A Flexible Connection for Steering Rods
Page 72
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rpHE names of Morris Commercial Cars, Ltd., and W. W. Hamill appear in specification No. 322,473, which relates to the introduction of a non-metallic substance in the rods of steering gears. The specification points out that with the use of pneumatic tyres, although they minimize shocks from vertical impacts, they do not function in the same way in respect of stresses and shocks arising from lateral movements of the steering wheels, and that " shimmying" occurs which may cause fractures of the steering gear. It also points out that an entirely metallic connection between the stub axles and the control wheel provides a medium through which shocks and vibrations may be transmitted.
The object of the present invention appears to be to introduce some nonmetallic element which can yield slightly and so reduce such shocks. The construction described may be applied to drag links or track rods, and consists of separating such a link or rod at some point near one of its ends and inserting a cushioning medium in such a manner that a slight movement is possible.
The sectional views indicate how the cushioning material can act in either direction ; that on the left shows two rings of rubber, one on each side of a flange, whilst that on the right depicts rings which are gripped on their outer edges by half the rod, and near the centre by the other half.
A New Bonnet Clip.
SECURE holding of the bonnet so as to prevent rattle is a point which has, hitherto, been somewhat neglected, but as undue noise has now to ii)e seriously considered, especially in passenger-carrying vehicle, the device described in specification No. 322,453, by Sir Herbert Austin, K.B.E., is -of some interest. It appears to afford a means whereby a bonnet can be held in place in a manner which would prevent all possibility of rattle, and at the same time provide a ready means for opening and fixing.
spring attached to the sill, and is therefore in such a position that the bonnet can be lifted. The central view shows the hook engaging in the spring on the sill and providing the necessary tension by means of the toggle, which is straightened. The right-hand view shows details of the wire spring with which the hook 'engages.
The lever, which forms one member of the toggle, appears to afford a good grip for lifting a bonnet.
A "More Definite and Effective" Perpetual Motion.
WE are glad to see that a recent patent, Nu. 322,562, which relates to a perpetual-motion machine, deals with a device which is an improvement on that described
in specifica tion No. 161,362/20.
The inventor of these two devices points out that the more recent one is an improvement on his original plan, and that it provides a device which is "more definite and effective."
Until now all perpetual motion devices have absolutely refused to work.
A Self-driving Motor. A PATENT has been granted by the British Patent Office to J. Hood, of Lincoln, No. 320,696, for a self-driving
motor. The specification describes a mechanism which will produce power without the consumption of fuel. Although this sounds like a very desirable result, we do not feel justified in occupying space by a description of it ; we should, however, be only too pleased to do so if the inventor would show us a working model.
A Low-platform Truck.
IN specification No. 322,693 appears the name of :Douglas Motors, Ltd. The patentee describes a low-platform
truck of the class in whic/ilthere two idle wheels at the rear and one wheel at the front, the latter acting as driver and steerer. The front wheel can be revolved by means of the steering gear, thus enabling the truck to turn at right angles, and to reverse. arc
A Simple Small Farm Tractor.
A TRACTOR described in specifica
tion No. 322,458, by S. G. Moule, of Coleshall, Five Ashes Sussex, is intended for light work on farms, etc., for single-furrow ploughing, and, in some instances, to take the place of a horse between the shafts of a cart.
The engine is situated within the main driving wheel, which is driven by chain and rack-ring and pinion. A half-turn of the steering wheel acts as a reverse. The steering hand wheel can be swung to one side if desired.