IMPROVEMENTS IN 'TORPEDO BOATS AND "IN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING THE LAUNCHING GUIDING CONTROLLING AND SUPERVISION OF THE SAME AND FOR REMOVING, OR DESTROYING TORPEDOES MINES AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS PLACED IN HARBOURS, RIVERS, OR THE LIKE
Year: 1878

page_text: In the Matter of Letters Patent granted to WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the
firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co, Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings,
London, for the invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN 'TORPEDO BOATS AND
"IN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING THE LAUNCHING GUIDING CONTROLLING
AND SUPERVISION OF THE SAME AND FOR REMOVING, OR DESTROYING
TORPEDOES MINES AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS PLACED IN HARBOURS,
RIVERS, OR THE LIKE" a communication from abroad by John Louis Lay
of Paris, France, dated the 2nd day of April 1878 No. 1303, which
Letters Patent have been assigned to and are now vested in the said John
Louis Lay.
66
DISCLAIMER AND MEMORANDUM OF ALTERATION
filed by the said John Louis Lay.
proposed to be
WHEREAS Her Most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Royal
Letters Patent bearing date the 2nd day of April in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and seventy eight in the forty first year of Her reign
did for. Herself Her heirs and Successors give and grant unto the said William
Robert Lake his executors administrators and assigns the sole privilege of making
using exercising and vending within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and.
Ireland the Channel Islands and Isle of Man, the said Invention of "IMPROVE-
61 MENTS IN TORPEDO BOATS AND IN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING THE LAUNCHING
GUIDING CONTROLLING AND SUPERVISION OF THE SAME AND FOR REMOVING OR
48 DESTROYING TORPEDOES MINES AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS PLACED IN HARBOURS
"
"
RIVERS OR THE LIKE a specification of which invention was duly filed in the
Great Seal Patent Office in pursuance of one of the provisoes in the said Letters
Patent.
And whereas by an assignment dated 20th of March A.D. 1879 and duly
recorded in the Great Seal Patent Office aforesaid the said Letters Patent and alț

page_text: right title and interest in and to the same have been assigned to and are now
vested in me the said John Louis Lay.
And whereas since the said assignment was made and recorded it has been
ascertained that having regard to what was known provious to the date of my
Patent the claims made in ny said Specification were too wide and I am desirous
of limiting the same in the manner hereinafter appearing
«
"
my method
a" after
24
NOW KNOW YE therefore that I the said John Louis Lay by and with the
consent of Her Majesty's Attorney General do alter and ninend the said Specification
as follows that is to say, referring to the Queen's Printers' Copy of the said
Specification and to page 5 thereof in line 27 I strike out the words "the part of
imy improvements relating to;" in line 34 I strike out the words "
"of" and insert the word "the" and in line 35 I strike out the letter
the word "launching" and insert the words of my." On page 6 in line 37 1
strike out the words "Another part of the present invention relates to the use of"
and substitute therefor the words "I sometimes use" and in line 40 I strike out
the word " part and substitute therefor the word use." On page 11 I strike out
the whole of the matter constituting the 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 8th and 9th claims
and the commencement of the 12th claim and on page 12 I strike out lines 1 and 2
containing the remainder of the said 12th claim and I re-number consecutively the
last three of the remaining four claims. And in order that the effect of the said
Disclaimer and Memorandum of Alteration may be fully understood I annex a copy
of the said Specification (omitting the introductory and concluding clauses thereof)
as it will appear after the above specified alterations have been made therein.
<
"This invention is designed to increase the efficiency of the torpedo boats and
apparatus described in the Specification of my former Letters Patent, dated the
"22nd day of February, A,D, 1878, No 747, and comprises various novel devices
"and arrangements of parts of such torpedo boats and apparatus, as hereinafter
"described and as illustrated in the Drawings in which
"
Figure is a longitudinal section of a portion of a torpedo boat, illustrating
my improvements relating to the gas generator or reservoir; Figure 2 is a
transverse section on the line x, x Figure 1.
41
Figure 3 is a longitudinal section illustrating a modification of this part of my
"improvements.
<
"
Figure 4 shews one of my improved torpedo boats towing a train of torpedoes
or mines.
*
"
Figure 5 shows two of the said torpedoes or mines in longitudinal section.
Figure 6 illustrates the use of a sinall or auxiliary boat in connection with
my torpedo boat, which small boat is provided with a keyboard and battery
"connected with the torpedo boat, as hereinafter described.
"
"
16
"
"
"
15
Figure 7 is a plan of my improved submarine fort for facilitating the launching
and controlling of torpedo boats; Figure 8 is a longitudinal section of the same;
Figure 9 is an end view, partly in transverse section, on the line y, y Figure 8.
Figure 10 is a partial midship section of a ship, illustrating the launching of
my torpedo boat broadside from the same; Figure 11 is a similar view illustrating
a modification of apparatus shewn in Figure 10
<4
Figure 12 is an exterior side view of one of my torpedo boats, showing the
same provided with means for destroying or removing chains, bars, or similar
devices obstructing the entrance to harbours and the like.
66
Figure 13 is a central longitudinal section, drawn to an enlarged scale, of part
"of the apparatus used in the said torpedo boat for this purpose.
"
"
"
"
Figure 14 is a side view, partly in section, of my improved implement for
destroying or removing submerged mines and their connections; Figure 15 is a
transverse section of the same on the line
"
Figure 16 illustrates the manner of using the said implement in connection
with my improved torpedo boats
65
Like letters indicate corresponding parts throughout the Drawings.

page_text: "
"In the Specification of the said former Letters Patent I havo described a
tubular cylinder or reservoir wherein is generated gas or vapour for the propulsion
"of the torpedo boat, the said cylinder being surrounded by water. By my present
invention modify this arrangement, as shewn in Figures 1 and 2, that is to
say, instead of having the said tubular cylinder 'surrounded by water I enclose
it in a compartiment which at the sides of the said cylinder is filled or partially
filled with quicklino.
"
"
"
"1
"
66
"
A is the hull of the boat; A' is the said compartiment; B is the said cylinder
or reservoir; C, C, are the spaces filled with quickline. By means of perforated
pipes or tubes B' extending along the sides of the said cylinder I admit water to
this quicklime, and thereby generate heat which causes or accelerates the gene-
ration of the gas. At the same time water is caused to circulate through tho
cylinder tubes B', which open into compartments or spaces D formed at the ends
of the said cylinder and extend up to, or nearly to, the highest level of the liquid
"in the said cylinder. The circulation of the water is maintained by a sinall fan
or set of spiral blades E driven by an engine, or it may be maintained by other
"suitable means.
"
"
"
"
45
.6
"
"In the modification of this apparatus, illustrated in Figure 3, instead of placing
a cylindor or reservoir within the compartiment A', I make this compartiment
serve as the said reservoir by providing the same with tube plates A2 in which
the tubes B are secured, as shown. In this modification no provision is made
for the use of quicklimo. A perforated plate D₁ is placed across the water
spaces D, the feed pipe D² convoys the gas to the engine, and the exhaust pipe Ds
returns the gas from the engine into the lower part of the water space and assists
in warming the reservoir. When carbonic acid gas is used it should be exhausted
into the water outside of the said torpedo boat. The apparatus shown in Figure 1
" is more especially designed for carbonic acid gas, and that shown in Figure 3 for
ammoniacal gas.
"
I sometimes use iny torpedo boat as a tug or towing boat to take out a train
" of small vessels or torpedoes, connected by an electric cable with the station from
"which the said torpedo boat is guided and controlled This use of my Invention
" is illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.
"
46
$1
*
"
These small vessels or. torpedoes are designed to be first sunk and then
exploded, chiefly for clearing harbours or the like of nines or other obstructions.
These results are accomplished by means of the following devices and arrange-
ments, that is to say, each of the small vessels or torpedoes F is provided with
apparatus which is included in an electrical circuit forined by a suitable insulated
cable G, extending throughout the train of small vessels or torpedoes F. One
"vessel of this train, preferably the rear one, is connected with the station by an
electrical cable H, which is payed out from a coil or coils, or a reel or reels in
the said vessel as the same travels through the water. This cable H connects
"with the cable G, which is connected with the towing boat A, and passes through
"the series of boats F to the said cable H. One wire of the said cable is arranged
in combination with sealed or covered apertures in the bottom of a compartment
or compartments of these small vessels F, as shown at I, the covers of these
apertures being so formed as to be ruptured or destroyed by the explosion of a
cartridge or cartridges placed in the said compartment or compartments.
When
4
<<
14
46
<
"
a current of electricity is sent through the aforesaid wire of the cable it will
explode the said cartridges and open the apertures, thereby admitting water into
"the said compartiments so that the vessels will sink.
"The cable G that passes through the train of torpedoes or vessels F is so
arranged that when a current passes through the other wire of the said cable it
will fire cartridges placed in the charge chambers or magazines of the said small
vessels, as shewn at J. The part of the cable or towing line G, which connects
the towing boat A with the train of small boats or torpedoes F, is attached to a
hook or other device which can be disengaged by sending a current through the
cable K, connecting the boat A with the shore or other station. It will be

page_text: "understood that when being used for this purpose the said boat A is not or need
not be charged with explosive material.
"
«
"
"
"
"The aforesaid towing boat A takes the train of torpedoes F to any required.
position. It is then disengaged from the train, leaving the said sinall vessels or
torpedoes F floating in such position. Then by sending a current first through
one wire of the cable H the boats F are first sunk by the explosion of the
cartridges and opening of the apertures, as above described. They may then be
discharged inmediately by sending a current through the other wire of said
cable H and firing the cartridges in their magazines, or they may be left sub-
merged to form mines which may he exploded at any desired moment.
"
The said small vessels or torpedoes may be provided with vertical rods to
" indicate their position to the operator at the station; theso rods are shown at L
and they should be made hollow to allow the air in the water compartments or
chambers to escape to permit the water to enter the same when the vessels F are
to be sunk; or other suitable provision may be made for the escape of the air
from these compartments.
2 2 2 2 =
«
"
"The said vessels F are preferably made cylindrical with conical ends, and are
provided with suitable insulating and water-tight packing boxes, as shown at Fi
"for the cable G to pass through at the stem and stern of each vessel.
[
"
"
65
"
イ
"I further facilitate the conduct of operations or practice with my torpedo
boats as follows:-In some instances it may not be practicable to reach the
enemy's ship or other object of attack directly from the station to which the
torpedo boat is connected, and from which it is controlled. I therefore use as
an adjunct to the said torpedo boat a small boat or vessel which should be
"somewhat of a "turtle-back" forın above water, so as to present to the enemy's
« view
as slight a surface as possible. This mode of attack is illustrated in
Figure 6, in which A is the torpedo boat and N is the small auxiliary boat.
This small boat N is provided with a keyboard and battery like that described
in my former Specification, and the electric cable L carried on and payed out
from the torpedo boat A is connected with this keyboard. The said boat N is
also attached to and towed by the torpedo boat by a suitable tow line O, and
the torpedo boat is steered or guided by uieans of the said keyboard to the
desired position. This auxiliary boat is designed to contain two men, who lie
down, one at the bow and the other in any convenient position behind him; the
latter has control of the keyboard, while the man in the bow by the aid of a
glass placed over the bow or through a suitable aperture keeps the torpedo
"boat in view, and transmits his orders to the man at the keyboard. This
apparatus, consisting of the torpedo boat and auxiliary boat, having arrived
"within such a distance of the enemy as to render an attack practicable, the tow
line is disengaged, and the torpedo boat A started by sending a current
through the electric cable to set the engine and propeller in motion; then the
said torpedo boat is guided and controlled by means of the keyboard in the said
auxiliary boat N in the same manner as it is guided and controlled from the
station on shore, as described in the said former Specification. When the
torpedo boat strikes the enemy's ship and explodes, or when the said torpedo
boat is otherwise exploded, the said auxiliary boat N can be rowed back to the
station or to the ship to which it belongs. This mode of operation extends the
range of action of my torpedo boats with comparatively slight danger to those
employed in contucting the attack.
"
"
"
6.
"
16
"
**
"
"
Lf
"
"
"
In my said former Specification I have stated that my torpedo boat is
propelled by machinery carried in or by the boat, and kept under the control of
an operator or operators at a station on shore, or on board a ship or other
structure.
"
According to one part of my present Invention I provide means for facilitating
the launching and controlling of such torpedo boats. For this purpose I construct
a vessel which I tem a subinarine fort, and which is shewn in Figures 7, 8, 9
of the Drawings. This vessel or structure may be square or oblong, and may

page_text: 21
"
<<
"
"be made to accommodate any desired number of torpedo boats. Its body Pis
constructed of plate or sheet iron of suitable strength, and stiffened with angle
iron or otherwise, and divided longitudinally or transversely into water-tight
compartiments, into which water is admitted to sink or submerge the said vessel
CE or structure. At the top or upper side of the same I form or place cylinders or
"Lubes P, each of which is of suitable dimensions to contain and launch one of
my torpedo roats. These cylinders or tubes P are formed partly of openwork
or with apertures to admit water freely, so that the propellers of the torpedo
boats will act properly to cause the said boats to omerge from these tubes when
the engines are started. At the forward end of each tube or cylinder P is a
door or cover P secured to a rod or shaft P3 fitted to turn in suitable bearings P.;
"this rod or shaft P3 is provided with an arm P3 which is connected to the piston
rod of an engine Q worked by ammoniacal or other gas generated or contained
in a flask or reservoir Q on the fort, or by compressed air supplied from a
"reservoir arranged in any convenient position at the station. The slide or other
valve which controls the admission of the gas or air to this engine is arranged
in connection with electro-magnets at Q', connected by a suitable cable R with
a keyboard on shore, or wherever the operator's station may be.
4
[
"
16
"
[[
By sending
an electric current through this cable in ono direction through the said electro-
magnets, the valve will be moved and the engine will be operated to close the
door P2; and by sending such current in the opposite direction the engine will
be operated to open the said door. The cables carried in the torpedo boats, and
through which the mechanism on each torpedo boat is operated and controlled,
"as described in the said former Specification, are also in this case connected with
“the keyboard, which must be provided with a number of sets of pole changers
"and switches, or equivalent devices, corresponding with the number of boats to
be controlled by means of the said keyboard.
"
"
"
"
"
"
66
CA
15
46
2
This apparatus will form a very convenient adjunct to fortifications or stations
liable to be attacked by sea. The said fort may be prepared for use by placing
torpedo boats in the said tubes, and may be kept floating until the enemy's ships
have arrived closely enough to permit the determination of the point where the
said fort can be most advantageously located for operating against the said ships.
The fort is then towed to this point, or taken as near as possible thereto on rails,
and towed the remainder of the distance. It is then submerged, and will be
ready for immediate operation. The said fort is provided with suitable valves
for the admission of water to sink the same, and with means for forcing in air
through the pipe P* to expel the wator when the fort is to be raised.
<<
of
When it is desired to launch either of the said torpedo boats the door
"its tube or cylinder is first opened by sending a current through the cable R
"that controls the door, as above described. Then the current is sent through
"the boat's cable to start her propelling engines. The said boat will then emerge
from the cylinder or tube and will rise to the surface or as near the surface as
may be desired, and may then be directed and controlled by the operator at the
keyboard, as described in my said former Specification. And one after another
of the said torpedo boats may be thus launched and exploded without giving
"to the enemy any clue to the point or position from which they are being
"
"
46
" sent.
"
"
"I wish it understood that although the construction shewn in the above-
"described Figures of the Drawings is a very convenient and advantageous form
"in which this part of my Invention may be carried into practice yet I do not
limit myself to this precise form or construction, but may modify the same
according to the nature or character of the locality in which the same is to be
used, or according to the number of boats to be carried and launched thereby, or
according to other circumstances, but all of the forms or modifications of this
apparatus must comprise its essential features namely, the capability of Hoating
or sinking as required, and of holding the torpedo boats safely and in such a
manner that they will emerge freely therefrom when started.
"
4

page_text: "
By a modification of the above-described apparatus I provide for launching
my torpedo boats from an ironclad or other large ship, as shewn in Figures 10
" and 11.
The tubes or cylinders S in which the torpedo boats A are hold are in
"the apparatus shewn in Figure 10 closed at their inner ends by plates or covers S¹,
"which are provided with suitable water-tight and insulating packing boxes S
"for the passage of the electric cables of the said torpedo boats, each cable being
"connected with the keyboard, which is placed in any convenient part of the
ship, and at their outer ends the said tubes are furnishod with strong.and well-
fitted slide valves or sluice gatos S³ which are opened by screws connected by
gearing with a hand wheel and shaft S', S', or otherwise for the admission and
exit of the torpedo boats.
"
4
"
"
Furthermore, these cylinders are provided with packing pieces at their sides,
arranged to be pressed by screws or otherwise up to the sides of the torpedo
"boats in the said cylinders, and thereby hold the same firmly and immovably in
rough weather.
"
"I am aware that tubes or cylinders placed in ships for launching torpedo
"boats have been already known and used, but such tubes have not heretofore
"been adapted for the launching of torpedo boats which when launched remain
"connected to the ship by an electric cable.
16
"
"I also make provision for launching a torpedo boat from a ship while the
same is in motion, as shewn in Figure 11, by placing a longitudinal box T on
the side of the ship below the water line, with a suitable gate or door to keep
"the water out. In this arrangement the torpedo lies parallel to the side of the
ship, and can be discharged from the ship by suitable screws and gearing.
Provision must be made as in the apparatus shewn in Figure 10 for the
"connection of the electric cable.
"
16
26
"
#
*
46
"
.
In some instances very formidable obstructions to the entrance of ships into
harbours and other places are formed by placing bars or chains across the
entrance to the same. Therefore it is very desirable that means should be
provided for removing or destroying these obstructions. For this purpose I
provide my torpedo boat with apparatus, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, in
combination with the electric cable, whereby the said boat is controlled and
guided, as above set forth, that is to say, I arrange in the boat A a com-
partment A³, from which extends down into the water, a line or rod U, provided
"at its outer end with a hook or claw U₁ properly formed to take hold of any
chain or bar with which it may come in contact. In the said compartment A³,
and upon the upper end of the said line or rod UI place a small case or
cylinder U containing a charge of dynamite or other explosive material and a
"cartridge or fulminating cap, or a bottle of sulphuric acid, surrounded preferably
with a certain quantity of chlorate of potash and sugar. This case or cylinder U*
is shewn detached and drawn to an enlarged scalo in Figure 13, and it will be
I seen that the said case is provided with a tube 1 containing a cartridge, or a
phial filled with explosive substance at 2, and a ball or weight at 3. The said
"C
(6
66
"
"
"
"
"
case is fitted to slide upon the said line or rod U, and when placed at the upper
end thereof and not held or retained will slide to the lower end of the same.
In the said compartiment A³ I arrange at U electro-magnetic apparatus, included
"in the circuit of the said cable, and connected with a bolt or catch which in its
"normal position holds the said explosive case and prevents its running down on
the grappling line or rod U. This explosive case is also provided at its lower
"end with a grappling hook Us
"
"
“When the grappling hook U¹, on the lower or outer end of the line or rod U
engages with any obstruction the boat will be stopped, and this stoppage will be
indicated on the keyboard. The operator by this indication is apprised of the
"stoppage of the boat by an obstruction, and by sending a current through the cable
by means of a switch provided for this purpose on the keyboard he can imme-
'diately release the explosive case U2, which runs down the line or rod U, and
engages by its grappling hook U with the hook U'. The line or rod U is then
"

page_text: H
disengaged from the boat A, and the explosive case U2 turns or falls over. As
it turns over the ball or weight 3 contained in the tube 1 drops on the said
phial 2, fractures it, and thereby allows the acid to mix with the explosive or
fulminating charge and explode the case U. This explosion will rupture or
destroy the obstructing chain or bar, so that the ironclad ships or other vessels
can pass freely and safely into the harbour or beyond the point where it was
"intended to stop them.
12
"1
"I also provide means for removing or destroying submerged mines laid in
"harbours, rivers, or other waterways, and the wires, lines, or cables connecting
"them with each other or with the shore or other station. For this purpose
provide an implement V, Figures 14 and 15, somewhat of an anchor forin, but
"with four or any desired number of arms V extending outward at a suitable
angle from its shank VI In the neck of each of these arms I fit two small plain
or toothed discs V³, which are so arranged as to present their teeth to any object
lying in the angle or corner formed by and between the arins V and shank V₁
"of the said implement, as shewn at W.
"In using this implement it may be attached to a line or cable coiled in the
torpedo boat, which, in this case, is used without being charged with explosive
"material, and is sent in advance of any ship that has to enter or pass through
the suspected water. This line must be arranged in combination with
detaching apparatus controlled by electro-magnetic apparatus included in the
"circuit of the cable which connects the torpedo boat with the keyboard at the
operating station.
46
1
41
46
44
4.
"
46
11
"
a
By sending a current from the station the operator releases the said imple-
ment or its line from the detaching hook or holding device. The said implement
then sinks to the bottom; then the said boat returns to the said ship, paying
out the said line as she so returns. The end of this line is then taken by a
steam-tug or other vessel, and the said grappling implement is thereby dragged
along through the water over which the ships are to advance thus breaking any
wires or cables that may be in the path or course through which the said
implement is dragged. This operation is illustrated in Figure 16, in which A
is the towing boat; K is the controlling cable; V is the said implement; V is
the line to which the said implement is connected; X, X, are subinerged
nines; and X, X are the lines or cables connecting the same with tho
shore or station.
"In my said former Specification I have described an index on the keyboard,
"which is included in an electric circuit connected with the steering apparatus of
the torpedo boat in such a manner as to indicate on the keyboard the exact
position of the rudder at any moment. It is very desirable that the officer or
look-out man who is watching the progress of the boat, and by whose orders
"the steoring is conducted should know that his orders are promptly and correctly
obeyed without having to take his eyes for a single moment from the boat.
this purpose
I now arrange in combination with the said keyboard an apparatus
"provided with bells or other audible signals which are included in an electric
circuit connected with the said index.
4
For
By this apparatus the movements of the index or needle on the keyboard will
"be accompanied by a corresponding indication by the bell or other sounder of the
"said apparatus.
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 ;-
"
44
First. In a torpedo boat, the provision for using quicklime in or with the gas
generator or reservoir, and for conducting water to the lime as above set forth,
"and for the purposes specified.
"Second. The special form and construction of this apparatus or "submarine fort"
as shewn in Figures 7, 8, 9 of the Drawings, and the providing of the same with
hinged doors operated by engines worked by gas or other fluid supplied from a

page_text: "F
"reservoir on the fort or on shore, and which engines are controlled by electricity
through the medium of a cable connected with a keyboard on shore or at any
convenient station, as above described.
66
"
"
66
Third. The apparatus consisting of the grappling line or rod provided with a
hook, and the cylinder or case which is fitted to slide on the said line or rod, and is
provided with a hook or hooks or similar devices and which contains explosive
"material and means for igniting or firing the saine in combination with devices
included within the electric circuit of the operating cable, which devices are
caused by the passage of the current through the said cable to release the said
cylinder or case, which then acts to destroy or remove the obstructions as above
set forth.
"
"
"
46
"
Fourth. The grappling implement constructed and provided with the cutting
"discs, as shewn in Figures 14 and 15 of the Drawings, and which is employed
for the removal of submerged mines and their connections as above set
forth"
"
"
In witness whereof, I, the said John Louis Lay, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this third day of August in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and eighty two.
JOHN. LOUIS. LAY. (L.S.)
To the Commissioners of Patents for Inventions.
I hereby grant my Fiat giving leave to the above named John Louis Lay,
the Assignee of the said Letters Patent, to file in the Office of the Commissioners
of Patents for Inventions with the Specification to which the same rolates, the
above written Disclaimer and Memorandum of Altoration.
Dated this n0th day of August 1000)
I hereby grant my Fiat giving leave to the above named John Louis Lay,
the Assignee of the said Letters Patent, to file in the Office of the Commissioners
of Patents for Inventions with the Specification to which the same rolates, the
above written Disclaimer and Memorandum of Altoration.
Dated this 10th day of Aucunt 100

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Robert Lake, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lako,
& Co., Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings, London, for the Invention of
IMPROVEMENTS IN TORPEDO BOATS AND IN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING
THE LAUNCHING, GUIDING, CONTROLLING, AND SUPERVISION OF THE SAME, AND
FOR REMOVING OR DESTROYING TORPEDOES, MINES, AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS
PLACED IN HARBOURS, RIVERS, OR THE LIKE." A communication from abroad
by John Louis Lay, of Paris, France.
Sealed the 20th August 1878, and dated the 2nd April 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Robert Lako at
the Office of the Coininissioners of Patents on the 2nd April 1878.
IN
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine. Lake, & Co., Patent Agents,
Southampton Buildings, London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN TORPEDO BOATS AND
APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING THE LAUNCHING, GUIDING, CONTROLLING, AND
SUPERVISION OF THE SAME, AND FOR REMOVING OR DESTROYING TORPEDOES, MINES,
AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS PLACED IN HARBOURS, RIVERS, OR THE LIKE." [A com-
munication from abroad by John Louis Lay, of Paris, France.]
This Invention is designed to increase the efficiency of the torpedo boats and
apparatus described in my Provisional Specification filed with my application for
Letters Patent the 22nd February, A.D. 1878, No. 747, and comprises various novel
devices and arrangements of parts of such torpedo boats and apparatus as herein-
after described.
In the Specification of the said former Letters Patent I have described a tubular
cylinder or reservoir, in which is contained liquid ammonia from which to generate
ammonia vapour for the propulsion of the torpedo boat, the said cylinder being
surrounded by water. By my present Invention 1 modify this arrangement, and
instead of having the said tubular cylinder surrounded by water I enclose it in a
compartment which at the sides of tho said cylinder is filled or partially filled with
quicklime. And by means of perforated pipes or tubes extending along the sides of
the said cylinder 1 admit water to this quicklime, and thereby generate heat which

page_text: causes the vaporization or conversion into gas of the ammonia liquid. At the same
time water is caused to circulate through the cylinder tubes, which open into
compartments or spaces formed at the ends of the said cylinder, and extending up
to or nearly to the highest level of the liquid in the said cylinder. This circulation
of the water is maintained by a small fan or set of spiral blades driven by the
engine, or it may be maintained by other suitable means.
Another part of the present Invention relates to the use of my torpedo boat as a
tug or towing boat to take out a train of small vessels or torpedoes which are
connected by an electric cable with the station from which the said torpedo boat is
guided and controlled. These sinall vessels or torpedoes are designed to be first
sunk and then exploded, chiefly for clearing a harbour or other waterway of mines
or other obstructions. These results are accomplished by means of the following
devices and arrangements, that is to say-All of the small vessels or torpedoos are
provided with apparatus which is included in an electrical circuit forined by a
suitable insulated callo extending throughout the train of small vessels or torpedoes.
One vessel of this train, preferably the rear one, is connected with the station by an
electrical cable which is payed out from a reel or coil from the said vessel as the
same travels through the water. The said cable is connected with magnets and
shunts or other suitable apparatus in such a manner that whon a current is sent
through the same a cartridge placed in a compartment in the said vessel will explode
and open an aperture, thereby admitting water into this compartment, so that the
said vessel will sink. And this explosion of the cartridge will complete the circuit
through the cable which extends through the train of boats, each of which is
provided with a cartridge similarly arranged in a water compartiment, and which is
discharged or exploded by the electrical current, so that the said vessels will all be
sunk simultaneously.
The cable that passos through the train of torpedoes is also connected with
magnets and other suitable apparatus in the vessels; and this apparatus is so
arranged that when a current passes through the said cable it will fire cartridges
placed in the charge chambers or magazines of the said small vessels. The towing
line or cable which connects the towing boat with the train of small torpedos is
attachod to a hook or other device which can be disengaged by sending a current
through the electric circuit in which the said devices are included.
The aforesaid towing boat takes the train of boats to any required position; it is
then disengaged from the train, leaving the said small vessels or torpedoes in such
position. Then by sending a current through the cable which connects the station
with the said train of vessels, they are first sunk, and they may then be discharged
immediately or may be left submerged to form mines, which may bo exploded. at
any desired mnomnont.
The said small vessels or torpedoes may be provided with vertical rods to indicate
their position to the oporator at the station; those rods should be made hollow to
allow tho air in the wator chambers to escape when water enters the same.
The said vessels aro preferably made cylindrical with conical ends, and are
provided with suitable insulating and water-tight packing boxes for the cable to
pass through at the stem and stern of each vessel.
I further facilitate the conduct of operations or practice with my torpedo boats as
follows In some instances it may not be practicable to reach the enemy's ship or
other object of attack directly from the station to which the torpedo boat is
connected and from which it is controlled; I therefore use as an adjunct to the said
torpedo boat a small boat or vessel which should be somewhat of a "turtle-back "
form above water, so as to prosent as slight a surface as possible to view. This
sinal boat is provided with a keyboard like that described in my former Specifi-
cation, and the electric cable carried on and payed out from the torpedo boat is
connected with this keyboard. The said auxiliary boat is also attached to and
towed by the torpedo boat by a suitable tow line, and is steered or guided by means
of the said keyboard to the desired position. This auxiliary boat is designed to
contain two men, who lie down, one at the bows and the other at the stern. The

page_text: man at the stern has control of the keyboard, while the man in the bow, through a
suitable glass-covered aperture, keeps the torpedo boat in view and transmits his
orders to the man at the keyboard. This apparatus, consisting of the torpedo boat
and auxiliary boat, having arrived at such a distance of the enemy as to render an
attack practicable, the tow line is disengaged and the torpedo boat started by
sending a current through the electric cable to start the engine; then the said torpedo
boat is guided and controlled by means of the keyboard in said auxiliary boat, and
it acts as described in the said former Specification. When the torpedo boat strikes
the enemy's ship and explodes the said auxiliary boat can be rowed back to the
station.
In my said former Specification I have stated that my torpedo boat is propelled
by machinery carried in or by the boat, and kept under the control of an operator
or operators at a station on shore or on board a ship or other structure.
According to one part of my present Invention I provide means for facilitating the
launching and controlling of such torpedo boats. For this purpose I construct a vessel
which I term a submarine fort. This vessel or structure may be square or oblong,
and may be made to accommodate any desired number of torpedo boats; its body is
constructed of plate or sheet iron of suitable strongth, and divided into compart-
ments into which water is admitted to sink or submerge the said vessel or structure.
At the top or upper side of the same I form or place cylinders or tubes, each of
which is of suitable dimensions to contain and launch one of my torpedo boats.
These cylinders or tubes are formed partly of open work or with apertures to admit
water freely, so that the propellers of the torpedo boats will act properly to cause
the said boats to oinerge from these tubes when started. At the forward ond of
cach tube or cylinder is a door or cover secured to a rod or shaft fitted to turn in
suitable bearings; this rod or shaft is providod with an arm which is connected to
the piston rod of an engine worked by ammoniacal or other gas, or compressed air
supplied from a reservoir arranged in any convenient position. The valve which
controls the admission of the gas or air to this engine is arranged in connection
with electro-magnetic apparatus connected by a suitable cable with a keyboard on
shore or wherever the operator's station may be. By sending an electric current
through this cable in one direction the said engine will be operated to close the door,
and by sending such current in the opposite direction the engine will open the said
door. The cable through which the mechanism on each torpedo boat is operated
and controlled, as described in the said foriner Specification, is also in this case
connected with the keyboard, which must be provided with a number of sets of
pole changers and switches or equivalent devices corresponding with the number of
boats to be controlled by means of the said keyboard.
When it is desired to launch either of the said torpedo boats the door of its tubo
or cylinder is first opened by sending a current through the cable that controls the
door, as above described. Then the current is sent through the boat's cable to
start the propelling engines. The said boat will then emerge from the cylinder or
tube, and may then be directed and controlled as described in ny said former
Specification.
By a modification of the above-described apparatus I provide for launching my
torpedo boats broadside from an ironclad or other largo ship. The tubes or
cylinders in which the torpedo boats are held are in this instance closed at their
inner ends by plates or covers, which are provided with suitable water-tight and
insulating packing boxes for the passage of the electric cables of the said torpedo
boats. And at their outer ends the said tubes are furnished with strong and well-
fitted slide valves or sluice gates, which aro opened by screws or otherwise for the
admission and exit of tho torpedo boats. Furthermore these cylinders are provided
with packing piecos at their sides, arranged to be pressed by screws or otherwise up
to the sides of the torpedo boats in the said cylinders, and thereby hold the same
firmly and immovably in rough weather.
I also make provision for launching a torpedo boat from a ship while the same

page_text: is in motion by placing a longitudinal box on the side of the ship below the water
line, with a suitable gate or door to keep the water out. In this arrangement the
torpedo lies parallel to the side of the ship, and can be discharged from the ship by
suitable screws and gearing.
arrange
In some instances very formidable obstructions to the entrance of ships into
harbours and other places are formed by placing bars or chains across the entrance
to the same; therefore it is very desirable that means should be provided for
removing or destroying these obstructions. For this purpose I provide my torpedo
boat with the following apparatus, in combination with the electric cable, whereby
the said boat is controlled and guided as above set forth, that is to say:-I
in the said boat a compartment, from which extends down into the water a line or
rod, provided at its outer end with a hook or claw properly formed to take hold of
any chain or bar with which it may come in contact. In the said compartiment,
and upon the upper end of the said line or rod, I place a small case or cylinder
containing a charge of dynamite or other oxplosive material, and a cartridge or
fulminating cap, or with a bottle of sulphuric acid surrounded with a certain
quantity of chlorate of potash and sugar. This explosive case is fitted to slido
upon the said line or rod, and when not held up will immediately slide to the
lower end of the same. In tho said compartment I arrange electro-magnetic
apparatus included in the circuit of the said cable, and connected with a bolt or
catch, which in its normal position holds the said explosive case, and prevents its
running down on the grappling line or rod. This explosive case is also provided at
its lower end with a grappling hook.
When the grappling hook on the said line or rod ongagos with any obstruction
the boat will be stopped, and this stoppage will be indicated on the keyboard. The
operator by sending a current through the cable by means of a switch provided for
this purpose on the keyboard can then release the explosive case, which runs down
the line or rod, engages by its grappling hook with the obstructing chain or bar, and
turns over on the same. As it turns over a ball or weight contained in it drops
on the said phial, fractures it, and thereby allows the acid to mix with the
explosive or fulminating charge, and explode the case. This explosion will rupture
or destroy the obstructing chain or bar, so that the vessel can pass freely and
safely into the harbour or beyond the point where it was intended to stop her.
I also provide means for removing or destroying submerged mines laid in
harbours, rivers, or other waterways, and the wires, lines, or cables connecting them
with each other or with the shore or other station. For this purpose I provide an
implement somewhat of an anchor form, but with four or any other desired
number of arms extending outward at a suitable angle from its shank. In tho
neck of each of these arms I fit two small circular toothed discs, which are so
arranged as to present their teeth to any object lying in the angle or corner formed
by and between the arms and shank of the said implement.
In using this implement it may be attached to a line or cable coiled in the
torpedo boat, which is sent in advance of any ship that has to enter or pass
through the suspected water. When in the vicinity of the fixed lines through the
electrical current the implement or drag is disengaged from the torpedo and sinks to
the bottom of the channel, the boat is brought back to the operator, who takes the
end of the drag cable, and the drag is towed along the bed of the channel, and will
cut every line or cable with which it comes in contact.
In my said former Specification I have described an index on the keyboard,
which is included in an electric circuit connected with the steering apparatus of the
torpedo boat in such a manner as to indicate on the keyboard the exact position of
the rudder at any moment. It is very desirable that the officer or look-out man
who is watching the progress of the boat, and by whose orders the steering is con-
ducted, should know that his orders are promptly and correctly obeyed without
having to take his eyes for a single inoment from the boat. For this purpose I
now arrange in combination with the said keyboard an apparatus provided with

page_text: bells or other audible signals, which are included in an electric circuit connected
with the said index. By this apparatus the movements of the index or needle on
the keyboard will be accompanied by a corresponding indication by the bell or
other sounder of the said apparatus.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Lettors Patent filed by
the said William Robert Lake in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 2nd
October 1878.
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patont Agents,
Southampton Buildings, London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN TORPEDO BOATS AND IN
APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING THE LAUNCHING, GUIDING, CONTROLLING, AND
SUPERVISION OF THE SAME, AND FOR REMOVING OR DESTROYING TORPEDOES, MINES,
AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS PLACED IN HARBOURS, RIVERS, OR THE LIKE."
A com-
inunication from abroad by John Louis Lay, of Paris, France.
This Invention is designed to increase the efficiency of the torpedo boats and
apparatus described in the Specification of iny former Letters Patent, dated the
22nd day of February, A.D. 1878, No. 747, and comprises various novel devices
and arrangements of parts of such torpedo boats and apparatus, as herein-after
described, and as illustrated in the Drawings in which,-
Figure 1 is a longitudinal section of a portion of a torpedo boat, illustrating my
improvements relating to the gas generator or reservoir; Figure 2 is a transverse
section on the line x, x, Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal section illustrating a modification of this part of my
improvements.
Figure 4 shows one of my improved torpedo boats towing a train of torpedoes
or nines.
Figure 5 shows two of the said torpedoes or mines in longitudinal section.
Figure 6 illustrates the part of my improvements relating to the use of a suall
or auxiliary boat in connection with my torpedo boat, which small boat is
provided with a keyboard and battery connected with the torpedo boat, as herein-
after described.
Figure 7 is a plan of my improved submarine fort for facilitating the launching
and controlling of torpedo boats; Figure 8 is a longitudinal section of the same;
Figure 9 is an end view, partly in transverse section, on the line y, y, Figure 8.
Figure 10 is a partial midship section of a ship, illustrating my method of
launching a torpedo boat broadside from the same; Figure 11 is a similar view
illustrating a modification of apparatus shewn in Figure 10.
Figure 12 is an exterior side view of one of my torpedo boats, showing the same
provided with means for destroying or removing chains, bars or similar devices
obstructing the entrance to harbours and the like.

page_text: Figure 13 is a central longitudinal section, drawn to an enlarged scale, of part of
the apparatus used in the said torpedo boat for this purpose.
Figure 14 is a side view, partly in section, of my improved implement for
destroying or removing submerged mines and their connections; Figure 15 is a
transverse section of the same on the line >, <.
Figure 16 illustrates the manner of using the said implement in connection with
my improved torpedo boats.
Like letters indicate corresponding parts throughout the Drawings.
In the Specification of the said former Letters Patent I have described a tubular
cylinder or reservoir wherein is generated gas or vapour for the propulsion of the
torpedo boat, the said cylinder being surrounded by water. By my present Inven-
tion I modify this arrangement, as shewn in Figures 1 and 2, that is to say, instead
of having the said tubular cylinder surrounded by water I enclose it in a com-
partment, which at the sides of the said cylinder is filled or partially filled with
quickline.
A is the hull of the boat; A' is the said compartment; B is the said cylinder or
reservoir; C, C, are the spaces filled with quicklime. By means of perforated pipes
or tubes B' extending along the sides of the said cylinder I admit water to this
quicklime, and thereby generate heat which causes or accelerates the generation of
the gas.
At the same time water is caused to circulate through the cylinder
tubes B2, which open into compartments or spaces D formed at the ends of the said
cylinder and extend up to, or nearly to, the highest level of the liquid in the
said cylinder. The circulation of the water is maintained by a small fan or set of
spiral blades E driven by an engine, or it may be maintained by other suitablo
means.
In the modification of this apparatus, illustrated in Figure 3, instead of placing
a cylinder or reservoir within the compartiment A', I make this compartiment serve
as the said reservoir by providing the same with tube plates A in which the
tubes B are secured, as shown. In this modification no provision is made for the
use of quicklime. A perforated plate D is placed across the water spaces D,
the feed pipe D2 conveys the gas to the engine, and tho exhaust pipe D³ return
the gas from the ongine into the lower part of the water space and assists in
warming the reservoir. When carbonic acid gas is used it should be exhausted into
the water outside of the said torpedo boat. The apparatus shewn in Figure 1 is
inore especially designed for carbonic acid gas, and that shewn in Figure 3 for
amoniacal gas.
Another part of the prosent Invention relates to the use of my torpedo boat as
a tug or towing boat to take out a train of small vessels or torpedoes, connected
by an electric cable with the station from which the said torpedo boat is guided
and controlled. This part of my Invention is illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.
These
These small vessels or torpedoes are designed to be first sunk and then exploded,
chicfly for clearing harbour or the like of mines or other obstructions.
results are accomplished by means of the following devices and arrangements, that
is to say, each of the sinall vessels or torpedoes F is provided with apparatus which
is included in an electrical circuit forined by a suitable insulated cable G, extending
throughout the train of small vessels or torpedoes F. One vessel of this train,
proforably the rear one, is connected with the station by an electrical cable H,
"which is payed out from a coil or coils, or a reel or reels in the said vessel as the
same travels through the water. This cable H connects with the cable G, which
is connected with the towing boat A, and passes through the series of boats F to
the said cable H. One wire of the said cable is arranged in combination with
sealed or covered apertures in the bottom of a compartiment or compartments of
these small vessels F, as shewn at I, the covers of these apertures being so formed
as to be ruptured or destroyed by the explosion of a cartridge or cartridges placed
in the said compartment or compartiments. When a current of electricity is sent
through the aforesaid wire of the cable it will explode the said cartridges and open

page_text: the apertures, thereby admitting water into the said compartments so that the
vessels F will sink.
The cable G that passes through the train of torpedoes or vessels F is so arranged
that when a current passes through the other wire of the said cable it will fire
cartridges placed in the charge chambers or imagazines of the said small vessels,
as shown at J. The part of the cable or towing line G, which connects the towing
boat A with the train of small bouts or torpedoes F, is attached to a hook or other
device which can be disengaged by sending a current through the cable K, con-
necting the boat A with the shore or other station. It will be understood that
when being used for this purpose the said boat A is not or need not be charged
with explosive material.
The aforesaid towing boat A takes the train of torpedoes F to any required
position. It is thon disengaged from the train, leaving the said small vessels or
torpedoes F floating in such position. Then by sending a current first through
one wire of the cable H the boats F are first sunk by the explosion of the cartridges
and opening of the apertures, as above described. They may then be discharged
immediately by sending a current through the other wire of said cable H and firing
the cartridges in their magazines, or they may be left submerged to form mines
which may be exploded at any desired moment.
The said sinall vessels or torpedoes may be provided with vertical rods to indicate
their position to the operator at the station; these rods are shewn at L, and they
should be made hollow to allow tho air in the water compartiments or chambers to
escape to permit the water to enter the same when the vessels F are to be sunk;
or other suitable provision inay be made for the escape of the air from these com-
partments.
The said vessels F are preferably made cylindrical with conical ends, and are pro-
vided with suitable insulating and water-tight packing boxes, as shown at Fi for
the cable G to pass through at the stem and stern of each vessel.
I further facilitate the conduct of operations or practico with my torpedo boats as
follows In some instances it may not be practicable to reach the enemy's ship or
other object of attack directly from the station to which the torpedo boat is con-
nected, and from which it is controlled. I therefore use as an adjunct to the said
torpedo boat a small boat or vessel which should be somewhat of a "turtle-back"
forin above water, so as to present to the enemy's view as slight a surface as possible.
This mode of attack is illustrated in Figure 6, in which A is the torpedo boat and N
is the small auxiliary boat. This small boat N is provided with a keyboard and
battery like that described in my former Specification, and the electric cable L
carried on and payed out from the torpedo boat A is connected with this keyboard.
The said boat N is also attached to and towed by the torpedo boat by a suitable
tow line O, and the torpedo bent is steered or guided by means of the said keyboard
to the desired position. This auxiliary boat is designed to contain two men, who
lie down, one at the bow and the other in any convenient position behind him; tho
latter has control of the keyboard, while the man in the bow by the aid of a glass
placed over the bow or through a suitable aperture keeps the torpedo boat in view,
and transinits his orders to the man at the keyboard. This apparatus, consisting of
the torpedo boat and auxiliary boat, having arrived within such a distance of the
enemy as to render an attack practicable, the tow line O is disengaged, and the
torpedo boat A started by sending a current through the electric cable to set the
engine and propeller in motion; then the said torpedo boat is guided and controlled
by means of the keyboard in the said auxiliary boat N in the same manner as it is
guided and controlled from the station on shore, as described in the said former
Specification. When the torpedo boat strikes the enemy's ship and explodes, or
when the said torpedo boat is otherwise exploded, the said auxiliary boat N can be
rowed back to the station or to the ship to which it belongs. This mode of operation
extends the range of action of my torpedo boats with comparatively slight danger to
those employed in conducting the attack.
: I:

page_text: In my said former Specification I have stated that my torpedo boat is propelled
by machinery carried in or by the boat, and kopt under the control of an operator
or operators at a station on shore, or on board a ship or other structure.
At the
According to one part of my present Invention I provide means for facilitating
the launching and controlling of such torpedo boats. For this purpose I construct
a vessel which I term a submarine fort, and which is shewn in Figures 7, 8, 9 of the
Drawings. This vessel or structure may be square or oblong, and inay bo made to
accomodate any desired number of torpedo boats. Its body P is constructed of
plate or sheet iron of suitable strength, and stiffened with angle iron or otherwise,
and divided longitudinally or transversely into water-tight compartments, into
which water is admitted to sink or submerge the said vessel or structure.
top or upper side of the same I form or place cylinders or tubes P₁, each of which is
of suitable dimensions to contain and launch one of my torpedo boats. These
cylinders or tubes P¹ are formed partly of openwork or with apertures to admit
water freely, so that the propellers of the torpedo boats will act properly to causo
the said boats to emerge from these tubes when the engines are started. At the
forward end of each tube or cylinder P' is a door or cover P' secured to a rod or
shaft P³ fitted to turn in suitable bearings P; this rod or shaft P³ is provided with
an arm Ps, which is connected to the piston rod Q₁ of an engine Qworked by
ammoniacal or other gas generated or contained in a flask or reservoir Q2 on the
fort, or by compressed air supplied from a reservoir arranged in any convenient
position at the station. The slide or other valve which controls the admission of
the gas or air to this engine is arranged in connection with electro-magnets at Q4,
connected by a suitable cable R with a keyboard on shore, or wherever the operator's
station may be. By sending an electric current through this cable in one direction
through the said electro-magnets, the valve will be moved and the ongine will be
operated to close the door P2; and by sending such current in the opposite direction
the engine will be operated to open the said door. The cables carried in the torpedo
boats, and through which the mechanism on each torpedo boat is operated and
controlled, as described in the said former Specification, are also in this case con-
nected with the keyboard, which must be provided with a number of sets of pole
changers and switches, or equivalent devices, corresponding with the number of
boats to be controlled by means of the said keyboard.
This apparatus will form a very convenient adjunct to fortifications or stations
liable to be attacked by sea. The said fort may be prepared for use by placing
torpedo boats in the said tubes, and may be kopt floating until the enemy's ships
have arrived closely enough to permit the determination of the point where the said
fort can be most advantageously located for operating against the said ships. The
fort is then towed to this point, or taken as near as possible thereto on rails, and
towed the remainder of the distance. It is then submerged, and will be ready for
immediate operation. The said fort is provided with suitable valves for the admis-
sion of water to sink the same, and with ineans for forcing in air through the pipe l'*
to expel the water when the fort is to be raised.
When it is desired to launch either of the said torpedo boats the door P2 of its
tube or cylinder is first opened by sending a current through the cable R that con-
trols the door, as above described. Then the current is sent through the boat's
cable to start her propelling engines. The said boat will then emerge from the
cylinder or tube and will rise to the surface or as near the surface as may be desired,
and nay then be directed and controlled by the operator at the keyboard, as
described in my said former Specification. And one after another of the said
torpedo boats may be thus launched and exploded without giving to the enemy any
clue to the point or position from which they are being sent.
I wish it understood that although the construction shewn in the above-described
Figures of the Drawings is a very convenient and advantageous form in which this
part of my Invention may be carried into practice, yet I do not limit myself to this
precise form or construction, but may inodify the same according to the nature of

page_text: character of the locality in which the same is to be used, or according to the number
of boats to be carried and launched thereby, or according to other circumstances, but
all of the forms or modifications of this apparatus must comprise its essential features,
namely, the capability of floating or sinking as required, and of holding the torpedo
boats safely and in such a manner that they will emerge freely therefrom when
started.
By a modification of the above-described apparatus I provide for launching my
torpedo boats from an ironclad or other large ship, as shewn in Figures 10 and 11.
The tubes or cylinders S in which the torpedo boats A are hold are in the apparatus
shown in Figure 10 closed at their inner ends by plates or covers S', which are
provided with suitable water-tight and insulating packing boxes S for the passage
of the electric cables of the said torpedo boats, each cable being connected with the
keyboard, which is placed in any convenient part of the ship, and at their outer
ends the said tubos are furnished with strong and woll-fitted slide valves or sluice
gates S, which are opened by screws connected by gearing with a hand wheel and
shaft S', S, or otherwise for the admission and exit of the torpedo boats.
Furthermore, these cylinders are provided with packing pieces at their sides,
arranged to be pressed by screws or otherwise up to the sides of the torpedo boats
in the said cylinders, and thereby hold the samo firmly and immovably in rough
weather.
I am aware that tubes or cylinders placed in ships for launching torpedo boats
have been already known and used, but such tubes have not heretofore been
adapted for the launching of torpedo boats, which when launched remain connected
to the ship by an electric cable.
I also make provision for launching a torpedo boat from a ship while the same is
in motion, as shewn in Figure 11, by placing a longitudinal box T on the side of
the ship below the water line, with a suitable gate or door to keep the water out.
In this arrangement the torpedo lies parallel to the side of the ship, and can be dis-
charged from the ship by suitable screws and gearing. Provision must be made as
in the apparatus shown in Figure 10 for the connection of the electric cable.
In some instances very formidable obstructions to the entrance of ships into
harbours and other places are formed by placing bars or chains across the entrance
to the saine. Therefore it is very desirable that means should be provided for
removing or destroying these obstructions. For this purpose I provide my
torpedo boat with apparatus, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, in combination
with tho electric cable, whereby the said boat is controlled and guided, as above
set forth, that is to say, I arrange in the boat A a compartment A³, from which
extends down into the water a line or rod U, provided at its outer end with a hook
or claw U, properly formed to take hold of any chain or bar with which it may
como in contact. In the said compartiment A³, and upon the upper end of the said
lino or rod UI place a small case or cylinder U containing a charge of dynamite
or other explosive material and a cartridge or fulminating cap, or a bottle of
sulphuric acid, surrounded preferably with a certain quantity of chlorate of potash
and sugar. This case or cylinder U is shewn detached and drawn to an enlarged
scale in Figure 13, and it will be seen that the said case is provided with a tube 1
containing a cartridge, or a phial filled with explosive substance at 2, and a ball or
weight at 3. The said case is fitted to slide upon the said line or rod U, and when
placed at the upper end thereof and not held or retained will slide to the lower end
of the same.
In the said compartiment As I arrange at U electro-magnetic appa-
ratus, included in the circuit of the said cable, and connected with a bolt or catch
which in its normal position holds the said explosivo case and prevents its running
down on the grappling line or rod U. This explosive case is also provided at its
lower end with a grappling hook U³.
When the grappling hook U', on the lower or outer end of the line or rod
U engages with any obstruction the boat will be stopped, and this stoppage will
be indicated on the keyboard. The operator by this indication is apprised of the

page_text: stoppage of the boat by an obstruction, and by sending a current through the cable
by ineans of a switch provided for this purpose on the keyboard he can immediately
release the explosive case U, which runs down the line or rod U, and engages by
its grappling hook Us with the hook U'. The line or rod U is then disengaged
frou the boat A, and the explosive case U turns or falls over. As it turns over
the ball or weight 3 contained in the tube 1 drops on the said phial 2, fractures it,
and thereby allows the acid to mix with the explosivo or fulminating charge and
explode the case U. This explosion will rupture or destroy the obstructing chain
or bar, so that the ironclad ships or other vessels can pass freoly and safely into
the harbour or beyond the point where it was intended to stop them.
I also provide means for removing or destroying submerged inincs laid in
harbours, rivers, or other waterways, and the wires, lines, or cables connecting
then with each other or with the shore or other station. For this purpose
provide an implement V, Figures 14 and 15, somewhat of an anchor form, but with
four or any desired number of arms V2 extending outward at a suitable angle
from its shank V. In the neck of each of those arms I fit two small plain or
toothed dises V3, which are so arranged as to present their teeth to any object
lying in the angle or corner formed by and between the arins V2 and shank Vi of
the said implement, as shewn at W.
In using this implement it may be attached to a line or cable coiled in the
torpedo boat, which, in this case, is used without being chargod with explosive
material, and is sent in advance of any ship that has to enter or pass through the
suspected water. This line must be arranged in combination with a detaching
apparatus controlled by electro-magnetic apparatus included in the circuit of the
cable which connects the torpedo boat with the keyboard at the operating
station.
By sending a current from the station the operator releases the said implement
or its line from the detaching hook or holding device. The said implement then
sinks to the bottom; then the said boat returns to the ship, paying out the said
line as she so returns. The ond of this line is then taken by a steam-tug or other
vessel, and the said grappling implement is thereby dragged along through the
water over which the ships are to advance thus breaking any wires or cables that
may be in the path or course through which the said implement is dragged. This
operation is illustrated in Figure 16, in which A is the towing boat; K is the con-
trolling cable; V is the said implement; V is the line to which the said implement
is connected; X, X, are submerged mines; and X', X, are the lines or cables
connecting the same with the shore or station.
In my said former Specification I have described an index on the keyboard,
which is included in an electric circuit connected with the steering apparatus of the
torpedo boat in such a manner as to indicate on the keyboard the exact position of
the rudder at any moment. It is very desirablo that the officer or look-out man
who is watching the progress of the boat, and by whose orders the steering is con-
ducted should know that his orders are promptly and correctly obeyed without
having to take his eyes for a single moment from the boat. For this purpose
now arrange in combination with the said keyboard an apparatus provided with
bells or other audible signals which are included in an electric circuit connected
with the said index.
By this apparatus the movements of the index or needle on the keyboard will
be accompanied by a corresponding indication by the bell or other sounder of the
said apparatus.
Having thus fully described the said Invention as communicated to ine by my
foreign correspondent, and the manner of performing the same, I wish it under-
stood that I claim,-
First. In a torpedo boat, the provision for using quicklime in or with the gas
generator or reservoir, and for conducting water to the lime as above sot forth, and
for the purposes specified.

page_text: Second. In a torpedo boat, the utilization of a portion of the hull or body of the
same to serve as a gas chamber instead of placing a separate cylinder in the boat
by securing therein the tube plates, and fitting the same with tubes, as above set
forth.
Third. The construction of a subinergable vessel or torpedo with a water chamber
which is provided with an aperture for the admission of water and an air escape
pipe, which aperture is sealed or closed by a cover or valve in connection with a
cartridge or other devices included within an electrical circuit in such a manner
that by sending a current through this circuit the said aperture is opened and water
is admitted to the boat to sink or submerge the saino.
Fourth. The means or devices by which a train or series of such boats may be
connected with each other and with the towing vessel, and with the shore or other
station in such a manner that the said train or series of boats may be towed to any
desired position, and by the employment of electricity detached from the towing
boat sunk and fired as above set forth, and for the purposes specified.
Fifth. The means for facilitating the operation of my torpedo boat by using in
connection therowith an auxiliary boat to be towed by the torpedo boat and fittod
with apparatus comprising a battery and a keyboard connected by an electrical
cable with the said torpedo boat, and which auxiliary boat may be detached from
the said torpedo boat when desirable, as above set forth.
Sixth. A submarino fort or apparatus or vessel constructed in any suitablo
manner for holding torpedo boats, and capable of being sunk or raised as desired by
operators on shore, and which is provided with means for releasing the said
torpedo boats, and may be used for launching thein under water as above set
forth.
Soventh. The special form and construction of this apparatus or "subinarine
fort," as shewn in Figures 7, 8, 9 of tho Drawings, and tho providing of the samo
with hinged doors operated by engines worked by gas or other fluid supplied
from a reservoir on the fort or on shore, and which engines are controlled by
electricity through the medium of a cable connected with a keyboard on shore
or at any convenient station, as above described.
Eighth. The apparatus on board an ironclad ship or other vessel for launching
torpedo boats or torpedoes from the side or sides thereof, and connecting the same
by a cable with a keyboard in the said ship or vessel, by means of which
keyboard the said torpedo boats or torpedoes will be controllable, as above set
forth.
Ninth. Providing my torpedo boat with means whereby the existence of chains,
bars, or similar obstructions in harbours and other water channels or spaces will
be indicated from the boat to the shore or other station from which the said boat
is controlled, and whereby the operator by means of an electric current, sont through
the cable which connects the said boat with the station, can cause the romoval of
such obstructions, as above described.
Tenth. The apparatus consisting of the grappling line or rod provided with a
hook, and the cylinder or case which is fitted to slide on the said line or rod,
and is provided with a hook or hooks or similar devices, and which contains
explosive material and means for igniting or firing the same in combination
with devices included within the electric circnit of the operating cable, which
devices are caused by the passage of the current through the said cable to release
the said cylindor or case, which then acts to destroy or remove the obstructions,
as abovo set forth.
Eleventh. The grappling implement constructed and provided with the cutting
discs, as shown in Figures 14 and 15 of the Drawings, and which is employed for
the removal of submerged mines and thoir connections, as above set forth.
Twelfch. In combination with and as part of the apparatus used in and for the
operation, guiding, and controlling of my torpedo boats, a bell or other audiblo

page_text: signal arranged in an electric circuit connected with the index of the said keyboard,
as and for the purposes above specified.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Robert Lake, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Socond day of October, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight.
W ROBT. LAKE. (L.S.)