.
I also construct clockwork apparatus having an actuating magnet in combination
with a system of switches, circuit closers, and an auxiliary earth circuit of galvanic
electricity having thermostats, or fire or burglar detectors arranged therein, whereby
signals of fire or burglar alarms at any point of the main circuit of wires may be
transmitted through the apparatus and auxiliary curcuit to the receiving signal
station, notwithstanding that the main metallic circuit may be broken or short cir-
cuited at any intermediate place between the receiving signal station and magnet
of the transmitting apparatus.
I combine revolving circuit breakers with a main metallic and an auxiliary
earth circuit, and with a train of wheels whereby signals may be transmitted either

page_text: over a closed or open circuit, or over both at the same time, by operating the train
of wheels either with or without an actuating magnet.
I also combine a stop lever with the apparatus for automatically stopping the
train of wheels by arranging the said lever in combination with the armature and
lever of an electro-magnet and a releasing pin or cam operated by one of the shafts
of the train, whereby the train will be stopped when the current ceases through
the actuating magnet with the revolving circuit breaker wheel always in the same
position with reference to its metallic surfaces and spring circuit breakers.
I also combine a revolving circuit breaker arm secured to the axis of a stationary
circuit breaker wheel with the said apparatus, and operate the same by means
of a stopping lever in combination with a fly wheel, detent lever, and adjusting
switch lever, whereby a signal will be transmitted through the closed circuit of the
main line to the receiving signal station; and I arrange a revolving circuit breaker
upon the periphery of the clockwork main spring barrel in combination with two
circuit breaker springs having an electric connection with an auxiliary earth
branch of the main circuit, whereby a definite series of signals may be transmitted.
to any receiving signal station.
1 employ a device for indicating when the wheels of the train are run down by
means of a toothed wheel having a pointer attached to its axis and rotated by a
stud or pin on the periphery of the main spring barrel, whereby the working
condition of the train may be more effectually ensured.
I provide the circuit breaker with insulating spaces across its face of different
lengths circumferentially, and combine the same with the apparatus, whereby a
fire alarm signal number may be indicated by the longest insulating spaces, while
a signal call or burglar alarm signal may be indicated by the shorter insulating
spaces; and I arrango an adjustable circuit closer or switch in combination with
the revolving circuit breaker and springs and the auxiliary earth branch of the
metallic circuit whereby either of the different signals or calls may be transmitted
to the receiving signal station by turning the adjustable switch to either side to
transfer or complete the circuit to make the different signals or calls as desired.
I combine with the axis of the revolving circuit breaker wheel or other axis of
the train of wheels a metal hub having a transverse insulating space or strip
arranged across its face, and a circuit closer spring so arranged with its tip resting
on the insulated space that it will with the metallic hub forin an open circuit; but
instantly that the hub revolves it will form a closed circuit through the circuit
breaker revolving wheel to the signal receiving station, and thus transmit an alarm
signal, should any person tamper with or operate the train of wheels though the
circuits were open through the fire or burglar detectors or circuit closers, an a com-
municator is used for burglar alarm signals, when either of the circuits may be
closed, and a transfer auxiliary branch from the indicator may complete the circuits
through a screw post, spring circuit closer, and circuit breaker wheel, so as to convey
a burglar alarm signal differing from the fire alarm signal, and thus indicate the
cause of the signal. It will be obvious that any suitable local alarm and indicator
may be used to accomplish the object described.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by the
said William Robert Lake in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 8th August
1876.
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patent Agents,
Southampton Buildings, London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING
AND REGISTERING FIRE AND BURGLAR ALARM AND OTHER SIGNALS." A communi-
cation from abroad by William Barney Watkins, of Jersey City, New Jersey, United
States of America.

page_text: The object of the said improvements is to afford the means for automatically
detecting the accidental outbreak of a fire at its commencement or attempted
burglary in buildings or places where the said apparatus may be placed, by more
effectually transmitting intelligible signals of the same to fire department or other
signal receiving stations, while at the same time the telegraph circuits may be used
for other purposes.
According to the said improvements I construct a main metallic and auxiliary
earth circuit of galvanic electricity, whereby two simultaneous and independent
signals may be transmitted at the same instant to the receiving signal station for
different purposes by means of suitable telegraphic signalling apparatus connected
therewith.
I also construct clock work apparatus having an actuating magnet in combination
with a system of switches, circuit closers, and an auxiliary earth circuit of galvanic
electricity having thermostats, or fire or burglar detectors arranged therein, whereby
signals of fire or burglar alarms at any point of the main circuit of wires may be
transmitted through the apparatus and auxiliary circuit to the receiving signal
station, notwithstanding that the main metallic circuit may be broken or short
circuited at any intermediate place between the receiving signal station and magnet
of the transmitting apparatus.
I combine revolving circuit breakers with a main metallic and an auxiliary earth
circuit, and with a train of wheels whereby signals may be transmitted either over
a closed or open circuit, or over both at the same time, by operating the train of
wheels either with or without an actuating magnet.
I also combine a stop lever with the apparatus for automatically stopping the
train of wheels by arranging the lever in combination with the armature and lever
of an electro-magnet, and a releasing pin or cam operated by one of the shafts of
the train, whereby the train will be stopped when the current ceases through the
actuating magnet with the revolving circuit breaker wheel always in the same
position with reference to its metallic surfaces and spring circuit breakers.
I also combine a revolving circuit breaker arm secured to the axis of a stationary
circuit breaker wheel with the said apparatus, and operating the same by means of
a stopping lever in combination with a fly wheel, detent lever, and adjusting switch
lever, whereby a signal will be transmitted through the closed circuit of the main
line to the receiving signal station, and I arrange a revolving circuit breaker upon
the periphery of the clock work main spring barrel in combination with two circuit
breaker springs, having an electric connection with an auxiliary earth branch of
the main circuit, whereby a definite series of signals may be transmitted to any
receiving signal station.
I employ a device for indicating when the wheels of the train are run down by
means of a toothed wheel having a pointer attached to its axis and rotated by a
stud or pin on the periphery of the main spring barrel, whereby the working
condition of the train may be more effectually ensured.
I provide the circuit breaker with insulating spaces across its face of different
lengths circumferentially, and combine the saine with the apparatus, whereby a fire
alarm signal number may be indicated by the longest insulating spaces, while a
signal call or burglar alarm signal may be indicated by the shorter insulating spaces;
and arrange an adjustable circuit closer or switch in combination with the
revolving circuit breaker and springs, and the auxiliary earth branch of the metallic
circuit, whereby either of the different signals or calls may be transmitted to the
receiving signal station by turning the adjustable switch to either side to transfer
or complete the circuit to make the different signals or calls as desired.
I combine with the axis of the revolving circuit breaker wheel or other axis of
the train of wheels a metal hub having a transverse insulating space or strip
arranged across its face and a circuit closer spring so arranged with its tip resting
on the insulated space that it will with the metallic hub forin an open circuit, but
instantly that the hub revolves it will form a closed circuit through the circuit
breaker revolving wheel to the signal receiving station, and thus transmit an alarm

page_text: circuits were open through the fire or burglar detectors or circuit closers.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.
Figure 1 is a plan of the transmitting apparatus and its line connections.
Figure 2 is a plan of the line connections of the double acting system of main
metallic and auxiliary earth circuits at a signal receiving station.
Figures 4 and 5 are plan views of signal magnet annunciators or indicators.
Figure 3 is a plan of the line connections with fire and burglar alarm circuit
closer instruments in different rooms of a building.
Figures 6, 7, 8, and 9, shew parts of the annunciator detached.
Figure 10 is a view of a local alarm instrument within a building.
Figure 1 is a front view of the transmitting apparatus or signal box.
Figure 12 shews the self adjusting stop lever and its connections detached.
Figure 13 is a sectional view of the signal circuit breaker wheel.
Figure 14 is a rear view of the transmitting apparatus.
Figure 15 is an end view of the apparatus.
Figure 16 is a longitudinal sectional view of the said apparatus through the
line x, x, Figure 1.
Figure 17 is a sectional view of the insulating band attached to the main spring
barrel.
A represents the base of the transmitting apparatus, and B the frame for the
train of wheels to be secured upon. To the base are also secured an actuating
magnet, switches, and line of wires for operating the apparatus; C, Figure 2,
represents a receiving signal station, at which is arranged a battery D, magnet E,
and key F, and magnet 15 of the main metallic circuit. From the positive pole of
the battery a line passes through the magnet E and key F, and thence to the
screw post H on the base A, thence to button I, actuating switch J, button K,
switch L, and screw post M, and thence returns to the station C, and connects with
imagnet 15 and with the negative pole of the battery D to complete a closed
metallic circuit.
In connection with the receiving signal station C is arranged an auxiliary earth
branch circuit N permanently connected with the magnet O, earth battery P, and
ground Q. Also at such points as may be desired one or more other auxiliary open
earth branch circuits R, magnets S, and grounds T, may be combined with the
metallic circuit or line G. The object of this combination of earth circuits with a
metallic circuit is to obviate the objection to the use of a simple metallic circuit
which when broken or short circuited cannot be used for transmitting signals until
it has again been electrically repaired. But by my combination of an auxiliary
carth battery and receiving instrument permanently connected with the earth and
with the metallic circuit and open earth auxiliary branches at various points on the
main line, two separate and distinct signals may be transmitted at the same instant
over the one main wire to the receiving signal station without interfering with each
other, while at the same time if a break or short circuit occurs at any point of the
main metallic circuit the signal may still be transmitted by means of the auxiliary
earth branches without the delay of repairing the line.
The great importance and utility of the combination of the auxiliary earth circuits
with the main inetallic circuit for ensuring the transmission of fire alarm signals
and for other purposes will be obvious.
Any number of these open auxiliary earth branches may be taken into buildings
or into any number of buildings, and connected with circuit closing signalling
devices or with signal boxes for the purpose of transmitting the desired signals or
messages.
U, V, W, and X, Figure 3, represent additional auxiliary circuits branching from
the auxiliary line R, which may connect with heat circuit closers or thermostats, as
shown at Y and Z, for automatically transmitting fire alarms should a fire occur in

page_text: either of the apartments; or the auxiliary circuits may connect with circuit closers a³
and be attached to doors and windows for burglar alarms, or with circuit closer
keys c, d, e, and f in different rooms for signal calls.
The rooms numbered 1, 2, 5, and 6, are supposed to be in a building numbered 4
distant from the station C. In case of fire in either of the rooms or 2, Figure 3,
the insulated compound strip 7 of the thermostat Y or Z will be deflected by the
increase of temperature against the adjusting screw 8 of the dust-tight metallic
case of the thermostat (in which the compound metallic strips should be secured)
when the temperature has reached the point or degree at which the adjusting screw
has been set, the strip will act as an automatic switch to complete the circuit from
the auxiliary branch R of the main line through the wire X or W to the indicator
spring 9 or 10, thence through the metallic plate or disc 11, against which the
springs are all normally pressed. The disc 11 connects with the magnet g and with
the earth T by the wire 2, thus completing the circuit through the earth to the
ground Q, battery P, and magnet O, and permanent auxiliary branch N at the
station C.
The armature lever of the magnet O may be used to bring into operation any
suitable local gong or register for receiving and registering the signal in a well
known manner. The magnet, Figure 4, will attract the armature of tho
annunciator and release a train of wheels arranged so as to cause the arm 12
(attached to one of the shafts of the train) to rotate, until its outer end comes in
contact with the spring 10, which connects by the wire or branch X with the
compound strip 7 of the thermostat Z. When the circuit has been completed from
the branch R through the wire X and spring 10, the arm 12 (shown more clearly in
Figures 8 and 9) will press the spring 10 away from the insulated metallic disc 11,
and in this manner break the circuit through the electro-magnet gå, Figure 4, releaso
the armature, and stop the train, so that the pointer (which also revolves with
the arm 12) will indicate in which department the fire has occurred. The arm 12
will then rest on the spring 10, and will press it against the transfer metallic disc 13.
The follower 14, which is a part of the arm 12, also rests on the transfer disc 13.
The circuit will then be completed from the branch X through spring 10, arm 12,
follower 14, disc 13, and wire to screw post m², thence to a spring n², circuit
breaker wheel p² of the transmitter spring o, wire q, magnet S, and thence by the
wire to the ground T, and thence to the ground Q of the auxiliary branch N to
complete the circuit to the station C, and this will be done whether the main line G
be broken or closed, and without the use of local batteries in the buildings where
the transmitters and circuit closers are placed. In the auxiliary ground branch t³
may be used a local alarm operating magnet and coil w² of equal resistance for
dividing and maintaining the circuit, so that both the local alarm and the signal
at the station C may be given at the same instant. A similar annunciator a² may
be used in a similar manner for burglar alarm signals when either of the circuits Ŭ
or V may be closed, and the transfer auxiliary branch from the indicator X2 may
complete the circuit to the screw post 22, spring circuit closer a³, circuit breaker
wheel p², so as to convey a burglar alarm signal differing from the fire alarm signal
and thus indicate the cause of the signal.
It will be obvious that any suitable local alarm and indicator may be used to
accomplish the objects described. The circuit closing springs n² and a³ are secured
to an insulator 63 and separated from each other as shown in Figure 15. c³, d³, e³,
fs, and 3 (Figures 1 and 16) represent the axles or spindles of the train of wheels
of the transmitting apparatus. On the axle is secured a fly h³ for regulating the
speed of the train of wheels, and on the axle is secured a signal circuit breaker
and closer wheel p², insulated by a hub ³. The circuit breaker wheel på may be
arranged on the different instruments with such a number of breaks and such spaces
between them as may correspond with the signal number desired to be transmitted.
In this instance, to illustrate its operations, to signal a given number, to wit,
No. 4, at the station C, four insulating breaks ³, k³, 18, and m³ are used (Figure 11).
It will be observed that when the circuit closer wheel p² is revolved the circuit

page_text: will be opened longer on the break (Figure 1) (when the circuit is completed
through the circuit closer spring 2) than it will be when the circuit is completed
through the circuit closer spring a³. In either case the corresponding movements
of the armature of the magnet O, at the station C, may be made to announce the
cause of the signal by bringing into operation in a well-known manner any suitable
printing, sounding, or indicating telegraph instrument, and by connecting a local
alarm circuit with the armature of the magnet O a continuous alarm may be given
at the station C should an accidental ground occur on the line G, and will be con-
tinuous until it is removed thereby by the special character of the alarm, as dis-
tinguished from the slower intermittent number signals becomes an automatic
detective of any defect in the proper working condition of the line.
The magnet S is secured to the lower part of the frame B of the transmitting
apparatus, and n³ is its armature secured to the lower end of a lever o³, working or
vibrating on an axis på (Figures 1 and 11.) To the upper end of the lever a detent
q is formed to hold the fly 3 from rotating when there is no current through the
magnet, and is held in that position by a spiral spring
83 is an arm projecting from one side of the lever 03 upon which rests one end of
a stop lever 3 (Figures 11 and 12). This stop lever is secured to the frame B by a
centre pin u³, so as to have a free up-and-down vibratory motion, and its object
is to automatically stop the train of wheels and revolving circuit closer wheel p
always in the same position, so that the circuit breaker and closer springs n² and a³
may rest upon the metallic surfaces of the wheel p, as shown in Figures 1 and 15.
This is effected by means of a cam v³ or other equivalent device attached to the
side of the wheel p² (or to its axis) as shown in Figures 11 and 12, which as the
wheel rotates depresses the inner end of the stop lever t³, whereby the catch at its
outer end is raised from the arm 83. When the armature n³ is attracted by the
magnet S or the lower arm of the lever o³ is otherwise forced inwards, the arm 83
will be withdrawn into the detent notch or catch in the outer end of the stop lever
t3. When thus released the spiral spring 3, attached to the lower side of the lever,
will pull it down so that the catch in its outer end will again hold the arm &³ and
detent g, and the train of wheels will be released and the cam ³ will revolve in
the direction of the arrow, as shewn in Figure 12. But when the cam reaches the
position shown in Figure 11 it will depress the inner end of the stop lever t", and
cause its opposite or outer end to release again the arm 8. If at this point there
is no current through the magnet S the armature will be released and the train will
be stopped by the detent lever q with the circuit closer springs n and a resting
upon the metallic surface 3 of the circuit closer wheel p in the position it first
had, as shewn in Figures 1 and 15. But if in this position of the parts there is
still a current through the magnet S the armature n³ will not be released, and the
circuit closer wheel 22 will continue to revolve until the circuit closer which started
the train has been opened, thus repeating at each revolution of the wheel at the
station C the signal corresponding with the insulating breaks on the wheel.
a' is a switch working on a centre pin or screw ', secured into the base A of the
transmitting apparatus, and connects with the auxiliary branch circuit R of the
main line G. This switch is held in position by pins c', but when pressed down
may be turned on the button d'or et, connecting by a wire with either the circuit
closer spring us or n. By this means the circuit may be closed through either
spring as desired to operate the instrument.
fis an insulating band surrounding the clock work main spring barrel, having
spaces cut through it at equal distances apart from each other throughout its
length so that the circuit closer springs ht and may make a metallic connection
with the barrel as it revolves, but insulated therefrom when resting on the band, as
shown in Figures 1 and 15.
, Figure 1, is a wire which connects the circuit breaker and closer spring h* with
the ground wire t, and a wire ', Figure 1, connects the circuit breaker and closer
spring with switch , and the wire m connects the button n with the screw
post of
When the switch is turned on the button n*, and the circuit has been

page_text: closed through either of the auxiliary branches, and the train of wheels of the
transmitting apparatus released by the means above described the main spring barrel
with its insulating band f' will revolve until the ends of the circuit breaker springs
and press upon the metallic surface of the barrel through the opening g' in
the band. When this has been effected the train will instantly be stopped as
the circuit will then be completed through the path of least resistance which will
be through the auxiliary branch R, wire m', switch wire ', springs and
, wire, and then directly in the direction of the arrow to the screw post p
and to the ground T, thus automatically cutting out the magnet S and releasing the
armaturen, and stopping the train at the proper point by means of the stop lever
13, as previously explained.
The running down of the train would cause a greater number of revolutions of
the circuit breaker wheel p than would be required for signalling purposes, but by
the means described only a definite series of signals will be automatically trans-
mitted at one time, and the number may be governed by the distance between
the open spaces g in the insulating band f', or by a stop pin on the main shaft.
After the train has been stopped as described and the signals answered, the atten-
dant may cause the springs and it to rest on the insulating band, as shown
in Figure 1, by causing a single revolution of the circuit closer wheel p. For the
purpose of slowing when the train is run down a spur q' is attached to the
edge of the insulating band f, which at cach revolution will revolve a toothed
wheel one degree, which will be registered on a dial 8 on the external face of
the clock work side plate or frame B by a pointer t* on the axis of the toothed
wheel, thereby registering the number of revolutions of the main spring barrel;
and when its power is exhausted or so nearly so as to require winding up again to
have the apparatus in perfect working order.
The key u, Figures 1 and 15, connects with that auxiliary branch R, and when
pressed on the button the circuit will be closed through the ground T, and
messages may be transmitted to the receiving signal station C, which will then be
received by means of the magnet 0 of the auxiliary branch N, and without
interfering with the operation of the magnet E; that is to say, both the closed
circuit and the auxiliary branch circuits and magnets connected therewith may be
used at the same instant without interfering with each other. The magnet w
Figures 11, 15, and 16, with its armature lever a of the circuit G is secured to the
frame B of the transmitting apparatus. The lever ' works on an axis y', and the
spiral spring and stop a regulates its movements. The stationary circuit
breaker 6, Figures 1, 14, and 15, is secured to and insulated from the frame B.
It has insulating breaks in its face corresponding with those of the revolving
circuit closer wheel p² so as to signal the same number by means of electric
connections through a revolving spring arm c³, secured to the shaft or spindle e³
by means of an insulating hub d. The spring e, Figure 15, connects with the
metallic portion of the circuit breaker 65, and the spring f³ connects with the
revolving arm o; now when the switch J is turned in the direction of the arrow
off the button, Figure 1, the circuit will then be completed from the button I
through the spring or key g, wire h³, coils of magnet w, wire 15, spring e,
stationary circuit breaker 65, revolving spring arm c³, spring f, wire j, screw
post M, and thence to the receiving signal station C. Now it will be obvious that
if the circuit G is in use the armature will operate at intervals; but if not in
use any desired message may be transmitted to the signal receiving station C
over the circuit G by means of the key, which will operate the spring key g³
and the magnet E at the station C, and thus by the movements of its armature
bring into operation any of the well known telegraphic instruments. The armature
of the magnet E may also be used to close a local alarm circuit to notify the
attendant by ringing an alarm when a break occurs in the line G. Now if it be
desired to transmit a signal the turning of the switch or actuator J of the trans-
mitting instrument in the direction of the arrow far enough it will push in the
lower end of the lever o³, the arm attached thereto 83 will be held back by a

page_text: catch in the outer end of the stop lever 3, when the train of wheels will be
released and the spring arm c will revolve around the stationary circuit breaker
wheel 65, and the magnet E of the closed circuit G and instruments which may be
connected therewith at the signal station C will sound or print the signal corre-
sponding with the breaks on the stationary circuit breaker b
If at any point the line should be accidently grounded, as shown at 15, the
ground alarm will be given at the station c that the ground may be removed, but
the magnet 15, Figure 2, of the closed circuit G will nevertheless be operated if
required the same as if the ground had not occurred. The switch J when released
will be forced back by the spring m³, Figure 1, and the train will be stopped by the
stop lever t³, as has been previously described. Now if the switch L, Figure 1, be
turned on the button as shown in dotted lines, the circuit will be completed
through the wires 0 and 15, circuit breaker 65, and connections as described. If the
auxiliary circuit R be now closed by turning the switch at on the button d' or e', or
if the circuit be closed through either of the branches or y², Figures 4 and 5, by
the circuit closers Y, Z, a, b, c, d, e², or f³, connected with these branches, the
armature n³ of the magnet s will be attracted and the train will be released, and a
double signal will be transmitted to the station C operating the armature of each
instrument located there as has been described; again, if the circuit G be broken as
at the point p³ it would simply be divided into two open circuits, both connected
with the auxiliary branch N and ground at the station C, and then if either of
the branches or y or the auxiliary circuit R be closed as has been described,
there will still be a signal transmitted to the station C by means of the revolving
circuit breaker wheel 2, and the signal will be received through the magnet O of
the permanent auxiliary branch N at the station C without any attention to the
line, and without repairing the break in the line; or if a short circuit should occur as
shown at q5 on the main line G so as to cut out the circuit breaker 65, and the
auxiliary branches are operated as has been described, the signal will still be given
by means of the magnet O the instant the circuit is closed through the carth
branches.
It will thus be evident that even when the closed circuit G is in use by another
operator, if the switch L is turned in the position as shown in the Drawing
Figure 1, so that the circuit will not be completed through the stationary circuit
breaker 5, and either of the auxiliary branches V, or U, or R, be closed by either
heat or burglar detectors, as shewn at Y, Z, or a, b, or by turning the switch a* on
cither of the buttons d'or et, as described, the signal will still be transmitted by
means of the revolving circuit closer wheel p², and will be received at the signal
receiving station C through the auxiliary branch N without interfering with the
working of the circuit G.
In all cases the signal through the auxiliary branches
will be given and will not be interfered with by operating the main circuit G.
This is apparent from the fact that whenever the circuit is completed from any
point of the auxiliary branch R through the ground T, the circuit must be completed
to the ground Q and through the branch N at the station c. The battery P
generates the current which operates the magnet O and its armature. This
amature will not be effected by opening and closing the circuit G. It will only be
operated when the auxiliary branches are closed or broken as described. The
circuit will then be completed through the ground Q, and from branch N to the
branch R over the circuit G, through the portion of least resistance when circuit G
is closed. When circuit G is broken, as at p, and thus divided into two open
circuits as described, the only path for the current to branch R will be to the right
of N. If with the break p the auxiliary branch in building 3, Figure 2, should
be closed through the ground s, the only path for the current would be to the
left of N, and both magnets O and E will operate their respective armatures in
unison, as both batteries in this instance are in the circuit.
If the revolving circuit breaker 2 is stopped with the circuit breaker spring as
resting upon an insulating space as j³ of said wheel, Figures 1 and 11, and in this
position the auxiliary branch R is permanently connected with the spring as by

page_text: securing the switch a¹ to the button ', or otherwise, and with the revolving circuit
breaker spring c³ resting on the metallic portion of the stationary circuit breaker
wheel 6, then by starting the train of wheels with the actuator J, or by pushing in
the armature n³, both magnets O and E will operate at the station c if the circuit G
is closed; but if it is broken then a signal will be given on the instrument of the
auxiliary branch magnet O, or if not broken but grounded, as shewn at 15, Figure 2,
even then a signal will be given at the station C on the instrument of magnet 15,
for as has been previously described when the revolving circuit breaker wheel på
revolves and there is a circuit to spring 3 there must be alternate circuits through
the ground T; and when the circuit breaker spring c revolves around the stationary
circuit breaker wheel b³ the closed circuit G must be alternately broken and closed.
Now with the circuit breaker spring n² adjusted so as to be in metallic contact, as
at 3, Figures 1 and 15, of the revolving circuit breaker wheel p the signal may be
transmitted either automatically by means of heat-detector instruments or by
means of the switch J, regardless of the condition of the line.
ts, Figures 1 and 15, is a metallic hub secured to and insulated from the axis e³,
having an insulating space us across its face. This hub connects with the auxiliary
branch R by means of the wire and spring in contact with the metallic
surfaco of the hub and with the revolving circuit breaker wheel p² by means of
the wire and spring 35 resting upon the insulating space u³ of the hub. Now it
will be seen that the starting of the train by the actuator J or otherwise, without
operating any of the circuit closers, as has been previously described, will instantly
transmit the signal, for immediately the train is started the hub t will be revolved;
both springs us and y will then be upon the metallic surface of the hub, and the
circuit from the auxiliary branch R will be completed alternately through the
signal circuit breaker wheel p² and its connections through the ground T to the
signal station C. The signal will be transmitted during the revolution of the hub
upon whichever axis or spindle of the train of wheels it may be secured and until
the circuit is broken, when the insulating space u³ is again brought under the point
of the spring y. The object of this arrangement is to give a detective signal when
the train of clock wheels are tampered with; also to be used to transmit a regular
signal through the auxiliary branches by starting the train of wheels by means of
the actuator switch J or other suitable means.
It will be evident that the construction of the transmitter, its circuit breaker and
connections, and the manner of operating the same, may be varied in numerous
ways to carry into practise equally well my Invention of transmitting signals by
means of signalling instruments in connection with open earth branches and a
metallic circuit having a permanent auxiliary earth battery and receiving instrument,
and that by the use of suitable instruments in the combined circuits it becomes an
improved telegraph for public or private use.
.
Having thus fully described the said Invention, as communicated to me by my
foreign correspondent, and the manner of performing the same, I wish it understood
that I claim,
First. In a fire and police or burglar alarm telegraph, in combination with a
main metallic circuit G having a permanent auxiliary carth branch N, with its
receiving magnet O, battery P, and ground Q, one or more normally open auxiliary
earth branches R and signal box or circuit breaker p² in connection therewith,
which when set in motion will transmit a signal to the receiving magnet, whether
the metallic circuit is broken or short circuited, or both.
Second. In a fire alarm telegraph, in combination with a main metallic circuit G
having a receiving magnet E or 15, or both, a permanent auxiliary earth branch N
with its receiving magnet O, battery P, and ground Q, and one or more normally
open earth branches R, suitable circuit breakers p² and 65, and suitable means for
operating the same to ensure the transinission of a signal either over the earth or
metallic circuit to the receiving magnet O or E, or to both at the same time:
Third. In combination with the main metallic circuit Ġ the permanent carth
branch N, magnet O, battery P, and ground Q, and one or more open auxiliary

page_text: :
carth branches R and earth T, and suitable keys and for operating both
circuits, forming by this means a double-acting telegraph with the receiving magnets
w and or w, as herein-before described.
Fourth. In combination with a main line a branch R, or series of branches, heat
or burglar detectors and a², train of wheels, revolving circuit breaker wheel 22%,
imagnet S, armature N³, grounds T and Q, battery P, magnet O, forming a single
circuit, by means whereof the number on the circuit breaker p will be signalled at
the station C, in the manner as herein-before described.
Fifth. In combination with a main line an open earth branch R, or series of
branches, heat or burglar detectors Z and a², train of wheels, revolving circuit
breaker wheel p², magnet S, armaturen, grounds T and Q, battery P, magnet O,
and indicator instrument (either with or without an alarm instrument and
resistance coil 2) as described, and for the purposes set forth.
Sixth. In combination with the main line G, the permanent branch N, magnet O,
battery P, and ground Q, and one or more auxiliary earth branches R, heat or
burglar detectors Z or a², revolving circuit breaker 22, magnet S, and ground T,
forming by this means an open and closed circuit through the main and auxiliary
branches, whereby a signal will be transmitted to the receiving station C, whether
the circuit G be broken or closed, all arranged to operate as herein-before described.
Seventh. For transmitting a signal through the closed circuit of the main
line G to the station C, as described; the combination of the actuating magnet S,
armature n³, detent lever q³, fly h³, revolving circuit breaker arm c³, circuit breaker
wheel, and auxiliary branch R, with the circuit closers in connection therewith,
to operate as set forth.
Eighth. The combination of the actuating magnet S, armature n³, detent lever q³,
fly, revolving circuit breaker arm c, circuit breaker wheel b, circuit breaker
wheel p, and auxiliary branch R, with the circuit closers in connection therewith,
whereby a double signal, each independent from the other, will be transmitted to
the station C, and will be received by the operating magnets O and E and 15 when
the line G is clear, but ensures the receiving the signal by operating the magnet O
when the line G is either broken or short circuited, as described.
Ninth. For completing the circuit of the auxiliary branch R through the revolving
circuit breaker p, the adjustable switch a' in combination with either of the two
circuit breaker springs or n³, buttons or e', and auxiliary branch R of the
main line G, whereby either of the different signals or calls, as represented by the
long or short breaks or of the circuit breaker wheel p², may be transmitted to
the station C, as set forth.
Tenth. The combination of a motor or train of wheels, stop lever ³, catch or
detent lever arm &³, and a releasing lever or cam v3 operated by a shaft e³ of the train,
as described, for always stopping a shaft or spindle in the same position at any
designated point when it revolves.
Eleventh. The combination of a motor or train of wheels, an electric circuit
actuating magnet S, armaturen, detent lever arm s³, stop lever 3, and releasing
lever cam 3, for automatically starting a train and stopping a revolving shaft at
any designated point by closing and opening the circuit.
Twelfth. The combination of a stop lever t, detent lever 83, releasing lever or
cam 3, with a motor or train of wheels actuating magnet S, armaturen, and with
either the circuit breaker wheel p2 or 65, or both, with either of the electrical
connections for operating the same, as above set forth and for the purposes
specified.
Thirteenth. The combination of the actuating lever J, the lever 03, detent lever
arm, stop lever, releasing lever cam 3, with the motor or train of wheels,
stationary circuit breaker wheel of the closed circuit G, for transmitting a signal
to the station C and operating the magnet E, as and for the purposes described.
Fourteenth. The combination of the revolving metallic hub, circuit breaker p
motor or train of wheels arinature n³, actuating magnet S, with an electric circuit
and line connections for automatically transmitting a detective signal during the

page_text: revolution of the hub t, whether the line G be broken or short circuited, as
described.
Fifteentb. For transmitting to any receiving station a definite series of signals;
the combination of a revolving circuit breaker and closer band +, the circuit
breaker springs ' and it, wires j' and ', and an auxiliary branch R of the main
circuit G or equivalent devices, as above set forth.
Sixteenth. The combination of the spur q', toothed wheel, dial 8, and pointer t*,
arranged and operating as described.
Seventeenth. The circuit breaker wheel på, having long and short breaks 13 and
across its face, in combination with the spring circuit breakers n² and a³ and
auxiliary earth branches electrically connected with the main line and with n and a³
and with the station C, whereby the same signal number will be transmitted by
two different notations or degrees of sound, as indicated by the long and short
or shaped break, to indicate the cause of the signal, whether a fire or burglar or
other signal call, as may be desired.
Eighteenth. For transmitting two simultaneous and independent signals to a signal
receiving station for fire, burglar, or other telegraphic purposes, a system of electric
circuits, composed of a main metallic circuit G, auxiliary branch or branches R,
arranged and operating as herein-before set forth, in combination with a transmitting
apparatus composed of a magnet S, train of wheels and keys, switches, circuit
breakers and wires, whereby a new and improved system of signalling fire and
burglar alarms is effected, as above described.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Robert Lake, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Eighth day of August, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and seventy-six.
WM ROBT. LAKE: (L.S.)