A watch to go constantly, and yet needs no other winding from the first setting on the cord or chain, unless it be broken, requiring no other care from one than to be now and then consulted with, concerning the hour of the day or night; and if it be laid by a week together, it will not err much; but the oftener looked upon, the more exact it showeth the time of the day or night.
NOTE.
For a pocket watch it will be necessary to employ a small balance, with a nut attached to its axis and communicating with the fusee, the continued vibration of which will, by winding the watch, give it nearly all the advantages of a perpetual prime mover. Should the time-piece be placed in a fixed case it will require a communication between the joint of the door and the fusee, and this may likewise be readily applied to the case of a hunting watch.Mr. Gout'spedometernot only marks the time, but the number of paces passed over from one place to another: this is accomplished by means of a chain or string passing to the leg of the wearer, or to the wheel of a chariot, which is made to advancethe index hand one division at each elevation of the foot: thus, on the same dial, exhibiting, at one view, both time and distance. The same pedometer will, by a proper application to the saddle, ascertain every pace a horse takes, and it may be made to change its performance in a second, should the horse in the course of measuring go from one pace to another.
For a pocket watch it will be necessary to employ a small balance, with a nut attached to its axis and communicating with the fusee, the continued vibration of which will, by winding the watch, give it nearly all the advantages of a perpetual prime mover. Should the time-piece be placed in a fixed case it will require a communication between the joint of the door and the fusee, and this may likewise be readily applied to the case of a hunting watch.
Mr. Gout'spedometernot only marks the time, but the number of paces passed over from one place to another: this is accomplished by means of a chain or string passing to the leg of the wearer, or to the wheel of a chariot, which is made to advancethe index hand one division at each elevation of the foot: thus, on the same dial, exhibiting, at one view, both time and distance. The same pedometer will, by a proper application to the saddle, ascertain every pace a horse takes, and it may be made to change its performance in a second, should the horse in the course of measuring go from one pace to another.
A way to lock all the boxes of a cabinet (though never so many) at one time, which were, by particular keys appropriated to each lock, opened severally, and independent the one of the other, as much as concerneth the opening of them, and by these means cannot be left open unawares.
NOTE.
This suggestion, which is both ingenious and useful, might be advantageously adopted in every description of cabinet or chest now in use; it may be performed either by cranks and wires, or by sliding bolts and levers communicating with each lock: the latter way, though attended with greater expense, is by far the most durable.Another and more simple mode offers itself inthe use of a series of spring locks, which may be closed by the pressure of the lid, unconnected with any other mechanism.
This suggestion, which is both ingenious and useful, might be advantageously adopted in every description of cabinet or chest now in use; it may be performed either by cranks and wires, or by sliding bolts and levers communicating with each lock: the latter way, though attended with greater expense, is by far the most durable.
Another and more simple mode offers itself inthe use of a series of spring locks, which may be closed by the pressure of the lid, unconnected with any other mechanism.
How to make a pistol barrel no thicker than a shilling, and yet able to endure a musket proof of powder and bullet.
NOTE.
It requires no great share of ingenuity to accomplish this object, as an examination of modern fire-arms will fully testify; many pocket pistols that are manufactured at the present period, being at least as thin as those described by the noble author.
It requires no great share of ingenuity to accomplish this object, as an examination of modern fire-arms will fully testify; many pocket pistols that are manufactured at the present period, being at least as thin as those described by the noble author.
A comb-conveyance carrying of letters without suspicion, the head being opened with a needle screw, drawing a spring towards one; the comb being made but after an usual form, carried in one's pocket.
NOTE.
A pocket comb and portable spoon, as described in this and the following article, with double sides to conceal any letter, paper, &c. are too simple to need a particular description.
A pocket comb and portable spoon, as described in this and the following article, with double sides to conceal any letter, paper, &c. are too simple to need a particular description.
A knife, spoon, or fork, in an usual portable case, may have the like conveyances in their handles.
A rasping-mill for hartshorn, whereby a child may do the work of half-a-dozen men, commonly taken up with that work.
NOTE.
A variety of engines have been invented for this purpose, many of which are capable of effecting the saving of labour described by the Marquis, as at that period (1663) the process was usually effected by rubbing the horn or ivory over a common iron grater.
A variety of engines have been invented for this purpose, many of which are capable of effecting the saving of labour described by the Marquis, as at that period (1663) the process was usually effected by rubbing the horn or ivory over a common iron grater.
An instrument whereby persons, ignorant in arithmetic, may perfectly observe numerationand subtraction of all sums and fractions.
NOTE.
Sir Samuel Morland has published a detailed account of two instruments of this kind in a tract entitled,The Description and Use of two Arithmetic Instruments, &c.—London, 1673. The RomanAbacusand ChineseSwan-panare also instruments of a like description.TheAbacuswas variously contrived; that chiefly used in European countries was made by drawing any number of parallel lines at pleasure, at a distance from each other, equal to twice the diameter of acalculusor counter. This placed on the lowest line, signified 1; on the second, 10; on the third, 100; on the fourth, 1000; on the fifth, 10,000; and so on. In the spaces between the lines, the same counters signified half of what they represented on the next superior line; viz. in the space between the first and second lines, 5; between the second and third, 50; between the third and fourth, 500; and so on. The abacus was also divided cross-wise intoareolæ, and by this means subtractions were performed. The calculating instrument of Mr. Babbage is however much superior to any other contrivance yet suggested.
Sir Samuel Morland has published a detailed account of two instruments of this kind in a tract entitled,The Description and Use of two Arithmetic Instruments, &c.—London, 1673. The RomanAbacusand ChineseSwan-panare also instruments of a like description.
TheAbacuswas variously contrived; that chiefly used in European countries was made by drawing any number of parallel lines at pleasure, at a distance from each other, equal to twice the diameter of acalculusor counter. This placed on the lowest line, signified 1; on the second, 10; on the third, 100; on the fourth, 1000; on the fifth, 10,000; and so on. In the spaces between the lines, the same counters signified half of what they represented on the next superior line; viz. in the space between the first and second lines, 5; between the second and third, 50; between the third and fourth, 500; and so on. The abacus was also divided cross-wise intoareolæ, and by this means subtractions were performed. The calculating instrument of Mr. Babbage is however much superior to any other contrivance yet suggested.
A little ball, made in the shape of a plum or pear, which, being dexterously conveyedor forced into a body's mouth, shall presently shoot forth such, and so many bolts of each side and at both ends as, without the owner's key, can neither be opened nor filed off, being made of tempered steel, and as effectually locked as an iron chest.
NOTE.
The steel fangs with which this instrument is furnished must, like the bolt of a common latch, be chamfered from the point, so that, on its being inserted within the teeth, the bolts will instantaneously spring out; and no power short of the key previously made to fit the wards of the lock will suffice to free those who are thus ensnared. This is evidently one of those discoveries which, though practicable in itself, appears better calculated for swelling the catalogue of the noble Author's inventions, than for any beneficial result likely to accrue to the public from its discovery.
The steel fangs with which this instrument is furnished must, like the bolt of a common latch, be chamfered from the point, so that, on its being inserted within the teeth, the bolts will instantaneously spring out; and no power short of the key previously made to fit the wards of the lock will suffice to free those who are thus ensnared. This is evidently one of those discoveries which, though practicable in itself, appears better calculated for swelling the catalogue of the noble Author's inventions, than for any beneficial result likely to accrue to the public from its discovery.
A chair madeà-la-mode, and yet a stranger, being persuaded to sit down in it, shall have immediately his arms and thighs locked up, beyond his own power to loosen them.
NOTE.
Chairs of this description are stated to have been employed by the monks in the darker ages of Christianity; and were originally designed for the purpose of entrapping those who, possessing more courage, or less of prudence than their neighbours, ventured to penetrate the mysteries of papal seclusion. They were formed like a common arm-chair, and provided with two levers at the extremity of the arms; and the same number were fixed immediately below the seat. These, on pressing the cushion, were immediately discharged like a man-trap: four powerful springs acting on the levers for that purpose; and so firmly will the occupant of a chair of this description be fixed, that it will take the united force of four or five persons to free the prisoner. A similar chair was exhibited at theVilla Borghese, Rome, in 1644—"They shew'd us also a chayre wchcatches any who sitts downe in it so as not to be able to stir out, by certaine springs concealed in the armes and back thereoff which at sitting downe surprizes a man on the suddaine, locking him in by the armes or thighs, after a true tretcherous Italian guise."—VideEvelyn's Memoirs, vol. i. p. 107.
Chairs of this description are stated to have been employed by the monks in the darker ages of Christianity; and were originally designed for the purpose of entrapping those who, possessing more courage, or less of prudence than their neighbours, ventured to penetrate the mysteries of papal seclusion. They were formed like a common arm-chair, and provided with two levers at the extremity of the arms; and the same number were fixed immediately below the seat. These, on pressing the cushion, were immediately discharged like a man-trap: four powerful springs acting on the levers for that purpose; and so firmly will the occupant of a chair of this description be fixed, that it will take the united force of four or five persons to free the prisoner. A similar chair was exhibited at theVilla Borghese, Rome, in 1644—"They shew'd us also a chayre wchcatches any who sitts downe in it so as not to be able to stir out, by certaine springs concealed in the armes and back thereoff which at sitting downe surprizes a man on the suddaine, locking him in by the armes or thighs, after a true tretcherous Italian guise."—VideEvelyn's Memoirs, vol. i. p. 107.
A brass mould to cast candles, in which a man may make five hundred dozen in a day, and add an ingredient to the tallow, which will make it cheaper, and yet so that the candles shall look whiter and last longer.
NOTE.
The usual method of dippingstore candlesis subject to many objections, though the expense attendant on casting those calledmouldshas hitherto been an impediment to their general manufacture. A more simple method now offers itself, which is equally advantageous and economical. A quantity of drawn tubes being first cut into the given lengths, metal collars must then be soldered on the extremity of each length, with an orifice of sufficient size to allow the tallow and wick to pass through the whole series of tubes. They must then be connected together by a screw cut in each alternate end, and the whole, thus formed, passed through a steam pipe of sufficient size to prevent the tallow chilling in its passage through the moulds. When cold, each joint of the mould must be separately unscrewed and the candles separated by a sharp knife.A means of purifying the tallow, and as such, of rendering the candles whiter and more durable, likewise suggests itself in the following simple process. The vat, or copper, containing the melted tallow, must be provided with a shower bath placed immediately over the surface, to which must be attached a reservoir of cold water: this, by the action of a lever, may be thrown through the grating of the bath, and falling upon the tallow, will, in its passage, carry to the bottom of the vat the whole of the carbonised animal matter and other impurities with which it is charged. After allowing afew minutes for the lighter fluid to rise, the water may then be drawn off, by a cock placed at the bottom of the vat for that purpose, and the same process repeated till the tallow is fit for use.
The usual method of dippingstore candlesis subject to many objections, though the expense attendant on casting those calledmouldshas hitherto been an impediment to their general manufacture. A more simple method now offers itself, which is equally advantageous and economical. A quantity of drawn tubes being first cut into the given lengths, metal collars must then be soldered on the extremity of each length, with an orifice of sufficient size to allow the tallow and wick to pass through the whole series of tubes. They must then be connected together by a screw cut in each alternate end, and the whole, thus formed, passed through a steam pipe of sufficient size to prevent the tallow chilling in its passage through the moulds. When cold, each joint of the mould must be separately unscrewed and the candles separated by a sharp knife.
A means of purifying the tallow, and as such, of rendering the candles whiter and more durable, likewise suggests itself in the following simple process. The vat, or copper, containing the melted tallow, must be provided with a shower bath placed immediately over the surface, to which must be attached a reservoir of cold water: this, by the action of a lever, may be thrown through the grating of the bath, and falling upon the tallow, will, in its passage, carry to the bottom of the vat the whole of the carbonised animal matter and other impurities with which it is charged. After allowing afew minutes for the lighter fluid to rise, the water may then be drawn off, by a cock placed at the bottom of the vat for that purpose, and the same process repeated till the tallow is fit for use.
An engine, without the least noise, knock, or use of fire, to coin and stamp 100lbs. in an hour, by one man.
NOTE.
Antoine Boucher appears to have been the first engraver who used the fly-press for the multiplying of metallic impressions from an engraved matrix. This ingenious mechanic was employed by Henry the Second of France, and the first money was struck with it in that kingdom about the middle of the sixteenth century; it was soon however laid aside on account of the great expense attendant on its use, and the old method of striking with the hammer was again resorted to. Queen Elizabeth also had milled money coined in England about the same period; but it did not continue for more than ten years; and it was not till 1662, that the screw press was finally established in the mint of this kingdom. The accelerated motion of a screw, although possessing many advantages over the old method, does not appear fully to answer the above description, as the noiseattendant on its use is certainly very considerable; it is probable therefore, that the hydrostatic press, or a powerful lever worked by a crank, was intended by the noble author as a substitute for this useful machine.It appears probable that the insertion of this Article originated in an ignorance of the plan formerly proposed by Boucher, which appears of all others best adapted for the purpose of coining with rapidity, and which was not at that period acted upon in England; on the discovery of which the following Article was substituted by the noble author; and appeared in the first printed edition of theCentury.
Antoine Boucher appears to have been the first engraver who used the fly-press for the multiplying of metallic impressions from an engraved matrix. This ingenious mechanic was employed by Henry the Second of France, and the first money was struck with it in that kingdom about the middle of the sixteenth century; it was soon however laid aside on account of the great expense attendant on its use, and the old method of striking with the hammer was again resorted to. Queen Elizabeth also had milled money coined in England about the same period; but it did not continue for more than ten years; and it was not till 1662, that the screw press was finally established in the mint of this kingdom. The accelerated motion of a screw, although possessing many advantages over the old method, does not appear fully to answer the above description, as the noiseattendant on its use is certainly very considerable; it is probable therefore, that the hydrostatic press, or a powerful lever worked by a crank, was intended by the noble author as a substitute for this useful machine.
It appears probable that the insertion of this Article originated in an ignorance of the plan formerly proposed by Boucher, which appears of all others best adapted for the purpose of coining with rapidity, and which was not at that period acted upon in England; on the discovery of which the following Article was substituted by the noble author; and appeared in the first printed edition of theCentury.
How to make a brazen or stone head, in the midst of a great field or garden, so artificial and natural, that though a man speak never so softly, and even whispers into the ear thereof, it will presently open its mouth, and resolve the question in French, Latin, Welsh, Irish, or English, in good terms, uttering it out of his mouth, and then shut it until the next question be asked.
NOTE.
Albertus Magnus, a celebrated philosopher of the thirteenth century, is said to have constructed anautomatonwhich not only performed all the apparent motions of life, but absolutely answered questions. It is recorded of Thomas Aquinas, that, having accidentally seen the head, he was so terrified that he broke it in pieces, upon which Albert exclaimed:Periit opus triginta annorum! Though this appears one of the earliest instances of a speaking automaton constructed by one of the laity, there is no doubt but that the method of conveying answers to various interrogatories, by the agency of concealed pipes or a speaking trumpet, was practised at a very early period. That the impostor Alexander, however, caused his Æsculapius to speak in this manner is expressly related by Lucan. He took, says this author, instead of a pipe, the gullet of a crane, and transmitted the voice through it to the mouth of the statue. But the invention of theinvisible girl, which may be considered as an improvement on the oracular responses of the darker ages, infinitely surpassed any of those hitherto recorded.This very ingenious apparatus was publicly exhibited both at Bristol and in London for a considerable period, during which time no discovery was made of its internal mechanism; and it is probable that its construction would have remained a secret to all but the exhibitors, but for the ingenuity of Mr. (now Professor) Millington, who, in a course of Lectures delivered in the winter of 1806, explained the manner in which it was performed.Thevisiblepart of the apparatus connected with theinvisible girlwas thus constructed: first a mahogany frame resembling a bedstead, having at the corners four upright posts about five feet high, was united by a cross-rail near the top, and two or more cross-rails near the bottom, to strengthen the frame, which was about four feet square. The frame thus constructed was placed upon the floor, and to the top of each of the four pillars were attached as many strong bent brass wires converging towards the top, where they were secured by a crown and other ornaments. From these wires a hollow copper ball was suspended by slight ribbons, so as to cut off all possible communication with the frame. The globe thus supported was supposed to contain the invisible being, as the voice apparently proceeded from the interior of it: and for this purpose, it was equipped with four trumpets, placed round it in a horizontal direction, and at right angles to each other; the trumpet mouths coming to within about half an inch of the respective cross-rails of the frame surrounding them.When a question was proposed, it was asked from any side of the frame, and spoken into one of the trumpets, and an answer immediately proceeded from the whole of them, so loud as to be distinctly heard by the inquirer, and yet so distant and feeble, that it appeared as if coming from a very diminutive being. In this the whole of the artifice consisted; and the variations were so contrived that the answer might be returned in several languages, a kiss might be returned, the breath producing the voice was felt, and songs were sung,accompanied by the piano-forte, &c. To produce this illusion, the sound was conveyed by a tube, in a manner similar to the old and well known contrivance of thespeaking bust; the invisible girl only differing in one circumstance; that an artificial echo was produced by means of the trumpets and hollow globe, in consequence of which the sound was completely reversed.In the invisible girl the orifice of the tube was in one of the handrails just opposite the mouth of one of the trumpets, the opening being concealed by reeds and other mouldings; the tube itself, which was about half an inch in diameter, ran through half the handrail, then down one of the corner posts, and from thence under the floor till it reached a large deal case almost similar to an inverted funnel, along the side of which it rose till it came nearly into contact with the ear of the confederate, who with a piano-forte, &c. was concealed in this case. Any question asked by a voice directed into one of the trumpets was immediately reflected back from the concave interior surface of the globe to the orifice of the tube, along which it was conveyed so as to be distinctly heard by the person in the deal case, who returned the requisite answer, which appeared to come precisely from the interior of the globe. A small hole closed with glass was likewise left through the deal case and side wall of the apartment, by means of which the concealed person had an opportunity of observing and commenting upon any circumstance which occurred in the room.
Albertus Magnus, a celebrated philosopher of the thirteenth century, is said to have constructed anautomatonwhich not only performed all the apparent motions of life, but absolutely answered questions. It is recorded of Thomas Aquinas, that, having accidentally seen the head, he was so terrified that he broke it in pieces, upon which Albert exclaimed:Periit opus triginta annorum! Though this appears one of the earliest instances of a speaking automaton constructed by one of the laity, there is no doubt but that the method of conveying answers to various interrogatories, by the agency of concealed pipes or a speaking trumpet, was practised at a very early period. That the impostor Alexander, however, caused his Æsculapius to speak in this manner is expressly related by Lucan. He took, says this author, instead of a pipe, the gullet of a crane, and transmitted the voice through it to the mouth of the statue. But the invention of theinvisible girl, which may be considered as an improvement on the oracular responses of the darker ages, infinitely surpassed any of those hitherto recorded.
This very ingenious apparatus was publicly exhibited both at Bristol and in London for a considerable period, during which time no discovery was made of its internal mechanism; and it is probable that its construction would have remained a secret to all but the exhibitors, but for the ingenuity of Mr. (now Professor) Millington, who, in a course of Lectures delivered in the winter of 1806, explained the manner in which it was performed.
Thevisiblepart of the apparatus connected with theinvisible girlwas thus constructed: first a mahogany frame resembling a bedstead, having at the corners four upright posts about five feet high, was united by a cross-rail near the top, and two or more cross-rails near the bottom, to strengthen the frame, which was about four feet square. The frame thus constructed was placed upon the floor, and to the top of each of the four pillars were attached as many strong bent brass wires converging towards the top, where they were secured by a crown and other ornaments. From these wires a hollow copper ball was suspended by slight ribbons, so as to cut off all possible communication with the frame. The globe thus supported was supposed to contain the invisible being, as the voice apparently proceeded from the interior of it: and for this purpose, it was equipped with four trumpets, placed round it in a horizontal direction, and at right angles to each other; the trumpet mouths coming to within about half an inch of the respective cross-rails of the frame surrounding them.
When a question was proposed, it was asked from any side of the frame, and spoken into one of the trumpets, and an answer immediately proceeded from the whole of them, so loud as to be distinctly heard by the inquirer, and yet so distant and feeble, that it appeared as if coming from a very diminutive being. In this the whole of the artifice consisted; and the variations were so contrived that the answer might be returned in several languages, a kiss might be returned, the breath producing the voice was felt, and songs were sung,accompanied by the piano-forte, &c. To produce this illusion, the sound was conveyed by a tube, in a manner similar to the old and well known contrivance of thespeaking bust; the invisible girl only differing in one circumstance; that an artificial echo was produced by means of the trumpets and hollow globe, in consequence of which the sound was completely reversed.
In the invisible girl the orifice of the tube was in one of the handrails just opposite the mouth of one of the trumpets, the opening being concealed by reeds and other mouldings; the tube itself, which was about half an inch in diameter, ran through half the handrail, then down one of the corner posts, and from thence under the floor till it reached a large deal case almost similar to an inverted funnel, along the side of which it rose till it came nearly into contact with the ear of the confederate, who with a piano-forte, &c. was concealed in this case. Any question asked by a voice directed into one of the trumpets was immediately reflected back from the concave interior surface of the globe to the orifice of the tube, along which it was conveyed so as to be distinctly heard by the person in the deal case, who returned the requisite answer, which appeared to come precisely from the interior of the globe. A small hole closed with glass was likewise left through the deal case and side wall of the apartment, by means of which the concealed person had an opportunity of observing and commenting upon any circumstance which occurred in the room.
White silk, knotted in the fingers of a pair of white gloves, and so contrived without suspicion, that, playing atprimeroat cards, one may, without clogging his memory, keep reckoning of all sixes, sevens, and aces, which he hath discarded, and without foul play.
NOTE.
That sliding knots or rings may be formed on the fringe of silk or other gloves, by which means a reckoning can be kept, may easily be conceived; but it is scarcely too much to aver that an undue advantage taken of an opponent, even at cards, savours very much of foul play, if not absolute cheating.
That sliding knots or rings may be formed on the fringe of silk or other gloves, by which means a reckoning can be kept, may easily be conceived; but it is scarcely too much to aver that an undue advantage taken of an opponent, even at cards, savours very much of foul play, if not absolute cheating.
A most dexterous dicing-box, with holes transparent, after the usual fashion, with a device so dexterous, that with a knock of it against the table, the four good dice are fastened, and it looseneth four false dice, made fit for this purpose.
NOTE.
There are few who profess the science of cheating at cards or dice, or to be encouragers of those who do; and it may fairly be conceded that there are not two periods in our regal annals, in which this detestable meanness had become fashionable enough to sanction a nobleman in inscribing to the King and his Parliament a method by which it might be advantageously effected.
There are few who profess the science of cheating at cards or dice, or to be encouragers of those who do; and it may fairly be conceded that there are not two periods in our regal annals, in which this detestable meanness had become fashionable enough to sanction a nobleman in inscribing to the King and his Parliament a method by which it might be advantageously effected.
An artificial horse, with saddle and caparisons fit for running at the ring, on which a man being mounted, with his lance in his hand, he can at pleasure make him start, and swiftly to run his career, using the decent posture withbon grace, may take the ring as handsomely, and running as swiftly as if he rode upon a barbe.
NOTE.
Any person who is acquainted with the various automaton figures that have been constructed by those celebrated mechanics, Vaucanson, Kempelen, and Maelzel, will readily admit the possibility of making a horse of this description; nor should we too readily undervalue those mechanical pursuits, which, though not of any immediate nationaladvantage, have formed the employment of one of the greatest potentates of modern Europe.[7]The most celebrated of the modern automata were those made by Vaucanson, and which are thus described by Beckman:—"One of them, which represented a flute-player sitting, performed twelve tunes, and, as we are assured, by wind issuing from its mouth into a German flute, the holes of which it opened and shut with its fingers.""The second was a standing figure, which in like manner played on the Provençal shepherd's pipe, which it held in its left hand, and with the right beat upon a drum.""The third was a duck, of the natural size, which moved its wings, exhibited all the gestures of that animal, quacked like a duck, drank water, ate corn, and then, after a little time, let drop behind it something that resembled the excrement of a duck."[8]Of these automata, or ratherandroides, the flute-player of Vaucanson is the only one of which a correct description has been preserved; a particular account of its mechanism having been published in the Memoirs of the French Academy. The figure was about five feet six inches high, and was placed upon an elevated square pedestal.The air entered the body by three separate pipes, into which it was conveyed by nine pairs of bellows, which expanded and contracted in regular succession, by means of an axis of steel turned by the machine. The three tubes, which conveyed the air from the bellows, after passing through the lower extremities of the figure, united at the chest; and ascending from thence to the mouth, passed through two artificial lips. Within the cavity of the mouth was a small moveable tongue, which by its motion at proper intervals, admitted or intercepted the air in its passage to the flute. The fingers, lips, and tongue derived their specific movements from a steel cylinder turned by clockwork. The cylinder was divided into fifteen equal parts, which by means of pegs, pressing upon a like number of levers, caused the other extremities to ascend. Seven of these levers directed the fingers, having rods and chains fixed to their ascending extremities; which, being attached to the fingers, made them to ascend in proportion as the other extremity was pressed down by the motion of the cylinders, andvice versa. Three of the levers served to regulate the ingress of the air, being so contrived as to open and shut, by means of valves, the communication between the lips and reservoir, so that more or less strength might be given, and a higher or lower note produced as occasion required.The lips were directed by four similar levers; one of which opened them to give the air a freer passage; another contracted them; a third drew them backward, and the fourth pushed them forward. The remaining lever was employed in thedirection of the tongue, which by its motion shut or opened the mouth of the flute. The varied and successive motions performed by this ingenious androides, were regulated by a contrivance no less simple than efficacious. The axis of the steel cylinder or barrel was terminated by an endless screw composed of twelve threads, above which was placed a small arm of copper, with a steel stud made to fit the threads of the worm, which, by its vertical motion, was continually pushed forward. Hence, if a lever was moved, by a peg placed on the cylinder, in any one revolution, it could not be moved by the same peg in the succeeding revolution in consequence of the lateral motion communicated by the worm. By this means the size of the barrel was considerably reduced; and the statue not only poured forth a varied selection of instrumental harmony, but exhibited all the evolutions of the most graceful performer.
Any person who is acquainted with the various automaton figures that have been constructed by those celebrated mechanics, Vaucanson, Kempelen, and Maelzel, will readily admit the possibility of making a horse of this description; nor should we too readily undervalue those mechanical pursuits, which, though not of any immediate nationaladvantage, have formed the employment of one of the greatest potentates of modern Europe.[7]
The most celebrated of the modern automata were those made by Vaucanson, and which are thus described by Beckman:—
"One of them, which represented a flute-player sitting, performed twelve tunes, and, as we are assured, by wind issuing from its mouth into a German flute, the holes of which it opened and shut with its fingers."
"The second was a standing figure, which in like manner played on the Provençal shepherd's pipe, which it held in its left hand, and with the right beat upon a drum."
"The third was a duck, of the natural size, which moved its wings, exhibited all the gestures of that animal, quacked like a duck, drank water, ate corn, and then, after a little time, let drop behind it something that resembled the excrement of a duck."[8]
Of these automata, or ratherandroides, the flute-player of Vaucanson is the only one of which a correct description has been preserved; a particular account of its mechanism having been published in the Memoirs of the French Academy. The figure was about five feet six inches high, and was placed upon an elevated square pedestal.The air entered the body by three separate pipes, into which it was conveyed by nine pairs of bellows, which expanded and contracted in regular succession, by means of an axis of steel turned by the machine. The three tubes, which conveyed the air from the bellows, after passing through the lower extremities of the figure, united at the chest; and ascending from thence to the mouth, passed through two artificial lips. Within the cavity of the mouth was a small moveable tongue, which by its motion at proper intervals, admitted or intercepted the air in its passage to the flute. The fingers, lips, and tongue derived their specific movements from a steel cylinder turned by clockwork. The cylinder was divided into fifteen equal parts, which by means of pegs, pressing upon a like number of levers, caused the other extremities to ascend. Seven of these levers directed the fingers, having rods and chains fixed to their ascending extremities; which, being attached to the fingers, made them to ascend in proportion as the other extremity was pressed down by the motion of the cylinders, andvice versa. Three of the levers served to regulate the ingress of the air, being so contrived as to open and shut, by means of valves, the communication between the lips and reservoir, so that more or less strength might be given, and a higher or lower note produced as occasion required.
The lips were directed by four similar levers; one of which opened them to give the air a freer passage; another contracted them; a third drew them backward, and the fourth pushed them forward. The remaining lever was employed in thedirection of the tongue, which by its motion shut or opened the mouth of the flute. The varied and successive motions performed by this ingenious androides, were regulated by a contrivance no less simple than efficacious. The axis of the steel cylinder or barrel was terminated by an endless screw composed of twelve threads, above which was placed a small arm of copper, with a steel stud made to fit the threads of the worm, which, by its vertical motion, was continually pushed forward. Hence, if a lever was moved, by a peg placed on the cylinder, in any one revolution, it could not be moved by the same peg in the succeeding revolution in consequence of the lateral motion communicated by the worm. By this means the size of the barrel was considerably reduced; and the statue not only poured forth a varied selection of instrumental harmony, but exhibited all the evolutions of the most graceful performer.
A screw, made like a water-screw, but the bottom made of iron-plate spadewise, which, at the side of a boat, emptieth the mud of a pond, or raiseth gravel.
NOTE.
The Archimedean screw, though hitherto only applied to the raising of water, appears to beequally applicable to many other purposes; as the procuring of sand from pits, taking dry goods of small dimensions from carts or barges, clearing rivers, &c. though in that case it will be necessary to make the lower end of the machine in a conical form, gradually increasing the size of the orifice from the point to its upper extremity, in order to prevent the materials from clogging the screw, which would otherwise occur.Thedredging machineworked by a steam-engine, and employed in the Thames for a similar purpose, is well known.
The Archimedean screw, though hitherto only applied to the raising of water, appears to beequally applicable to many other purposes; as the procuring of sand from pits, taking dry goods of small dimensions from carts or barges, clearing rivers, &c. though in that case it will be necessary to make the lower end of the machine in a conical form, gradually increasing the size of the orifice from the point to its upper extremity, in order to prevent the materials from clogging the screw, which would otherwise occur.
Thedredging machineworked by a steam-engine, and employed in the Thames for a similar purpose, is well known.
An engine, whereby one man may take out of the water a ship of five hundred tons, so that it may be caulked, trimmed, and repaired, without need of the usual way of stocks, and as easily let it down again.
NOTE.
Beckman, in his History of Inventions, says, that a machine of this description was invented by a citizen of Amsterdam, in the year 1690, and was by him called thewater camel. It consisted of two half ships, and on the deck of each were placed horizontal windlasses from which proceeded ropes made to pass under the keel of the vessel intended to be raised. The two sides of the camel having been sunk by the admission of water,the ropes were drawn tight, and the pumps being put in motion, the vessel was gradually raised to the surface. It appears to have been principally employed in crossing the bar of the Zuyderzee.
Beckman, in his History of Inventions, says, that a machine of this description was invented by a citizen of Amsterdam, in the year 1690, and was by him called thewater camel. It consisted of two half ships, and on the deck of each were placed horizontal windlasses from which proceeded ropes made to pass under the keel of the vessel intended to be raised. The two sides of the camel having been sunk by the admission of water,the ropes were drawn tight, and the pumps being put in motion, the vessel was gradually raised to the surface. It appears to have been principally employed in crossing the bar of the Zuyderzee.
A little engine, portable in one's pocket, which placed to any door, without any noise, but on crack, openeth any door or gate.
NOTE.
The simple engine called aJack, used for the purpose of raising great weights, with small manual exertion, appears to be admirably calculated for this purpose; and its even uniform motion is evidently described by the noble author.Ramelli has also given a description of several very curious instruments for the same purpose. VideArtificiose Machini, p. 255, &c.
The simple engine called aJack, used for the purpose of raising great weights, with small manual exertion, appears to be admirably calculated for this purpose; and its even uniform motion is evidently described by the noble author.
Ramelli has also given a description of several very curious instruments for the same purpose. VideArtificiose Machini, p. 255, &c.
A double cross-bow, neat, handsome, and strong, to shoot two arrows, either together, or one after the other so immediately, that a deer cannot run two steps, but, if he missof one arrow, he may be reached with the other, whether the deer run forward, sideward, or start backward.
NOTE.
The cross-bow, though long since superseded in point of general utility by the invention of fire-arms, might still be found a useful auxiliary in the sports of the field, and as such, it has been thought advisable to notice what appears to be the plan on which this instrument must be constructed. To fire two arrows in immediate succession, it will be necessary either to attach a second bow to the under side of the stock, which, after discharging one arrow, may immediately be reversed, and the second fired. Or, where a bow of sufficient length is used, the string may communicate the required degree of impetus to two arrows in succession, a stud being previously prepared for its reception, about half-way down the stock, from which it may readily be liberated for the second discharge.
The cross-bow, though long since superseded in point of general utility by the invention of fire-arms, might still be found a useful auxiliary in the sports of the field, and as such, it has been thought advisable to notice what appears to be the plan on which this instrument must be constructed. To fire two arrows in immediate succession, it will be necessary either to attach a second bow to the under side of the stock, which, after discharging one arrow, may immediately be reversed, and the second fired. Or, where a bow of sufficient length is used, the string may communicate the required degree of impetus to two arrows in succession, a stud being previously prepared for its reception, about half-way down the stock, from which it may readily be liberated for the second discharge.
A way to make a sea-bank so firm and geometrically strong, that a stream can have no power over it; excellent likewise to save the pillar of a bridge, being far cheaper and stronger than stone walls.
NOTE.
Thebreak-watererected by Mr. Rennie at Plymouth is, in its results, precisely what the noble author has here described. The plan of its construction is this: a mass of stone in blocks, of about three feet in diameter, is thrown promiscuously into the sea, and left to find their own base, the extremity of which is generally about seventy yards. This sea-wall has been carried about eight hundred fathoms in length, and the total expense attendant on its erection is estimated at £1,150,000. In 1766, Mr. Smeaton also applied loose stones to strengthen the middle piers of London bridge, which was the means of preserving that venerable structure from the almost certain ruin which threatened it.But the most economical sea-bank yet constructed was executed at Rye, in 1804, under the superintendence of the Rev. Daniel Pape, curate of that place.The dam or bank was formed in its lower part in two parallel ridges close to each other, like the double roof of a house, which were covered over, first with straw, and then with hazel faggots about thirteen feet long; and the whole was then pinned down with piles, which were united to each other at their heads by pieces put across the direction of the faggots. When this bank was completed, Mr. Pape formed another bank, on the top of the preceding, by filling up the interval between the two ridges, and covering the whole in the manner above described. All this was accomplished in one tide, and when completed it fully answered the purpose for which it was intended.
Thebreak-watererected by Mr. Rennie at Plymouth is, in its results, precisely what the noble author has here described. The plan of its construction is this: a mass of stone in blocks, of about three feet in diameter, is thrown promiscuously into the sea, and left to find their own base, the extremity of which is generally about seventy yards. This sea-wall has been carried about eight hundred fathoms in length, and the total expense attendant on its erection is estimated at £1,150,000. In 1766, Mr. Smeaton also applied loose stones to strengthen the middle piers of London bridge, which was the means of preserving that venerable structure from the almost certain ruin which threatened it.
But the most economical sea-bank yet constructed was executed at Rye, in 1804, under the superintendence of the Rev. Daniel Pape, curate of that place.
The dam or bank was formed in its lower part in two parallel ridges close to each other, like the double roof of a house, which were covered over, first with straw, and then with hazel faggots about thirteen feet long; and the whole was then pinned down with piles, which were united to each other at their heads by pieces put across the direction of the faggots. When this bank was completed, Mr. Pape formed another bank, on the top of the preceding, by filling up the interval between the two ridges, and covering the whole in the manner above described. All this was accomplished in one tide, and when completed it fully answered the purpose for which it was intended.
An instrument, whereby an ignorant person may take any thing in perspective, as justly, and more so than the most skilful painter can do by the eye.
NOTE.
Vitruvius is the first author who directly treats on this branch of the fine arts, though there can be no doubt but the ancients fully understood its most essential rules, which they must have practised at a very early period in the decoration of their theatres. Vitruvius, in theproemto his seventh book, informs us, that Agatharchus of Athens noticed the subject, when preparing a tragic scene for a play exhibited by Æschylus: but the principles of the art were more distinctly taught by Democritus and Anaxagoras, the disciples of the former painter.Pietro del Borgo, early in the fourteenth century, constructed a very ingenious machine, which was afterwards employed by Albert Durer for the above purpose. It consisted of a transparent tablet, through which the object being viewed from a small aperture, the artist contrived to trace the images which the various rays of light emitted from them would make upon it.Mr. Ferguson has also described a machine for this purpose, the invention of which he ascribes to Dr. Bevis. But the most simple and efficient instrument yet discovered for large objects isthe camera obscura and camera lucida; both of which fully answer the description given by the noble author.
Vitruvius is the first author who directly treats on this branch of the fine arts, though there can be no doubt but the ancients fully understood its most essential rules, which they must have practised at a very early period in the decoration of their theatres. Vitruvius, in theproemto his seventh book, informs us, that Agatharchus of Athens noticed the subject, when preparing a tragic scene for a play exhibited by Æschylus: but the principles of the art were more distinctly taught by Democritus and Anaxagoras, the disciples of the former painter.
Pietro del Borgo, early in the fourteenth century, constructed a very ingenious machine, which was afterwards employed by Albert Durer for the above purpose. It consisted of a transparent tablet, through which the object being viewed from a small aperture, the artist contrived to trace the images which the various rays of light emitted from them would make upon it.
Mr. Ferguson has also described a machine for this purpose, the invention of which he ascribes to Dr. Bevis. But the most simple and efficient instrument yet discovered for large objects isthe camera obscura and camera lucida; both of which fully answer the description given by the noble author.
An engine, so contrived, that working theprimum mobileforward or backward, upward or downward, circularly or cornerwise, to and fro, straight, upright or downright, yet the pretended operation continueth and advanceth; none of the motions above mentioned, hindering, much less stopping the other; but unanimously, and with harmony agreeing, they all augment and contribute strength unto the intended work and operation; and therefore I call this asemi-omnipotent engine, and do intend that a model thereof be buried with me.
How to make one pound weight to raise an hundred as high as one pound falleth, and yet the hundred pounds descending doth what nothing less than one hundred pounds can effect.
Upon so potent a help as these two last mentioned inventions, a water-work is, by many years' experience and labour, so advantageously by me contrived, that a child's force bringeth up, an hundred feet high, an incredible quantity of water, even two feet diameter. And I may boldly call it,the most stupendous work in the whole world: not only with little charge to drain all sorts of mines, and furnish cities with water, though never so high seated, as well to keep them sweet, running through several streets, and so performing the work of scavengers, as well as furnishing the inhabitants with sufficient water for their private occasions: but likewise supplying the rivers with sufficient to maintain and make navigable from town to town, and for the bettering of lands all the way it runs; with many more advantageous, and yet greater effects of profit, admiration, and consequence: so that deservedly I deem this invention tocrown my labours, to reward my expenses, and make my thoughts acquiesce in way of further inventions. This making up the whole Century, and preventing any further trouble to the reader for the present, meaning to leave to posterity a book, wherein, under each of these heads, the means to put in execution and visible trial all and every of these inventions, with the shape and form of all things belonging to them, shall be printed by brass plates.—Besides many omitted, and some of three sorts willingly not set down, as not fit to be divulged, lest ill use may be made thereof, but to show that such things are also within my knowledge, I will here in myne owne cypher sett down one of each, not to be concealed when duty and affection obligeth me.
In bonum publicum, et ad majorem Dei gloriam.
NOTE.
The three last inventions may justly be considered as the most important of the whole "Century," and when united with the 68th article, they appear to suggest nearly all the data essential forthe construction of a modern steam-engine. The noble author has furnished us with what he calls a "definition" of this engine; and although it is written in the same vague and empirical style, which characterises a large portion of his Inventions, it may yet be considered as affording additional proofs of the above important fact.The Marquis's "definition" is exceedingly rare, as the only copy known to be extant is preserved in the British Museum.—It is printed on a single sheet without date, and appears to have been written for the purpose of procuring subscriptions in aid of a Water Company, then about to be established."A stupendous, or a water-commanding engine, boundless for height, or quantity, requiring no external, nor even additional help or force to be set, or continued in motion, but what intrinsically is afforded from its own operation, nor yet the twentieth part thereof. And the engine consisteth of the following particulars:—'A perfect counterpoise, for what quantity soever of water.'A perfect countervail, for what height soever it is to be brought unto.'Aprimum mobile, commanding both height and quantity, regulator-wise.'A vicegerent or countervail, supplying the place, and performing the full force of man, wind, beast, or mill.'A helm or stern, with bit and reins, wherewith any child may guide, order, and control the whole operation.'A particular magazine for water, according to the intended quantity, or height of water.'An aqueduct, capable of any intended quantity or height of water.'A place for the original fountain or river to run into, and naturally of its own accord incorporate itself with the rising water, and at the very bottom of the aqueduct, though never so big or high.'By divine providence, and heavenly inspiration, this is my stupendous water-commanding engine, boundless for height and quantity.'Whosoever is master of weight, is master of force; whosoever is master of water, is master of both: and consequently to him all forcible actions and atchievements are easie.'"
The three last inventions may justly be considered as the most important of the whole "Century," and when united with the 68th article, they appear to suggest nearly all the data essential forthe construction of a modern steam-engine. The noble author has furnished us with what he calls a "definition" of this engine; and although it is written in the same vague and empirical style, which characterises a large portion of his Inventions, it may yet be considered as affording additional proofs of the above important fact.
The Marquis's "definition" is exceedingly rare, as the only copy known to be extant is preserved in the British Museum.—It is printed on a single sheet without date, and appears to have been written for the purpose of procuring subscriptions in aid of a Water Company, then about to be established.
"A stupendous, or a water-commanding engine, boundless for height, or quantity, requiring no external, nor even additional help or force to be set, or continued in motion, but what intrinsically is afforded from its own operation, nor yet the twentieth part thereof. And the engine consisteth of the following particulars:—
'A perfect counterpoise, for what quantity soever of water.
'A perfect countervail, for what height soever it is to be brought unto.
'Aprimum mobile, commanding both height and quantity, regulator-wise.
'A vicegerent or countervail, supplying the place, and performing the full force of man, wind, beast, or mill.
'A helm or stern, with bit and reins, wherewith any child may guide, order, and control the whole operation.
'A particular magazine for water, according to the intended quantity, or height of water.
'An aqueduct, capable of any intended quantity or height of water.
'A place for the original fountain or river to run into, and naturally of its own accord incorporate itself with the rising water, and at the very bottom of the aqueduct, though never so big or high.
'By divine providence, and heavenly inspiration, this is my stupendous water-commanding engine, boundless for height and quantity.
'Whosoever is master of weight, is master of force; whosoever is master of water, is master of both: and consequently to him all forcible actions and atchievements are easie.'"
It may now be adviseable to trace the history of the steam-engine through some of its earlier modifications; and we shall find that, although the present form of this stupendous machine almost deserves the title of an invention, yet that many steps have been taken, and much labour and much ingenuity expended, before it was brought to that point from which the more modern improvements may be said to have begun. And whilst we admire the genius of those who have perfected the application of a mighty power, let us not refuse the tribute of praise to those, who first pointed out that such a power existed.
first
The first apparatus of this description, of which any authentic account has been preserved, was suggested by Hero of Alexandria, and consisted of a vesselFin which steam was generated by the application of external heat. The ballGwas supplied with the elastic vapour thus procured, by means of the bent pipeE B, a steam tight joint being provided for that purpose. Two tubes bent to a right angle atAandD, are the only parts open to the air, and as the steam rushes out from very minute apertures, a rotatory motion is produced. An account of this apparatus is preserved in Hero'sSpiritalia, published by the Jesuits in 1693; and a copy of this highly curious work, with a Latin translation prefixed, is now in the Library of the London Institution.
A modification of Hero's apparatus is represented beneath: It was constructed by Mr. Styles for the use of the Editor in his public lectures. The circular tubeais in this case supported by the upright pillarc d; and the flame of alcohol in the troughb, by generating high pressure steam, which rushes from the aperturese, produces a rotatory motion.
second
third
Brancas's revolving apparatus, as will be seen by reference to the diagram in the preceding page, was still more simple than that contrived by Hero. A copper vessel filled with water, (in the original figure made in the form of an ornamental head,) was furnished with a pipec, through which the steam was propelled, and striking against the vanes of the float wheeld, readily gave motion to a pestle and mortar, which was employed in the alchemist's laboratory.
The only work in which a description of this engine has been preserved, was published in 1629; it is exceedingly rare, and the above diagram is engraved from a copy in the possession of Major Colby.
A slight examination of the principle upon which this simple apparatus is constructed, will shew that no very considerable force could have been obtained; as the steam passing through the atmosphere in its passage to the wheel, must, to a certain extent at least, be converted into water.
After the publication of the work by Brancas, more than thirty years elapsed ere the publication of the Marquis's "Century" recalled the attention of the scientific world to this important subject; and this invention, which he states as having been completely carried into effect, was evidently very different from that of his predecessors.
It is said that the Marquis, while confined in the Tower of London, was preparing some food in his apartment, and the cover of the vessel, having been closely fitted, was, by the expansion of the steam, suddenly forced off and driven up the chimney. This circumstance attracting his attention, led him to a train of thought, which terminated in the completion of his "water-commandingengine."[9]Of the Marquis's invention no record has been preserved beyond the articles to which we have already alluded in the present work: and in the absence of other data, the Editor readily introduces Professor Millington's design for an engine on similar principles; and which, with a few alterations, might be made available for the purposes recommended by our author.
fourth
In this diagram,qrepresents a strong and close vessel or boiler to contain water, set in brick work like a common copper, with a fire-placerunderneath it, having a chimneys. The boiler thus constructed, is intended to afford the means of producing steam: and if we conceive two casks or strong hollow vessels of any form to be placed under the surface of the water, near the boiler, as attandv, and that each of these vessels has a valve opening into it in its lower part asuu, and two pipesww, proceeding from the upper part of the vessels to the top of the steam boilerq, while two other pipesxxproceed from the lower parts of these vessels into a cisterny, forty feet above the level of the water; an apparatus thus constructed will nearly form the water-commanding engine, for if the vesselstandvare both filled with water by the valvesuu, and the cockzbe opened after the steam has accumulated in the boiler, the elastic fluid thus generated will instantly rush down into the vesselt, and when the surface of the water is heated expel the whole of its contents up the pipea x, into the cisterny, where it will be retained by a valve opening upwards in any part of that pipe, as ata. This done, the cockzmust be shut, and after permitting the steam to accumulate for a short time, that atbmust be opened, and the steam will rush into the vesselvand perform a similar office,cbeing the valve to prevent the return of the water. When the steam is shut off from the vesselt, the elastic fluid which had previously been introduced to expel the water, will be condensed by the cold media round it, and thus a vacuum will be producedin the vesselt, consequently a part of the water in which it is immersed will rush into it by the valveu, and occupy the whole internal cavity, thus putting it in a state of preparation for a second opening of the cockz, by which its contents will be again discharged into the cisterny, and so of the two vessels alternately; for whilevis emptying,twill be filling, and vice versâ, which agrees with the Marquis's account when he says, "that the man is but to turn two cocks, that one vessel of water being consumed, another begins to force," &c.
The above suggestion for an engine capable of raising water may be still further improved by adding a suction pipe to the valvesuu, and the pressure of the atmosphere will increase the working power of the engine more than thirty feet: and should a less height be required, the forcing pipe may be shortened in a proportionate degree: indeed this fact was attended to by the next person who claims the honour of having invented the steam-engine, to which it may now be adviseable to direct the reader's attention.