This Machine is represented in Plate 34, at figs. 3 and 4. It consists of a frame of wood or metal A B, on which are mounted the following objects:—1st, on the traverse B, a fixed tube, having for it’s base the horizontal plate a b, and rising perpendicularly to near c d; where it unites with a conical or trumpet-like vessel c d, f e; the left side of which is shewn in perspective, and the right side in a section only. To this fixture is adjusted the spherical portion g h, h, prepared to receive several cuts or slits 1 2 3 for the bobbin-slides hereafter-mentioned, to slide up and down in. This leads us to observe the upper fixture C, which is a cylinder, terminated downward by a spherical dome i k, k; also receiving the several cuts 4, 5, 6, into which the aforesaid bobbin-slides pass from the former slits 1, 2, 3, &c. Now it will be seen that the two spherical parts thus fixed, are separated from each other by the circular and horizontal slit l m, whose use is to permit the pipes shewn in the section at n o, to circulate all round the machine, while the bobbin-slides and bobbins k p are sometimes above and sometimes under the said slit l m.
Now, then, it becomes necessary to speak of the cause of this passage of the bobbin-slides from the under to the upper parts of the slits 1, 4, 2, 5, and vice versa. That cause is in the second dome q r, which covers, as far as it rises, the inner dome f i, k h; and it consists in a serpentine canal, of which a section is given to the left of q, and at s, in the section of the principal figure.
But to make this important piece of the Machine better known, I have drawn it apart, in figure 4, on the supposition—that it is a portion of a cone instead of a sphere: I say a cone drawn with the radii t q, t r, according to the dotted line t r. The surface then of this cone, is supposed straightened in the lateral figure; and the aforesaid serpentine canal is shewn at a b c d e, having the rollers of the bobbin-slides placed in that canal, at the same points a b c, &c. Here also, certain dotted lines f g, h i, &c. shew the relative positions of the slits 1 4, 2 5, &c. of the principal figure, and also of the horizontal slit l m: whence it appears, that the revolution of the bent canal, a b c, &c. must some times drive the rollers towards g i, &c. and sometimes towards f h, &c. while the pipes n o pass undisturbedly round the Machine, in the horizontal slit l m of both figures.
The question now arises, how is the circular motion given to the outer dome q r of the principal figure? that dome is screwed to the cone r v w r, being itself of one piece with the hollow tube v w, on which the wheel x y is fixed. Now, this wheel x y, is driven by a vertical wheel z, of twice the diameter, for a reason we shall soon disclose.
It remains now, principally, to speak of the drawing-system of this Machine, shewn, in small, at c, and of a natural size in fig. 5 of this Plate. That Machine has also it’s own tube c x′, working inside of the fixed tube a b, &c. and terminated, at bottom, by the wheel x′, which turns it by means of the second vertical wheel x′ z, fixed on the same axis as the wheel z before-mentioned, and of half it’s diameter.
Supposing then, for the moment, that the mechanism c derives from it’s circular motion, the property of drawing downward the threads from the pipe n o, and the bobbin p; (being one of the twelve pair distributed round the Machine) we shall now set the Machine at work, for the purpose of viewing it’s operation a little more narrowly. Looking at the two kinds of texture, indicated in the figure below the traverse B, we see that on the left composed (in weavers’ language) of a straight warp, crossed by an oblique weft; and this I believe, is the common texture of round, small ware, as usually woven: the slope of the weft being less and less as the number of shuttles diminishes, insomuch that with one shuttle that slope, might become almost invisible. But in the work made on this Machine, where, virtually, there are as many shuttles as threads in the chain, the slope would become very perceptible, too much so, perhaps, to give a desirable appearance to the work; although the rapidity of execution, from the multitude of crossings, would compensate for some imperfection of that kind. But, in fact, this Machine is intended to make a diagonal or diamond texture, as in the specimen to the right hand: and that is the object of the two pair of wheels x y, with z; and x′ with x′ z before mentioned. Their effect is this: when the large vertical wheel z, has turned the outer dome and the pins n o, once round the common centre, the smaller vertical wheel x′ z, has turned the drawing-system c, just one half as much round that centre, and thus sloped the threads coming from the fixed slits in which the bobbins move, as much, in one direction, as the whole turn given to the pins n o, has sloped the other half of the threads in the other direction, and the result has been the aforesaid diagonal texture.
There are a few other things to be observed by way of closing this article. As the Lace, or Cord is made on the Machine by a turning motion, it must be received below into a turning vessel, or it will be twisted, and thus injured. The vessel D, is provided for that purpose; and is turned by a cord from a pulley on the axis of the wheel z, coming under two vertical pullies, and acting on an horizontal pulley F E, connected with the said vessel; and if preferred, the draught itself might be placed in, or above, the vessel D, but it would not, I think, produce so perfect an article.
With respect to the drawing Machinery in the Machine at c, there is shewn, a flat surface just under that Machinery. It’s purpose is to serve as a mover for that System: To shew which, in a clearer manner, is the use of the fifth figure. In this figure, the drawing rollers turn in a frame a b b, and carry on one of their shafts a cog-wheel c or d, by which they receive this motion from the pinion e; this pinion being connected with the rowel f g, and running with it on a stud h, more or less removed from the centre, as circumstances may require. This rowel then, (for it’s edge, formed as in the figure, is indented with sharp teeth across it’s face) runs on the flat surface before indicated, at or near e, (fig. 3) and by the rotatory motion received from the wheel x′, gives a drawing motion to the rollers, the use of which has already been explained; namely, to draw down the goods as they are formed. It need hardly be observed further, that any kind of filling may be brought down twisted from C, to the entrance of these rollers at c, and thus be included in the plaited texture; and in fact, the rollers in fig. 5, are shewn (by the dotted lines) as formed to receive an object of considerable diameter, as a whip, &c. that it may be wished to cover. Where I remark, that this lozenge form of the grooves O, is not given without a motive: the grooves are thus formed (the cylinders being supposed capable of opening by a springy movement) in order that, if desired, they may draw the body downward, so much the faster, as it’s diameter increases—and thus keep the covering threads at the same angle in every case. I shall only add, that these movements can be permanently determined by wheels, when the rowel f g, acting on the horizontal surface c, has fixed the real velocities of draught required for a given purpose.
This Machine then, is capable of excellent results, and of a speed almost inconceivable: since at every turn, if there are twelve bobbins p, and twelve pipes n o, it makes twenty-four passages of the threads among each other, answering, in some cases, to an inch in length of the fabricated texture; so that, counting 120 turns per minute, (which is moderate) we have 2880 passages, and 120 inches of work in a minute; equal to 200 yards per hour—a quantity which does not yet limit the produce of this Machine.
OF
A BATTING MACHINE,
For Cotton, or FINE Filaments in general.
This Machine is represented in figs. 1 2 3 of Plate 35. It is composed of a frame A B, on which are placed two sets of rollers a b, c d, round which is stretched an endless feeding cloth, on the upper surface of which the Cotton is laid by the attendant. Across this frame A B, is fixed a strong board C D, having a ledge or bridge at each end, over which are tightened the cat-gut strings 1 2, 3 4, &c. Moreover, across this board, is fixed on proper bearings, (placed either straight or diagonally) the axis e f, furnished with any proper number of iron fingers 7 8, &c. which spring the cords 1 2, 3 4, &c. every time they pass by them: where it may be observed, that by the varied forms of the ends of those fingers, the vibrations are made to be vertical, horizontal, or oblique, at pleasure. In fig. 2, these fingers are seen from one end of their axis e f—and in figs. 1 and 3, they are shewn sideways: and in the latter figure, the strings are shewn as small circles between e and f, with the feeding cloth a c, stretched under them.
The following then, describes the effect of this Machine: The Cotton being laid on this feeding cloth near B, is gently drawn under the vibrating cords at g h: for while this takes place by the action of the handle at e, the pulley f by the cord i, gives a slow motion to the cylinder B, and by it to the feeding cloth B A g h. The Cotton then passes under the strings toward B A, and is greatly agitated in the passage; and when arrived at A, it falls into any proper receptacle—whence it is taken to undergo the succeeding operations of the factory. I would just mention, finally, that the axis e f, though here supposed to be turned by the handle e, would, of course, receive it’s motion from a proper power; set on, or stopped by the usual methods.
OF
A HORIZONTAL WIND MACHINE,
For raising Water in large quantities.
This Invention has for it’s object, to make a more abundant use of the wind’s agency, at a given expence, than is usually done: and the means, generally, are to avoid a part of the expence lavished on the foundations or fixtures of wind-mills, and yet to carry more sail than that system admits of. Machines of this nature, are chiefly used in low marshy countries, where there is much water to be raised, and little solid ground to build on. My idea here, is to found the whole on the water, and to make that element the medium, and as it were the centre of every motion.
Let us then suppose already constructed, the long and narrow boat A B, figs. 4 and 5 of Plate 35:—and that there is contained in the middle of it’s width, a cylindrical pipe of iron, (or a square wooden box) of equal length, serving as a pump, by means of a spherical or square piston a or b, drawn from end to end by the means soon to be described. The cost of such a pump-barrel would not be great, though it should be of considerable length—(even 300 feet would not cost so many pounds). Now, at each end of this vessel A B, there would be raised a vertical part of equal size C D, surmounted by a caster, (E F) turning, horizontally, on a hollow centre, through which a rope would pass from the aforesaid piston, (a or b) to the boat or ship S, which is the primum mobile of the System. This boat would further be made to carry as much sail as possible, and to encounter as little resistance as possible from the water. It’s properties of carrying sail, might even be enlarged, by the use of one or more out-riggers, as is done in various eastern countries.
It would be proper, likewise, to give the vessel a rudder at each end, and to reverse her motion by changing the sails, without tacking. This is also represented in the two figures 4 and 5: and, in the present case, the vessel is rigged with three masts, and three large sails nearly square, yet somewhat deeper on the lee side than to windward, to make the sails the more governable, though as large as possible. Supposing now, all these things arranged, and the rope N O fastened to or near the middle of the vessel, and to the aforesaid piston over the pullies of the casters E F; then, if the vessel sails in the long ellipsis 1, 2, 3, 4, the sum of the two portions of rope N, O, will be always the same; and, the wind coming from a, in the direction of the arrow, she will sail advantageously from 1 to 4, or the contrary, carrying the piston from end to end of the pump; and thus exhausting it at every passage; and filling it again from the lower water.
To recapitulate—and bring the several parts again to view; S, in both figures, is the vessel, supposed of the best form for carrying much sail: E F are two casters with their pullies; p q are two pullies at the bottom of the vertical barrels C D, under which the rope passes to the piston at a or b, &c. In fine, q r s are the three sails, and t v the two rudders, by which the vessel is steered in either direction, so as to keep it’s wind without causing too much stress on the rope N O. This consideration involves another, which must now be cleared up: namely, how can this mechanism be made to produce the same effect in every direction of the wind? I answer, the whole System must be moored at one end A, in the strongest manner; while the opposite extremity B, shall have liberty to veer round that point, as a centre, through 90 degrees of a circle; some one position, between which extremes, will suit every wind, on this condition, that the vessel by it’s rudders, keel, &c. be able to keep her ground, although the wind should come from the convex side of the ellipsis; a thing by no means impossible, though less desirable than the state first represented.
Thus it appears, that I expect the favourable result of this System from two sources: the first, (but least) from the length of this pump, which permits much water to be raised without much agitation; and second, from the quantity of sail it is possible to carry by this method, compared with the sails of a wind-mill. My idea is, indeed, that since the power of the wind is so boundless, we ought to use it more liberally than we do: and I am persuaded, that ten times as much work might be done at a given expense, by such means as these, as can be done by the usual methods.
Before I quit this subject, I would just observe, that there are many situations in which this powerful agent might be made useful, in conjunction with water power, as applied, perhaps, to encreasing works, and being itself incapable of proportionate extension. Thus, there are many water mills (used for various purposes) that are obliged to wait the re-filling of the mill pond; and which, therefore, lose much time, although the wheel would be capable of doing even more work than is actually wanted. In fact, it often happens, that the worse the supply of water, the better is the wheel: for this has been sometimes thought a mean of making up the deficiency. In such a case then, a cheap wind apparatus might double or triple the effect of the wheel, and the produce of a given establishment. But it will be objected, that the wind is an uncertain helper! and thus less fit to be resorted to. This I acknowledge; but still say, that could it be used when only a breeze or a zephyr, it’s utility would be much extended; and this is another consequence of a system founded on the application of much sail to a given purpose. Still however, as nothing absolutely conclusive can be said on so variable a subject, I shall not now lengthen this discussion.
OF
A FLAX-BREAKING MACHINE.
It is important, in most machines, to avoid oscillatory motions:—which uniformly protract the time of an operation, or require a greater power to perform it. This consideration has given rise to the form and properties of the Machine I am about to describe.
In Plate 36, figs. 1, 2 and 3, represent this production. The first is an elevation; and the second is a plan, serving to shew the manner of feeding the Machine. To speak first of the second figure—A B is a pulley, (shewn at large in fig. 1, and marked with the same letters;) it’s use is to receive the endless cord C D E, which is composed of three strands, like the apparatus of a peruke-maker; these strands being divided at F, and passing there over three pullies placed at a proper distance on the same shaft F. These pullies are gently turned by that shaft, and carry with them the afore-mentioned triple cord, to which, in the passage toward the Machine, have been woven small handfuls of flax, by the same process as the barber uses to fasten the hair of a wig; one difference however obtains: the flax is knit to the cords at it’s small end, and within a few inches of it, so that the root-ends hang pendent, and when that part of the cord enters beyond the pulley E, those ends hang round the large pulley A B, against the grooved surface of the outer rim: The method of grooving this drum is better shewn in fig. 3: and it should be noted, that the smaller drums C D, are grooved in a similar form, their diameters being such as to divide exactly, in some ratio, the outer cylinder E F. In fig. 1, two portions of these handfulls of flax are represented by the waved lines m n, drawn between the cylinders C D, and the section E F of the said outer cylinder; where it is evident, that if these cylinders had, in that place, teeth like those of fig. 3, these handfulls of flax would appear bent—which is indeed the process by which the wood is broken, and the filament divested of it. It appears also by the figure 1, that the cylinders C D, run on centres, fastened only to the pins of the cross piece o p, (shewn by dotted lines in fig. 2.) These cylinders I say, are thus mounted, that there may be no centres below, to gather up the flax or wood, and thus embarrass the motion of the Machine.
Adverting then, a second time, to the second figure, the flax is fastened in small handfulls, to that part of the endless cord that goes toward the Machine; namely, F E, and taken off from that part which comes from the Machine behind the pulley A B: so that the triple cord before mentioned, there consists of three cords, and passes round the separate pullies at F. The flax being thus taken off at M, is handed to the charger at N, and re-fixed to that cord by it’s other end—so as to be finished by a second passage. It would be superfluous to add, that the waved form of the grooves in the cylinders, is intended to break the flax at every point of it’s passage before those grooves as conducted by the large pulley A B, (in the centre of which the main shaft turns without giving it any of it’s own motion) the said pulley A B, being turned, as before stated, by the triple cord from the slow motion of the pullies F in the figure.
OF
A BOWKING MACHINE,
To accelerate and equalize that process.
Having heard it observed by some Calico Printers, that there is more or less of inequality in this process as usually performed; and that some parts of the goods are exposed to be more acted on than the inner parts, I have thought the following Machine would be useful, both to equalize and accelerate that operation.
In figs. 4 and 5 of Plate 36, A B is a hollow cylinder, running on two gudgeons C D, with a very slow motion, and thus, requiring very little power. One of these gudgeons C, is hollow, for the purpose of receiving steam from a boiler, like those at present used. The cylinder A B, is double, both around it’s circumference, and at it’s ends, (see a b, c d, figs. 4 and 5). It is also furnished with one or more doors E, through which to introduce the goods; and which doors are afterwards closed with screws, like those mentioned in the article “Washing Machine,” of the third Part. The goods being put in, with the usual doses of alkaline liquor, &c. the steam is introduced through the gudgeon into the interstice a b, and thence through proper openings into the body of the wheel, and between the cylindrical partitions a b, c d, &c. By the steam, the water acquires a boiling heat; and by the motion of the wheel, is carried up in the boxes a b, &c. to the top, whence it falls through proper holes upon the goods; thus keeping them wet, and steaming them at the same time. The figures shew the division of the liquor into several jets 1, 2, 3, &c. which are constantly falling on the goods, as the process requires. The 4th. figure shews further, the effect of the turning motion of the cylinder A B; namely, that of changing the position of the articles; and offering, successively, every part thereof to the steam and flowing liquid: and thus, I presume, must the Bowking process become more rapid and equal, than that which takes place in a Bowking-keer, unaccompanied with such a motion.
OF
A PRINTING MACHINE,
For two Colours.
This Machine occupies a great part of Plate 37. It is represented in figs. 1 and 2; the first being an inside view of one of the cheeks; and the second, a view endwise—represented as broken in the middle, to gain space in the Plate. As far as possible, both the parts are marked with the same letters.
To begin with fig. 1, A B C is the cheek: being a kind of shallow box with edges to strengthen it and give it thickness for the steps a b, &c. These steps are strongly fixed to the screws that slide in the boxes A B, and the nuts of which, are seen at c d. The screws enter, besides, into the heads of the perpendicular levers D F, E G, against which these nuts press to set the cylinders, by their steps a b, against the bowl H. This pressure of those cylinders a b is a modified effect: for the levers D F, E G, are drawn inward by the pulling bars I K; which, meeting in the centre of the Machine, are pressed downward by the hanging bar L, to which are suspended the scales and weights M, these being more or less heavy according to the wish of the Printer. It were well to mention a circumstance of some importance connected with this subject:—If the bars I K form together an angle very obtuse, the power of pressure is immense; and the weights at M might be the lighter: But, then, the degrees of pressure at different angles of the bars I K would vary too much, if any excentricity of the cylinders a b, occasioned any motion. It is therefore best to use a sensible angle between the bars I K, together with a weight at M, so much the heavier; by which means these motions will be the more mild and manageable. Proceeding with the description: e f are two hooked screws, by which the pulling bars I K are raised, when necessary, so as to increase the nip in any corner of the Machine, without affecting the rest. It should be observed also, that the steps a b, have dove-tailed slides screwed to them from under the rim, and in it’s thickness, to make them move more correctly, when pressed horizontally by the nuts c d. The upper works of this Printing Machine are not greatly different from those of the common one. In one respect, however, I think them superior. The roller, prepared for the returning blanket, is mounted in a frame g, (fig. 2) which moves on a pin in the centre of the Machine, insomuch that one screw and nut h, suffices to regulate this return. This then, is an improvement, as the printer has but one operation to perform instead of two. The use of the piece-roller is the same as usual; and the goods are carried down on stretching bars, &c. exactly in the same manner.
But a more important property of this Machine remains to be noticed, The two cylinders a b, are made to press diametrically across the centre of the bowl H; so that it’s shaft suffers no friction from that pressure. And hence, this two-coloured Machine requires no more power to work it, than a common machine for one colour.
A further property of this Machine deserves attention; but for want of room on the Plate, we are obliged to describe it by means of dotted lines on the face of the present figure. At a b, and at H, we have dotted three toothed wheels, of which one is keyed on each of the mandrels, while the central one is placed in a frame, forming part of a slide N, (fixed on the plate N of fig. 2) and by which this wheel is moved up and down at pleasure. Here it is evident, (see again fig. 1) that if this central wheel rises, it will turn the mandrel a, backward; and the mandrel b, forward: and this is a peremptory method of increasing or lessening the distance between any two points on the cylinders; or in other words, of fitting the colours of one cylinder into those of the other—an operation which is thus performed by a single movement; while in other machines it is necessary to go on both sides of the machine to produce the same effect. In a word, this process is completed in a few moments, by turning backward or forward a nut like that h, applied to the screw placed against the side of the Machine, as at P Q.
But we have another important property to speak of. The colours on the two cylinders must be fitted in, laterally, as well as longitudinally: and the Machine performs this by an easy method. At each side of the Machine (see figs. 1 and 2) is fixed on a centre i, a short lever k l, the bent end of which (l) rises just to the brass step which carries the mandrel of the cylinder a, and is formed so as to push that step inward, when it’s end k is pressed outward; which latter motion is occasioned by the screw m n, which goes all across the Machine, and performs the same office on either side as wanted. This then, is another economy of time and pains; this setting being usually done by passing round the Machine, from one side to the other.
Finally, R S shews one of the cross-bars by which the two cheeks are connected. They are formed as portions of a hollow cylinder, and screwed to the cheeks through flanches, the breadth and form of which give considerable strength to the Machine; which is further strengthened by the bars T V and W X, in it’s upper parts.
In the above description of this Machine, (in which the parts common to other machines are omitted) I have endeavoured to avoid all invidious comparison: and have only said what my additions appear to warrant, and what, I am persuaded they will justify, when this Machine shall be compared with others, placed in the same circumstances for the sake of liberal comparison.
OF
A MACHINE
For clearing turbid Liquors.
I confess, I again stand on a kind of forbidden ground; and am uncertain to what degree this Invention will justify it’s title. Yet I think myself safe in expecting it will produce an useful effect. But the fact is, I never fully proved it: the apparatus with which, more than twenty years ago, I was trying the System, having broken in the experiment—which I then had no opportunity of resuming.
I had then, as formerly, asked myself a question, viz: “will not the centrifugal force of a heavier body, suspended (without chemical action) in a lighter fluid, increase the subsiding tendency, and quicken the clearing process?”. I then thought “yes,” and do not yet see why it should not. But not having any absolute fact to build my conclusions on, I must leave the whole matter to time and experience; and crave the candour of my readers in favour of my somewhat bold assumption.
This Machine then, which is to purify muddy liquors by motion, is thus composed: a perpendicular axis A, (Plate 37, figs. 3 and 4) turns very swiftly, surmounted by a conical cap B C, so formed, as to receive and lodge in it’s thickness, four or more vessels a b, f e, which hang on pins c d, near that centre and have the liberty of leaving it by the centrifugal force, round the said pins, until lost in the thickness of the cap above mentioned; where they turn on the common centre, without suffering any resistance from the surrounding atmosphere. This conical cap B C, &c. is made as light as possible, by protuberant ledges, but it’s solid form would be restored by lighter substances fixed between the arms, so as to add little to the friction or resistance of the whole mass. Any turbid liquor then, being introduced into any pair of these vessels while in the position g h, fig. 3, and put into swift motion, will have it’s muddy particles thrown from the centre, and (I presume) soon deposited at the greatest possible distance from that centre: since, although the centrifugal force will add, in the same degree, to the tendency outwards of the particles of the liquid, and make them gravitate more towards the circumference; that force will not render the liquid less fluid—which, therefore, will suffer the clearing process to take place sooner with motion than without it; and this is all I dare advance in the present state of my knowledge on this subject. Thus have I again reckoned on the kind forbearance of my readers, and risqued a little more of “the bubble reputation.”
My readers will supply one remark I had omitted—which is, that if bodies heavier than the fluid, recede faster from the centre by this motion, than without it, lighter bodies will approach toward the centre, and be there collected for the same reason—another cause for which, will doubtless be the pressure occasioned by this centrifugal force in the revolving fluid.
OF
OPEN CANALS,
As Hydraulic Machines.
I have said, and shall still say, much on the desirableness of making use of a greater portion of that gigantic agent—Wind, than has yet been customary. This article is another attempt to urge it’s propriety. But it will be of no use to those who cannot extend their views beyond the present state of things, to that possible state which every successive mechanical improvement appears to anticipate or promise. These speculations of mine, suppose extensive means and extensive necessities: and they promise results still more extensive. In a neighbouring kingdom, where the country is, as it were, redeemed yearly from the ocean’s grasp, what would not it’s inhabitants give for a security against the encroaching tide? or the means of saving several months to agriculture, by the speedy disembarrassment of it’s fields from the common destroyer of health and produce? It is even said, that in the last winter, some dykes in Holland were broken, and many lives lost by inundation: and in our own country there is many a submerged spot, over which there blows wind enough to drink up, or throw out, it’s last particle. I submit then, the present means, as capable, with proper modifications, of forwarding every analogous purpose; and thus as worthy to occupy the attention of every friend to rational improvement.
If my 38th. Plate were considered as a corner of any inundated country, whose boundary were a dyke contiguous to this chosen spot, I would propose building a long curvilinear canal A B, of which the middle space should receive and contain the lower water; and the two outside spaces the upper: especially the outer circle, which should communicate with a few branches C D, leading to and through the dyke before mentioned. In the two outside canals should float a pair of boats (long and light) E F, joined together by one or more cross-beams G, which would produce the double effect of connecting the boats so as to make them bear much sail, without oversetting; and of carrying along in the middle or lower canal a kind of water-drag H, that should take with it the under water, and raise it’s level nearly to that of the upper canals—into one of which it would enter through it’s lateral valves, and thence flow into the eduction canals C D as before stated. My idea will be better understood by referring to the small figs. 2 and 3, at the bottom of the Plate: for they are, one, the transverse section of the canals with the boats, and the other a longitudinal view of one of the vessels in it’s canal, with the water-drag H in the act of making (what is technically called) a boar, of the lower water; and raising it above the level of the valves I K, which open into the canal.
To recapitulate, E F in fig. 2, are the two vessels seen sternwise, with their sails supposed very large: G the beam that connects them; H the water-drag; and O one of several valves which open from the lower water, and close when the drag is going over them. In fig. 3, H is the same water-drag, whose distance from the bottom is regulated by the brace b: it’s beam or shaft, being fixed to the crossbeam G, of figs. 1, 2, and 3.
Thus then, at one passage of this double vessel along the curved canal A B, all the water in it’s middle compartment will be raised into it’s outer one: and be thrown into the sea through the canals C D, &c. It appears, near E F in this fig. 1, that the vessels E F, have friction pullies or wheels placed horizontally on their decks, to act against the sides of the canal and prevent the lee-way: thus converting the whole effort of the wind to a useful purpose. And here I observe, that if the wind blows in, or nearly in the direction of the diagonal, then, the vessel would go almost from one end to the other of the main canal without tacking, and thus do an abundance of work at each return: for it is a common thing for ships to sail nine or ten knots an hour! And here note, that the present curvilinear form is given to the canal in order to take all winds, (tacking more or less often) whether coming from the inside of the curve or from the outside. I cannot but add that in this Machine—in that I have already given—or in those I may yet give, there is much to be found that promises useful application in many an important position. An example now strikes me. The reservoir at the Manchester Water Works might furnish room for a floating Machine, capable, on windy days, to do all the work of the steam engine, and thus economize a good portion of the fuel it consumes.
OF
A PORTABLE ENGINE,
For extinguishing Fires.
This Machine (see Plate 38, fig. 4) is intended to be carried or conveyed in a small cart, to the place where an incipient fire may be preluding to it’s fearful horrors! It is, as to form, a common lifting pump, inclosed in a vessel of air, whose spring perpetuates the jet in the usual manner. When used, it is held on two men’s shoulders, by means of a bar going through the ring A. Further, a rope is fastened to each of the extreme rings B C: and a stick put through each of the second rings b c. Two rows of men are then marshalled along the ropes; one set to hold-on, and the other to pull in regular time, the piston c along it’s pump, thereby sucking water through the pipe D, and forcing it through the valve v into the air vessel: from which it is forcibly expelled through the directing pipe E F. Here it is clear, that this small Machine is capable of an effect almost indefinite: since the rows of men may be very numerous; there being always people enough at a fire. To work the Engine by pulling, is nothing more than to repeat many a nautical manœuvre: and if only one man in the company should have learn’t to sing the sailors’ song, they would soon produce—“a long pull, a strong pull, and a pull altogether.” To be serious, a hundred men may as well work at this Machine, as ten; and the effect will keep pace with the cause. In a word, there is scarcely any limit to the abundance of water, that might be thrown on a fire by such an Engine as this; of which I shall say nothing more, save that the bar of the piston rod at c, is intended to be used for drawing it inward, by the efforts of two men, at each interval in the effort of the working-men. A mere inspection of fig. 4 will fully shew what here remains unsaid.