Improvements in Means or Apparatus for Indicating, or Indicating and Recording, the Movements of the Needle of a Mariner's Compass or the Course of a Vessel, also Applicable for other Uses.
Year: 1888

page_text: Date of Application, 26th June, 1888
Complete Specification Left, 26th Mar., 1889-Accepted, 29th June, 1889
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in Means or Apparatus for Indicating, or Indicating
and Recording, the Movements of the Needle of a Mariner's
Compass or the Course of a Vessel, also Applicable for other
Uses.
I HENRY AUGUSTUS CHASE, Mechanic, of Stonehaven in the State of Massachusetts,
one of the United States of America, do hereby declare the nature of this invention
to be as follows:-
This invention is embodied in an apparatus for indicating and recording the
movements of a magnetic needle or other needle or pointer, in this instance described
as used in connection with a marinor's compass, the apparatus operating to produce
an alarm in case the vessel deviates from the course set by the officer beyond a certain
pre-determined limit, and also producing a graphic record of the course of the ship for
any desired length of time.
The invention is also applicable to a galvanometer needle or similar instrument for
the purpose of indicating and recording the deviations of said galvanometer needle,
or to any pointer or indicator having a variable movement with relation to a
surrounding case or frame-work depending on changes of condition that it is desired
to record.
The invention consists partly in the combination with a compass needle or similar
device having a directive influence acting upon it, by means of which it has a real or
apparent movement with relation to the case or frame-work surrounding it, of a series
of electric circuits having terminals in or near the path of movement of the said
needle, and a circuit controlling device, the position of which with relation to the said
circuit terminals or surrounding frame-work is controlled by and corresponds with
that of the needle, the said circuit controlling device being operated from time to time
to effect the circuit, the terminal of which is at that time adjacent to the end of the
needle.
The different circuits thus correspond with the different positions of the needle that
it is desired to record, the number of said circuits depending upon the minuteness of
the movement of the needle that it is to record, being assumed in this instance as
thirty-two in number and thus indicating movements of the needle amounting to 114º,
or one point," to use the nautical term.
66
It will be understood that if each of the said circuits contained a recording device,
such for instance as an electro-magnet operating a stylus or other marking device,
each in a different position or on a different line on a recording surface, such as a
sheet of paper travelling at a uniform rate of speed, a record would be made ouch time
the circuit was closed by the instrument controlled by said circuit, thus indicating
that the needle was in a position corresponding to the said circuit, or in other words,
if as herein assumed, the paper were in the form of a continuous band ruled with
thirty-two lines, corresponding to the points of the compass, the record would show
which point the needle was on at each operation of the circuit closer.
As the deviation of the vessel from its course will usually be only one or two
points at the most, and as the vessel will usually remain on one course for a
considerable length of time the apparatus instead of containing a recording
instrument for each circuit may contain only a small number of recording
instruments, namely from one to five, and a switch which will connect one of said
recording instruments with the circuit corresponding to the course on which the
vessel is to be steered, and the additional recording instruments at either side with
the circuits corresponding to the deviations of the vessel from said course in either
direction, the said switch being also connected with the recording strip of paper in
such manner that the latter will be moved so as to bring the lines corresponding

page_text: with the points that are placed in circuit in position to be acted upon by the
corresponding recording instruments.
In order to indicate by a suitable signal or alarm whenever the vessol deviates
from the course set beyond a pre-determined limit a number of circuits at either
side of those containing the recording instrument are placed in connection with an
audible signal instrument or alarm so that if the needle deviates beyond the one
or two points that are connected with the recording instruments the circuit of the
alarm will be affected and the alarm operated, and preferably there are two alarm
instruments one operated when the deviation is in one direction and the other when it
is in the other direction, they preferably also operating visual indicators which remain
displayed to show which instrument has been operated after the alarm ceases to
sound.
In order to make the apparatus complete for nautical use an alarm instrument is
provided controlled by a circuit closer governed by a clock or motor which may be
the one that controls the recording mechanism which circuit closer may be set to
operate the said alarm after the vessel has remained on one course for any desired
length of time, and recording instruments are also provided for indicating the number
of revolutions of the propellor shaft and also for recording the indications of the log
and in order that the movements of the recording paper may he known with extreme
accuracy a recording device operating thereon may be connected with the chronometer
and operated at definite periods of time for instance once an hour.
If it is desired merely to produce an alarm when the vessel has departed from the
course beyond the prescribed limit, the apparatus may be mnch simplified there then
being but a single circuit, the terminals of which are arranged to cooperate with the
needle or a circuit closer carried thereby, and the apparatus including a movable i
insulating shield or obstruction which when in lino with the needle prevents the
circuit closor from acting on the circuit terminals the said shield or obstruction being
placed on the desired course and preventing the alarm from sounding as long as the
vessel remains on that course but permitting the alarm to be sounded when the needle
devintes to either side of the said shield so that the nemile or circuit closer may engage
the circuit terminals when moved bodily or in the direction parallel with the axis of
rotation of the needle.
The invention further consists in various combinations of the above mentioned
devices and in details of construction hereinafter described.
The compass supported from the binnacle or frame is fixed with relation to the
vossel on a gimbal joint, the outer ring of which is pivotally supported or hung
on suitable bearings resting on the frame-work and the inner ring of which has
pivoted bearings in the outer ring at right angles to the pivot bearings of the outer
ring so as to afford a universal movement of the compass box connected or made
integral with the inner ring.
The said inner ring is provided with a contact piece or ring extending wholly
around it, and a series of contact pieces or circuit terminals arranged at different
distances apart around said rings and insulated therefrom, being assumed in this
instance as thirty two in number, corresponding in position with the points of the
compass.
The needle provided with the usual card having points marked thereon, is mounted
on a pivot fixed in the box and is provided with say an annular float resting in an
annular cup, containing mercury or other heavy fluid, which sustains the greater
portion of the weight of the needlo so that the pivot merely has to provent lateral
movement of the needle, or define the centre of its oscillating movements.
When a compass needle is pivoted or suspended at a single point, as usually
practised in mariners compasses, and is properly balanced when the vessel is in a
borizontal position there will be a greater or less tendency of the neodle to dip or turn
in a vertical plane as the vessel oscillates about it and thus varies the position of the
surrounding masses of iron with relation to the needle.
In order to diminish or prevent this dipping, the float is connected with the need lo
by supports, which are fastened to the needle at some distance from its pivot so that

page_text: as the float tends to remain in a horizontal position independently of the oscillations of
the vessel about it, it will by its buoyancy and weight tend to retain the needle also in
a horizontal position, and will thus almost entirely prevent the dipping of the
needle.
The needle is provided with a circuit controlling device say as a bar substantially
parallel with the needle, having fingers extending through holes in the needle, and
provided with collars by which the said circuit controlling device is supported on or
hung from the needle, turning freely with the same under the action of magnetism.
The fingers are in proper position to engage the contact pieces when the device
is raised or moved in the direction of the axis of the needle pivot, thus forming an
electrical connection, or completing the circuit between the contact piece and which-
ever one of the contact pieces happens to be above the finger when the device is
raised.
It will be seen that the movement of the device for thus closing the circuit is
independent of its angular movement with the needle, and may be accomplished without
affecting the angular position of the needle with relation to its supporting frame-
work.
The circuit controlling device is thus raised from time to time to complete the circuit
between the contact pieces by means of a lifting device say a ring or collar surrounding
the needle pivot and connected by means of rod with the armature or core of a solenoid
or electro-maguet, the core say hollow and containing a retracting spring acting
between the lower end of the core and a collar or head on a rod extending to the lower
end of the solenoid or magnet and threaded for the purpose of adjusting the force
exerted by the spring.
The axis of the magnet or solenoid is coincident with that of the needle pivot, so
that no directive or disturbing influence is produced on the said needle by the said
magnet.
The terminal wires or conductors of the solonoid or magnet as well as those leading
from the contact pieces extend around the ring to the pivot or bearing of said ring at
which the said wires are extended out and connected with a series of conducting rings
connected with the ring by pins and concentric with its axis of oscillation the said rings
being insulated from one another and co-operating with a series of springs connected
with projections from the ring, so that electrical connection is maintained between the
contact pieces on the inner ring, and the springs on the outer ring without interfering
with the oscillation of the former in the latter.
These springs are connected by independent wires extending around the outer ring
with a series of concentric contact pieces on plates concentric with the axis or pivot
bearings of the outer ring, the said contact pieces co-operating with contact springs
which are thus maintained in electrical connection with the various conductors on the
inner ring without interfering with the universal movement of said inner ring and
compass box with relation to the outer frame-work upon which the springs are
supported, so that the various circuits can be extended from the inner ring through
the connections to the springs and thence to any desired part of the vessel.
The terminals of the solenoid or magnet are connected in circuit with two of the
springs from which the circuit is continued by conductors to the battery and circuit
controlling devices cooperating with a clock or motor the contact spring cooperating
with a toothed wheel connecting it in circuit with the clock during certain intervals of
time, and the spring cooperating with a contact on a more rapidly moving arbor
which will come in contact with the spring for a short interval during the period in
which the spring is in contact with the wheel during which interval the circuit of the
battery will be closed through the magnet which will then raise the device which will
complete a circuit between the ring and that one of the contact pieces which ther
happens to be over the finger of the said device.
The clock controlled circuit closer may be properly constructed to retain the circuit
of the magnet closed for any desired interval of time, during which the needle will be
positively locked so as not to respond to the directive influence of magnetism.
The ring is connected by conductor with one pole of the battery and it will be

page_text: understood that if a series of independent branch circuits extended from the contact
pieces and springs through independent instruments to the other pole of the battery
one of the said circuits would be closed and the instruments therein affected, when the
controlling device is raised, the said controlling devico practically constituting a key
controlling the various branch circuits of the battery.
As the apparent movement of flue needle will only vary a fow points one way or the
other during a given interval of time while the vossol is on one course, it is unnecessary
to have all the points connected with complete circuits provided with separato instru-
ments for indicating or recording when one of the said circuits is closed, provided that
suitable indicating or recording instruments may be placed in connection with the
points, that the device is likely to touch during any ensuing interval of time, or while
the ship is intended to remain on one course.
and a
In order to thus connect the points corresponding to any particular course,
sufficient number of points at either side therent in circuit with suitable signalling or
recording instruments, the entire series of points are connected respectively by con-
ductors &c. two only of which are shown with a corresponding series of points or
contact pieces on a switch board or circuit connecting device say circular in form to
correspond in general appearance with the compass and provided with an indicating
plate marked to correspond with the points of the compass, each mark being opposite
that one of the contact pieces which is connected in circuit with the contact piece
that will be touched by the controlling device when the ship is on the course indicated
by said mark, say, the vessel is on a course south by east, the indicating point being
opposite the point south by east of the needle card, and the contact piece opposite the
north end of the needle which will be that one touched by the finger of the device is
connected by conductor with the contact piece of the board that is shown by indicator
to represent south by east being the next one towards the east from the letter on the
said indicating ring.
From the contact pieces the circuits aro continned to a series of contact pieces say
five in number movable around the switch board being connected with an arm on
shaft provided with a handle, by which it may be turned to place the contact pieces
on any desired series of the contact pieces according to the course of the vessel.
The arin is provided with an indicating point opposite the middle one of the contact
pieces, and the officer upon instructing the steeraman what course to pursue will move
the bandle until the said point comes opposite the point on the indicator corresponding
to said course, for instanco south by east.
The contact pieces are connected by suitable springs with a series of concentric
rings, from which the circuits are continued through different indicating or signalling
instruments to the opposite pole of the battery to that connected with the ring.
"
For instance, the middle contact piece is connected with the ring marked "course
sinco when the circuit through the said middle spring and ring is complete, it will
indicate that the vessel is on the course set by the officer, or that the needle is in
what may be called the normal position for the time being.
"
The rings at either side of the one marked " course are marked to indicate
point one and point two port and starboard, respectively as they are connected with
the points of the compass that will be touched when the vessel has deviated one or
two points in either direction from the course.
The circuits from the rings are completed by conductors &c. to the magnets &c.
of registering or indicating instruments of any suitable or usual construction, from
which the circuit is continued by conductors to the pole of battery opposite to the
one connected to the contact ring in the compass.
The armatures of the magnets &c. are provided with a marking dovico which acts
on a travelling recording surface, which may consist of a long ribbon of paper
moved at a uniform rate by the clock, or other suitable motor, the said paper boing
rubbed with longitudinal lines marked to correspond with the different points of
the compass.
In order that the proper lines on the recording surface may be brought opposite
the markers to correspond with the points indicated by the compass when the

page_text: ircuits of the magnets of the said recording instruments are closed, the drum or
ylinder by which the recording surface is moved, is longitudinally movable on its
ctuating shaft being splined thereon, and the framework carrying the said drum
s connected by a rack-bar with a gear on the shaft of the switch, so that when-
ver the said switch is moved to place tho magnets &c. in circuit with the compass
the line on the recording surface corresponding to the point on the indicator to
which the pointer is moved, will be placed opposite the marking device of the
magnet in circuit with the middle contact piece, which will be the circuit closed
by the device if the vessel is on her course, so that the record made on the papor
will be on the line marked to correspond with the course on which the vessel was
when the record was made, and if the vessel wore off the course one or two points,
the record would be made by one of the magnets at the proper position on the
surface to indicate such variance of the vessel.
In order to sound an alarm or produco a signal that will at once attract attention
in case the vessel doviates from her course more than the two points in either
direction, connected with the circuit closers and through them with the magnets
any desired number of points at either side of those connected with the pieces are
placed in connection by suitable contact pieces with rings of the switch board from
one of which the circuit is completed by conductors through a signalling instrument
and from the other of which rings the circuit is continued by conductor through
the signalling instrument to the battery the said instruments being placed in a
circuit respectively according as the deviation of the vessel is in one or the other
direction, and being marked port and starboard, so that when one of the said
signals is operated it will be known whether the vessel has devinted to the port or
starboard.
The signalling instruments can be vibrating bells of usual construction and also
provided with visual indicators or drops which come into view, when the alarm is
operated so that the person whose attention is called by the ringing of the bell
may know which signal was operated in case its operation ceases before the person
arrives at the signal.
When it is desired to have the signals operated upon a smaller deviation of the
vessel from her course, they may he connected in circuit with one or both the
contact pieces at the sides of the middle contact piece by means of a switch which
forms electrical connection between the said springs and the contact pieces.
If in the switch and recording instrument the handle does not revolve wholly
around, additional contact pieces are provided between two points to receive the
contact pieces and when the switch is in or near its extreme position the third
spring of the piece is four points west of the point say of south going around from
the east, or in other words the contact piece beneath the third point should represent
south and it is connected with the one marked South-west by a wire so that in case
the vessel should deviate to the south west course, the device on rising would touch
the contact piece connected with the contact piec opposite the mark S.W. from
which the circuit would be continued by that wire to a spring so that the starboard
aların would be operated as it should be.
In a similar manner the points between S.W. and S. are connected with a series
of points beyond the mark S. on the other side of the switch board, and the points
between S. and S.E. are connected with the points beyond the mark S. on the
opposite or west side of the switch board.
After the officer has given instructions to the steersman and set the switch board
to correspond with any desired course, he may desire to he notified or reminded
when the vessel has remained on the said course for a definite perio1 of time, and
to provide for this the apparatus comprises a course alarm say a vibrating bell one
terminal of which is connected by a conductor with one pole of battery and the other
terminal of which is connected by another conductor with a contact piece adapted to
be engaged by a contact piece connected with a plate on the gear actuated by the clock
which drives the shaft of the recording apparatus.
The said plate is movable independently of the gear and is provided with an

page_text: engaging projection which may be placed in any desired one of a series of recesses
in the gear, thus placing the contact piece at any desired distance from the one,
so that it will require a corresponding interval of time to bring the contact pieco
around to the contact piere in the revolution of the gear.
The gear may be arranged to make one revolution in 12 hours and the disk be
marked from 1 to 12 so that by turning the said disk so as to bring any desired
number opposite the contact piece, the contact piece will be placed in the position to
occupy the same number of hours on arriving at the contact piece which is electrically
connected with the frame-work of the clock and the disk, so that while the contact
pieces are engaged in the rotation of the disc, the circuit of the course alarm will
he closed, while a tooth of the disc is in engagement with the spring, thus sounding
the alarm for a suitable interval of time.
The recording surface might be employed to register other conditions of the vessel
besides its course or direction, by means of additional recording instruments, one of
which may, for instance, be connected with the revolution counter of the engine,
making a mark at every one hundred or one thousand revolutions as may be desired,
and another may be connected with the log. making a mark for every knot or other
desired distance; and another may be connected with the chronometer so as to
indicate the time with greater precision than can be attained by the movement of
the clock.
If the recording surface should be moved by turning the handle at the moment
when one of the recording instruments or markers is in engagement with the said
surface, the recording paper might be torn or the instrumont hent or injured, and in
order to prevent such an accident from occurring the handle or the entire instrument
might be enclosed in a case or box, having a movable door or cover hinged or other-
wise, said cover controlling the circuit of the instruments etcetera, either directly or
secondarily by controlling the circuit of the magnet or otherwise.
The said box or ease may be provided with a circuit closer, one member of which
is connected with the body of the case. and the other with the movable cover in such
manner that when the said box is opened to afford access to the handlo, the circuit
controlled by circuit closer will be open.
The circuit closor will preferably be included in the wire, common to all the
recording instruments, so that when the said box is opened none of the said circuits
can be completed, and consequently none of the said instruments can be operated
until after the shaft handle has been moved to the desired position and the box door
again closed.
If desired the circuit closer might be included in the circuit of the magnet, or a
series of the said circuit closers may be employed, one controlling the circuit of each
indicating instrument, or a circuit controlling that of one of the said indicating instru-
ments or a series thereof.
The apparatus is capable of numerous modifications, for instance, instead of having
an independent circuit closer angularly movable with the needle, the said needle might
itsolf be moved bodily in line with the axis of its pivot to complete a circuit from
side to side of the gimbal ring, the said needle either being lifted off from its pivot
by the lifting device engaging it around said pivot, or the pivot itself being moved
longitudinally.
Instead of having the rubbing contacts between the conductors on the different
gimbal rings, conductors might be employed of sufficient flexibility to admit of a
universal movement of the compass box with relation to the external casing or frame-
work.
Instead of the recording instruments described, the current might make a record by
chemical action, and the term recording instrumont is intended to include means or
instrumentalities of this kind.
The invention or portions thereof are capable of various applications other than the
particular one herein described, the main feature of the invention consisting in a
circuit controlling device or kuy, which is sensitive to or has its position varied by
changes of condition that it is desired to indicate, and which co-operates with a series

page_text: of different electric circuits in different positions, and also has a movement to control
the said circuits which does not interfere with its sensitiveness to the influences by
which its change of position is effected.
When it is desired that the apparatus shall merely cause an alarm to be sounded
when the vessel deviates from its course, a simpler construction may be employed,
the entire registering apparatus being omitted and thus greatly reducing the expense
of the apparatus.
In such a construction the conductors of an electric circuit including a signal or
alarm and battery are connected with the opposite bearings of the outer ring of the
gimbal joint supporting the compass box the said ring being electrically divided into
two parts by insulating material.
The bearings of the inner ring or box are electrically connected with the two parts
of the outer ring respectively, and thus with the respective conductors of the alarm
circuit, and the said bearings are respectively connected with annular contact plates
insulated from one another and constituting the terminals of the alarm circuit.
The needle with its pivot may be as described, or of any suitable or usual con-
struction, and carries with it in its angular movement a circuit closer having pro-
jections one of which lies beneath the ring and the other beneath the ring forming
the terminals of the alarm circuit, so that if the said circuit closer is pressed by a
bodily movement parallel with the axis of the needle and pivot towards and against
the said rings, it will close the alarm circuit and cause the alarm to be sounded.
The circuit closer accompanies the needle in its angular or directive movement, and
is raised from time to time towards the rings by mechanism as before described, or if
desired by a mechanical motor arranged to move it at the proper time.
In order to prevent the alarm from sounding as long as the vessel remains on its
course, the apparatus is provided with a shield or obstruction which may be turned to
any desired angle with relation to the compass box by means of a beveled gear con-
nected with it and a pinion on a shaft provided with a handle accessible to the proper
officer.
The said shield or obstruction when in line with the needle, or in other words when
the vessel is on the course set by the officer, lies between the circuit closer and the
circuit terminals, so that when the said circuit closer is moved towards the said
terminals it cannot reach them and close the circuit, but when the vessel deviates
from the course so as to cause a deviation of the needle greater than the width of the
portion of the shield below the circuit terminals, the said shield will no longer obstruct
the action of the circuit closer, and an alarm will be produced.
The invention is not limited to the mechanical construction or arrangement of the
parts, as it is obvious that this can be greatly varied.
Alternatively the needle itself constitutes the circuit closer, and it may be moved
parallel with its axis either by a device similar to the one which will lift it frou its
pivot, or the pivot itself may be moved longitudinally for the purpose of actuating the
circuit closer.
Dated the 28th JT1000
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in Means or Apparatus for Indicating, or Indicating
and Recording, the Movements of the Needle of a Mariner's
Compass or the Course of a Vessel, also Applicable for other
Uses.
1 HENRY AUGUSTUS CHASE, Mechanic, of Stonehaven, in the State of Massachusetts
one of the United States of America do hereby declare the nature of this invention
and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and
ascertained in and by the following statement :-
This invention is embodied in an apparatus for indicating and recording the

page_text: movements of a magnetic needle or other needle or pointer, being shown in this
instance as used in connection with a mariners compass, the apparatus operating to
produce an alarm in case the vessel doviates from the course set by the officer beyond
a certain pro-determined limit, and also producing a graphic record of the course of
the ship for any desired longth of time.
The invention is also applicable to a galvanometer needle or similar instrument for
the purpose of indicating and recording the deviations of said galvanometer needle,
or to any pointer or indicator having a variable movement with relation to n
surrounding case or frame work depending on changes of condition that it is desirod
to record.
The invention consists partly in the combination with a compass needle or similar
device having a directive influence acting upon it, by means of which it has a real or
apparent movement with relation to the case or frame-work surrounding it, of a series
of electric circuits having terminals in or near the path of movement of the said
needle, and a circuit controlling device, the position of which with relation to the said
circuit terminals or surrounding frame-work is controlled by and corresponds with that
of the needle, the said circuit controlling dovice being operated from time to time to
effect the circuit, the terminal of which is at that time adjacent to the end of the
noedle.
The different circuits thus correspond with the different positions of the needle that
it is desired to record, the number of said circuits depending upon the minuteness of
the movement of the needle that it is desired to record, being shown in this instance
ns thirty-two in number and thus indicating movements of the needle amounting
to 114, or one "point," to use the nautical term.
It will be un lerstood that if each of the said circuits contained a recording device,
such for instance as an electro-magnet operating a stylus or other marking device, each
in a different position or on a different line on a recording surface, such as a sheet
of paper travelling at a uniform rate of speed, a record would be made each time the
circuit was closed by the instrument controlled by said circuit, thus indicating that
the neodle was in a position corresponding to the said circuit, or in other words, if as
herein shown, the paper wore in the form of a continuous band ruled with thirty-two
lines, corresponding to the points of the compass, the record would show which point
the needle was on at each operation of the circuit closer.
As the deviation of the vessel from its course will usually be only one or two points
at the most, and as the vessel will usually remain on one course for a considerable
length of time the apparatus instead of containing a recording instrument for each
circuit may contain only a small number of recording instruments, namely from one
to five, and a switch which will connect one of said recording instruments with the
circuit corresponding to the course on which the vessel is to be steered, and the addi-
tional recording instruments at either side with the circuits corresponding to the
doviations of tho vessel from said course in oither direction, the said switch being also
connected with the recording strip of paper in such manner that the latter will be
moved so as to bring the lines corresponding with the points that are placed in circuit
in position to be acted upon by the corresponding recording instruments.
In order to indicate by a suitable signal or alarm whenever the vessel deviates from
the course set beyond a pro-determined limit, a number of circuits at either side of
those containing the recording instrument are placed in connection with an audiblo
signal instrument or alarm, so that if the neodle deviates beyond the one or two points
that are connected with the recording instruments, the circuit of the alarm will be
affected and the alarm oporated, and preferably there are two alarm instruments; one
operated when the deviation is in one direction and the other when it is in the other
direction, they preferably also operating visual indicators which remain displayed to
show which instrument has been operated after the alarm ceases to sound.
In order to make the apparatus complete for nautical uso an alarm instrument is
provided, controlled by a circuit closer, governed by a clock or motor which may be
the one that controls the recording mechanism, which circuit closer may be set to
operate the said alarm after the vessel has remained on one course for any desired

page_text: length of time; and recording instruments are also provided for indicating the number
of revolutions of the propeller shaft, and also for recording the indications of the log,
and in order that the movements of the recording paper may be known with extreme
accuracy, a recording device operating thereon may be connected with the chronometer,
and operated at definite periods of time, for instance once an hour.
If it is desired merely to produce an alarm when the vessel has departed from the
course beyond the prescribed limit, the apparatus may be much simplified, there then
being but a single circuit, the terminals of which are arranged to cooperate with the
needle or a circuit closer carril thereby, and the apparatus including a movable
insulating shield or obstruction, which when in line with the needle prevents the
circuit closer from acting on the circuit terminals, the said shield or obstruction being
placed on the desired course and preventing the alarm from sounding as long as tho
vessel remains on that course, but permitting the alarm to be sounded when the needle
deviates to either side of the said shield so that the needle or circuit closer may engage
the circuit terminals when moved bodily or in the direction parallel with the axis of
rotation of the needle.
The invention further consists in various combinations of the above mentioned
devices, and in details of construction hereinafter described.
Fig. 1 is a diagram view showing the various parts of the apparatus for indicating
and recording the movement of a needle or pointer embodying this invention, being
shown as arranged for use on ship board to indicate and record the course of the
vessel, the compass being shown in plan view.
Fig. 2 is a vertical section of the compass showing the circuit controlling device.
Figs. 3 and 4 a longitudinal and transverse section respectively through the bearing
or gimbal joint of the inner ring of the compass frame.
Fig. 5 a horizontal section on line . Fig. 2 below the compass needle looking
upward.
Fig. 6 a longitudinal section on line y, Fig. 1, of the switch by which the recording
instruments are placed in connection with the different sets of the circuits the
terminals of which surround the needle, as desired.
Fig. 7 an end elevation of the circuit connecting devices carried by the outer ring
of the compass supporting frame.
Figs. 8 and 9 details of the circuit controlling device for the signaling instrument
or alarm operated after the vessel has been on one course for a given length of time.
Fig. 10 a detail of one of the circuit connecting devices for the aların instrument
which indicates too great deviation of the vessel from the course set by the
officer.
Fig. 11 is a detail of a part of the box containing the indicating and registering
devices removed from Fig. 1.
Fig. 12 a plan view illustrating the construction when it is desired merely to produce
an alarm without keeping a record of the vessels course.
Fig. 13 a vertical section of the compass box shown in Fig. 12, and
Fig. 14 a modification to be referred to.
The compass A is supported from the binnacle or frame A¹, fixed with relation to
the vessel on a gimbal joint, the outer ring a of which is pivotally supported or hung
on suitable bearings a¹, see Fig. 2, resting on the frame-work A, and the inner ring
of which has pivoted bearings, see Figs. 3 and 4, in the outer ring a at right angles
to the pivot bearings of the outer ring, so as to afford a universal movement of the
compass box, Fig. 2, connected or made integral with the inner ring b.
The said inner ring b is provided with a contact piece or ring d, see Figs. 2, 3, and 5,
extending wholly around it, and a series of contact pieces or circuit terminals di
arranged at equal distances apart around said rings and insulated there-from, being
shown in this instance as thirty-two in number corresponding in position with the
points of the compass.
The needle e provided with the usual card having points marked thereon, as shown
in Fig. 1 is mounted on a pivot el fixed in the box c, and as shown in this instance, is
provided with an annular float e' resting in an annular cup e³, containing mercury or
B

page_text: other heavy fluid, which sustains the greater portion of the weight of the needle so
that the pivot e¹ merely has to prevent lateral movement of the needle, or define th
center of its oscillating movements.
When a compass needle is pivoted or suspended at a single point, as usually
practised in mariners compasses, and is properly balanced when the vessel is in a
horizontal position, there will be a greater or less ten leucy of the needle to dip or
turn in a vertical plano as the vessel oscillates about it and thus varies the position of
the surrounding masses of iron with relation to the needle.
In order to diminish or prevent this dipping, the float is connected with the
needle by supports e, which are fastened to the needle at some distance from its pivot
so that as the float e tends to remain in a horizontal position independently of the
oscillations of the vessel about it, it will by its buoyancy and weight tend to retain
the needle also in a horizontal position, and will thus almost entirely prevent the
dipping of the needle.
The needle e is provided with a circuit controlling device shown as a bar substan-
tially parallel with the needle, having fingers" extending through holes in the needle,
and provided with collars by which the said circuit controlling device / in
supported on or hung from the needle, turning freely with the saine under the
action of magnetism.
The fingers are in proper position to engage the contact pieces d-d' when the
device is raised or moved in the direction of the axis of the needle pivot, thus
forming an electrical connection, or completing the circuit between the comact piece d,
and whichever one of the contact pieces d' happens to be above the finger, when
the device is raised.
It will be seen that the movemont of the device for thus closing the circuit is
independent of its angular movement with the needle, and may lie accomplishe
without affecting the angular position of the needle with relation to its supporting
frame-work.
The circuit controlling dovicofis thus raised from time to time to complete the
circuit between the contact pieces d-d by means of a lifting device f³, see Fig. 2
shown as a ring or collar surrounding the neelle pivot, and connected by means of
rod with the armature or core of a solenoid or electro-magnet M, the said core
being shown in this instance as hollow and containing a retracting spring, acting
between the lower end of the core and a collar or hoidon a rod f extending to
the lower end of the solenoid or magnet, and threaded for the purpose of adjusting
the force exerted by the spring.
The axis of the magnot or solenoid is coincident with that of the noodle pivot, so
that no directive or disturbing influence is produced on the said needle by the said
magnet.
The terminal wires or conductors of the solenoid or magnet M, as well as those
lending from the contact pieces d-d', oxtend around the ring b, as shown al g, to
the pivot or hearing of said ring, at which the said wires 7 are extended out and
connected with a series of conducting rings g', connected with the ring bby pins glo,
Fig. 4, and concentric with its axis of oscillation, the said rings being insulated
from one another and cooperating with a series of springs, connected with pro-
jections from the ring a, so that electrical connection is maintained between the
contact piecos on the inner ring, and the springs 92 on the outer ring without
interfering with the oscillation of the former in the latter.
These springs are connected by independent wires extending around the outer
ring a as shown at g, with a series of concentric contact pieces on plates g, see
Fig. 7, concentric with the axis or pivot bearings of the outer ring a, the said
contact pieces g' cooporating with contact springs g which are thus maintained in
electrical connection with the various conductors on the inner ring without interfering
with the universal movement of said inner ring and compass box with relation to
the outer frame-work A', upon which the springs are supported, so that the
various circuits can be extended from the inner ring through the connections
just described to the springs 96, and thence to any desired part of the vessel.

page_text: The terminals of the solenoid or magnet M are connected in circuit with two of
the springs go from which the circuit is continued by conductors 2, 3, see Fig. 1, to
the battery B, and circuit controlling devices - cooperating with a clock or
motor, a portion of which is shown at C, Fig. 1, the contact spring / cooperating
with a toothed wheel connecting it in circuit with the clock during certain
intorvals of time, and the spring cooperating with a contact on a more rapidly
moving arbor ³, which will come in contact with the spring for a short interval
during the period in which the spring his in contact with the wheel ³, during which
interval the circuit of the battery B will be closed through the magnet M, which will
then raise the device f, which will complete a circuit between the ring d, and that
one of the contact pieces d' which then happens to be over the finger f¹ of the said
device f.
The clock controlled circuit closer may be properly constructed to retain the circuit
of the magnet M closed for any desired interval of time, during which the needle will
be positively locked so as not to respond to the directive influence of magnetism.
The ring d is connected by conductor 4, see Fig. 1, with one pole of the battery B',
and it will be understood that if a series of independent branch circuits extended from
the contact pieces d' and springs 9 through independent instruments to the other
pole of the battery B¹, one of the said circuits would be closed and the instruments
therein affected, when the controlling device f is raised, the said controlling device
practically constituting a key controlling the various branch circuits of the
battery B¹.
As the apparent movement of the needle will only vary a few points one way or the
other during a given interval of time while the vessel is on one course, it is unnecessary
to have all the points connected with complete circuits provided with separate
instruments for indicating or recording when one of the said circuits is closed,
provided that suitable indicating or recording instruments may be placed in con-
nection with the points, that the device is likely to touch during any ensuing interval
of time, or while the ship is intended to remain on one course.
In order to thus connect the points d' corresponding to any particular course, and
a sufficient number of points at either side thereof in circuit with suitable signaling or
recording instruments, the entire series of points d' are connected respectively by
conductors 5, 6, etc., two only of which are shown, with a corresponding series of
points or contact pieces i on a switch board or circuit connecting device D, see Fig. 1,
shown as circular in form to correspond in general appearance with the compass, and
provided with an indicating plate marked to correspond with the points of the
compass, each mark being opposite that one of the contact pieces i which is connected
in circuit with the contact piecu d', that will be touched by the controlling device f¹
when the ship is on the course indicated by said mark, for instance as shown in
Fig. 1, the vessel is on a course south by east, the indicating point being opposite
the point south by cast of the needle card, and the contact piece d' opposite the north
end of the needle which will be that one touched by the finger f¹ of the device f, is
connected by conductor 5 with the contact piece i of the board D, that is shown by
indicator to represent south by east being the next one towards the east from the
letter S on the said indicating ring i.
From the contact pieces i the circuits are continued to a series of contact pieces ³,
shown in this instance as five in number, movable around the switch board D, being
connected with an arm, see Fig. 6, on shaft provided with a handle, by which
it may be turned to place the contact pieces on any desired series of the contact
pieces i, according to the course of the vessel.
The arm is provided with an indicating point opposite the middle one of the
contact pieces, and the officer upon instructing the steersman what course to pursue
will move the handle until the said point comes opposite the point on the
indicator corresponding to said course, for instance, south by east as shown in
Fig. 1.
The contact pieces are connected by suitable springs i³, see Fig. 6, with a series

page_text: of concentric rings ♬º, from which the circuits are continued through different
indicating or signaling instruments to the opposite pole of the battery B', to that
connected with the ring d.
For instance, the middle contact piece is connected with the ring marked
"course," sco Fig. 1, since when the circuit through the said middle spring and ring
is complete, it will indicate that the vessel is on the course set by the officer, or that
the needle is in what may be called the normal position for the time being.
The rings at either side of the one marked "course" are markod to indicate point
one and point two port and starboard, respectively as they are connected with the
points of the compass that will be touched when the vessel las deviated one or two
points in either direction from the course.
The circuits from the rings are completed by conductors 7, 8, etc. to the
magnets k--k etc, of registering or indicating instruments of any suitable or
usual construction, from which the circuit is continued by conductors 7, 8, to the
pole of battery B¹ opposite to the one connected to the contact ring ở in the
compass.
As shown in this instance the armatures of the magnets k-k³ etc. are provided with
a marking device 4ª which acts on a traveling recording surface m which may consist
of a long ribbon of paper moved at a uniform rate by the clock C, or other suitable
motor, the said paper Leing ruled with longitudinal lines marked as shown in Fig. 1
to correspond with the different points of the compass.
In order that the proper lines on the recording surface may be brought opposito
the markers to correspond with the points indicated by the compass when the
circuits of the magnets of the said recording instruments are closed, the drum or
cylinder by which the recording surface m is moved, is longitudinally movablo on its
actuating shaft m' being splined thereon, and the frame-work carrying the said drum
is connected by a rack-bar m², see Fig. Í with a gear m³ on the shaft ? of the switch,
so that whenever the said switch is moved to place the magnets k-k' etc. in circuit
with the compass, the line on the recording surface m corresponding to the point on
the indicator i to which the pointer is moved, will be placed opposite the marking
device of the magnet in circuit with the middle contact piece which will be the
circuit closed by the device if the vessel is on her course, so that the record made on
the paper m will be on the line marked to correspond with the course on which the
vessel was when the record was made, and if the vessel were off the course one or two
points, the record would be made by the magnets &¹ or at the proper position on
the surface m to indicate such varianco of the vessel.
In order to sound an alarm or produce a signal that will at once attract attention
in case the vessel deviates from her course more than the two points in either
direction, connected with the circuit closers and through them with the magnets k
and any desired number of points at either side of those connected with the
pieces are placed in connection by suitable contact pieces n-n', (one of which is
shown, in Fig. 10), with rings — of the switch board D, from one of which the
circuit is comploted by conductors 9 through a signaling instrument B, and from the
other of which rings the circuit is continued by conductor 10 through the signaling
instrument E to the battery B', the said instruments E. E' being placed in a circuit
respectively according as the deviation of tho vessel is in one or the other direction,
and being marked port and star-board, so that when one of the said signals is operated
it will bo known whether the vessel has deviated to the port or starboard.
The signaling instruments E, E are shown as vibrating bells of usual construction,
and are also provided with visual indicators or drops E which come into view when
the alarm is operated, as shown on signal marked star-board Fig. 1, so that the person
whose attention is called by the ringing of the bell may know which signal was
operated in case its operation couses before the person arrives at the signal.
When it is desired to bave the signals E, E operated upon a smaller deviation of
the vessel from her course, they may be connected in circuit with one or both the
contact piocos ³ at the sides of the middle contact pieco, by means of a switch n³, NOG
20

page_text: Figs. 6 and 10, which forms electrical connection between the said springs &³ and the
contact pieces n―n'.
As in the construction of the switch and recording instrument shown, the handle &
does not revolve wholly around, additional contact pieces are provided between the
two points marked S to receive the contact pieces and a when the switch is in or
near its extreme position, for instance when in the position shown in Fig. 1 the third
spring of the piece n' is four points west of the point marked south going around
from the east, or in other words the contact piece beneath the third point should
represent south-west and it is connected with the one marked south west by wire 12,
so that in case the vessel should deviate to the south-west course, the device fon
rising would touch the contact piece connected with the contact piece i opposite
the mark S. W. from which the circuit would be continued by wire 12 to the
spring, so that the star-board alarm would be operated as it should be.
In a similar manner, the points between S. W. and S, are connected with a series
of points beyond the mark S on the other side of the switch board, and the points
between S and S. E. are connected with the points beyond the mark S on the opposite
or west side of the switch board.
After the officer has given instructions to the steersman and set the switch board to
correspond with any desired course, he may desire to be notified or reminded when
the vessel has remained on the said course for a definite period of time, and to provide
for this the apparatus comprises a course alarm G, see Fig. 1, shown as consisting of
a vibrating bell, one terminal of which is connected by confuctor 15 with one pole
of battery B, and the other terminal of which is connected by conductor 16 with a
contact piece t, adapted to be engaged by a contact piece t, see Figs. 8 and 9,
connected with a plate on the gear actuated by the clock C, which drives the
shaft m¹ of the recording apparatus.
The said plate is movable independently of the gear t, and is provided with an
engaging projection which may be placed in any desired one of a series of recesses t
in the gear, thus placing the contact piece at any desired distance from the
one t, so that it will require a corresponding interval of time to bring the contact
piece around to the contact piece t in the revolution of the gear t³.
As shown in this instance the gear 3 is arranged to make one revolution in twelve
hours, and the disk is marked from one to twelve, so that by turning the said disk
so as to bring any desired number opposite the contact piece t, the contact piece t' will
be placed in the position to occupy the same number of hours on arriving at the
contact piece t', which is electrically connected with the frame-work of the clock and
the disk ', so that while the contact pieces - are engaged in the rotation of the
disk 2, the circuit 15, 16, of the course alarm will be closed, while a tooth of the
disk is in engagement with the spring h, thus sounding the alarm G for a suitable
interval of time.
The recording surface m might be employed to register other conditions of the
vessel besides its course or direction, by means of additional recording instruments K,
Fig. 1, one of which may for instance be connected with the revolution counter of
the engine, making a mark at every one hundred or one thousand revolutions as inay
be desired, and another may be connected with the log, making a mark for every knot
or other desired distance; and another may be connected with the chronometer so as
to indicate the time with greater precision than can be attained by the clock.
If the recording surface should be moved by turning the handle i at the moment
when one of the recording instruments or markers is in engagement with the said
surface, the recording paper might be torn or the instrument bent or injured, and in
order to prevent such an accident from occurring the handle or the entire
instrument D might be enclosed in a box V, see Fig. 11 having a movable door or
cover shown as hinged at v³, said cover controlling the circuit of the instru-
ments K, k, k, etc. either directly or secondarily by controlling the circuit 2, 3, of
the magnet M or otherwise.
As shown in this instance the said box or case provided with a circuit closer -³,
oo̟ne member of which is connected with the body of the case, and the other with the

page_text: movable cover in such manner that when the said box is opened to afford access to
the handle, the circuit controlled by circuit cluser will be open.
The circuit closer will preferably be included in the wire 78, common to all
the recording instruments, so that when the said box is opened none of the said
circuits can be completed, and cons.quently none of the said instruments can be
operated until after the handle has been moved to the desired position and the box
door again closed.
If desired the circuit closer p³ might be included in the circuit 2, 3, of the
magnet M, or a series of the said circuit closers may be employed, one controlling the
circuit of each indicating instrument, or a circuit controlling that of one of the said
indicating instruments or a series thereof.
It is obvious that the apparatus is capable of numerous modifications, for instance,
instead of having an independent circuit closer angularly movable with the noodlo,
the said needle might itself be moved bodily in line with the axis of its pivot to
complete a circuit from side to side of the gimbal ring, the said needle either being
lifted off from its pivot by the lifting device engaging it around said pivot, or the
pivot itself being moved longitudinally.
Instead of having the rubbing contacts between the conductors on the different
gimbal rings, conductors might be employed of sufficient flexibility to admit of a
universal movement of the compiss box with relation to the external casing or frame-
work.
Instead of the recording instruments shewn the current might make a record by
chemical action, and the term recording instrument is intended to include means or
instrumentalities of this kimi.
The invention or portions thereof are capable of various applications other than the
particular one herein shewn and describe 1, the main feature of the invention consisting
in a circuit controlling device or key, which is sensitive to or has its position varied
by changes of condition that it is desired to indiente, and which cooperates with a
series of different electric circuits in different positions, and also has a movement to
control the said circuits which does not interfere with its sensitiveness to the influences
by which its change of position is offected.
When it is desired that the apparatus shall merely cause an alarm to be sounded
when the vessel deviates from its course, the construction shown in Figs. 12 and 13
may be employed, the entire registering apparatus being omitted and thus greatly
reducing the expense of the apparatus.
In this construction the conductors 90-100 of an electric circuit including a signal
or alarm E and battery B are connected with the opposite bearings of the outer
ring of the gimbal joint supporting the compass box the said ring being electrically
divided into two parts by insulating material a
The bearings 100 of the inner ring or box are electrically connected with the two
parts of the outer ring respectively, and thus with the conductors 100 and 90
respectively of the alarm cirenit, and the said bearings 7-7,100 are respectively
connected with annular contact plates 100 insulated from one another and
constituting the terminals of the alarm circuit.
The neuille e with its pivot ¹ may be substantially the same as previously described,
or of any suitable or usual construction, and may carry with it in its angular move-
ment a circuit closer having projections one of which lies beneath the ring do, and
the other beneath the ring formning the terminals of the alarm circuit as
previously described, so that if the said circuit closer is pressed by a bodily movement
parallel with the axis of the needle and pivot towards and against the said
rings dd, it will close the alarm circuit and cause the alarm to be sounded.
The circuit closer accompanies the needle in its angular or directive movement,
and is raised from time to time towards the rings 10/100 by mechanism the same as
before described, or if desired by a mechanical motor arranged to move it at the
proper time.
In order to prevent the alarm from sounding as long as the vossol remains on its
course, the apparatus is provided with a shield or obstruction 410, which may be turned

page_text: 720
to any desired angle with relation to the compass box by means of a beveled gear
connected with it and a pinion 7, on a shaft provided with a handle accessible to the
proper officer.
The said shield or obstruction when in line with the neelle, or in other words when
the vessel is on the course set by the officer, lies between the circuit closer and the
circuit terminals 10-100, so that when the said circuit closer is inovod towards the said
terminals it cannot reach them and close the circuit, but when the vessel deviates from
the course so as to cause a deviation of the needle greater than the width of the portion
of the shield below the circuit terminals the said shield will no longer obstruct the
action of the circuit closer, and an alarm will be produced.
The invention is not limited to the mechanical construction or arrangement of the
parts, as it is obvious that this can be greatly varied.
In the modification shown in Fig. 13 the needle e itself constitutes the circuit
closer, and it may be moved parallel with its axis either by a device similar to the
one shown in Fig. 2. which will lift it from its pivot, or the pivot itself may be
moved longitudinally for the purpose of actuating the circuit closer.
As shown in Figs. 13 & 14 the pivot is connected by links n, n', and lever n² to the
coro n of the solenoid n' in circuit with a battery n and having its wires no, n²,
connected to circuit terminals n³, n³, actuated as shown by a stalo on the second
hand or dial of a clock mechanism N, the said stud at each revolution closing the
circuit of the magnet and raising the needle. The clock mechanism is provided as
shown with two revolving dials N, N³, the former revolving once in a day and
having 24 hour divisions while the latter revolves once an hour. The clock is provided
with a finger N' which may be engaged with any one of a series of holes in the
dial and will be carried around with the said dial. The finger N has a projection ¹²
which in its revolution will act upon the circuit terminals n¹s in circuit with the
signal E, which is preferably mounted upon the clock, but which is also shown in
a diagram to illustrate its circuit connections with the apparatus.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said inven-
tion, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what 1
claim is :-
1. The combination of a movable needle or pointer or equivalent part whose move-
ments are to be indicated, of a series of electric circuits, having terminals in different
positions within the range of movement of said needle or equivalent part, and a circuit
controlling device movable with the said needle or equivalent part, and having an
independent movement affecting the said circuits, the circuit at any time affected, thus
indicating the position of the needle or pointer at that moment substantially as
described.
2. The combination with a movable needle, or equivalent part whose movements are
to be indicated, and series of electric circuits having terminals in different positions
with relation to said needle or part, of a circuit controlling device, co-operating with
the said circuit terminals having a movement corresponding with that of the needle or
equivalent part and a signalling instrument connected in circuit with one or more of
said terminals, whereby if the needle, or part equivalent thereto, and the circuit con-
trolling device inove to a pre-determined position the said signalling instrument will
be operated, but not otherwise, substantially as described.
3. The combination of a moveable needle or pointer and series of electric circuits
having terminals in different positions with relation to said needle or pointer, with a
circuit controlling device cooperating with the said circuit terminals, having a move-
ment corresponding with that of the needle or pointer, and recording instruments in
one or more of said circuits, whereby a record may be made of the position of the
needle or pointer, substantially as described.
4. The combination of a movable needle or pointer and series of electric circuits
having terminals in different positions with relation to said needle or pointer, with a
circuit controlling device cooperating with the said circuit terminals, having a move-
ment corresponding with that of the needle or pointer, and a series of recording

page_text: instruments, and circuit connecting device or switch-hoard by which said instruments
are connected in circuit with any desired series of the said circuit terminals, cooperating
with the controlling device governed by the needle or pointer, substantially as
de-cribed.
5. The combination of a movable necille or pointer, whose changes of relative position
are to be indicated and series of electric circuits having terminals in different positions
with relation to said needle or pointer, with a circuit controlling device cooperating
with the said circuit terminals, having a movement corresponding with that of tho
needle or pointer, and a series of recording instruments, and circuit connecting device
or switch-board by which said instruments are connected in circuit with any desired
series of the said circuit terminals, and a recording surface having a uniform or time
movement, and connecting mechanism between the said recording surface, and the
switch-board, whereby the position of the former relative to the recording instruments
is varied to correspond with the particular series of circuit terminals at any time
connected with the said recording instruments, substantially as described.
6. The combination or arrangement and uso of parts of apparatus for indicating the
course of a vessel, with a series of circuit terminals connected with the inner ring or
compass box concentric with the axis of oscillation of the needle of the said compass
and conductors from said terminals passing from the inner ring to the outer ring, and
from the latter to the surrounding frame-work at the joints of said rings, substantially
Bч described.
7. The combination or arrangement and use of parts of apparatus for indicating the
course of a vessel substantially as set forth including supported rings constituting a
gimbal joint with a series of circuit terminals connected with the inner ring or compass
box concentric with the axis of oscillation of the needle of the said compass and a
series of contact pieces connected with the said terminals, and concentric with the axis
of the supported member of the joint, and a series of contact springs cooperating
therewith, on the supporting member of the joint, substantially as described.
8. In apparatus for indicating or indicating and recording the course of a vessel, a
vessel containing a liquid surrounding the needle pivot, carrying the needle, its pivot,
and an annular float connected with the needle surrounding the said pivot and resting
in the said liquid, substantially as described.
9. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indienting, or indicating
and recording the course of a vessel, of a needle having a free pivotal or angular
movement, with a circuit controlling device moved angularly with the needle, and
means to move the said device in the direction of the axis of the angular movement
of the needle, substantially as described.
10. The combination and arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating, or
indicating and recording the course of a vessol, of a needle having a free pivotal or
angular movement, and a circuit controlling device, having its position controlled by
the said needle, with a lifting device, and actuating electro-magnet or solenoid therefor
having its axis coincident with that of the needle, substantially as and for the purpose
described.
11. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating, or
indicating and recording the course of a vessel, of a movable needle or pointer, sorios
of electric circuits having terminals in different positions with relation to suid needle
or pointer, and a circuit controlling dovico cooperating with the said circuit terminals
having a movement corresponding with that of the needle or pointor, and two indepon-
dont signaling instruments connected in circuit each with one or more of the circuit
terminals at either side of the normal position of the needle, whoroby deviation or
apparent movement of the needle in each direction is indicated independently, substan-
tially as described.
12. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating or
indicating and recording the movements of a movable needle or pointer, a series of
electric circuits having terminals in different positions with relation to said needle or
pointer, and a cirenit controlling device, cooperating with the said circuit terminals,
having a movement corresponding with that of the needle or pointer, and a series of

page_text: recording instruments, and a circuit connecting device or switch-board by which said
instruments are connected in circuit with any desired series of the said circuit
terminals, and a recording surface having a uniform or time movement. and con-
necting mechanism between the said recording surface and the switch-board, whereby
the position of the former relative to the recording instruments is varied to correspond
with the particular series of circuit terminals at any time connected with the said
recording instrument, and a clock or time motor actuating the same, and a circuit
closer moved by said motor adapted to be set to operate at the end of any desired
interval of time, and a signalling instrument controlled thereby, substantially as
described.
13. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating, or
indicating and recording the movements of a movable needle or pointer, of series of
electric circuits having terminals in different positions with relation to said needle or
pointer, and a circuit controlling device cooperating with the said circuit terminals,
having a movement corresponding with that of the needle or pointer, and recording
instruments in one or more said circuits, whereby a record may be made of the
position of the needle or pointer, and two independent signalling instruments
connected in circuit each with one or more of the circuit terminals at either side
of those connected with the recording instruments, whereby deviations of the
circuits connected with the recording instruments will be indicated, substantially as
described.
14. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus indicating or recording;
or in register recording apparatus of a series of recording or marking instruments
and a recording surface having a slow timed movement with relation to the said
instruments, and a shifting movement by which different portions of its surface
cooperate with the said instruments at different times, with shifting mechanism for
changing the position of the said recording surface, and a circuit controlling device
cooperating with the said indicating instruments and shifting mechanism which
prevents the indicating instruments from being operated while the shifting mechanism
is being moved substantially as and for the purpose set forth.
15. In apparatus for indicating, or indicating and recording the course of a vessel,
the combination or arrangement and use of a vessel containing a liquid surrounding
the needle pivot, a needle, its pivot, and an annular float surrounding the said
pivot and resting in the said liquid, and a connecting support between the said
Hoat and needle, joined with the needle at a distance from its pivot, substantially as
and for the purpose set forth.
16. The combination or arrangement and use with a needle or pointer of apparatus
for indicating or indicating and registering, of an electric circuit, and circuit con-
trolling device therefor having a movement corresponding with the directive movement
of the pointer, and an electro-magnet and clock or time-train controlling the circuit
thereof, the said magnet being energized during definite intervals of time and moving
the circuit controlling device, and locking the needle against movement by the
directive influence acting on it, substantially as described.
17. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating or
3 indicating and registering, of a needle and circuit closer having an angular or
pivotal movement, therewith, and actuating mechanism for moving the said circuit
closer bodily in the direction of the axis of the pivot, and an electric circuit con-
trolled by the said circuit closer, substantially as described.
18. The combination of the pivoted needle, of apparatus for indicating the course
0 of a vessel and a circuit closer angularly movable therewith, with an electric circuit
having terminals cooperating with the said circuit closer, and a shield movable with
relation to the compass box or supporting frame-work of the said needle, the said
shield when in line with the needle preventing the circuit closer from affecting the
said circuit, substantially as and for the purpose described.
19. The combination or arrangement of a needle, of apparatus for indicating the
course of a vessel and circuit closer angularly inovable therewith, and supporting ring
therefor, constituting the terminals of an electric circuit and an angularly movable
0

page_text: shield interposed hetween the said ring and circuit closer, and mechanism for moving
the said circuit closer hodily towards the said ring, substantially as described.
20. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating or
indicating and recording the course of a vessel, of a magnetic needle having an
angular and bodily movement, and electric circuit controlled thereby, itself controlling
the operation of a signal, combined with a clock or motor controlling the bodily
movement of the said needle, substantially as described.
21. The combination or arrangement and use in apparatus for indicating or indicating
and recording the course of a vessel a magnetic needle having an angular or pivotal
movement, and actuating mechanism for moving the said needle bodily in the direction
of the axis of the pivot, and a mechanical motor or clock controlling the said move-
ment of the needle, as and for the purpose set forth.
22. In an apparatus for use in indicating, or indicating and recording the
arrangement, or combination and use of an electro-magnetic device, comprising a
spool having a tubular shunk around which several coils of wire are wound, and
having its field of forer concentrated at one end combined with the armature having
the end portion placed within the tubular shank, said end portion lying in the field of
force of the inducing material, substantially as described.
23. In apparatus for use in indicating or indicating and recording the movements
of the needle or equivalent part the combination of an electro-magnetic device, com-
prising a spool having a tubular shank around which several coils of wire are wound,
a portion only of said shank being of inducing material, combined with the movable
hollow armature having the closed end, substantially as described.
WM. BROOKES & SON,
55 & 56, Chancery Lane, London, Agents for the Applicant.
CHATTO Dona