IMPROVEMENTS IN ELECTRIC SIGNAL APPARATUS FOR RAILROADS
Year: 1880

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Morgan-Brown, of the Firm of Brandon and
Morgan-Brown, Engineers and Patent Agents, of 38, Southampton Buildings,
London, and 1, Rue Laffitto, Paris, for an Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN
ELECTRIC SIGNAL APPARATUS FOR RAILROADS." A communication from
abroad by Oscar Gassett, of Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION filed by the said William Morgan-Brown at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 29th April 1880.
WILLIAM MORGAN-BROWN, of the Firm of Brandon and Morgan-Brown,
Engineers and Patent Agents, of 38, Southampton Buildings, London, and 1, Ruo
Laffitte, Paris. "IMPROVEMENTS IN ELECTRIC SIGNAL APPARATUS FOR RAILROADS."
A communication from abroad by Oscar Gassett, of Boston, Massachusetts, United
States of America.
This Invention relates to electric signal apparatus for railroads, and is herein
shown as used in connection with that class of apparatus operating with a closed
circuit in which the signals are operated by shunting or short-circuiting their
controlling electro-magnets by the wheels and axles of a train or otherwise, the
battery circuit remaining constant. except when accidentally broken as by the
breaking of a rail or washing out of the track, or rupture of a wire or
otherwise.
The Invention consists in the use in an electric railway signal apparatus of a
switch and switch locking device, to automatically engage and lock the switch rails
or their moving mechanism when the switch is closed, and an armature and electro-
magnet to operate the locking device, and a circuit therefor under control of a
passing train.
Also in the employment with a signal operated by the opening of the switch or
by the presence of a train in the said signal-section, of a locking device for said,
switch to automatically lock the switch arm or lever while the switch is closed, and
the signal at danger, the said locking-device being controlled by the signal at the
end of the section in such manner that while said signal indicates danger, as after
a train has entered the section, the switch is locked and can not be unlocked to bo
moved by the operator at the switch alone.

page_text: Also of a switch-operating arm or lever, a guarded switch-locking device, and an
armature and electro-magnet to operato it, the said armaturo and magnet being
connected in circuit as hereinafter described, combined with a circuit closer to
partially complete the circuit in which the switch-locking device is located, a
secondary circuit closer, and a switch-holder, whereby when the switch-holder is
disengaged from the switch arm or lever, the secondary circuit closer is made to
complete the said circuit and operate the armature of the switch locking devico and
disengago it from the switch arin or lever, to permit the switch to be moved or
changed when the train is upon that section of the track.
Also in the combination with the switch arm or lover, its automatic locking
device, and an armature and electro-magnet to operate said locking device, of a
circuit-closer in the circuit of said electro-magnet, and a hand operated switching-
signal to control said circuit closer.
Also in the employment of a switch arm and locking device therefor, combined
with a block signal mechanism electrically connected with the said locking device
and controlled by the train, whereby the train is enabled to control the signal
causing the latter to lock the switch.
Also of a switch arm, a switch holler, and an automatic switch-locking device
and an armaturo and electro-magnet to disengage the switch-locking device at the
proper time, the said electro-magnet being located in an electric circuit provided
with a circuit closer operated by the switch holder and another circuit closer
operated by hand at a distance from the switch.
Also of a switch-arm, a switch-holder, switch locking device and electro-magnet
and armature, to at the proper time disengage it from the switch arin combined
with a signal controlled by the train on the section, with which signal the said
parts are in electric circuit.
"
Also of the signal electro-magnet placed in closed circuit with the rails of the
track to be do-magnetized by the presence of the train on that section of the track,
combined with an electro-magnet to release and permit the switch-locking device
to engage and hold the switch locked while tho train is on that section of track, or
the electrical apparatus is out of order.
Also of the switch arm, combined with a circuit-closer in circuit with the signal
electro-magnet and a shunt-circuit arranged as hereinafter described, whereby when
the switch-arm is in position to close the switch on the main track, the circuit with
the signal electro-magnet is closed, but the moment it is released to move the rails,
the said circuit is first broken and then shunted.
Also of the switch arm combined with a circuit closing spring to move it when
unlocked, the said spring at that time breaking the circuit on the signal electro-
magnet.
The Invention also relates to a circuit-controlling apparatus for operating switch
signals, and the employment with insulated metal plates and moveable contact
fingers to electrically connect the said plates of a shifting device shown as a rod
provided with a head to rest against one of the movable switch rails, and a strong
spring to press the said rod toward the said rail, the said spring being compressed
while the switch rails are in line with the main track, and the rod then held back
in its normal position out of engagement with and thus preventing the jarring of
passing trains from affecting the circuit-changing device, but when the switch rail
is moved the said spring in expanding causes the rod to follow the rail a
short distance, and in such movement to operato the circuit-changing device to
set tho signal.
Also in a novel circuit-changer composed of a pivoted arm provided at each end
with spring contact fingers so arranged that when the arm is tilted or inclined
slightly from a horizontal position the fingers at one end form electrical contact
with their corresponding metal plates, while those at the other end are held up out
of contact until the arm is tilted in the other direction to bring them in contact
with their corresponding plates and raise the first mentioned fingers from their
plates,

page_text: The Invention also relates to a machine controlled by an electro-magnet and
adapted to show a signal or banner in one position while a train is on a section of
track to be protected by the said signal, and to place the said signal in another
position when the said section of track is free to be entered upon by a train.
The Invention also consists in a novel detent device in which a vibrating detent
lever has a shoulder near its pivotted point which receives the shock and pressure
of the revolving signal mechanism, the said pressure acting on one side of the said
pivotal point to tend to vibrate the detent lever in one direction when the signal
is in one position, and on the other side to vibrate the lever in the other direction
when in the other position.
The detent lever is itself stopped from vibrating in one direction by engaging a
stop in an armature lover when the arinature is attracted and held up to the poles
of its electro-magnet and is stopped from vibrating in the other direction when the
electro-magnet is de-magnetized and the armature released. This construction
removes all shock from the armature lever and renders the pressure thereon very
light, so that a weak current is sufficient to control it and the signal.
The Invention also consists in the construction of the stop points on the armature
lever, whereby the said detent arm is always caused to stop on the proper face of
the stop, thereby always ensuring the correct position of the signal when the
controlling armature comes to rest.
Also in a stop device controlled by the actuating power, herein shown as a
spring, to stop and hold the signal in position to indicate danger before said
actuating power is wholly exhausted or run down.
Also, in a novel construction of the banner in suitablo sections, thus offering the
least possible resistance to the wind, and materially lessening the jar of the stroke
at tho finish of each change of the banner.
The Invention also relates to a signal actuated by an electro-magnet, and
consists in placing an armature directly on the shaft carrying the signal disk, the
mass of the said armature being so disposed between the poles of the magnet that
when magnetized the said magnet will cause the armature and its connected shaft
to rotate and turn the signal, which may be turned back by a suitable retracting
spring when the electro-inngnet is de-imagnetized.
The electro-magnet is shown as consisting of two sets of coils wound on cores
placed in line with one another, their poles, with the armature between, being
opposite to one another, and the opposite end of the said cores being attached to
the metal frame plate, which thus performs the function of a back strap, such
arrangement, together with the proper winding of the coils, rendoring the magnet
equivalent to an ordinary horse-shoe electro-magnet.
The Invention also consists in the combination of the electro-msgnet, and its
armature adapted to rotate between the poles thereof with a pawl to engage and
hold the said armature in position when the electro magnet is de-magnetized, the
said pawl being withdrawn by the attraction of the magnet when vitalized to allow
the signal to be rotated, and also in the combination of the magnet and its armature
with a pawl held by the magnet when vitalized in position to engage and hold the
armature when rotated by the magnet, the said pawl falling away when the said
magnet is de-magnetized to allow the signal to be rotated back by its retracting
spring.
"
In some of the systems of electric railroad signals now in use when a train
enters upon
a section of the track it operates a so called "block signal, which
remains in a certain position as long as the train is on that section, thereby giving
warning to succeeding trains that the said section is occupied.
Devices have also been employed whereby the opening of a switch in the section
operates a signal at the end of the said section, thereby announcing to approaching
trains the fact that the section is unsafe, either containing an open switch or being
occupied by another train, or both.
It is obvious that a signal so controlled by the switch affords no protection if

page_text: the switch be operated or opened after the train has already passed the signal, but
before it reaches the switch.
The locking device is operated to unlock the switch by an electro-magnet and
battery in a local circuit between the switch and signal, and, as herein shown, the
switch is unlocked when the local circuit is closed, but tho said local circuit passes
through certain points in the signal mechanism in such manner that said circuit is
open while the signal indicates danger, and consequently the switch cannot be
moved until the circuit is closed, and in practice the circuit closer for doing this
is placed at a distance from the switch herein shown as at the signal, but it
may be any where, so that the switch cannot be moved by the man at the switch
alone.
As herein shown, the local circuit is also open at points in the switch moving
Imechanism, the said points being closed by releasing the usual hand-operated switch
holding mechanism.
It will thus be seen that the block-signal is so connected in a circuit controlled
by the train, and the switch mechanism is so connected in a circuit with the said
signal that the switch cannot be changed while a car is upon the section of track
controlled by that signal except by first closing the local circuit by hand, at or so
as to cut out the point opened by the signal mechanism, and preferably thereafter
completing the local circuit by a disengagement of the switch arm or lever.
In connection with the usual signal it is preferred to employ a separato and
especial hand operated signal to indicate that the cars on the section are being
switched, this switching signal being shown as adapted to actuate the circuit closer
to close the local circuit over the point opened by the signal as just described.
The switch arm or lever is so connected in the main signal circuit that should it
be unlocked and the switch rails be moved at all out of the line of the main track
the signal will show danger.
In order to make it the more certain that the engineer shall see that the section
is in working order as he enters upon it, and that the rearward approach to his
train is properly guarded by the signal the latter is herein shown as located at a
short distance within the section from its end, so that the train occupied by the
engineer which controls the signal of the section upon which he is just entering
will operate the said signal just before he passes it.
Figure 1 represents a plan view of a section of a railway supposed to be one
mile (more or less) long, with the signal station at one end (the right hand end),
and the switch and its operating mechanism at the other end, the switch being set
for the main track, the signal being omitted to avoid confusion.
Figure 2 is a side elevation thereof.
Figure 3 is a sectional detail on line x, x, Figure 2, of the switch mechanism
showing the protecting cover or guard.
Figure 4 is a detail of some of the devices shown in Figure 1 in a different
position.
Figure 5 a detail of the socket for the hand operated switch signal and circuit
closer.
Figures 6 and 7 are respectively a plan and end view of a modified form of parts,
whereby when the switch arm or lever is unlocked the local or switch circuit is
broken, and the signal is turned to danger.
Figure 8 is a plan view of the circuit controlling apparatus for a switch signal,
the top of the caso being removed.
Figure 9 a longitudinal section thereof.
Figure 10 a modification thereof.
Figure 11 is a plan view of a signal operated by an electro-magnet, part of the
frame being broken away.
Figures 12 and 13 sectional details thereof on the lines x², x², and y³, y³,
respectively, Figure 11 showing the signal holding pawls.
Figure 14 a top and side view of the armature thereof detached.
Figure 15 is an end elevation of a machine controlled by an electro-maguet.

page_text: Figure 16 a plan thereof in one of its normal positions, that is, indicating
safety.
Figure 17 a plan partially in section of a portion thereof in the other position
to indicate danger.
Figure 18 a side view of the detent lever detached.
Figures 19 and 20 details showing the engagement of the detent lever with the
armature lever stops, being sections on the lines x¹, x¹, and y¹, y¹, of Figures 16
and 17 respectively looking toward the armature lever.
Figures 21 and 22 details to be referred to illustrating the operation under
certain circumstances.
Figure 23 represents a front elevation of the out door signal disc, and
Figure 24 a longitudinal section thereof.
a and a represent the rails of a main line of track; b, b', the usual switch-rails;
and c, c, the rails of the side track.
The switch-rails are held in a shoe d, connected by link d¹ with the cranked or
other usual shaft e of the switch, the said shaft having an attached arm or
lever f.
The electric-circuit controlling the block signal is as follows:-The rail a is
connected by wire 2 with one electrode of the electro-magnet g, which controls the
signal as hereinafter described, the opposite electrode being connected by wire 3
with the rail a¹.
One of the switch rails b', insulated at h from the rails a¹ and c', is connected by
wire 4 with the contact point j, which when the switch rails are in line with the
main track is pressed upon by the spring i, that is, connected by wire 5 with the
track a beyond the switch rail.
The rail a is in circuit with one pole of the battery B while the rail a is in circuit
with its other pole, and the wire 6 which bridges the switch at 7 connects the said
rail a with the switch rail b, thereby completing the main circuit.
The signal k is located near one end of a section of the track in which the switch
stations m, one or more in number, are situated, the said signal k indicating for that
section either that it is safe, or that for some reason it is unsafe, as for instance
being occupied by a train or containing an open switch or broken rail.
The local circuit between the signal and switch stations which controls the
automatic switch locking device starts from battery B¹ and connects by wire 8 with
One electrode of the electro magnet & which operates the said locking device, and the
opposite electrode of the said electro-magnet is joined by wire 11 with the metallic
stand m having a contact point n, which at suitable times, as hereinafter described,
may touch the circuit closing spring o connected by wire 9 with wire 6 and rails a, b;
and the rail a beyond the switch-rail b at the signal is joined by the wire 2 with
wire 10 attached to the back stop P of the armature-lever h' of the signal-controlling
electro-magnet, and the frame-work of the signal machine in electric connection
with the said armature lever h' is joined by wire 11 with wire 12 connected with
the metallic stand 9 provided with the contact screw 7.
Wire 12 is joined with a metal stands having a contact point t which connects
with the circuit closing spring or transmitting key w attached by wire 13 with one
electrode of the electro-magnet v, the opposite electrode of which is joined by wire 14
with the other pole of the battery B¹.
It is obvious that this local circuit may be completed through an independent
wire 15, shown in dotted lines, which will join spring o with stand w, the said wire
in such modification replacing the rail a and connecting wires, which are used only
as a ground or return circuit.
If more than one switch is found in the block section all the electro-magnets
controlling the locking devices may be placed in the local circuit just described, and
controlled by the electro-magnet g of the signal.
The switch arm or lever has at one end of it a perforated stud f¹ which engages
the perforated end of the hinged switch-holding arm a² when the switch is in place,
as in Figure 1, the locking-pin 16 being at that time inserted in the hole in stud f',

page_text: so as to keep arm a down, in which position the spring o, the tendency and purpose
of which is to lift the arm a' when the pin 10 is absent, is depressed.
This arm a is always engaged with and disengaged from the switch arm or
lever by hand, and the arm and spring are mounted upon a suitable plate 62 or
frame work, which also has connected with it the electro-magnet Z and other parts
in electric connection thero with; but it will be understood that all the said parts,
with the exception of the switch-holding device a², spring o, and arm f, will in
practice be covered by a strong box or cage b³, so as not to be accessible to a person
at the switch.
Projecting laterally from the switch arm or lever is an arm c³ suitably shaped
to be engaged by the switch-locking device d³, which, as hercin shown, is a hooked
pivotted catch operated by an armature e, which at the proper times, or when the
locking-device is to be lifted and the switch is to be changed, is attracted by the
electro-magnet Z, made operative from the signal station.
When the armature is attracted the tap f sounds the gong and lifts the catch
from the notch 17 in the arm c³, leaving the latter free to be drawn laterally out
from the box.
The under front face of the catch is bovelled so that the catch, when the arma-
turo e² is unattracted, is free to act by gravity, and engage the arm and lock the
switch-leverf automatically whenever the switch is brought to position, and it is
obvious that the said switch arm will be firmly held locked until released electrically,
as will be hereinafter described.
By means of the tap-bell and transmission key u at the signal station, and lever a³
at the switch, the train hands may communicate in the usual manner.
Upon the frame work 62 is a metal stand m provided with a contact point n and
connected with wire 11, and when the switch holding lover a³ is fastened, as in
Figure 1, the said contact point rests just above, but so as not to touch the circuit-
closing spring o connected with wire 9, the said circuit-closing spring being depressed
below its normal position by the lever a², thereby breaking or leaving open at that
place the local circuit.
This spring o cooperating with point n constitutes the secondary circuit closer to
complete the circuit previously connected at the signal station, as hereinafter
described, the function of which is to enable the said circuit to be kept normally
open, and the said circuit closer may be used in connection with tap bells to transmit
signals, as hereinafter described.
The shunting wire 18 extends from wire 9 to a metal stud 12, and a motal spring i
in connection with wire 5 is held by the projecting arm c² of the switch lever out.
of contact with the said metal stud, but if the switch arm or lever is at all moved
out of true place from any cause the spring i meets the stud and closes the circuit
at that point, which will shunt the circuit and thereby demagnetize the signal
clectro-magnet and set the signal to danger.
At all times when the switch is locked and the section in order, the spring i
(which is a circuit closing spring) pushed back through the instrumentality of the
switch arm or leverf will be against its complimentary contact point ¹ carried by
a metal stand in connection with wire 4.
In figure 4 the switch is unlocked.
As soon as the switch is closed and in position to be locked by the lever a",
the person at the switch depresses the said lover a² a few times, using it in the
manner of a transmitting key to brake and make the local circuit between the
points n, o, and sound the bell at the signal to notify the flag man, so that he
may remove the especial switching signal and return to the train; or the said
lever a may be so used as to communicate any other message between the switch
and signal.
The operator at the signal will use the spring u as his transmitter key..
The arm being locked and the circuit being normally held open at n, o, the
automatic locking device will engage and hold the switch arm.
The circuit governing the switch is closed at the signal by the armature h' of the .

page_text: signal electro-magnet g, when the said electro magnet is excited by a current from
the battery B at the opposite end of the section, there being no metallic connection
across the rails, as by the wheels and axles of the car, or interruption of the circuit
from any cause, as by a break in the rails, or wires, or battery, or switch.
When the armature his attracted by the signal electro-magnet g its lever is
brought into contact with back-stop 1, thereby closing the local circuit through
wires 10, 11, and rail u, also keeping the signal at safety.
When the parts are in this position the switch may be operated as follows:-
The local circuit is closed at n, o, by raising the holding arm a², thereby
magnetizing the electro magnet and causing it to raise the locking-dovice, and
allow the circuit closing spring to throw the lever fout, at the same time breaking
the main sigual circuit at i, j, and afterwards shunting it over wire 18, thereby
demagnetizing the signal magnet and setting the signal to danger.
It will be observed that the signal is not set to danger by the circuit closer i
until after the latter has thrown the switch arin f beyond the reach of the locking
device d, so that when the signal is dependant upon the switch alone for its action,
the locking arrangement is practically inoperative, the switch and signal operating
as if there were no locking device, and it is only when the signal is set to danger
before the opening of the switch, that is, when it acts as a block signal set by a
passing train or otherwise, that it affects the locking device to automatically lock
the switch.
When it is desired to use the section for switching, a train is usually on the
section and the signal consequently at danger.
When this is the case the local locking circuit is open at h¹, p, and the switch
locked, so that raising the arm a³ and closing the points n, o, does not close said
circuit which must be done before the switch can be moved.
The said local circuit is then closed to release the locking device by the primary
circuit closer ², shown in Figure 5 as pivotted, provided with a metal holding
arm and a metal counter balance 72, the normal condition of the said circuit
closer being as in dotted lines, so as to break the circuit between the contact
points r, w. This primary circuit closer ² is turned into the full line position,
Figure 5, in any proper way, to thereby partially make or connect at that point the
local circuit between ?", w¹.
As bercin shown this circuit closer is arranged to be turned by the weight of the
especial switching flag inserted in the socket 2. The local circuit being thus
partially completed, the switchman may disengage the holding arm a² from the
switch arm or lever f, which arm a² when partially raised by the spring o, but not
fully removed from stud f' permits the spring o of the secondary circuit closer to
touch the contact point n, and thus complete the local circuit, when the armaturo e³
is at once attracted by its electro magnet 1, and the switch locking device d² is
raised to release the switch arm or lever f when it may be turned to do switching.
During all this time the signal stands at danger, and it must so stand until the
switch is again closed and held in place.
As soon as the switch arm is automatically locked by the locking device, the
circuit is again closed through spring i and its contact point j, as hereinbefore
described, and the electric circuit no longer being shunted is closed through the
electro magnet of the signal, setting the signal to safety provided the train has left
the said section.
When a train is on the section, or a rail or wire is broken, or a switch open, the
armature of the electro magnet g being no longer attracted falls away from the said
magnet, as hereinafter described, and sets the signal to danger and doinagnetizes
the magnet to lock tho switch.
If desired the circuit closer ³ may be readily adapted to break or shunt the
circuit of the signal magnet g, to set the signal to danger if not already in that
condition upon the insertion of the switching flag, or otherwise operating the
said circuit closer *.

page_text: The protecting box or screen 63 has at its side an opening just large enough to
receive the arm c², and to prevent the automatic locking device from being lifted by
the insertion of something at this opening.
Another novelty consists in a guard which projects above and below the said
arm f, and thereby completely conceals and protects the opening in the box which
receives the end of the said arm.
In switches connected with the electric signal and being without the automatic
locking device, the method of demagnetizing the signal magnet so as to turn the
signal to danger by unlocking the switch may be modified, as shown in Figures 6, 7,
wherein the arm fis adapted to be locked by the pin 16, a spring i being employed
to move the arm f when unlocked, so as to break the main circuit.
The switch stand 63 has a connecting-screw 20 which is insulated by a rubber
bush 21 from the stand, and in contact with the arm f when locked.
The battery B is connected with the rails of the main track, as shewn in the said
Figure 6.
The screw 20 is connected with the rail a' by a wire 5 and the spring through
wire 4 with the switch rail b¹, the rail circuit and its connections at the signal
station being as before described, thus making a closed circuit and holding the
signal to safety; but as soon as the pin 16 is withdrawn, the arm f is thrown
out of connection by the spring i, and the circuit is thereby broken demagnetizing
the signal magnet and setting the signal to danger.
In some cases it is desirable to use a circuit controller operated directly by the
moveable rails or points either alone or in connection with the ones already
described as operated by the switch moving mechanism.
An arrangement of this sort is shown in Figures 8, 9, 10.
The circuit controller is contained in an enclosing case a³ which may be of cast
iron of convenient size, and provided with suitable lugs 21 to enable it to be
securely fastened to the sleeper as by screws or bolts.
The cover 22 is attached by screws 23, and a layer of india rubber c³ or other
suitable material is placed between the cover of and the box to form a perfectly
tight joint so that no moisture can enter.
At a convenient place, shown as the side of the box away from the rail, is placed
a strong hood d³, beneath which the wires are led, as shown by the double line c³,
to suitable holes 24, through which the wires are introduced to the caso where they
are connected by suitable binding screws 25, 26, 27, to the metal contact plates ƒ³,
g³, hs, screwed upon a bed ³, of insulating material tightly fitted in the bottom of
the case.
The holes 24 are counterbored, as shown at 25, to receive any suitable packing
material to make a tight joint.
An arm ³, free to oscillate on an axle supported in the sides of the case a³,
carries upon each end an electrical connector, shown as a set of metallic spring
fingers m³ and n³, to connect the metallic plates at the opposite sides of the box;
the said spring fingers being insulated from the arm by blocks o³ of hard rubber
or other suitable material.
The arm is normally held, as shown in full lines, Figure 9, with the spring
fingers m³ forming connection between the plates f³ and g³ by a spring p³.
Two strong pins 9³ connected with the arin extend upward on opposite sides
of the shifting device, shown as a rod in proper position, to be engaged by a
projection on the end of the said rod, herein shown as a nut s³, the position of
which may be readily adjusted, the said nut being retained in desired position by a
check-nut 28.
The rod, provided at its outer end with a suitable head 29 to rest against one
of the movable switch rails or points t³, passes out through a tube u³ inserted in
the side of the case a³, and is pressed toward the rail by a strong spring v³, which
acts against a collar w³ on the rod ³, the other end of the spring resting against a 5
shoulder ³, which also serves as a guide for the rod r.

page_text: A siceve in the outer end of the tube serves as a guide for the rod
and also forms a stop for the collar w³ to limit the outward movement of the
rod 7³.
The sleeve and shoulder ³, besides forming a guide for the rod 7³, also fit so
closely as to make practically an air tight passage for the said rod.
Instead of the rod the shifting device for the circuit changing arm ³ might,
as shewn in Figure 10, consist of an arm or bent lever 30 attached to and adapted
to rotate a shaft 31 extended into the case a³ through an air tight bearing in the
said case, where it is provided with an arm 32 and spring 33 to actuate it when the
rail is moved.
Any suitable connection may be used to transmit the movement to the circuit
changing arm, the essential feature of this part of the Invention being that the
movement is transmitted from the rail to the circuit changer by a shifting device,
which enters the case through a tight guide or bearing.
As shown, a cam 34 may be used to engage one of the pins to shift the circuit .
changer, but it is obvious that a suitable cam might be used to engage the end of
the arms to rock the said arm.
As shown in Figure 10, the spring p³ should be at the opposite end of the arm
to the one shown in the other Figures, and the plates f³, ³, would normally
be connected by the spring fingers n³, the circuit connection being made to
correspond.
The operation is as follows:-The case a³ is secured to a sleeper near the
movable end of either one of the switch rails, as shown at 35 Figure 1, on the side
from which the rail moves in such proximity to the said rail that when it is in
normal position in line with the main track the rod is pressed into the case a³,
as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the spring ³ then yielding.
When in this position the nut is removed a considerable distance from
the pins q, so that the jarring of the shifting rod from passing trains does
not affect the lever of the circuit changing device controlled by the switch
rail.
When the switch is shifted the spring causes the rod to follow the rail t³ in
its movement in the direction of the arrow, Figure 9, and the nut strikes the
pins and tilts the arm, as shown in dotted lines, Figure 9, the spring 2³ then
yielding, and the spring fingers m³ are raised, and those marked n³ depressed, thus
breaking the electric connection between the plates f³, g³, and establishing it
between the plates ƒ³, h³.
It is obvious that instead of using three plates f³, g, h, it might in some cases be
desirable to divide the plate f³, thus making four plates; or if needed any desired
number of connections from side to side of the case a³ might be made and broken
by the movement of the arm ³, also that the length of movement of the rod 73³
might be increased, or the case placed nearer the pivotal end of the switch rails,
so that a circuit between g³ and h³ would be established only when the rails were
in line with the side or branch track, the said circuit controlling a signal to indicate
such condition; also that the rod, spring 3, and nut s³, or equivalent might be
used with a sliding circuit changing device instead of the pivotted one, the novel
point being that head & is out of engagement with the said device when the rails
are in line with the main track.
The circuit connections will be similar to those in Figure 1, the long plate ƒ³
corresponding to the contact spring i and the short plates g, h, to the contact
points,, respectively of Figure 1, so that when the circuit is closed between the
plates f, g, by the spring fingers m³ the wires 4, 5, will be joined to complete the
connection of the rail a' over the insulating point h, thus closing the circuit through
and magnetizing the signal controlling electro-magnet g, and when the fingers n
connect the plates f³, h³, the circuit is through shunt wire 18, and the electro-
magnet g is demagnetized.
The case ³, constructed as herein described, may be immersed in water without
any moisture entering.

page_text: By the method of shunting herein described, through the wire 19 and stud 12,
when the arm is opened, the circuit of the signal section is first broken and thien
shortened, which thereby deprives the signal magnet of residual magnetism
through any ground circuit, and consequently the signal magnet is thoroughly
demagnetized.
If desired it will be understood that the spring o and point n of the inetal
stand m, hereinbefore denominated the secondary circuit closer, may be entirely
dispensed with, the wire 11 in such ovent being united with wire 9, as indicated
by the heavy single dotted line 35 at the right of stand b, Figure 1.
In such plan the switch locking device would be electrically disengaged from
the switch arm or lever as soon as the primary circuit closer på was operated.
It will be noticed in this modification so long as the switch arm is engaged by
the switch holder and the electric apparatus is in order, and no train upon the
section of track, that the signal for that section of track will always stand to
safety, and at the same time the switch locking device will by means of its
controlling armature and electro magnet be held disengaged from the switch arm,
for the train being absent from the section permits the electro magnet to be excited
by the closed circuit at the signal electro-magnet, but as soon as the train arrives
upon the section, the electric current being shunted through the wheels and axles
demagnetizes the signal electro-magnet and permits the switch locking device to
automatically fall, lock, and hold the switch arm in position, so long as the train
is upon the section, unless the steps hereinbefore described for switching have been
taken.
It is to be understood that the signal-electro-magnet when demagnetized by the
shunting of the circuit by the presence of the train on the track will positively
ensure the locking of the automatic switch locking device.
The switch apparatus previously described may be used with a signal of any
usual construction, and its controlling electro magnet or magnets connected in any
desired way with the various contact points.
The form of signal best adapted to be used in this system of signals is shown in
Figures 15, 16, being actuated by a mechanical power as a weight or spring, and
the mechanism being controlled by an electro magnet.
The actuating power is shown as a spring a', attached at its upper end to a
stud 36 on the frame and at its inner end to a winding spindle adapted to be
wound by a key, from which the power is applied in the usual manner by a
ratchet 36 and pawl 37 to the large driving gear c, from which the power is
transmitted by the speed increasing train 38, 39, 40, to the signal shaft d' provided
with a socket 41 to receive the signal banner, and having a tendency to rotate in the
direction of the arrow.
The signal shaft is provided with four arms cc, e, e, at right angles to one
another, shown as projecting from the socket, and provided with detent studs
ƒ³‚ ƒ³‚ ƒ³‚ ƒ³, the ones ƒ ƒ, being further from the axis of the shaft d' than the
ones f³, 15.
These detents studs flattened on their bearing side, as shown in Figure 17, are
adapted to strike on and be held by the shoulder 42 of the detent lever g* pivotted
at 43 on the frame plate, the studs marked f* being placed to strike the said
shoulder 42 on one side and those marked f³ on the other side of its pivot 43.
The studs tend to vibrate the lever towards the position shown in dotted
lines, Figure 16, and the ones f³ tend to vibrate it as shown in Figure 17, and in
either case if it is permitted to so vibrate the studs for f5 will escape over the
edge of the shoulder 42, as indicated in Figure 17 just before the lever g' reaches
one of the stop pins 44 or 45.
The detent lever g' is prevented from vibrating to release the stud f* and ann e
by the stop on the armature lever pivotted at 46 and controlled by the
electro magnet g, the said stop being in position to engage the lever g, as shown
in Figures 16, 19, and 21, when the armature is attracted, while the said lever g
is prevented from vibrating to release the stud f³ by the stop h³ on the said

page_text: armature lever h¹ when the electro magnet g is demagnetized and its armature
permitted to fall away, being then overbalanced by the long arm of the lever h¹
on the left of the pivot 46 in Figures 15 and 16.
The movement of the lever his limited in one direction by the adjustable
point j', and in the other by the fixed stop p, shown as an insulated bracket over-
hanging the end of the said lover h¹.
The magnet g is adjusted in proper position by the screw 47 and nut 48, and is
retained in this position by the set screw it.
It will be observed, referring to Figures 19 and 20, that when the detent lever g
is properly engaged on the perpendicular front or stopping face of either of the
stops or h, the other one of said stops is in position to allow the said lever to
vibrate freely by it.
In Figure 22 the armature lever is in the same position as in Figure 20, and
consequently the lever g' should be in the same condition, that is, free to vibrate in
the direction of the arrow past the stop to release one of the signal arms e', and
then brought to rest by the same stop h to retain one of the arms e³.
If however the lever g' should be held by the rear side of the stop h³ it will be
seen that the said stop would then act to prevent movement in the direction of the
arrow, and thus cause one of the armis e to be retained and a false signal
given.
When, in the operation of the machine, as hereinafter described, the lever g'is
caught behind the stop 5, as shown in Figure 22, and with the stud f* of a signal
arm e stopped on the shoulder 42, tending to move the lever ' in the direction of
the arrow, the inclined upper surface 49 of the end of the said lever will bear
against the inclined rear surface 50 of the stop 5, and the latter will yield to the
pressure, thus raising the armature lever hand allowing the lever g' to pass in the
direction of the arrow, after which the lover will drop again, the lever g' vibrato
to allow the arm e' to escape, and then, when the shoulder 42 is struck by the
stud, stop against the front face of the stop h³ and hold the arm g', as in Figure 20,
thus giving the correct signal.
Figure 21 illustrates the operation when the detent lover g' is caught behind the
stop h'.
In this case if the stop h was rigidly attached to the lever ' the armature
would have to be pulled away from its magnet to let the lever g' pass, but this is
obviated by pivotting the stop at 51 so that it may drop down and let the said
lever g' pass, after which it is immediately raised by the spring 52 against the
pin 53 to. properly stop the detent lever g' on its front face.
Another novelty consists in using a detacher for the armature, shown as a strong
spring attached to a post 54 on the frame, and adjustable by a screw and check
nut 55 to bring its outer end 56, which overhangs the armature lever h', into proper
position to bear on the said armature lever when the arinature is at the end of its
movement towards the poles of its magnet in order to ensure that the said armature
shall fall away when the magnet is demagnetized.
The circuit wires 2, 3, Figures 1 and 2, for the electro magnet g are to be
attached to the insulated binding screws 57, 58, and the wires of another circuit to
be controlled by this signal to operate any desired instrument, usually a secondary
signal machine similar to the one in hand, may be attached to the hinding
screws 59, 60, the said circuit then terminating in the flexible springs m, n, ou an
insulated block o*, the said springs when left to themselves, as in Figure 17, being
separated and the circuit open.
One pair of opposite signal arms, herein shown as the ones marked et, is provided
with pins 61 adapted to bear on an insulating plate 62 on the spring n* and press
the said spring provided with a contact stud 63 against the spring m' to close the
circuit.
When the pins 61 are on the arms this circuit is closed while the electro
magnet is charged and broken when the said inagnet is demagnetized, but by
placing the pins on the arms e the opposite condition would be the result.

page_text: The stopping device for the machine consists of a hooked arm attached to
a rock shaft & extended down between the frame plates and provided near the
bottom with an arm f which is pressed by a light spring against the outer leaf of
the main actuating spring at which, as it opens out in operating the machine swings
the arm f, and consequently the hooked arın 7, in the direction of the arrow,
Figure 16, until before the spring is so weak as to cease actuating the machine tho
hooked end is in position to catch one of the pins 64 on the arms e* and hold the
said arms, and consequently the machine and signal when the said arms et are in
the position occupied by the arm e in Figure 16, in which position the signal
indicates danger.
Another secondary circuit, viz., the one previously described as controlling the
magnet which operates the switch-locking device is closed when the armature is
attracted between the wires 10, 11, the former wire connected with the metal
frame, and consequently with the armature lever, and the latter wire 11 connected
with the insulated armature-lever stop p, the armature lever being provided with a
contact stud 65 to make contact with the said stop 2.
The signal banner may be enclosed in a case with glass to allow it to show
through, the banner preferably consisting of a light frame covered with cloth of
suitable color.
When the banner is to be used without an enclosing case it may be constructed
as shown in Figure 23.
The banner is framed in a vertical flat metal ring ms provided at its top
with a pivot n³ which is fitted and turns in a yoke o³ attached to the signal
post 7-8
The bottom of the said ring adapted to be secured in the socket 41 of the signal
machine above described to turn positively with it.
In the said ring or frame m³ are secured a series of parallel horizontal rods t³,
upon which are hung slats u³ provided with eyes vs at the ends of their upper
edges, by which they are suspended from said rods, as shown, so as to swing freely
and nearly cover the space between them.
The slats in each space between said rods are made of two equal sections,
meeting at the central axis of the banner, as shown, so that in turning the banner
the resistance against it on both sides is perfectly balanced.
It will be observed that by having the surface of the banner consist mainly of
slats free to swing as described the wind will easily pass through, causing but little
pressure on the banner, which accordingly may be readily operated, even in a high
wind.
It therefore is suitable to be used and operated entirely uncovered and exposed.
If desired outdoor signals may consist of two plane discs of sheet metal,
intersecting at right angles, one being red on both sides and the other white, or any
other colors may be used as desired.
The operation of the machine is as follows:-The signal being alike on opposite
sides is so placed that one of the opposite faces of the disc will be presented to the
engineer, and consequently the same or danger signal be given. If either of the
arms e, which may be called the danger arms, is stopped by the detent device, and
one of the opposite edges of the same disc will be presented to indicate safety if
either of the arms e or safety arms is stopped.
When the magnet g is vitalized the armature is attracted and the machine comes
to rest with the end of the detent-lever gresting against the stop h³, and one of
the detent studs f* of one of the safety arms e bearing on the shoulder 42.
In this position the circuit closer m, n, is closed by the pin 2.
If the magnet is demagnetized the stop drops from the range of the end of the
detent lever g, which swings against the stop pin 44, allowing the arm e to
escape, after which the stud f5 of the next or danger arm strikes the shoulder 42
and swings it back from the stop-pin 44 until its end strikes the stop h³ and is
detained thereby without allowing the said arm e³ to escape, so that the signal

page_text: continues in this position until the magnet g is again charged, when the arm
escapes and an arm is detained.
When one of the danger arms is detained the circuit closer m³, n*, is open, as
shown in Figure 17, so that if an electro magnet of another precisely similar
machine to the one shown is in a circuit controlled by the said circuit closer it
will give precisely the same indications, as would also one in circuit with the
wires 10, 11.
Usually the signal is operated by a single change in the condition of the electro
magnet gas from magnetized to demagnetized, or vice versa, but sometimes, as by
the throwing of a switch, two changes are made in rapid succession, bringing the
magnet back to its original position.
In this case the detent lever will be released and the appropriate signal arm
escape on the first change of the magnet, but it is possible that the second change
may take place before the next signal arm has reached the shoulder 42, in which
case the end of the detent lover g' will be caught behind the stop that has just
released it, as shewn in Figures 21 and 22, but the said stop will be moved aside
to let it pass, as hereinbefore described, and the second arm will escape and the
signal finally come to rest in its original position as it should.
It will be observed that if the stops h, h, were omitted and the machine left to
run down the detent lever g' would act as an escapement, checking and almost
stopping the movement of the arms e', es, so that they can never strike the shoulder 42
with a momentum greater than that derived from a quarter revolution of tho
shaft d.
The shock of stopping the machine is received by the shoulder 42, which is a
solid piece of metal with the lever g', and its sustaining pivot 43 is firmly bedded
in the frame plate, while the said lever g' strikes and bears on the stop of the
armature lever very lightly, having no effect on its pivot 46 to make it loose, and
its friction on the said stops does not appreciably resist the movement of the said
lever.
It is obvious that the stopping-device ' could readily be adapted to be operated
in a machine actuated by a weight, the rod t' or its equivalent being then engaged,
for example, by a knot or projection on the cord or chain by which the weight is
suspended.
If desired to have the signal indicate safety when the magnet is demagnetized it
is only necessary to turn the signal a quarter of a revolution in its socket. Figures
11, 14, show an apparatus in which the signal is directly moved by the power of
an electro magnet.
The frame plate a³ of iron is provided with suitable posts, supporting at their
top a cross bar a, provided with a bearing for the signal shaft d', supported at its
lower end in a step on the frame plate a³, and adapted to have a signal banner
secured to its upper end.
.
The said signal shaft carries fast upon it an armature h' of considerable width
and thickness, and carved at its ends, being in shape a portion of a right cylinder
with its opposite sides cut off at 70, Figure 14, and having the same axis as the
signal shaft d' to enable it to rotate freely between the poles of an electro magnet
9,93, the ends of which are also limited by a cylindrical surface having the same
axis as but slightly greater radius than the one limiting the ends of the said
armature.
It will be seen that when the armature is placed with its curved ends adjacent
to the poles of the magnet, as shown in full lines, Figure 11, its mass is nearer to
the said poles than when the cut off or truncated sides are adjacent to the said
poles, so that when the electro magnet is vitalized by an electric current the
armature will, by the laws of attraction, be drawn into the former position,
Retracting springs be attached at one end to the usual spindles c³, and at their
other ends to cords wound around the signal shaft causes the said shaft to rotate
back when no longer attracted by the electro magnet, as will be clearly understood

page_text: from the Drawing, the shaft being stopped when rotated in this direction by a
pin 71 in the frame cross bar a engaging a stop arm g³ in a sleeve secured to the
signal shaft by a set screw so as to be adjusted in angular position on the said
chaft.
In order to ensure that the armature shall be rotated in the direction to wind
the cord against the stress of the springs 6, each pole of the magnet may be
extended a trifle more to one side of a vertical plane through the axis of the signal-
shaft parallel with the cores of the magnet than on the other side, such extension
of one pole being on one side of the said plane, and that of the other pole being on
the other side, as at 73 and 74, such an arrangement ensuring that the resultant
attractive force of one pole shall be on one side, and that of the other pole on the
other side of the axis of the signal shaft; for example, referring to Figure 11, the
attraction of the coil g³ is on the right, and that of the coil g on the left of the said
axis.
In order to further ensure the same result, or to attain it in case the poles are
50 arranged that their resultant attraction is through the axis of the signal shaft,
the stop arm is so adjusted in angular position that when it is held against the
pin 71 by the stress of the springs b, the corners 75, 76, of the armature diagonally
opposite to one another are much nearer the poles of the magnet than the other
corners, as shown in dotted lines Figure 11, thus making the attractive power
much greater at the corners 75, 76, and ensuring that the rotation shall be properly
started in the direction to stretch the springs as desired.
The same effect may be caused or increased by removing a portion of the metal
on the sides to be least attracted, as at 77, 78.
Two wings 79, 80, of sheet iron attached to the sides of the armature project
beyond its ends at the corners 77, 78, diagonally opposite one another, and serve to
help complete the rotation of the armature towards the end of its movement, the
said wings being then attracted to the side of the poles of the magnet, which
additional attraction, together with the momentum of the parts in rotating, carry
the armature, as shown in full lines, Figuro 11, slightly beyond the position, with
its truncated faces parallel to the cores of the magnet, where it is caught and held
by the holding device or pawl 81 of soft iron pivottud at 82 in a piece of brass or
other non magnetic material attached to the side of the pole of the magnet, the
said pawl being drawn up by the attraction of the magnet into position to engage a
plate of non magnotic material on the wing 80 of the armature.
This pawl holds the armature and ensures that the signal shall not oscillate
under variations in the attractive force of the armature, and renders a careful
adjustment of the springs 6 unnecessary.
As soon as the magnet is demagnetized the pawl 81 drops by its own weight,
and the armature and signal shaft being no longer held thereby, nor by the
attruction of the magnet, is rotated back by the springs 6 until the arm g³
strikes the pin 71 and stops the signal shaft.
The wings 79, 80, are faced with brass or other non magnetic material on the
side which comes against the poles of the magnet.
When desired a second pawl 83 similarly pivotted on a bearing on the pole of
the magnet may be employed to engage a projection 84 on the wing 80 of the
armature, and hold the signal in the position last described, the said pawl being
pressed down to engage the projection 84 by the spring 85, and serving to keep the
signal from fluctuating under the influence of slight currents; but when a current
of the proper force passes through the coils of the magnet, the end 86 of the pawl
is attracted, raising the said pawl from engagement with the projection 84, and the
armature and signal aro rotated as before described.
The cores of the magnet g, g³, are attached to iron-brackets 15, 1, themselves
connected with the iron frame plate a³, such construction, when the coils are
properly wound, making a single magnet of the two helices g, y³, instead of two
independent straight magnets, the poles 22º, 2º, being its extreme poles.
The circuit wires are attached at the binding screws 90, 91, insulated from the

page_text: plate a³, the one being connected by an insulated wire 92 with one end of the
coils g, the other end of which is connected by wire 93 with the coils g³ connected
by wire 94 with the other binding screw 91.
It is obvious that by slight modifications this signal might be used in those
systems wherein the signal is set in one position by a current of short duration,
and then remains so until released or set back by another current of short
duration.
In such a modification the pawl 81 might be replaced by one which would engago
and hold the armature in its full line position, Figure 11, after the magnet g, g³, is
demagnetized, and be released by another current and an independent electro
magnet if necessary.
It is also evident that the form of the electro magnet and the shape of the poles
thereof and armature inay be varied without departing from my Invention which
consists in adapting an armature to be rotated through about a quadrant by the
attraction of its magnet instead of moving up to the poles in substantially the
direction of the axes of the cores from the magnet in the usual manner.
If desired the signal disc might be rotated on a horizontal axis perpendicular
to its plane, the said disc bearing differently colored sectors or circles about its
axis.
The difficulty usually encountered in deriving mechanical movement from
magnetic power arises from the fact that the attractive force diminishes as the
square of tho distance of an armature from the poles of its magnet, so that tho
armature can not be drawn up from a great distance.
In practice this distance is usually but a very small fraction of an inch, and
when the armature is carried on or is itself an arm carried on a pivotted shaft,
the angular movement of the said shaft as the armature is moved to its magnet is
almost inappreciable, and as before stated it has usually been necessary to employ
intermediate levers and gears, in order to increase the movement sufficiently to
produce any useful effect, such intermediato mechanisin necessarily forming what
inay be termed a dead load, the moving of which consumes a considerable portion
of the power of the magnet.
It will be seen that the present Invention entirely obviates the difficulty affording
a large angular movement (about a right angle), while the attractive force never
has to act at any considerable distance.
In other words the effect produced is as if that part of the metal of the
armaturo forming the curved portion of its end were swung around bodily from
its position at the side of and nearly midway between the poles of the magnet to
its position adjacent thereto, while the attractive force in accomplishing this acts
almost from the first only over the space between the outer curved surface of the
armature end, and the inward curved surface of the ends of the poles, such space
being only sufficient to avoid actual contact.
The interlocking switch has been described as used in connection with a block-
signal operated by a closed rail circuit, but it is obvious that it may be used with
any block signal either operated mechanically or electrically, it being only
necessary to have a circuit closer in the circuit which actuates the locking device
controlled by the said signal, itself under control of the passing train, so that the
circuit is in condition to lock the switch while the signal indicates danger, and to
retain it unlocked while the signal indicates safety.
It is obvious also that an independent signal iu tho circuit controlled by the
circuit closer may be used to be set by the opening of the switch, but such signal
should be placed between the block signal and the switch, and its operation would
be entirely independent of the locking device.
The essential featuro of this Invention is that the switch cannot be accidentally
or maliciously changed after a train has passed the last block signal before
arriving at the switch, as might be done in other systems of signalling, and
the locking device may be used independently of any usual signal, as it is

page_text: ULWU The signal magne merely acasa y
locking circuit.
DAC SCCOчuary
When used in connection with the closed rail circuit, as herein shown, the
electro magnet might be placed in what has been herein called the primary
circuit, in which case it and the locking device would be operated directly by the
train.
In such an arrangement an independent circuit controlled by hand from a
point not in reach of the man at the switch would be necessary for unlocking the
switch.
Having now described and particularly set forth the nature of the said Invention
and the manner of carrying the same into effect, I would have it understood that
what I claim is,-
1st. In an electric railway signal apparatus a switch and a switch locking device
to automatically engage and lock the switch rails or their moving mechanism
when the switch is closed, and an armature and electro magnet to operate the
locking device, and a circuit therefor under control of a passing train, substantially
as and for the purpose described:
2nd. In an electric railway signal apparatus and a switch operating arm or lever,
nguarded switch locking device, and an armature and electro magnet to operate
it, the said armature and magnet being connected in circuit, substantially as
described, combined with a circuit closer to partially complete the circuit in which
the switch locking device is located, a secondary circuit-closer and a switch holder,
whereby when the switch holder is disengaged from the switch arm or lever, the
secondary circuit closer is made to complete the said circuit and operate the
armature of the switch locking device, and disengage it from the switch arm or
lever, to permit the switch to be moved or changed when the train is upon that
section of track, substantially as described.
3rd. In an electric railway-signal-apparatus a switch arm and locking dovico
therefor, combined with a block signal mechanism electrically connected with the
said locking device, and controlled by the train, whereby the train is enabled
to control the signal, causing the latter to lock the switch, substantially as
described.
4th. In an electric railway signal apparatus a switch arm, a switch holder, and
an automatic switch-locking device, and an armature and electro magnet to
disengage the switch locking device at the proper time, the said electro magnet
being located in an electric circuit provided with a circuit closer operated by the
switch holder, and another circuit closer operated by hand at a distance from the
switch, substantially as described.
5th. In an electric railway signal apparatus a switch arm, a switch holder, switch
locking device, and electro magnet, and armature to, at the proper time disengage
it from the switch arm, combined with a signal controlled by the train on the
section, with which signal the parts are in electric circuit, substantially as
described.
Gth. The signal electro magnet placed in closed circuit with the rails of the track
to be demagnetized by the presence of the train on that section of track, combined
with an electro magnet to release and permit the switch locking device to engage
and hold the switch locked while the train is on that section of track, or the
electrical apparatus is out of order.
7th. The switch arm combined with a circuit closer in circuit with the signal
electro magnet, and a shunt circuit arranged as described, whereby when the
switch arm is in position to close the switch on the main track the circuit with the
signal electro-inagnet is closed, but the moment it is released to move the rails
the said circuit is first broken, and then sliunted, substantially as described.
Sth. The switch arm combined with a circuit-closing spring to move it when
unlocked, the said spring at that time breaking the circuit on the signal electro
magnet, substantially as described.

page_text: 9th. In a circuit controlling apparatus for railway switches a circuit changing
device held in normal position by a spring, combined with a shifting device to
control the said circuit changer, adapted to be held normally out of engagement
with the circuit changer by the switch rails when in line with the main track, and
a spring to move the said rod to cause it to engage and shift the circuit changing-
device when the switch rails are moved from the main line rails, substantially as
and for the purpose described.
10th. In a circuit controlling apparatus for railway switches insulated contact
plates, contact fingers to connect them, and a pivotted arm to carry the said fingers
provided with pins to move the said arm, combined with a rod controlled by the
moveable rail, having a head adjustable longitudinally thereon to engage the said
pins, and tilt the said arm, substantially as described.
11th. The combination with a rod moved positively in one direction by a
moveable rail, and in the other direction by a spring, of a pivotted circuit changer
adapted to be engaged and tilted by the said rod to remove contact fingers on one
side of its axis from, and those on the other side into connection with, corresponding
insulated plates, substantially as described.
12th. In a railway signal apparatus a visual signal, a mechanical motor to place
it, and detent studs to stop it in different positions, combined with a detent lever
provided with a shoulder to engage and hold the said studs, and adapted to be
vibrated in one direction under the pressure of one of the said studs engaged to
hold the signal in one position as indicating safety, and to be vibrated in tho
other direction under the stress of a stud holding the signal in the other position as
to indicate danger; and an electro magnet and its armaturo adapted to stop the
vibration of the said detent lever in one direction when attracted, and in the other
direction when released from its magnet, substantially as and for the purpose
described.
13th. In a railway signal apparatus a mechanically actuated signal and detent
lever to stop it in different positions, an electro magnet, armature, and armature
lever therefor, provided with a stop having a front face to engage and hold the said
detent lever when in proper position, and inclined on its rear surface to enable the
detent lever to move it aside and pass it when engaging it on its rear side,
substantially as and for the purpose described.
14th. A mechanically actuated signal apparatus and detent lever to engage and
stop it in different positions, combined with an armature lever and an electro
magnet to control it, and a pivotted stop thereon to engage the said detent lever
when in proper position, and prevent from moving in one direction, but adapted to
be turned aside on its pivot to allow the said detent lever to pass by it in the other
direction, substantially as described.
15tb. In a mechanically actuated railway signal a stopping device therefor
adapted to be engaged by the actuating power, and moved thereby into position
to engage and stop the signal mechanism in position to indicate danger before
the said actuating power is wholly run down or exhausted, substantially as
described.
16th. In an electric signal apparatus a signal shaft and signal to be rotated to
give different indications, an electro magnet to actuate it, and the armature thereof
secured upon and adapted to be rotated with the signal shaft by the attraction of
the electro magnet, substantially as described.
17th. In an electric signal apparatus an electro-magnet and its armature
connected with a shaft to be rotated by the attractive power of the said magnet,
the main body of the armature being adapted in rotating to approach without
coming in contact with the poles of the magnot, and being provided with wings at
its sides, one wing extended beyond one end, and the other beyond the other end
of the armature to be brought up to the poles of the magnet in the rotation of the
said armature, substantially as described.
18th. In an electric railway signal apparatus a signal and shaft therefor, and
an armature attached to said shaft, and adapted to be rotated by the attraction of

page_text: an electro-magnet, combined with a holding device controlled by the same electro
magnet to engage and hold the said armature after it has been rotated by its
electro magnet, and then to be disengaged from the said armature upon the
demagnetization of the said electro magnet, substantially as described.
19th. In an electric signal apparatus a signal shaft and armature attached thereto
adapted to be rotated between the poles of an electro magnet in one direction by
the attration of the said magnet, and in the other direction by a mechanical
retracting power, combined with a holding-device controlled by the same electro
maguet to engage and hold the armature when the magnet is demagnetized, and
to be disengaged therefrom by the said magnet when magnetized to release the
armature, and allow it to be rotated by the attraction of the said magnet,
substantially as described.
20th. The signal shaft and an armature carried thereby adapted to be rotated by
an electro magnet in one direction, and by a mechanical retractor in the other,
combined with a fixed stop and a stopping arm, adjustably connected with the
said shaft to cause the armature to stop in proper angular position to be rotated in
the desired direction by the electro magnet, substantially as described.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Morgan-Brown, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Twenty second day of April, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and eighty.