GB1213082A - An improved metronome - Google Patents

Abstract

1,213,082. Metronomes. R. WITTNER. March 3, 1969 [March 1, 1968; Nov.5, 1968 (2)], No.11270/69. Heading G3T. A metronome comprises a pendulum 24 secured to a spindle 26, and carrying an adjustable weight 27 for varying its period of oscillation, the spindle 26 being driven by mechanism including a spring 42 connected to a spring winding shaft 36, and means is provided for energizing an electric motor 70 to rotate the shaft 36 to rewind the spring 42 when it has unwound a predetermined amount. The spring housing 44 and a gear-wheel 46 connected thereto are rotated by the spring 42 to drive the pendulum 24 via a pinion 48 and a ratchet wheel 52, engaging arms 56 and 58 Fig.1 (not shown). At intervals during operation of the metronome the shaft 36 is rotated by the motor 70 via toothedgearing to wind the spring 42, when a cam 90 on the gear-wheel 46 lifts a roller 82 on a switch actuator to energize the motor 70. Each winding operation is discontinued when the roller 82 engages in a recess c in a control disc 84 rotatable with the shaft 36. The gear-wheel 46 is provided with a stop mechanism 110, 120 Fig.3 (not shown) co-operating with a finger on the shaft 36 to prevent continuous operation of the metronome by the spring 42, and consequent complete unwinding of the latter, in the event of failure of the batteries supplying the electric motor 70. In further embodiments are provided modified switching devices controlling the motor 70, and devices for indicating visually various tempo and controlled by contact devices actuated by cam wheels on the shaft 50 carrying the ratchet wheel 52.