GB190906816A - Improvements in and relating to Means for Signalling upon Railways. - Google Patents

Abstract

6816. Whitehead, W., and Smith, A. H. March 22. Track apparatus actuating signals on trains.- The ends of the double-incline track contacts of a mechanical and electrical cab signalling-apparatus are arranged to work in slotted guide-brackets, and an improved ratchet resetting-device is used on the engine. The track contacts consist of double inclines G centrally pivoted to crank F mounted on a counter-weighted shaft E, a crank D connected to which is operated with the signals by an extension B of the ordinary signal-operating connexions. Two contacts are provided, one inside each rail, and are raised when the signal goes to danger, their outer ends having pins J which slide in slots K in brackets L fixed to the sleepers. When in the raised position, these rails contact with a roller U mounted on the end of a vertically moving rod R on the engine, the upper end of the rod being connected to a semaphore arm V, which is thereby moved to danger in front of one of the look-out windows. The movement of the rod simultaneously releases a spring switch to close the circuit of a bell Y. The bar is held in its raised position by a spring ratchet 3 engaging the notched sleeve 1, until re-set by the driver pulling the handle 5. Any other signal may be substituted for the cab semaphore, and instead of closing a bell circuit the upward movement of the rod may operate a steam whistle. A buffer spring 7 is also provided for the rod R. Different numbers of pairs of track contacts may be used at different signals to inform the driver as to which class of signal he is approaching. The trackcontacts may also be operated in connexion with crossing gates, to give a danger signal when the gates are closed, and further, a telltale indicator may be operated to record the movements of the rod R.