Year: 1887

page_text: Date of Application, 8th Mar., 1887.
Specification Accepted, 19th Apr., 1887
1, EBEN MOODY BOYNTON, of West Newbury, Massachusetts, United States of
America, Gentleman, 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 :-
The said invention relates to the structure of a railway with one supporting or bed-
rail and one overhead guide rail and to rolling stock adapted to run on a single rail,
the train being retained upon the track in an upright position by means of overhead
guide wheels arranged to engage the overhead guide rail.
The word "bicycle" as applied to my system and used in this specification signifies
a railway line of a single bed rail and a locomotive or carriage with two or more
supporting wheels arranged to run on said rail.
The rolling stock for my system is preferably made of a width that will allow two
trains to pass when running on the two rails of a railway of the ordinary gauge. By
constructing the rolling stock high and narrow the ratio of carrying capacity to the
weight of the train is greatly increased and existing railways may be utilized for my
system while still being used for ordinary rolling stock which may be gradually
displaced to avoid loss.
The said "bicycle" system will be described in connection with the accompanying
drawings, making a part of this specification and referring to sheet 1 of these
drawings,
Figure 1 is a side elevation of my "bicycle" railway structure. Figure 2, a cross
section of the same. Figures 3, 4 and 5, modified forms for a single line. Figure 6,
a modified form for a double elevated line and a double surface line. Figure 7, a
modified form adapted to a quadruple line. Figure 8 is a plan view of a curved
portion of a line. Figure 9 is a cross section of Figure 1, showing a switching device,
and Figure 10 a plan view showing a portion of the siding.
The structure shown in Figures 1 and 2 is simple and inexpensive. It is adapted
for a single rail and consists of post A, diagonal braces A, projecting arms A², cross
ties B and longitudinal stringers C, C. These parts may be constructed of wood or
metal, and the whole structure may rest upon piles as shown or upon any other

page_text: suitable foundation. The rails a, a, which are preferably round-headed as shown are
fixed to stringers CC in any suitable manner.
The modified forms of structure shown in Figures 3 and 1 are preferably constructed
of iron or steel. These forms are designed for a single line and light "bicycle" trains.
The one shown in Figure 3 consists of arms E secured to a row of piles. These arms
are preferably formed with sockets El which fit over the piles and are secured thereto
by bolts. A continuous line of stringers C, is laid on the piles and may be held in
place by means of flanges b, on sockets E', as shown.
The frame shown in
The stringer C¹ is secured to arms E, in any suitable manner.
Figure consists of metal rails or beams beni to encircle the train. Worn rails may
be used thereby securing a cheap siructure of great strength and lightness. The ends
of the rails may be secured to piles by means of sockets F, fixed firmly thereto and
connected to the rails by curved fish plate F¹ as shown or in any convenient manner.
The sockets shown are formed of two semi-circular metal plates cast to fit the grooves
of a Trail and when bolted together clasp the posts. The sockets have flanges c c to
support stringer C as above described and stringer C, is bolted to the frame.
む
The modified form of structure shown in Figure 5, designed to be constructed of
wood, may rest on the road bed. The stringer C, is placed between two braces G G¹
and fixed to these braces are longitudinal guides d d which would prevent accidents
in case the train should be derailed. A similar safety guide may be placed each side
of the guiding rail. These safety guides may be conveniently used on other forms of
structure and especially upon the form last described. The modified form of structure
shown in Figure 6, is designed for streets and for mountain passes.
It may be
an elevated double line or a quadruple line as shown. The material may be metal or
wood. The frame is composed of posts H which cross each other and are secured by
The modified form
ties 1, and braces J, thus forming a cheap and strong structure.
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of structure shown in Figure 7, is designed for adapting an ordinary railway to the
bicycle system. The centre rails may be used either as a single track ordinary
railway or as a double line "bicycle" railway or jointly as may be desired. The two
outside lines can only be used for my system. The ties K of this structure may
rest on piles or other suitable foundation. The posts L are secured to ties K, and
support the cross beam M, on which rest the braces which strengthen the structure
and form a convenient support for telegraph lines. The rails are secured to stringers
the same as in the forms above described. The ordinary ties may be used in place of
stringers.
The guide rail a' on the straight portion of the line is preferably placed in a vertical
plano with the supporting rail, or so as to keep the rolling stock in a perpendicular
position, but in rounding curves, the guide-rail is deflected as shown in Figure 8 in
order to tili the train inward. This tilting is essential on a "bicycle" system and the
amount of inclination desirable depends chiefly upon the speed of the train and the
radius of the curve, which may be indicated to the engineer by an illuminated notice
or signal.
a
"
The structure shown in Figures 9 and 10 is the same as shown in Figure 1 with
sido track and switching device. This device moves the supporting and guide rails
simultaneously and equally and without a device of this character, switching trains of
"bicycle" system would be difficult if not impracticable. The switch device
consists of compound levers N, N1, N2, pivoted at their extremities. These levers are
hinged at fulcrums n, n², n². The lever N is drawn outward to connect the side track
to the main line to switch a train and by reversing this movement the siding is
disconnected. The levers operating over their fulcrums open or close the switch.
The portion of the main and side tracks with the switch open is shown in Figure 10,
but this arrangement is essentially the same as that on an ordinary railway.
Referring to sheet 2 of the drawings, Figure 1 is a side elevation of a locomotive
adapted to my bicycle system. Figure 2 a plan of the same. Figure 3 is an
enlarged detached view. Figure 4 is a side elevation of a "bicycle" locomotive of a
modified form.
75

page_text: These locomotives are designed for a high rate of speed, which is attained in one
form by a large driving wheel, and in the other by a short rapid stroke. They are
cach provided with a single driving wheel and one or more supporting wheels arranged
to run on the same rail, with two or more guide wheels placed in a position to engage
with an overhead rail.
:
The main frame A, Figures 1 and 2, extending the length of the locomotive is
constructed of rivetted metal plates. This frame rests on double flanged driving wheel B,
and truck C, with its supporting double flanged wheels cc. The frame rests on
springs D, and the hanger bars E, which are connected to, and with braces, support
the upper portion of said frame. The boiler F and connecting parts are secured on
frame A, by means of brackets a. The cylinders G, G₁, are secured to the boiler
above fire-box H, and on a horizontal line with the axle B, of the driving wheel.
These cylinders, provided with steam pipes, g, exhaust pipe I, extending along the
boiler to smoke box J, are connected with cranks h, h, on axle 13, by piston rods,
guide heads, guide-bars and connecting rods 1, P, in the usual manner.
The
eccentries m, m, and rods n, n', regulate the steam which enters the cylinders, by
means of the usual link motion operating the slide valves inside the steam
chests K, K. The reversing lever L, connected by hanger M, regulates the
movement of the slide valves. The cab N is placed upon frame A, and beneath this
cab the piston rods, guide-heads, slide-bars, and slide valve rods are located. The coal
box O, located above and behind driving wheel B is provided with chutes o, o¹, on
either side, which discharge into a double receiver P. A slide operated by levers p',
regulates the fuel supply. A water tank Q, is secured to a frame A, and by means of
a bracket R, supports coal box 0. The tank Q is provided with a receiving pipe y,
and feed-water pipe, connecting with the boiler through a suitable injector. The
locomotive is provided with usual draw bars S. pilot T, also with steps as shown.
A double flanged guide wheel W. is supported above the driving wheel B by its
axle fixed in parallel bars e secured in position at their ends and cushioned by
springs, resting on the lower parallel barse', which are securely supported by the
diagonal cross bars W, attached to frame A. The strong angle-bar frame X, secured
to and extending above the boiler supports the truck and guide wheels ², e¹
which are double flanged and similar to but figher than the supporting truck C, and
wheels c, Those guide wheels are designed to maintain the locomotive in a vertical
position.
The guide truck C₁ securely pivoted to frame X, is allowed to turn and io follow
the overhead rail, and spiral springs with set screws are provided to maintain the
guide wheels in contact with the overhead rail.
The safety wheels af, moumed upon and strongly secured by brackets Y shown
enlarged in Figure 3 may be employed, these wheels being normally at a slight
distance from the guide-rail stringer, but in case of failure of the guide-wheels, they
will come in contact with the stringer and prevent an accident.
The brakes shown are not described, as any suitable brake may be employed, but
steam and air brakes operating against both rail and wheel are preferable.
A locomotive of a modified form shown in Figure 4 of this sheet, is an ordinary
locomotive adapted to the "bicycle system. This locomotive like the one above
described has a rigid frame A extending its entire length cushioned upon springs a,
attached to the axle of driving wheel B, located in front of water tank Q, and under
the boiler E and upon the supporting truck C, provided with springs d, above the
journal bearings of wheels e, c. The truck C, is pivoted beneath frame A which it.
supports by means of a circular bearing d. The spindle D extends vertically and
supports the guide-wheel E, provided with cushioned journal bearings e maintaining
the wheel E in contact with the guide-rail. The guide wheel E provided with
cushioned bearings e, is sustained by support G, secured to frame A, on each side of
boiler F. Coal box H and cab I are located in the usual positions.
The water tank is provided with a supply pipe y, passing under coal-box H. The
axle of driving wheel B is provided with connections similar to those above
described, but located at each side of boiler F. The cylinders and running gear are

page_text: essentially the same as those of ordinary locomotives. Steps O and draw bars P P¹
are provided, the bar P being attached to pilot R.
Referring to sheet 3 of the drawings, Figure 1 is a side elevation of a passenger
carriage adapted to the "bicycle" system, with a lower compartment for luggage.
Figure 2 an end view of the same.
Figure 3 a side elevation of a two story passenger carriage, and
Figure 4 an end view of the same.
These carriages are provided with tracks CC for supporting and guide-wheels
similar to those above described in connection with the locomotives.
The carriage shown in Figures 1 and 2 is designed for first class passengers and is
preferably divided into compartments, two of which are entered by end doors A, and
three by side doors B. The compartments may be connected by sliding doors. These
carriages may be converted into sleeping carriages and be fitted with revolving chairs
or with seats along one side of the compartments. Between the trucks, and below
the floor is provided a luggage compartment. The carriage of a modified form shown
in Figures 3 and 4 is two stories high and intended for two classes of passengers.
This carriage is similar in construction to the one above described, but preferably the
ends have a lateral seat for passengers covering the wheels in the recess beneath.
Referring to sheet 4 of the drawings Figure 1 is a side elevation of a freight car
or carriage.
Figure 2 a central transverse section, and
Figure 3 a plan of the roof of the same.
Figure is a side elevation of a skeleton car intended for various kinds of freight
and Figure 5 an end elevation of the same.
The car shown in Figure 1 is constructed of angle steel framing covered with
suitable sheet metal supporting and guiding trucks similar to those described retain
the car in position. The top of this car has an aperture covered by a sliding door A,
through which the car may be conveniently loaded from elevators. The cover A, is
provided with rollers resting upon bars B, suitably secured to the car, and extends
along the same towards each end the length of cover A. This cover can be moved by
means of the cord b. The car is provided with a door D, secured by and operating in
the inclined grooved bars E, E. This door is provided with a slotted latch-bar d, one
slot for the admittance of a staple by which it can be locked, the other slot having a
suitably curved staple securing the latch bar to door D. This latch bar has a handle
on one end and on the other it is as a lever to engage with rack F, located on the side
for the purpose of opening door D.
The car shown in Figure 4 of this sheet constructed of angle bars, is designed for
the transport of timber and other coarse freight. This carriage is provided with
similar supporting trucks and wheels to those above described except that the vertical
spindle G supports the guide wheel I fixed rigidly thereto, said wheel operating in
same plane as the supporting truck. This form is adapted for lumber and other like
freight, and it may be converted into a two story car for the conveyance of live stock
and barrelled fluids. The two forms have supporting trucks and guide wheels similar
to those hereinbefore described.
The double flanged driving wheel impinges sufficiently upon the track to prevent
slipping and to give the traction usually required in rising grades of one in ten, but
by adjusting the overhead locomotive guide wheels so that these wheels will press
against the overhead rail the traction may be increased to any desired extent and
any possibility of the trains leaving the track be avoided.
The advantages of a "bicycle" railway system over the ordinary system are among
others cheapness of construction; a great saving of expense in grading and land
damages a greater proportion of paying to non-paying load by use of narrow deep
carriages: a great reduction in first cost and wear of rolling stock; a great saving
of friction in rounding curves by substitution of bicycle spindles for ordinary wheel
axles and consequent economy of power in moving trains, and a rate of speed three
fold greater than heretofore attained on railways with comfort to passengers and
economy in the conveyance of freight.

page_text: Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said invention
and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I claim is ;-
First. A railway line constructed with a single supporting or bed-rail, and an
overhead guide-rail, supported by a suitable structure for retaining the rolling stock
on the bed rail.
Second. A railway structure open on one side and adapted to support and guide
rolling stock, substantially as set forth.
Third. A railway structure, adapted to support and guide rolling stock, formed of
bent rails or beams to encircle the train, substantially as set forth.
two of
Fourth. A railway structure adapted for a quadruple single rail line.
which are elevated and two of which are surface tracks substantially as set forth.
Fifth. A railway structure, adapted to support and guide bicycle rolling stock,
the overhead guide rail being so placed at the curves as to tilt the train towards the
radius of the same for the purpose and substantially as set forth.
Sixth. A railway switch constructed and operating to shift the bed-rail and guide-
rail simultaneously, substantially as set forth.
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Seventh. In bicycle" locomotives and "bicycle" carriages, the combination of
two or more supporting wheels and two or more overhead guide wheels substantially
as set forth.
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Eighth. In bicycle locomotives and railway carriages, an overhead guide wheel
in combination with, and two safely wheels substantially as set forth.
Ninth. A bicycle" locomotive provided with a single driving wheel and one
or more supporting wheels and two or more overhead guide-wheels substantially as
set forth.
Tenth. In a bicycle locomotive, in combination with a bed frame, an upper
framing to support the overhead guide wheels substantially as set forth.
Eleventh. In a bicycle locomotive, a coal supply box provided with incline
chutes, arranged on opposite sides of the driving wheel substantially as set forth.
Twelfth. A = bicycle railway carriage provided with lower compartments for
passengers and luggage, substantially as set forth.
Thirteenth. A bicycle carriage or car provided with a door at the top to receive,
and a door at or near the bottom to discharge freight substantially as set forth.
Fourteenth. A bievele' carriage or car provided with a skeleton metal frame for
the conveyance of lumber and other coarse freight substantially as set forth.
Dated this 8th day of March 1887.
HERBERT J. ALLISON.
Agent for the Applicant.