Perpetual Motion
by Percy Verance · English · Gutenberg #44771 · 472,608 chars · public domain (US)
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Title: Perpetual Motion
Author: Percy Verance
Henry Dircks
Release date: January 27, 2014 [eBook #44771]
Most recently updated: October 24, 2024
Language: English
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*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PERPETUAL MOTION ***
Perpetual Motion
Comprising a History of the Efforts to Attain Self-Motive
Mechanism with a Classified, _ILLUSTRATED_ Collection and
Explanation of the Devices Whereby it Has Been Sought and Why
They Failed, and Comprising Also a Revision and Re-Arrangement of
the Information Afforded by "Search for Self-Motive Power During
The 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries," London, 1861, and "A History
of the Search for Self-Motive Power from the 13th to The 19th
Century," London, 1870, by Henry Dircks, C. E., LL. D., Etc.
[Illustration]
BY
PERCY VERANCE
Copyright 1916
By
20th Century Enlightenment Specialty Co.
CONTENTS
For Summarized Table of Contents, see page 358 _et seq._
Page
Introduction 3
Preface 7-10
Introductory Essay 11-21
CHAPTER I.
Devices by Means of Wheels and Weights 22-67
CHAPTER II.
Devices by Means of Rolling Weights and Inclined Planes 68-75
CHAPTER III.
Hydraulic and Hydro-Mechanical Devices 76-117
CHAPTER IV.
Pneumatic Siphon and Hydro-Pneumatic Devices 118-162
CHAPTER V.
Magnetic Devices 163-174
CHAPTER VI.
Devices Utilizing Capillary Attraction and Physical
Affinity 175-194
CHAPTER VII.
Liquid Air as a Means of Perpetual Motion 195-196
CHAPTER VIII.
Radium and Radio-Active Substances Considered as a
Conceived Source of Perpetual Motion 197-199
CHAPTER IX.
Perpetual Motion Devices Attempting Its Attainment by a
Misconception of the Relation of Momentum and Energy 200-211
CHAPTER X.
The Alleged Inventions of Edward Sommerset, Sixth Earl and
Second Marquis of Worcester, and of Jean Ernest
Eli-Bessler (Councillor) Orffyreus 212-255
CHAPTER XI.
Conservation of Energy. A Discussion of the Relation of the
Doctrine of Conservation of Energy, and the Possibility
of Perpetual Motion 256-269
CHAPTER XII.
Will Perpetual Motion Ever Be Accomplished? A Discussion by
the Author, with a Review of the Opinions of Eminent
Scientists on the Subject 270-357
PREFACE.
The author has no apology to offer for the production of this book. He
has spent his life in environments that have brought him into constant
contact with mechanics, artisans and laborers as well as professional
men, engineers, chemists and technical experts of various types. He
knows a great many men--young men, for the most part--are constantly
working on the old, old problem of Perpetual Motion; that much money,
and much time are being spent in search of a solution for that problem
which all scientific and technical men tell us is impossible of
solution.
It is believed by the author that a classification and presentation of
selected groups of the devices produced in the past by which it was by
the inventor believed, self-motive power had been attained, will save
much work in fields already thoroughly exploited.
So far as the author knows no book on the subject has appeared since
1870. The various encyclopedias published contain articles on the
subject, but they are necessarily brief, and not satisfying to young
men who have become interested in the subject.
In 1861, Henry Dircks, a civil engineer, of London, published a
work entitled "Perpetuum Mobile; or, Search for Self-Motive Power,
During the Seventeenth, Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries." The book
contains 599 pages, and was followed in 1870, by a second series by the
same author entitled "Perpetuum Mobile, or a History of the Search for
Self-Motive Power from the Thirteenth, to the Nineteenth Century." In
these two books there is amassed a wonderful amount of material showing
on the part of the author diligence, great patience and wide and
thorough search.
The author of these works was not enamoured of his subject, and his
books clearly show that he was not writing them because of any interest
he had in the subject of Perpetual Motion. On the contrary, they appear
to have been written because of a deep detestation entertained by the
author for the subject of Perpetual Motion, and a contemptuous pity for
any one seriously interested in the subject. Mr. Dircks's works may
be said to be the works of a scold. His sentiments were deep, and his
impulses strong, which accounts for the vast amount of labor he did in
the preparation of his books. Those books are now out of print, and it
is believed by the author of this book that they may well remain so.
They contain much material that no one would be justified in wading
through. The most complicated mechanisms devised by enthusiastic
dreamers are shown in the same detail with which the inventors
described them in presenting them to the public, or to the patent
offices. Little is to be gained by this.
So complicated are many of the devices that only technically trained
engineers could read them understandingly, and few technically trained
engineers are now greatly interested in self-motive power devices. We
believe that every useful or interesting purpose is served if enough
devices are collected, classified and presented to show the various
principles relied upon by the inventors; with an explanation of why
they failed--i. e., wherein the principles relied upon are wrong, and
while possibly not out of harmony with any mechanical principles then
known, are entirely out of harmony with principles since discovered and
now well known.
In the preparation of this volume a vast amount of the information
furnished by the two works of Mr. Dircks has been rearranged,
reclassified, and used.
Everyone who has to any extent, by environment, associated with the
mass of people who are not technically educated, knows that the
persons who are still interested in the subject of Perpetual Motion,
and who still seek its attainment, are not technically trained
engineers or mathematicians, but for the greater part untrained people
of naturally strong mechanical sense, and of natural mechanical and
mathematical adaptation.
This book is written for the perusal of that large class of people. It
is not designed as an argument either for or against the possibility of
the attainment of Perpetual Motion.
The author is content to classify and present--clearly, it is
hoped--the leading endeavors that have been known in that field of
effort, and to explain their failure.
It is believed by the author that the perusal of the present volume by
anyone whose mind has been attracted by the subject of Perpetual Motion
will result in an enlightenment, and, it is also believed, will have
a tendency to direct his mind from a struggle with theories long ago
exploded, and may result in directing his efforts to things practical,
and not without hope of attainment.
This work is offered only to minds mechanically or mathematically
inclined. It is not even hoped that it will interest people who prefer
fiction to fact, nor people who read simply for idle entertainment.
INTRODUCTORY ESSAY
Perpetual Motion as used in this book is to be taken in its
conventional, and not in its strict literal sense. The strict literal
analysis of the two words implies unceasing motion. Of this we have
many illustrations--the tides, the waves of the ocean, the course of
the earth around the sun, and in the movements of all heavenly and
astronomical bodies. In fact, it is difficult to conceive in a strictly
scientific sense of any substance having an entire absence of motion.
Perpetual Motion as used in this book means what it is usually
understood to mean--Self-Motive Power--a machine that furnishes the
power to keep its parts going as a machine. In this sense Perpetual
Motion has always engaged the minds of many, many people--and what is
more natural? As soon as a boy begins to take an interest in moving
parts of machinery, vehicles, locomotives, and what not, he perceives
that the application of power results in the motion of bodies, and
again that bodies in motion are productive of power. A wheel moved by
muscular, or other mechanical power, is made by machinery to elevate
water, and elevated water can be made in descending to run machinery.
The windlass, or other wheel, turned by applied force, lifts buckets
from wells--raises stone, and elevates heavy bodies, if desired. Heavy
bodies descending can be, and are used through means of machinery to
make machinery run.
A great many similar illustrations could be given. What, then, is more
natural than that a boy with an active mind who is at all mechanically
turned, as most boys are, begins to wonder why, if wheels lift stones,
and if stones descending make wheels run, cannot a machine be made that
will lift stones, or other weights, and in turn be run by the descent
of the lifted stones, or other weights? Why, if the turning of wheels
lift water, and if descending water makes wheels go, should not an
adaptation be made by which the same machine will elevate water, and be
run by the descent of the elevated water?
That it cannot be done is now the consensus of opinion of all
technically trained mechanics, but, that it can not be done, and why it
can not be done, is sure not to occur to the boy, nor to the man who
has only a strong natural mechanical sense to guide him, and has not
the advantage of technical training.
Again, it is well known that many, many men have spent considerable
sums of money and given hours and hours, and days, and months, and
years of close and careful thought, and experiment to the production
of a machine that will accomplish Perpetual Motion, and that many have
announced to the world that they had succeeded in its accomplishment,
but that all their devices so far have turned out failures.
It is to no purpose to tell the Perpetual Motion worker that he is
seeking to attain the impossible; that the attainment of self-motive
power has been demonstrated to be an impossibility. He will answer,
or, at least, he will reason to himself that many things once
pronounced impossibilities and claimed to be so demonstrated, have
since been attained. The Perpetual Motion worker is usually a person
of active intelligence, and being enamoured of mechanical projects
is likely to read extensively along mechanical lines, and knows as
every well-informed person knows, that there are many instances in
the history of the discovery and development of the most important
mechanical inventions and scientific discoveries where the persistent
efforts of so-called enthusiastic dreamers and cranks finally triumphed
over the settled and conventional "impossibilities" of dignified
scientists.
When, less than a century ago, it was proposed to propel a ship across
the Atlantic ocean by steampower, Ignatius Lardner, a scientific
teacher, lecturer and interpreter of real note and merit wrote a
book "demonstrating" the physical impossibility of a vessel carrying
enough fuel to propel itself through that distance of water. The book
was actually printed, but was scarcely off the press until the first
steamship had successfully crossed the Atlantic with steampower, and
steamed triumphantly into port.
After communication by electric telegraph was well established and
had been in successful commercial use for decades, it was proposed to
converse by long distance over a wire. The idea was hooted and declared
impossible, and it did seem so, and yet today, there is scarcely a farm
house in the nation but what has an instrument by which the occupants
can talk over wires not only to their near-by neighbors, but to remote
cities.
Prof. Samuel P. Langley, less than two decades ago undertook in a
thoroughly scientific manner to accomplish what is called "heavier than
air flight." His scientific ideas on the subject were entirely correct,
but he did not have the advantage of engine refinement as it is known
today, by which high energy development can be attained with an engine
or motor of small weight. Nevertheless, Prof. Langley succeeded
in flying a considerable distance, and in fact, made a number of
successful demonstrations of the _physical possibility_ of heavier than
air flight. Prof. Simon Newcomb, who is to be ranked as the greatest
astronomer, mathematician and scientist the United States has ever
produced, and with the possible exception of Benjamin Franklin, the
most original thinker along scientific lines, wrote an article which
was published generally in scientific journals, in which he warned
Prof. Langley of the folly of his attempts, not claiming, however, the
scientific impossibility of heavier than air flight, but claiming that
it could never be of any real practical value; that the instability of
the air, etc., limited flight by man to a daredevil show performance.
A child then born would now be scarcely grown, and yet, aeroplanes are
in use in every civilized country in the world for observation and
military purposes, and even for carrying mail to places not otherwise
easily accessible.
Thousands of flights are undertaken every day with the confident
expectation of a successful trip and return. How many, many boys
and mechanics, prior to the achievement of human flight, have been
attracted by the problem, only to have their ambitions and dreams
discouraged and suppressed by being told that the scientific world
knows that human flight is impossible--"God made man to walk on the
ground, and the birds to fly, and if Nature had intended that we should
fly we would have been equipped with wings," and probably to be dubbed
"Darius Green," as a reminder of the inglorious fate of the pseudo hero
of that name in Trowbridge's clever and immortal poem about Darius
Green and his Flying Machine.
The announcement of the discovery of rays by means of which views may
be made and photographs taken through substances supposedly opaque to
all light rays was scouted as a ridiculously visionary dream; but the
discoverers were not dismayed by scout and ridicule, but persisted in
their dreams and enthusiasm. There is not a village of any considerable
size in the civilized world but has its X-Ray Machine by which foreign
substances in the flesh may be viewed and photographed and located with
exactitude, fractures examined and all surgical operations aided to the
benefit and health and recovery of the sick and wounded. Mankind is the
recipient of the benefits resulting from the fact that enthusiastic
cranks were not deterred by ridicule and supposed demonstrations of
their folly.
The above are only a few of the many like instances recorded in
scientific progress. While not accurately true, and while less true
during the last two decades than formerly, it is, nevertheless, a
general truth that scientific progress has been made in spite of, and
in the face of discouragement and ridicule from the multitudes who were
destined to be benefited by the discoveries made by the persistent
so-called cranks.
These facts are all well known to the Perpetual Motion enthusiast. It
is, therefore, of no avail to tell him that the scientific world has
pronounced his aspirations and attempts but dreams, and that Perpetual
Motion workers are by the scientific world denominated cranks.
If it be admitted that Perpetual Motion is, as scientific men tell
us, a chimerical dream, it is still to be very greatly doubted if the
world at large is to be benefited by dissuading minds from working
on the problem. There is no doubt that many persons who have become
more intensely interested in mechanics by thinking and working on the
problem of Perpetual Motion, have thereby been lead to study more
and more generally into mechanical subjects, and became not merely
tyros, but useful men in various mechanical pursuits. Many doubtless
have followed mechanical subjects to which they were introduced by
labors toward Perpetual Motion, to the making of useful and valuable
inventions and discoveries.
Notwithstanding the fact that a countless number of devices for the
attainment of Perpetual Motion have been proclaimed and exhibited, it
is to be supposed that those actually proclaimed and brought to light
constitute but an infinitesimally small proportion of those actually
made. It is to be supposed that the Perpetual Motion worker has some
sense, and that the great majority of them before proclaiming his
apparatus would want to know himself that it was not a failure, and
would not, when ushered before the public, bring upon him humiliation
and jeers. It is to be believed that in nearly every instance the
produced device was tested before being proclaimed and ushered into the
light of day. It goes without saying that all that were so tested were
failures, and were never heard of except by the inventor and a very few
intimate friends or co-laborers. Those that have been heralded to the
world represent only that small proportion where over-confidence in the
operation, or a disregard for the truth, or some other unexplainable
something caused the inventor and his friends to make the announcement
and disclosure of the device before the test.
It is almost impossible to conceive of a person of any intelligence
exposing himself to the ridicule resulting from the failure of a
pompously heralded device, when a simple test would have saved the
exposure, and yet the civilized world has been filled with Perpetual
Motion devices proclaimed and heralded with trumpet blast, which, when
tested, "didn't work."
It is not, however, the purview, or purpose of this book, to incite
people to work on the problem of Perpetual Motion, neither is it its
purview or purpose to dissuade them from it.
In the works of Mr. Dircks, mentioned in the preface of this work, the
devices for Perpetual Motion are classified somewhat with reference to
the time each was produced. In some instances with reference to whether
or not patents were applied for and obtained, or as to the source of
information concerning them.
A careful examination of the devices presented in Mr. Dirck's two
works, and of those, information concerning which has been obtained
elsewhere, leads the author to believe that nothing is to be gained by
an attempted classification along those lines.
In countless instances Perpetual Motion seekers of different races and
living in separate countries, and, indeed, on different continents,
centuries apart, have sought the attainment of Perpetual Motion by
practically the same devices, and inventor after inventor has brought
forth alleged inventions depending upon precisely the same underlying
mechanical principle.
The author has attempted to classify the various devices presented in
this book according to the underlying mechanical principles upon which
the inventor chiefly relied for the success of his invention. Even this
classification is extremely difficult and not well distinguished. Many
of them, indeed most of them, depend for their success upon more than
one mechanical principle, and the classifications thereby inevitably
intermingle and overlap what otherwise would be their distinguishing
boundaries. Still it is believed by the author that it is the best
that could be adopted, and that no better or clearer classification is
possible than the one here presented.
The various devices are classified by the author under the following
heads:
Devices by Means of Wheels and Weights.
Devices by Means of Rolling Weights and Inclined Planes.
Hydraulic and Hydro-Mechanical Devices.
Pneumatic Siphon and Hydro-Pneumatic Devices.
Magnetic Devices.
Devices Utilizing Capillary Attraction and Physical Affinity.
Liquid Air as a Means of Perpetual Motion.
Radium and Radio-Active Substances Considered as a Conceived Source of
Perpetual Motion.
Perpetual Motion Devices Attempting Its Attainment by a Misconception
of the Relation of Momentum and Energy.
to which is added--
"A Discussion of the Alleged Inventions of the very eminent
Edward Sommerset, Sixth Earl and Second Marquis of Worcester,
and Jean Ernest Eli-Bessler Orffyreus.
Also--
"A Discussion by the Author of the 'Doctrine of Conservation
of Energy, and Its Relation to the Possibility of Perpetual
Motion.'"
And--
"A Discussion by the Author of 'Will Perpetual Motion Ever Be
Accomplished?'"
CHAPTER I
DEVICES BY MEANS OF WHEELS AND WEIGHTS
Wilars de Honecort
While attempts at Perpetual Motion are as old as the human race,
not many of the more ancient devices have been preserved, either by
engraving or by explanation.
Among the very earliest of these attempts of which we have detailed
information is the device of Wilars de Honecort. He was an architect,
and lived in the thirteenth century. The information is preserved in "A
Sketch Book" by him which was deposited and remains in the Ecole des
Chartes at Paris. About the middle of the nineteenth century comments
were published in France on this ancient device. Some of these were
translated into English. The following account is an extract from a
translation made by Professor Willis, of Cambridge.
"_Many a time have skilful workmen tried to contrive a wheel that shall
turn of itself: here is a way to make such a one, by means of an uneven
number of mallets, or by quicksilver._"
Wilars de Honecort presents to us a device for a perpetual motion;
it is not clear whether he intends to claim the contrivance of it, or
whether he had met with it in the course of his travels. It differs
very little from a well-known contrivance for this purpose which has
been so often published, and its fallacy so fully explained in popular
books, that it is unnecessary to dwell at length upon the mechanical
principles which it involves. It is extremely curious in this place,
because it shows the great antiquity of the problem, the solution of
which has wasted the time, the brains, and the means of many an unhappy
artisan or philosopher.
In the drawing we have now before us, the two upright posts, which are
framed together and skilfully braced so as to ensure their steadiness,
support between them a long horizontal axle, to the center of which
is fixed a wheel with four spokes. The absence of perspective in this
drawing makes the wheel appear as if it were parallel to the frame,
instead of being, as it is, at right angles to it.
[Illustration]
Seven mallets, or arms, each loaded with a heavy weight at the end, are
jointed at equal distances to the circumference of the wheel, so that
those which happen to have their joints below the diameter of the wheel
will hang freely down, but if the wheel be turned round by hand or
otherwise, the weights of those which are on the ascending side will,
in succession, rest on its circumference, and will, in that position,
be carried over the highest part of the wheel and downwards on the
descending side, until the arms that bear them are brought into a
vertical position and a little beyond it, and then the weight will fall
suddenly over and rest on the opposite position on the circumference
of the wheel, until its further descent enables it to dangle freely
as before. The effect of this mechanism upon the position of the
weights is not truly represented, for the upper mallet has fallen over
too soon. In the modern form of this contrivance a pin, or stop, is
introduced, by which the mallet, when it falls over, is compelled to
rest so that its arm shall point to the center of the wheel, and thus
the descending weight be held at a greater distance from the center
than when ascending. It is extremely probable that this difference is a
mere error of the artist, for the drawing has the appearance of having
been made from a model of the wheel at rest; a condition in which, of
course, it would always be found, unless moved by some external force.
The inventor seems to have thought that the action above described
would always place four weights on the descending side, and leave but
three on the ascending side, each weight as it rises to the top being
intended to leap suddenly over to the descending side, in the manner
just explained; or perhaps, as M. Lassus suggests, the contriver
imagined that the blows given to the wheel in succession by the falling
mallets would help it forward. It is surprising that although the
slightest model would show the failure of devices of this class to
persons incapable of mathematical reasoning, yet such machines have
been seriously proposed in books, and are continually recontrived by
ingenious workmen. The allusion to quicksilver in the manuscript shows
that Wilars was acquainted with the well-known contrivance described
in the books already referred to, in which portions of that metal
inclosed in channels are used instead of the falling weights.
A Repetition of Wilars de Honecort's Plan
This device was brought forth in 1831 in England, and illustrates what
we say in the Introductory Essay to the effect of inventors working on
the same plan in different parts of the earth and centuries apart.
[Illustration]
We are unable to give the inventor's name. He was a correspondent to
Mechanics' Magazine, and the description furnished by the inventor as
published in Mechanics' Magazine, is as follows:
Description.--A A A is a ring of thin wood; B B B, several spokes,
movable round the fixed points C C C, and only allowed to move one way
by the construction of the openings D D D; E E E, heavy weights fixed
to the ends of the spokes.
From the position in which the wheel is at present, it is evident
that the weights on the right-hand side (1 and 2) acting at a greater
distance from the center than those (4 and 5) on the other side, will
cause that side to descend until the spoke 1 reaches the position 3,
when it will exert no moving influence, but by which time the weight 8
will have fallen into the position 1, when a similar effect will take
place, and so on with the rest.
Leonardo da Vinci
It is with a mingled feeling of sorrow and exaltation that we note the
Perpetual Motion labors of the great Leonardo da Vinci. Of all of the
men who ever gave the subject more than a passing notice he is the most
famous.
Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian, born in 1452, and died in 1519. He
was the illegitimate son of Florentine, lawyer. His mother has been
variously described as a peasant, and as of gentle birth. Little about
her is known. The father belonged to a family of lawyers, and never
repudiated the son, but took him, educated him, and cared for him. It
is well for the world that he did, for Leonardo da Vinci has perhaps
contributed more to art and learning in the world than any other single
individual that ever lived. He was a painter, a sculptor, an architect,
a musician, a mechanician, engineer and natural philosopher. Each
subject in art or science that he touched he not only mastered, but
improved and embellished. He painted the original of the well-known
picture of the Christ and His twelve Apostles, known as the "Last
Supper," or the "Last Supper of Our Lord." This, and Mona Lisa, are
perhaps the paintings by which he is known to the greatest number of
people, and are considered by many connoisseurs the highest perfection
in art ever attained by mortal man.
But, as painter and sculptor, he is to be regarded as among the
greatest, if not the very greatest that ever lived. In art he ranks
beside, if not ahead of Michelangelo and Raffael, and yet they are
known only as artists, while he was preeminent in both art and science.
The work he did in natural science was entirely original and emanated
from an inherent initiative and originality, and as a scientist, he is
entitled to rank below only Newton, Gallileo and Copernicus, and very
few others. In all the history of the world he is the only man of whom
it can be said that he attained the apex of eminence in both art and
science.
The information concerning Leonardo da Vinci's devices for obtaining
Perpetual Motion is extremely meager. There does not seem to be extant
any detailed explanation of just how he expected his different designs
to work.
All that is known concerning his efforts is sufficiently illustrated by
the following cuts and language from Dircks:
Fig. 1 may be taken as a scheme belonging to the fifteenth
century. It seems to be placed at the head as a simple or
elementary design for future improvement. It is a chambered drum
wheel, containing balls or weights, which, being always farthest
from the center on one side, as compared to the other, are
expected to keep the wheel constantly rotating.
Fig. 2. Failing in this scheme, the inventor next offers one with
weighted levers, which are to fall outwards on one side, but to
fall inwards on the opposite side, the weight at the same time
sliding up the lever when vertical at the bottom, so as to be
nearer the center throughout on the ascending side. But how
the weight is to be made to ascend _at the bottom_ remains to be
shown.
[Illustration]
Fig. 3. The difficulty of elevating the weight would appear to
have suggested its immersion in a trough of water, as here shown.
The weights seem to be attached to some contrivance to float them
_upwards_; but we are perplexed, and so no doubt was da Vinci,
how to sink them, or being sunk, how to render them again buoyant
by any self-motive process.
Fig. 4. It would appear as though the difficulties observable in
Fig. 3 were attempted to be met here, in a plan which evidently
combines several views of the case, yet without removing the main
difficulty; for although the weight at the end of the long arm
may be quite capable of sinking in the liquid, we still inquire,
How is it ever to be raised again?
Fig. 5 seems to be an incomplete sketch, and a mere variation
on the preceding designs, with the addition either of machinery
below to be worked by it, or to give it motion. Possibly it was
proposed to have a magnet at the bottom of the vessel.
Fig. 6 appears to be two designs in one sketch. On one side we
have long single levers, with a single weight at their ends, and
a weight between each at the periphery; on the other end, double
or forked levers and double weights. Its mixed character renders
it probable that it was merely some preliminary sketch.
The great value of the present exhibition of these early
contrivances of misdirected mechanical ingenuity consists in the
convincing evidence which they afford, that all young inventors
who occupy themselves in the search for self-motive machines,
do little more than reproduce the blunders of a past age.
After a lapse of five centuries modern inventors often become
patentees of contrivances which are only more complicated than
the assumed-to-be overweight wheel of Wilars de Honecort, or the
six similar ones of Leonardo da Vinci. But such has hitherto
been the ignorance of mechanics on this subject, that Fig. 1 of
the annexed diagrams has frequently been adduced by writers on
the subject, as the veritable wheel invented by the Marquis of
Worcester, in the seventeenth century!
A. Capra's Device
In 1678, A Capra, of Italy, revived the ancient, but still favorite
scheme that dates back to the 13th century. (See page 22 ante.) He
illustrates his idea with the following figure and the following
comment:
On the wheel A (of the facsimile engraving opposite), which
must be hung well equipoised between two uprights, are appended
counter-weights, eighteen in number, all precisely at the same
distance from each other, and all exactly of the same weight. The
counter-weights are provided with a small ring by which they are hung.
[Illustration]
Whilst the counter-weights B are farther from the center C of the
wheel, they weigh more than the counter-weights I, because these
are low and nearer to the center C of the wheel, so that the
counter-weights B descend and the weight I drops; and whilst the
weight B is alternately descending and the weight I ascending, the
wheel will revolve continually. But it must be understood that it is
necessary to make the wheel perfectly true in equilibrium, so that
it do not weigh more on one side than on the other on account of the
counter-weights.
The Device of Dixon Vallance. England, 1825
This inventor was certain he had overtaken and captured the
ever-illusive Perpetual Motion. He gives a description of his happiness
and his machine in the following effusively joyous language:
The annexed drawing shows how I have at length taken this
enticing jilt (perpetual motion), though after a long and weary
chase--
Through pleasant and delightful fields,
Through barren tracts and lonely wilds;
'Mongst quagmires, mosses, muirs and marshes,
Where deil or spunkie never scarce is!
By chance I happened on her den,
And took her when she didna ken.
[Illustration]
W W W W represents a wheel with twelve hollow spokes, in each
of which there is a rolling weight or ball. C C C C is a chain
passing over two pulleys P P. There is an opening round the
wheel from the nave to the circumference, so as to allow the
chain to pass freely and to meet the weights. The weights are
met by the chain as the wheel revolves, and are raised from
the circumference till they are at last brought close to the
nave, where they remain till, by the revolution of the wheel,
they are allowed to roll out to the circumference. By this
arrangement the weights are, on one side of the wheel, always at
the circumference, so that that side is more powerful than the
other, which causes the wheel continually to revolve. F F F F
is the frame of the machine; M M M M the mortices for joining
the two sides of the frame by cross rails. The arrows point out
the direction in which the wheel turns.--I am, yours, &c., Dixon
Vallance. Liberton, Lanarkshire, Nov. 10, 1825.
Furman's Device
Strange as it may seem, the patent office of the U. S. government as
late as 1884 and 1886, received and filed, seriously considered and
granted Letters Patent on Perpetual Motion Devices as appears from the
description of Furman's Device following, and from Schirrmeister's
"Mechanical Movement," and Enbom & Anderson's "Improvement in Pumps,"
appearing on pages 38 and 76 respectively, supra.
These were not denominated Perpetual Motion Devices by the inventors,
but the specifications show them to be simply that and nothing more.
July 15, 1884, George H. Furman, of Rochester, Ohio, U. S. A., was
granted U. S. Patent No. 301979, on
"A New and Improved Motor."
The essentials are sufficiently shown by the following excerpt from
the specifications and the following figure. We have omitted Figure 2,
mentioned in the specifications:
UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.
George H. Furman, of Rochester, Ohio.
MOTOR.
Specification forming part of Letters Patent
No. 301979, dated July 15, 1884.
Application filed March 6, 1884. (No model.)
The action of the motor is as follows: A suitable quantity of the
small weights _d_ being placed in the outer drum, F, through the
door _f_, the machine being at rest, they will accumulate at the
lower part of the drum F in the pockets _c´ c´_. Now, to run the
machine a person will apply his hands to the rim H and revolve
the outer drum, F, in the direction of the arrow shown in Fig.
1. This movement of the outer drum will cause the weights _d_ to
be carried in the pockets _c´ c´_ to the upper side of the drum,
at which point they will roll from the pockets _c´ c´_ into the
pockets _b b_ of the inner drum, G, where their weight will cause
the drum G and shaft E to revolve. _As the pockets_ b _of the
inner drum pass below the shaft E they empty the weights into the
troughs_ c´ _of the outer wheel, F, to be again carried above the
shaft and dropped into the pockets_ b, _so that the inner wheel,
G, and shaft E will be revolved continuously._
[Illustration]
Schirrmeisters Mechanical Movement
July 6, 1886, Charles Schirrmeister, of Brooklyn, Kings County, State
of New York, U. S. A., obtained Letters Patent No. 345077, on a new and
useful
"Mechanical Movement."
The essentials of the patented device appear from the following
excerpts from the specifications, and the following figures
accompanying the specifications. (Figs. 2, 3 and 4 we do not show.)
[Illustration]
The object of my invention is to furnish a cheap and simple
_means for imparting mechanical power_; and I accomplish this by
means of a series of radial arms placed at right angles to and
projecting from the axis of motion where power is first applied,
and so arranged that each arm is in a different vertical plane,
said arms being weighted at each end with a ball of metal. Some
of these arms are also made hollow and inclose sliding or rolling
weights, which move back and forth as the axis revolves, and the
motion is still further re-enforced by a series of springs which
are attached to the axis by a lever and eccentric.
[Illustration]
Taking the simplest form of my device, I illustrate the same by
the accompanying drawings, in which--
Figure 1 is a side elevation of the entire apparatus. Fig. 2 is a
sectional view showing the hollow arm with a rolling weight. Fig.
3 is an end view showing the operation of a re-enforcing spiral
spring. Fig. 4 is a detailed view showing still further the
method of re-enforcing motion by springs. Fig. 5 is a view of the
driving-pulley with its hollow arms.
Similar letters refer to similar parts in the several views.
A is the axis to which the power first imparting motion is
applied.
N are the bearings supporting the same.
B is the driving-pulley attached to said axis, and from which
motion is imparted by means of the driving belt _b_ to any point
desired.
C are the hollow arms of the driving-pulley B.
D are the solid arms radiating from the axis A.
E are the hollow arms radiating from the axis A.
F are the solid balls or weights secured to the ends of the arms
D and E.
_a_ are the sliding or rolling weights, which are inclosed within
the hollow arms C and E.
_c_ are the slots cut into the hollow arms E, to relieve the
air-pressure formed by the backward and forward motion of the
weights _a_.
G are springs so arranged as to expend their force upon the axis
A by means of the connecting rods H, both attached to the springs
and one attached to the axis A by means of the eccentric I and
the other to the wheel J at one end of the axis.
K is a balanced lever, upon which the springs G may rest, said
lever being supported at each end upon the springs L.
M is a crank attached to one end of the axis A, and serves to
show the place and manner in which the power may be applied.
The manner of constructing and operating my invention is as
follows: The entire apparatus is made of steel or iron, and
the shaft, bearings, arms, springs and connecting-rods are of
ordinary form. The main or driving pulley is cast with four
hollow arms, in which round weights are inclosed, which move
back and forth within the arms when the wheel is set in motion.
The solid arms, as well as the hollow arms, which are used
in addition to those forming a part of the driving-pulley,
are arranged by means of set-screws a suitable distance apart
upon the axis and in different perpendicular planes, so as to
give steadiness in motion. A thread is cut upon each end of
these arms, and the fixed weights are then screwed on. When
the shaft or axis revolves, the weights which move toward the
ends of the arms above the center accelerate the motion, and
the momentum of the machine aids in overcoming the resistance
caused by the weights, which are below the center. At the same
time the revolution of the eccentric and crank-pin upon the
axis depresses the connecting-rods, which in turn depress the
springs, which, being released as soon as the eccentric and
crank-pin have reached their lowest point, contribute a lifting
power to overcome the resistance above mentioned. As shown in the
drawings, these springs joined to the connecting-rods may be
supported and assisted by other springs.
The power is applied by hand, operating upon a crank at the end
of the axis, or may be imparted by steam, hot air, electricity,
or in any other known method, and is conducted to any desired
point by means of the belt _b_.
Having fully described my invention, what I claim as new, and
desire to secure by Letters Patent, is:
1. The combination, in apparatus for increasing mechanical
power, of an axis, as A, supported upon bearings N, with a
driving-pulley, as B, having hollow arms, as C, with movable
weights, as _a_, and radial arms, both solid and hollow, the
latter having movable weights, together with fixed weights
attached to the end of each arm, all substantially as and for the
purpose described.
Ferguson's Device
James Ferguson was an eminent Scotch mechanician and astronomer. He
was born in 1710, and died in 1776. He was reared in very humble
circumstances, and is known as the Peasant Boy Philosopher. A most
interesting story of his life was written by Henry Mayhew, and
published in England in 1857, entitled "The Story of the Peasant Boy
Philosopher."
He prepared astronomical tables of great value and lectured on
astronomical and mechanical subjects. His lectures were edited by a no
less eminent man than Sir David Brewster.
[Illustration]
While Perpetual Motion seemed to have received considerable time and
attention from him, and while his writings show that he examined
a great many mechanical devices, he seems all the time to have
entertained serious doubt of the possibility of a machine having
self-motive power. However, in 1770, he devised a machine for the
purpose of producing Perpetual Motion. It does not appear that he
ever offered the machine to the public, or sought publicity for it.
A description of it is to be found in his Common Place Book in the
University Library, Edinburg. The description there furnished is as
follows:
The axle at A is placed horizontally, and the spokes B, C, D,
etc., turn in a vertical position. They are jointed at _s_, _t_,
_u_, etc., as a common sector is, and to each of them is fixed a
frame as R, S, T, etc., in which the weights 7, 8, 9, 1, 2, etc.,
have liberty to move. When any spoke as D is in a horizontal
position, the weight I in it falls down and pulls the part _b_
of the then vertical spoke B straight out, by means of a cord
going over the pulleys K and k to the weight I. The spoke C _c_
was pulled straight out before, when it was vertical, by means
of the weight 2, belonging to the spoke E _e_ which is in the
horizontal position D _d_; and so of all the others on the right
hand. But when these spokes come about to the left hand, their
weights 4, 5, 6 fall back, and cease pulling the parts _f_, _g_,
_h_, _i_; so that the spokes then bend at their joints X, _y, z_,
and the balls at their ends come nearer the center A, all on the
left side. Now, as the balls or weights at the right hand side
are farther from the center A than they are on the left, it might
be supposed that this machine would turn round perpetually. I
have shown it to many who have declared it would; and yet for all
that, whoever makes it, will find it to be only a mere balance. I
leave them to find out the reason.
B. Belidor's Device
This device was incubated in the brain of an American. His name is
unknown. We have denominated it "B. Belidor's Device," not because B.
Belidor was the inventor, but because the account of the invention was
furnished by him. This device seems to the author to have possessed
originality, though, of course, it failed to work for reasons clearly
apparent.
[Illustration]
An account of it was given in the Journal of Franklin's Institute,
Philadelphia, in 1828. The article contributed by B. Belidor is as
follows:
Even the pursuit after perpetual motion, hopeless as it is, may
not be considered entirely vain, in occasionally leading to
useful modifications of machinery. As an instance of this, I
here submit to you a plan suggested by an ingenious friend of
mine, several years ago, as in the diagrams annexed, Fig. 1, a
perpendicular, and Fig. 2 a horizontal view.
A A, two vertical wheels, placed diagonally, and revolving on the
axes X X. The levers B B and C C are hinged at the peripheries
of the wheels. By rotation the arms B B are projected from the
center of motion, while the arms C C are drawn in.
It is plain that a series of arms as shown in Fig. 2, will
produce an eccentric motion, causing the weights at their ends
apparently to preponderate on the side B.--BELIDOR.
Desagulier's Proposition on the Balance
This so-called problem is of doubtful classification. The author of
the problem did not claim that the discovery of the problem discloses
any means for attaining Perpetual Motion, and, yet, it is apparent
that if the author of the problem was correct in his solution of it,
Perpetual Motion was thereby already within his grasp. The difficulty
about it all is that while the problem is quite interesting, the
author's solution shows that he was not familiar with even fundamental
mechanics. The name of the author was J. T. Desagulier, LL.D., F. R. S.
He was a minister of the gospel, but evidently gave considerable
attention to mechanical questions. He is mentioned in chapter X of this
work.
Rev. Desagulier presented two problems of the balance. One he calls "A
Proposition on the Balance, not taken notice of by Mechanical Writers,
explained and confirmed by an Experiment." The article under this
heading is as follows:
[Illustration]
In the last papers I published in "Philosophical Transaction"
against this perpetual motion, described in No. 177, I intreated
the author to permit me to say nothing as to what alterations he
might make in his engine, resolving to leave it to others to show
him that upon that principle all he can do signifies nothing. But
I find since, in the "Nouvelles de la Republique" for December
last, that he still persists to urge some new contrivances,
which being added, he conceives his engine must succeed. To this
I answer, that I undertook only to shew that his first device
would faile, which yet I should scarce have done if I had thought
a dispute of this nature could have lasted so long. To come,
therefore, to the point where he saith that this engine may well
succeed without alteration, because he hath tryed with liquors
put into bellows immersed in water; I again say that I grant
him the truth of the experiments, but deny the consequences he
would draw from them. I have already given the reasons of my
dissent, which this gentleman is not pleased to understand. But
to end all controversies, he may please to consult Mr. Perrault,
De la Hire, or any other at Paris well known to be skilled in
hydraulicks, and I doubt not but he will find them of the same
opinion with Mr. Boyle, Mr. Hook, and other knowing persons here,
who all agree that our author is in this matter under a mistake.
A Proposition on the Balance, not taken notice of by Mechanical
Writers, explained and confirmed by an Experiment.
A B is a balance, on which is supposed to hang at one end, B, the scale
E, with a man in it, who is counterpoised by the weight W hanging at A,
the other end of the balance. I say, that if such a man, with a cane
or any rigid straight body, pushes upwards against the beam anywhere
between the points C and B (provided he does not push directly against
B), he will thereby make himself heavier, or overpoise the weight W,
though the stop G G hinders the scale E from being thrust outwards from
C towards G G. I say likewise, that if the scale and man should hang
from D, the man, by pushing upwards against B, or anywhere between
B and D (provided he does not push directly against D), will make
himself lighter, or be overpoised by the weight W, which before did
only counterpoise the weight of his body and the scale.
If the common center of gravity of the scale E, and the man supposed
to stand in it, be at _k_, and the man, by thrusting against any part
of the beam, cause the scale to move outwards so as to carry the said
common center of gravity to _k_ _x_, then, instead of B E, L _l_ will
become the line of direction of the compound weight, whose action
will be increased in the ratio of L C to B C. This is what has been
explained by several writers of mechanics; but no one, that I know of,
has considered the case when the scale is kept from flying out, as here
by the post G G, which keeps it in its place, as if the strings of the
scale were become inflexible. Now, to explain this case, let us suppose
the length B D of half of the brachium B C to be equal to 3 feet, the
line B E to 4 feet, the line E D of 5 feet to be the direction in which
the man pushes, D F and F E to be respectively equal and parallel to
B E and B D, and the whole or absolute force with which the man pushes
equal to (or able to rise) 10 stone. Let the oblique force E D (= 10
stone) be resolved into the two E F and E B (or its equal F D) whose
directions are at right angles to each other, and whose respective
quantities (or intensities) are as 6 and 8, because E F and B E are in
that proportion to each other and to E D. Now, since E F is parallel
to B D C A, the beam, it does no way affect the beam to move it
upwards; and therefore there is only the force represented by F D,
or 8 stone, to push the beam upwards at D. For the same reason, and
because action and reaction are equal, the scale will be pushed down
at E with the force of 8 stone also. Now, since the force at E pulls
the beam perpendicularly downwards from the point B, distant from C
the whole length of the brachium B C, its action downwards will not be
diminished, but may be expressed by 8 × BC; whereas the action upwards
against D will be half lost, by reason of the diminished distance
from the center, and is only to be expressed by 8 × B C/2; and when
the action upwards to raise the beam is subtracted from the action
downwards to depress it, there will still remain 4 stone to push down
the scale; because 8 × B C - 8 × B C/2 = 4BC. Consequently, a weight
of 4 stone must be added at the end A to restore the æquilibrium.
Therefore a man, &c., pushing upwards under the beam between B and D,
becomes heavier. Q. E. D.
On the contrary, if the scale should hang at F, from the point D, only
3 feet from the center of motion C, and a post G G hinders the scale
from being pushed inwards towards C, then, if a man in this scale F
pushes obliquely against B with the oblique force above mentioned, the
whole force, for the reasons before given (in resolving the oblique
force into two others acting in lines perpendicular to each other)
will be reduced to 8 stone, which pushes the beam directly upwards at
B, while the same force of 8 stone draws it directly down at D towards
F. But as C D is only equal to half of C B, the force at D, compared
with that at B, loses half its action, and therefore can only take off
the force of 4 stone from the push upwards at B; and consequently the
weight W at A will preponderate, unless an additional weight of 4 stone
be hanged at B. Therefore, a man, &c., pushing upwards under the beam
between B and D, becomes lighter.
The other problem presented by Rev. Desagulier is denominated by him
"An Experiment explaining a Mechanical Paradox, that two bodies of
equal weight suspended on a certain sort of balance do not lose their
equilibrium by being removed, one farther from, the other nearer to,
the center."
The article concerning this problem is as follows:
If the two weights P W hangs at the ends of the balance A B,
whose center of motion is C, those weights will act against each
other (because their directions are contrary) with forces made
up of the quantity of matter in each multiplied by its velocity;
that is, by the velocity which the motion of the balance turning
about C will give to the body suspended. Now, the velocity of
a heavy body is its perpendicular ascent or descent, as will
appear by moving the balance into the position _a b_, which
shews the velocity of P to be the perpendicular line _e a_, and
the velocity of B will be the perpendicular line _b g_; for if
the weights P and W are equal, and also the lines _e a_ and
_b g_, their momenta, made up of _e a_ multiplied into W, and
_b g_ multiplied into P, will be equal, as will appear by their
destroying one another in making an equilibrium. But if the body
W was removed to M, and suspended at the point D, then, its
velocity being only _f d_, it would be overbalanced by the body
P, because _f d_ multiplied into M would produce a less momentum
than P multiplied into _b g_.
[Illustration]
As the arcs A _a_, B _b_, and D _d_, described by the ends of
the balance or points of suspension, are proportionable to their
sines _e a_, _g b_, and _d f_, as also the radii or distances
C A, C B, and C D; in the case of this common sort of balance,
the arcs described by the weights, or their points of suspension,
or the distances from the center, may be taken for velocities of
the weights hanging at A, B, or D, and, therefore, the acting
force of the weights will be reciprocally as their distances from
the center.
Scholium.--The distances from the center are taken here for the
velocities of the bodies, only because they are proportionable to
the lines _e a_, _b g_, and _f d_, which are the true velocities;
for there are a great many cases wherein the velocities are
neither proportionable to the distances from the center of
motion of a machine, nor to the arcs described by the weights or
their points of suspension. Therefore, it is not a general rule
that weights act in proportion to their distances from the center
of motion; but a corollary of the general rule that weights act
in proportion to their velocities, which is only true in some
cases. Therefore, we must not take this case as a principle,
which most workmen do, and all those people who make attempts
to find the perpetual motion, as I have more amply shewn in the
Phil. Trans., No. 369.
But to make this evident even in the balance, we need only take
notice of the following experiment:--A C B E K D is a balance in
the form of a parallelogram passing through a slit in the upright
piece N O standing on the pedestal M, so as to be moveable upon
the center pins C and K. To the upright pieces A D and B E of
this balance are fixed at right angles the horizontal pieces
F G and H I. That the equal weights P W must keep each other
in æquilibrio, is evident; but it does not at first appear so
plainly, that if W be removed to V, being suspended at 6, yet it
shall still keep P in æquilibrio, though the experiment shews it.
Nay, if W be successively moved to any of the points 1, 2, 3, E,
4, 5, or 6, the æquilibrium will be continued; or if, W hanging
at any of those points, P be successively moved to D, or any of
the points of suspension on the cross-piece F G, P will at any of
those places make an æquilibrium with W. Now, when the weights
are at P and V, if the least weight that is capable to overcome
the friction at the points of suspension C and K be added to V,
as u, the weight V will overpower, and that as much at V as if it
was at W.
From what we have said above, the reason of this experiment will
be very plain.
As the lines A C and K D, C B and K E, always continue of the
same length in any position of the machine, the pieces A D
and B E will always continue parallel to one another, and
perpendicular to the horizon. However, the whole machine turns
upon the points C and K, as appears by bringing the balance to
any other position, as _a b e d_; and therefore, as the weights
applied to any part of the pieces F G and H I can only bring
down the pieces A D and B E perpendicularly, in the same manner
as if they were applied to the hooks D and E, or to X and Y, the
centers of gravity of A D and B E, the force of the weights (if
their quantity of matter is equal) will be equal, because their
velocities will be their perpendicular ascent or descent, which
will always be as the equal lines 4 _l_ and 4 L, whatever part
of the pieces F G and H I the weights are applied to. But if to
the weight at V be added the little weight _u_, those two weights
will overpower, because in this case the momentum is made up of
the sum of V and _u_ multiplied by the common velocity 4 L.
Hence follows, that it is not the distance C 6 multiplied into
the weight V which makes its momentum, but its perpendicular
velocity L 4 multiplied into its mass. Q. E. D.
This is still further evident by taking out the pin at K; for
then the weight P will overbalance the other weight at V, because
then their perpendicular ascent and descent will not be equal.
The Rev. Dr. Desagulier was evidently a man of scientific turn and
capacity. It is unusual to find ministers deeply interested in
scientific matters, and yet, he seems to have been. The net result of
his experiments can be succinctly stated as follows:
In the first problem there is _no change in the distance of the center
of gravity from the support_, and, therefore, there could be no
disturbance of the equilibrium.
In the second problem there _is a change in the distance in the center
of gravity from the support_, and there must have been a disturbance of
the equilibrium.
John Haywood's Device
In 1790, John Haywood, of Long Acre, Middlesex, draftsman and mechanic,
obtained British patent on:
"A machine for working mills and engines without the aid of fire,
water, or wind, or in aid of all or any of those or any other
powers."
The specification describes the device as follows:
[Illustration]
"The machine acts on a rotative principle, or, in other words,
has a revolving circular or circulating motion round an axis,
center, or centers. It may be made or constructed of any
materials or matter whatsoever, so it be of sufficient strength
to sustain the power of action when applied to any mill, engine,
or machine to which action or motion can or may be communicated
by a wheel. The size or dimensions of this machine are by no
means confined, but may be varied or altered as circumstances may
require.
"References to the drawings of the machine hereunto
annexed:--Fig. 1 is the section of the machine. A, A, B, a
cranked or double center, fixed to the stand or frame D by the
bolts E. C, C, the wheel which turns or revolves round that part
of the cranked center mark A. F, levers which turn or revolve
round the cranked center B. G, G, rollers or weights which
revolve in the circular guides or grooves by means of the leavers
F. H, H, circular grooves or guides which are affixed to the
inner sides of the wheel. N. B.--the distance from A to B is the
radius in all cases to determine the space between the center
of the guide or groove H and the center of the roller or weight
G. The distance of the two concentric circles which form the
guides or grooves H must be equal to the diameter of the roller
or weight G. I, I, springs which stop the rollers or weights G
from returning when at the horizontal diameter of the wheel. K,
weights, which may be increased or diminished at pleasure. L,
ledges which connect the sides of the wheel together. N. B.--By
fixing cogs or teeth on the rim of the wheel, so as to connect it
with any mill, machine, or engine to which motion can be given by
a wheel, the power of this machine may be communicated."
Explanation of the Failure of the Preceding Wheels and Weights Devices
It must not be presumed that the preceding devices shown in this
chapter constitute any considerable part of the Wheels and Weights
Devices that have been constructed through the hope of attaining
Perpetual Motion. Of all the means whereby Perpetual Motion has been
sought wheels and weights have been by far the most prolific. There is
scarcely a village or a rural community in the civilized world that
cannot point out its Perpetual Motion worker, and he generally starts
with wheels and weights, though often, after long labor and final
failure with wheels and weights, he still exploits other attractive
fields of hopeless endeavor. Of the devices of that kind, accounts of
which have appeared in scientific journals, or application for patents
upon which have been made, and, indeed, patents often granted, it would
be possible to write a book of thousands of pages, but to do so would
be to no purpose.
It is believed by the author that the preceding devices are sufficient
to illustrate, and show the controlling features of all the various
mechanical contrivances for the utilization of wheels and weights as
a means of Self-Motive Power. Countless others could be shown of more
or less complicated mechanism, but an examination would disclose the
fact that each gets back to some combination of parts well illustrated
in the preceding. Also, in endeavoring to express why all wheels and
weights devices have failed to work, each essential point of weakness
is disclosed in the preceding. Now, why have they failed to work, and
wherein are they inherently wrong and unscientific?
A cursory examination of the preceding devices shows that each depends
ultimately on the supposition:
1. That a descending weight elevates an equal weight through a distance
equal to the descent, and at the same time overcomes the frictional
resistance of mechanism, both ascent and descent being measured on
perpendicular lines, or
2. That weights affixed to an axis and caused to have a longer leverage
on the descending side than on the ascending side, and consequently the
downward pull on the long lever side is supposed to be greater than the
downward pull or resistance on the short lever side of the axis.
If the fallacy of these supposed principles is explained and fully
understood, it disposes, and disposes effectually, of the possibility
of obtaining Perpetual Motion by means of wheels, weights and the force
of gravity.
It should be remembered that a wheel is a lever, or rather it is a
continuous series of levers--nothing more--nothing less.
[Illustration]
We first refer to the figure shown in A. Capra's device, page 33
ante. The left side of this wheel is, of course, supposed to be the
descending side on which the weights are farthest from the center
of the wheel. It is apparent that only five weights are having any
leverage advantage whatever, while a much greater number are being made
to ascend. The advantage which a few of the weights have by virtue of
the leverage pulling downward is always exactly counterbalanced by an
_increased number_ of weights being drawn upward. It should be borne in
mind that the direction of the force of gravity is toward the center
of the earth, and not in the direction of the motion of the wheel,
except at the extreme left side of the wheel.
Again, consider the figure appearing on page 63. It is manifest that
the weights on the right hand are further out, and have a leverage
advantage of the weights on the left hand side, but it is also manifest
that there is, and always must be, a greater _number_ of weights on the
left hand side. The _greater leverage_ of the weights on one side is
exactly balanced by the greater number of weights on the other side.
For a further illustration, take the figure shown on sheet 65, ante.
The weight "1" has a distinct advantage over weight "5." Weight "2"
has a distinct advantage over weight "6." But here we have only three
weights: 1, 2 and 8, tending to pull the wheel from left to right,
whereas there are five weights, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, tending to prevent
its going to the right.
In other words, if weights 1, 2 and 8 were removed, it is clear that
the wheel would turn back to the left by reason of the action of the
weights 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Here again the _leverage advantage_ which
weights have descending is counterbalanced by the _increased number of
weights_ on the opposite side acted on by the force of gravity, tending
to prevent the descent of those having the greater leverage.
[Illustration]
All the simpler devices failed, of course, to work. The more
complicated devices are simply efforts to overcome the elementary
principles that prevented the simpler devices from working. Among
these that of Dixon Vallance (see page 34, ante), is best adapted
to illustrate the folly and the fallacy of these various devices to
overcome elementary principles.
We here refer to the figure appearing on page 35, ante, shown in
connection with Dixon Vallance's Device. The obvious purpose was to
keep all the weights close to the hub, except those depended upon to
produce continuous motion by their greater leverage.
To the untrained and untechnical person it would perhaps not be
manifest at first just why the Vallance machine failed to work. Here is
its failure: Weight "c" must be raised toward the hub of the wheel. To
raise that weight requires the application of force. That force must be
supplied. The belt "cc" would work more freely if it were not elevating
a weight, and the force required from "w" to turn the wheel so as to
elevate the weight at "c" is counterbalanced by the resistance the
weight "c" offers to being raised, and consequently to the motion of
the belt and in turn to the progress of the wheel.
It should always be remembered that, omitting friction, the energy
exerted by a descending body is the _perpendicular distance_ of its
descent multiplied by its weight. For, notwithstanding what its course
may be from an elevated point to a lower point the energy accumulated
in the descent is still the product of the perpendicular distance and
the mass, or weight.
In all of these devices it is apparent that every weight is brought
back by some force from the lowest point it reaches to the same
elevation from which it started to descend. It is axiomatic, therefore,
that the perpendicular ascent is equal to the perpendicular descent.
The ascending weight and the descending weight are, of course, the
same. Therefore, the product of the weight and the perpendicular
distance of _ascent_ is exactly equal to the product of the weight
and the perpendicular distance of _descent_. Hence, there is an exact
balancing of energies, and no motion results. Any motion imparted by
wind, water or steam will, if the moving force be withdrawn, soon be
overcome by unavoidable friction, and a state of rest follows. There
can be no doubt that any attempt to attain Self-Motive Power by means
of wheels, weights, levers, and the force of gravity must result in
failure. The thing itself is physically impossible.
In addition to what is above stated, read carefully Chapter XI, on
Conservation of Energy; also read Chapter XIV, entitled "The Seeming
Probability of Effecting a Continual Motion by Solid Weights in a
Hollow Wheel or Sphere" at page 290 of this book.
CHAPTER II
DEVICES BY MEANS OF ROLLING WEIGHTS AND INCLINED PLANES
Device by Mercury in Inclined Glass Tube and Heavy Ball on Inclined
Plane
Neither the inventor's name nor his nativity can we give. An account of
the invention was furnished by a correspondent to Mechanics' Magazine
in 1829. The account is as follows:
To the curious who delight in mechanical intricacies, to whom
ingenuity of contrivance is the goal for which they run, nothing
seems to afford and require such endless resources as that
most puzzling thing--perpetual motion. The unfortunate name
"perpetual motion," if changed for "mechanical experiment," would
eventually, perhaps, remove the real cause of censuring it, by
the different idea of the object aimed at.
I now beg leave to offer some account of a combination of
movements, which, from its originality, and seeming to possess
every requisite for retaining it in action, may possibly be
acceptable.
[Illustration]
This diagram shows a side view. On the stand A are raised two
supports B, each having a center hole at _a_, to receive the
axle of the balanced apparatus, consisting of C, a glass tube
containing a portion of mercury G; and D, a grooved scaleboard,
in which a ball, E, can roll backwards and forwards. F F are two
jointed levers, which are to serve, when struck by the ball, to
reverse the position of the compound balance: the whole centred
at _a_, the tube at _b_, and the grooved board at _c_. In its
present position, the mercury (it is supposed), having flowed to
the end C, will depress D, and cause the ball E to roll to D, and
depress the end G F D; and so on continually.
Series of Inclined Planes
This scheme is of English origin, and was promulgated in 1864. The
name of the inventor is unknown, but he described his invention in a
communication to a scientific publication in the following language:
The accompanying diagram represents a series of inclined
semi-tubes connected together in the form of a rectangle.
[Illustration]
The ball A, is placed at the top of an incline in such a
position that it shall descend to B, at which point it will have
sufficient velocity or gravity to carry it up the ascent to C;
and so supposing the inclines and ascents to be endless, the
repetition of the movement must be also endless. I think it is
not unreasonable to suppose that a perpetual movement of the
ball will take place, from the fact that the velocity imparted
to it by its _first_ descent is sufficient to carry it from A to
C, _those two points being at the same level_. I think the only
thing to guard against is the ball rushing over the point C,
and thus accelerating the velocity at each descent. The incline
on road upon which the ball runs can be made either circular,
square, octagonal, or, in fact, almost of any form.
Device by Oscillating Trough and Cannon Balls
(Name of inventor unknown)
An adaptation from a "Perpetual Pump" substituting cannon-balls for
water.
An account of this invention was published in London in 1825, in the
language of the inventor, who says:
The description of the perpetual pump has suggested to me
whether the long-sought "perpetual motion" may not be found by a
simple mechanical alteration of that machine, and substituting
a cannon-ball as a _primum mobile_, in lieu of the water, not
always obtainable. I would recommend that in the bottom of
the trough be inserted at each end two dropping-boards, of a
triangular form, moving on an axis at one corner, one of which
falling below the level of the trough at the elevated end, the
other shall be raised by the stop affixed to the standard-post,
which, throwing the ball again back to the former end, shall
depress that, until the same process is repeated in perpetual
activity.
DESCRIPTION.--Fig. 1. A, the trough, swinging on an axis at B. C,
the cannon-ball, raised by one of the dropping-boards, D, whilst
the other falls through the opening at E, into the trough. F, the
support or stop, raising the dropping-board D. The center of the
trough ought to be pierced, leaving the sides as a support to the
ball, which ought not to be wider than the ball may travel freely
through.
[Illustration]
Fig. 2. D D, the dropping-boards, which pass through the center
so as to leave a sufficiency of the trough as a resting place for
the ball to give a momentum, and depress the trough, previously
to its being again raised by the dropping-board.
We meekly venture to call the attention of this inventor, if he is
still living, and to any others who may be working along the same
line, that to our certain knowledge water is more generally obtainable
than cannon-balls. We, therefore, suggest the use of water instead of
cannon-balls.
Unpublished Incline Plane and Weights Devices Noted by the Author
Except the preceding three devices the author does not remember ever
to have seen reported in any book, patent, application for patent,
or report, the account of a device for obtaining self-motive power
by means of weights and inclined planes, and yet, it is believed by
the author from the use that has been made of inclined planes and
rolling weights in demonstrating mechanical principles by many natural
philosophers, and also from devices that have from time to time been
brought to the attention of the author during thirty years last past,
that the inclined plane with rolling weights has been a fertile field
of folly among Perpetual Motion seekers.
On a number of occasions the author has been asked to view and inspect
mechanical devices of that kind, which it was claimed by the confident
inventor and his friends "would surely work when just one little thing
could be overcome." The phraseology was sometimes varied a little from
the preceding quotation, but the substance was always there.
In one instance the device attracted the enthusiastic attention
and elicited breathless interest from a doctor and surgeon of much
more than ordinary skill and intelligence in his profession, and
was hopefully regarded by a number of other persons who had had
schooling advantages and were supposed to be versed in the rudiments of
mechanics, and, it would seem to the author, ought at first sight to
have perceived the fallacy and hopelessness of the inventor's dreams.
All of these claimed inventions relying on the inclined plane with
rolling weights were so nearly alike in the principle involved that all
may be illustrated by the following explanation:
[Illustration]
The above figure shows a vertical section of a device that illustrates
the controlling principle in all of these devices. It is manifest that
the balls between A and C are hanging equally between A D and C D, the
points of suspension A and C being in a horizontal line. It is also
manifest that there will be a greater number of balls on the sloping
incline A B than on the sloping incline B C. The Perpetual Motion
seeker has always argued to himself that the _four_ balls between A and
B should pull stronger to the left at B than the _two_ balls between
B and C can pull. Sometimes this device has been varied whereby the
balls would roll freely down the incline from B to A and then roll back
toward C down another incline where they would be supposed to strike a
lever and impel a ball from C to B, which ball would then roll down the
incline B A, and so on indefinitely.
The error of all this lies in the fact that the four balls between B
and A will not elevate the two balls between B and C for the reason
that they are on a less inclined slope. As we would ordinarily state
it, B C is a "steeper" incline. One ball between B and C by force of
gravity pulls stronger toward C than one ball on B A will pull toward
A. It is manifest, therefore, that an equilibrium requires a greater
number of balls on B A than B C.
B A is longer and accommodates a greater number of balls than can be
accommodated on B C. The number of balls that can be accommodated
on the respective sides is always found to be such that the small
number of balls between B C pull in the aggregate toward C the same as
the greater number of balls between B and A pull toward A, and thus
equilibrium is established.
It is manifest, therefore, that with the pull from B toward C equal to
the pull from B toward A, the mechanism finds its balance and motion
ceases. This is true of all similar devices.
CHAPTER III
HYDRAULIC AND HYDRO-MECHANICAL DEVICES
Enbom & Anderson's Pump
"June 13, 1882 U. S. Patent, No. 259514 was granted to Andro Enbom and
John A. Anderson, of Augusta, Kansas, U. S. A., on
"Improvements in Pumps."
It seems probable that the inventors did not suspect, and that the
patent office examiners did not discover that the device had in
the claimed "Improvement" the essentials of self-motive power. An
examination of the specifications clearly shows, however, that the
claim of the inventors that "the water lifted by the pump is caused in
its passage over the wheel A² to give power to the same and thus lessen
the labor required," presupposes the principle of self-motive power.
The following figure taken from the specifications and the following
excerpt from the specifications illustrate the intended operation:
The operation is substantially as follows: By the application of power
to the crank a revolution is given to the main shaft A, and by means
of this the pump-handle is properly actuated through the intermediate
mechanism described. The water lifted by the pump is discharged
through the spout _e´_ to the buckets of the wheel _a_², and by these
is delivered to the trough F. By means of the construction described
the water lifted by the pump is caused, in its passage over the wheel
_a_², to give power to the same, and thus lessen the labor required to
produce a given result.
[Illustration]
We suggest to the inventors that if instead of elevating the water to
the place of discharge E´ they discharge it at the level of the trough
"F" they will lessen the distance of elevation and will save many times
the energy that can be realized by the descent of the water from the
level of E´ to the level of "F."
Device of "Ed. Vocis Rationis"
In 1831 Mechanics' Magazine printed an article contributed by a
correspondent who signed himself "Ed. Vocis Rationis." He claimed to
have invented a very powerful Perpetual Motion Machine.
His enthusiasm is as interesting as his device is absurd. We give the
article as published in full:
[Illustration]
I propose to endeavor to show how my plan of perpetual motion
could be applied to practical and useful purposes. With a
view to this, I give the prefixed sketch, with the following
description of its construction and use: Let A represent the
side-wall or gable-end of a house, from 40 to 50 feet in
elevation; B, a cistern, filled with water, having an orifice
near its bottom, and another open at the top, for the ready
escape of waste water, as before; C, a reservoir, so far filled
with water as not to come in contact with the bottom of the
water-wheel D, which, being an undershot wheel, may, of course,
be of such radius as is suitable for the power required to raise
the water. Let E be another cistern, filled with water, equal
to and provided with orifices as in cistern B, both orifices
together discharging water faster than it escapes from the
lower orifice of the cistern B; F, two (or more, as the case
may require) pumps, or expressing-fountains, supported against
the walls by ties _d d_, and having their cylinders inserted in
the reservoir C, and their lower suckers fixed at a little less
than 32 feet above the surface of the fluid in the reservoir
C. These expressing-fountains discharging their water into
the cistern E a trifle faster than it escapes from its lower
orifice, at an elevation of at least 33 or 34 feet above the
surface of the water in the reservoir C, will afford space for
water-wheels, supported against the wall by the upright K, say
three water-wheels, G H I, of at least eight feet in diameter
each, or two only of greater diameter. The upper wheel G being an
undershot one, if not of greater radius than four feet, which it
might be, may have its axle fixed at an altitude of at least 30
feet, and allowing the space of a foot between each water-wheel
for the troughs a and b, which collect and convey the water from
wheel to wheel, will give a space of 22 feet, occupied by the
three water-wheels, leaving 10 feet for the descent of the water
by the trough _c_ to the cistern B (which may be four or five
feet in depth), and thence to the reservoir C, which may be three
or four feet in depth; also the cistern E may be four or five
feet in depth, and all of other corresponding dimensions _ad
libitum_. To produce the motion, remove the plugs or stoppers
from the lower orifices of the cisterns E and B; the water
rushing from the latter turns the great water-wheel D, which
works the expressing-fountains into the upper cistern E; from the
orifices of which, the water escaping turns the undershot wheel
G (which may be of larger diameter, if required); whence being
collected by the spout _a_, it shoots over and turns the wheel H;
being collected by the spout _b_, it turns the overshot wheel I;
whence being collected by the spout _c_, it is conveyed into the
cistern B, from thence to the water wheel D, and, finally, into
the reservoir C, from which it is raised again by the fountains
into the upper cistern E; and so on as long as you please, or
as long as the whole keeps in repair and in good order. The
apparatus may, with facility, be stopped for convenience at any
time without fear of derangement, because the fountains carrying
water faster than it escapes from the lower orifices, the
cisterns will be always full; and it may be again set in motion
with equal facility. With the above proviso, it cannot stop till
the prevailing natural causes which gave it motion--viz., the
pressure of the atmosphere and the descent of water, which in
their nature and tendency are of themselves perpetual--shall be
diverted. Thus you may have the power, free and disposable, of
three water-wheels in perpetual motion, to be applied to such
useful purposes of machinery within the building as its inmates
may require. A supply of water-mills might be thus provided in
any situation--in the center of the metropolis or other large
towns--in places subject to a deficiency of rivulets suitable for
mills on the common system. Neither would there be any necessity
for resorting to rivers, or raising immense buildings upon their
banks; wherever there was a convenient house, it might be readily
appropriated with little further expense than machinery.
Yours, etc.,
ED. "VOCIS RATIONIS."
Jan. 10, 1831.
Böckler's Plates
In 1662 George Andrew Böckler published a work on mechanics. The work
is replete with fine drawings. Not a great deal of space is devoted
to Perpetual Motion devices, but the following three plates which are
numbered 150, 151 and 152 in his work are shown as Perpetual Motion
devices.
These devices do not appear to have been the inventions of Böckler
himself, but are devices noticed by him. They are not explained with
any considerable detail.
[Illustration]
Figure 150 is "A Water Screw," and it is stated that the inventor
intends it for a Perpetual Motion device, and it is further stated that
he has scarcely worked out his purpose. The author states that the
excellence consists in the proportion and distribution of the wheel,
balls and weights, and says further that he does not describe it in
detail, and that it is his intention to publish at a future time a
separate treatise on Perpetual Motion in which this and other similar
machines will be considered.
He gives the first as Fig. 150, "A Water Screw," the purpose of which
is not quite so obvious as to be understood at the first view of the
figure; for the inventor intimates that he intends it for a perpetuum
mobile. He has, however, scarcely worked out his purpose, as we may,
nevertheless, say without any prejudice to the inventor. Nor will
we here describe how the excellence of this work consists in the
proportion and distribution of the wheel, and the balls or weights,
because it is our intention to publish, at a future time, a separate
treatise on the perpetuum mobile, in which we shall consider this and
several similar machines.
Figure 151 is "A Water Screw," having a grindstone for cutlery. The
author remarks concerning this machine as follows:
[Illustration]
This machine also is intended for a perpetuum mobile. The
inventor discharges water from the reservoir A, by the canal B,
on the water-wheel C, which turns the open screw-cylinder D, by
means of the toothed wheel E, the cog-wheel F, the spoked wheel
G, together with the cylinder H, and the spoked wheel I, whilst
this spoked wheel I, catching the small cog-wheel L, together
with the cylinder M, and the handle R, turns the small spoked
wheel of the screw-cylinder H, and the screw-cylinder itself,
and thus draws up again the water discharged from the reservoir
A through the spiral screw Q. In order to render this machine
useful, a couple of grindstones are placed on the cylinder D.
Concerning this machine, it is particularly to be considered,
whether a sufficient amount of water can be raised again, as has
been frequently remarked before about similar works.
Figure 152 is said to represent "A Double Water Screw, with Double
Pump," and the author observes:
This machine is, on the whole, similar to the preceding ones.
The water is discharged from the round or square reservoir A,
by B, on the water-wheel C. A continual supply of water for the
water-wheel is provided as follows: The crown wheel H is fixed
on the upright cylinder M, and is turned by the revolutions of
the cylinder, whilst it turns at the same time the upper wheel L,
which, acting on the spokes of the double screw K, K, draws up
sufficient water by I, I, and then, as stated, discharges it by
B, on the wheel C.
The machine may be rendered useful by furnishing the cylinder D
with the double crank E, to drive the two pistons of the tubes
F, F, which lift the water through the pipes G, G, into the
reservoir N, whence it may be carried off for service.
[Illustration]
John Linley's Hydraulic Device. 1831
An account of this was published in 1831 in Mechanics' Magazine, and is
as follows:
32. Perpetual Water-wheels and Pumps (vol. 14, 1831).--A
correspondent gives a description of a plan which he says he
believes to be entirely original, and not without considerable
claims to plausibility, thus:
[Illustration]
Let _a b c d_ represent a wooden cistern, or trough, half filled
with water; E F G, three overshot water-wheels, supported by the
upright piece; K is another cistern, or trough, filled with water
up to the dotted lines; P is a syphon to convey water from the
lower to the upper cistern K; R is a beam supported from the
cistern; S T U are moveable cranks attached to the horizontal
shafts through the center of the water-wheels--each crank has a
connecting-rod to the beam R; V W are two curved spouts to convey
water from one wheel to another. It may be well here to premise
that each water-wheel has a pump and beam, as only one is seen in
the section.
Now, in order to put the machine in motion, it is only necessary
to draw a portion of water from the syphon over the wheel E,
which immediately revolves, consequently the pump L M draws water
from the lower to the upper cistern K. Now, the water passing
over the wheel E is collected by means of the curved spout V,
and is conveyed upon the middle wheel F, which also gives motion
to another pump, and draws in like manner. Again, the water
passing over the middle wheel, is collected as before by another
curved spout W; consequently, the lower wheel is put in action,
accompanied with another pump. Hence it is obvious that three
water-wheels and three pumps are worked by one stream of water
from the syphon. What more is required to perpetuate its motion?
John Linley.
Wicker Sheffield, May 28, 1830.
Device of Author of the "Voice of Reason"
In 1831 a contributor who signed himself Author of the "Voice of
Reason," furnished to the scientific journals of England an account
of what he claimed was a Perpetual Motion Device invented by him. It
should be said to his credit that he claimed no surplus power for his
device--only that it would run itself. He, in fact, stated that his
machine could not perform more than the simple operation of pumping its
own water.
The principle upon which he relied is sufficiently shown by the
following figure, and the following excerpt from the contributed
article:
Observing that persons no less distinguished than Bishop Wilkins,
the Marquis of Worcester, etc., have amused themselves with
such things as perpetual motion, it may be some apology for a
humble individual residing as I do in a very retired part of
the country--scarcely within reach of much society--to confess
that by way of a little rational amusement and relief to the
mind, I have at times, amid a variety of other investigations
and inventions, amused myself amongst the rest, with this of
perpetual motion. The result I will, with your permission, lay
before your readers. That I trespass upon your pages, you are
indebted to your correspondent, Mr. Linley, whose invention
I thought might partially lead to an anticipation of one of
my own, a model of which I constructed a short time ago. The
system which first came to my mind, as likely to lead to the
accomplishment of perpetual motion, was that of the syphon;
experimenting with which, opened discoveries that might prove
useful in hydrostatics. Amongst these was a mode of equalizing
the horizontal surface of the water in two separate vessels of
different altitudes. The following sketch will afford an idea of
my invention.
[Illustration]
Let A be a vessel, having two orifices, one at the bottom of it,
_a_, and the other open at the top for waste water _b_, filled to
the brim. B, a reservoir, so far filled with water as not to come
in contact with the bottom of the great wheel C, whose axle turns
in the wood _c_, attached to the side of the reservoir; _d_, a
crank fixed to the axle of the great water-wheel, which turning
moves up and down the rod _e_, attached to the beam E, which
works the pump D, having its cylinder inserted in the reservoir
B; _f_, an upright attached to the upper vessel A, to form a
support for the beam E; the whole, together with the cylinder
of the pump, being supported and tied together by the woodwork
_g g g_.
To produce the motion, draw the plug from the orifice _a_,
from which the water gushing out with considerable force will
immediately turn the water-wheel, which communicating motion, by
the crank _d_ and rod _e_, to the beam E, will cause the pump D
to be worked, the water from the spout passing into the upper
vessel A. Now, the cylinder of the pump, if one only be used,
must be of suitable dimensions, or the velocity of its movement
so increased by means of a multiplying-wheel as to enable it to
discharge water into the upper vessel A faster than the same
escapes through the lower orifice _a_; consequently, the vessel
A will soon overflow from the capacious opening at _b_, to which
a trough is attached, which collecting the waste water, causes
it to descend also upon the circumference of the water-wheel;
thus contributing to its movement, and at the same time tending
to preserve an uniform supply of water in the reservoir for the
continued action of the pump. Hence you have a perpetual motion,
so long as the whole keeps in repair and in good order, which is
all that can be expected of any perpetual motion, constructed as
it must be of perishable materials.
But of what use are all the perpetual motion machines, if they
can perform no other work than that of keeping themselves in
motion? For it is evident, in the case of my machine, that if I
wish to increase the power of the wheel, fixed as it is in size,
radius, etc., I must increase the jet of water, and consequently
the pumps must be made of corresponding dimensions, or exert a
corresponding increase of force or velocity to replace the water;
so that it is evident, neither Mr. Linley's machine nor mine,
in their present fixed state, can perform more than the simple
operation of pumping their own water.
And this is the case with all the perpetual motion machines I
have ever observed--they can exert no useful or disposable power
beyond that of keeping up an equilibrium, or getting beyond the
point of equilibrium.
Yours, etc.,
AUTHOR OF THE "VOICE OF REASON."
An Italian Device
In 1825 there was published in London in Mechanics' Magazine the
account of a very ancient invention by an Italian. He had written an
account of his invention in Latin. It had been translated and furnished
to Mechanics' Magazine by a correspondent of that Magazine. The
communication so furnished as published is as follows:
The underwritten is translated from an ancient Latin book * * *
(entitled "De Simia Naturæ," Autore Roberto Fludd), which treats
of every science known at the time it was published, and largely
of the science of mechanics. What followed I have extracted
merely to show that the discovery of the perpetual motion was as
nearly attained then, perhaps, as it is now.--I am, &c., P.
_Of another useful invention for raising water easily, by
the which a certain Italian ventured to boast that he had
discovered the Perpetual Motion._
DESCRIPTION OF THE INSTRUMENT.--A is an exhauster, or pump.
[Illustration]
B, a little wheel placed at the bottom of the exhauster, about
which pestils, or circular flaps of prepared leather, revolve
lightly, so that they rise easily: they are connected by crooked
iron.
C C C, pestils, or circular leathers, by means of which the water
is raised in the pump.
D, a wheel, by which the said circular leathers are raised up.
E, a pinion, moving the wheels D and B.
F is a wheel, continued from the wheel G, whose teeth the pinion
E propels circularly.
H, a pinion moving the wheel G.
USE OF THE INSTRUMENT.--This instrument is classed with those
of the first sort, on which account it is absolutely necessary
for a multitude of purposes, because it bears upward a large
quantity of water with the least labor; for the number of wheels
is not variable; but the length of the receiver A is about the
proportion of 35 feet, and its breadth one foot and one-third.
The concavities of it should be made exactly round, that they
may not lose any water by contracting in their ascension; the
concavity of the pump, therefore, should be perfectly round. The
great water-wheel should be 24 feet diameter, and the wheel G 20
feet.
The Italian, deceived by his own thoughts, conceived that as
much water would be raised by this pump as would keep the wheel
perpetually in motion; because he said that more force was
required at the extremity of this machine than at the centre;
but because he calculated the proportions of power wrong, he was
deceived in practice.
P. Valentine Stansel's Device. Prior to 1657
(Exact date not known):
[Illustration]
A, B, C is a large cistern of water, above which is another
cistern D, E, which is supplied from the lower cistern by the
pump X, operated by the water-wheel M, N, the crank L of which is
attached by a rod K to the horizontal beam H, I, K, which swings
at H, from the side of the upper cistern, as shown at F, G, H.
The force-pump X, on the depression of the plunger O, causes
the water to rise up the vertical pipe P, Q, R, S, and thence
discharge itself into the cistern D, from which a small portion
is allowed to escape through the short pipe T, V, whence it falls
on the water-wheel, and so on continuously.
Vogel's Device
In 1847, A. F. Vogel, of Leipzig, invented what he called
"Hydrostatic General Mobile."
It was described at the time in a pamphlet, and its operation
is sufficiently illustrated by the following annexed figure and
explanation:
[Illustration]
A water-wheel, A, B, C, D, raising the water by means of which it
is to be operated. This is effected, he supposes, by the wheel
acting at A, by the pressure of one of six pins D, on a vertical
rod, attached to a horizontal beam, working on a centre, and its
opposite end being secured to the pump-rod of the barrel M, N.
The projector has an idea that by means of flaps, which close the
cells of the wheel as they pass under rollers at B, while at C
there is a similar contrivance to open the flaps and let out the
water, and therefore by its retention on the descending side it
will become more effective in turning the wheel.
A Water Wheel-Driven Pump
This device is claimed by the writer to be an adaptation of Rangely's
Patent Roller Pump. A description by the writer, whose name is not
given, was published in Mechanics' Magazine, 1823, in the following
language:
I think it possible to produce a self-moving power by such a
machine as that, a drawing of which is now prefixed. From its
very simple construction, a very brief description is necessary.
A represents a pump immersed in a reservoir B; the pump is worked
by the rotary motion of the water-wheel C, which is four feet
in diameter. On the shaft of the water-wheel is the drum-wheel
D, working by a small cord the wheel E, on the axis of the pump
discharging the water by the pipe F into a reservoir G over the
water-wheel. In this reservoir is a cock to regulate the quantity
of water to be discharged on the wheel. The wheel on the shaft of
the water-wheel being nine inches diameter, and the wheel on the
axis of the pump three in diameter, the latter will consequently
make three revolutions for one of the water-wheel. As the pump
is not required to turn with great velocity, the speed might be
regulated by the quantity of water thrown on the water-wheel, the
latter being four feet in diameter, and the wheel on its shaft
nine inches; consequently the radius or arm of the wheel has near
4½ powers to counteract the friction of the axis of the pump and
water-wheel, and of a fine cord passed over the wheels D and E.
If necessary, the friction of the machine might be still farther
reduced by the axes of the pump and water-wheel being made to run
in gudgeons with friction rollers.
[Illustration]
The pipe H is intended to convey the surplus water from the
reservoir over the wheel to the reservoir below.
The pump might easily be turned by a cog-wheel; but this is
unnecessary, as the cord passing over the drum-wheels will do
equally well, and is, besides, a more simple method.
"A Journeyman Mechanic's" Device
The gentleman, whose real name is unknown, but who styled himself "A
Journeyman Mechanic," made an invention, an account of which appeared
in "Mechanics' Magazine," in 1831. It was an attempted adaptation of
the wellknown principles of Barker's Mill.
The inventor undoubtedly thought he had successfully solved the long
sought problem of Self-Motive Power, and he benevolently and graciously
offered to contribute his valuable invention to the world, having "no
wish to profit by monopoly."
We cannot but contrast the plenary benevolence of his heart with the
mechanical paucity of his head. He describes his invention with the
following language and figure:
The inventor offers the accompanying sketch, with description of an
Hydraulic Mover, for communicating power to machinery, and recently
invented by him:--
A is a hollow cylinder or pipe, forming the upright shaft of a
mill on Barker's well-known and effective centrifugal principle.
B B, the lateral pipes from ditto; _a a_, the jets of water,
whose centrifugal force gives the motion.
C, beam to support the machinery, built at each end into the wall
D D.
E E, two cog-wheels to communicate the motion to
P, the rod of a pump (on Shalder's principle), which derives
its supply from the well into which the water from the pipes is
conducted, which it raises to
[Illustration]
H, a cistern into which one end of a syphon, I I, is introduced,
the other end of which is soldered with an air-tight joint into
the top of pipe A, to which it thus supplies the water which is
continually running from the pipes B B, producing a constant
motion which may be given by carrying the horizontal rod F
through the wall D, to machinery for any purpose. And, if the
statement in the pamphlet on Hydrostatics, by the Society for
the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, as to the effect of Barker's
Centrifugal Mill, be correct, the power gained must be very great.
The advantages of the invention are obvious. The whole of the
machinery for a large factory may be contained underground,
which, indeed, will be the most desirable situation for it,
and valuable room will thus be saved; the expense of erection
will not be great; and the saving in coals, &c., necessary for
a steam-engine of the like powers, will be immense. I might,
perhaps, have secured much benefit to myself by taking out
a patent for the discovery, but I have no wish to profit by
monopoly. All I desire is, that it may be recollected that the
machine was invented by one who is
A JOURNEYMAN MECHANIC.
James Black's Device
In 1858, James Black, Machine Maker, of Edinburgh, Scotland, applied
for a British patent on
"An improved mode or means of obtaining, applying, and transmitting
motive power."
The expected operation is sufficiently illustrated by the following
figure and excerpt from the specifications:
A face plate or disc is fixed on an axis, and has formed in it
a number of wipers, eccentrics, or curved paths, which receive
(in the space taken out) a pulley or roller, free to revolve
on its own axis, and attached to an adjustable lever in equal
balance with the desired lift or pressure. On rotary motion being
communicated to the plate (by a band or otherwise), the pulley or
roller moves round the eccentrics or paths, imparting a rocking
motion to the lever (similar to the action of a beam), wherefrom
motion may be transmitted or applied, as desired, or converted by
suitable appliances into any description of motion.
[Illustration]
In connection herewith, a pump may be set in a tank of water,
and a tank added above; on the same shaft with the face plate
is a water-wheel driven by the water from above; when it passes
the centre, the water falls into the lower tank and is pumped up
again; whatever weight of water is in each stroke is equalized by
a balance weight on the lever; the number of eccentrics and size
of water-wheel may be increased to correspond with the quantity
of water required to secure a desired power.
One means of imparting rotary motion from my arrangement is by
attaching at the end of the lever a crank and connecting rod of
same radius as the lift of the lever, carried over the centre by
a fly wheel.
The invention is applicable to the actuating of pumps, mincing
machines, and other machinery, instruments, and apparatus, and to
parts thereof; to propelling on land and water, and to various
motive purposes.
Fig. 1 is an elevation, showing an arrangement for obtaining
power according to my invention. X is the general framework
of the apparatus; A, a disc or plate, mounted on a shaft E,
and formed with curved paths B; the same shaft E also carries
a water-wheel W, provided with vanes or blades _w w_, as is
usual; C is a roller, working in the paths B, and connected to
a lever D, attached to rods _d d_ of pumps G G. G¹ is a balance
weight at the further end of the lever, which is supported in
the bearing _f_; H H are tanks fixed below the water-wheel, and
I is a tank set above it; _i i_ are supply pipes, for conveying
the water from tanks H H to the tank I; _j j_, escape water
pipes. The water falling from the tank I on the wheel W, drives
that wheel in the usual manner; and when it passes the centre,
the water falls into the lower tanks H, from which it is pumped
up again into the upper tank I by the pumps G, actuated by the
levers E, driven by the rollers C, in the pathways B of the face
plate A, as the latter is caused to revolve by the revolution of
the water-wheel W on the same shaft with it, thus producing a
continuous motive power.
Archimedean Screw and Liquid
This device was made public by a communication from a correspondent to
"Mechanics' Magazine" in England, in 1823. The device is described as
follows:
[Illustration]
A is the screw turning on its two pivots G G; B is a cistern to
be filled above the level of the lower aperture of the screw
with mercury (which I conceive to be preferable to water on many
accounts, and principally because it does not adhere or evaporate
like water); C is a reservoir, which, when the screw is turned
round, receives the mercury which falls from the top; D is a
pipe, which by the force of gravity conveys the mercury from
the reservoir C on to (what, for want of a better term, may be
called) the float-board E, fixed at right angles to the centre
of the screw, and furnished at its circumference with ridges
or floats to intercept the mercury, the moment and weight of
which will cause the float-board and screw to revolve, until,
by the proper inclination of the floats, the mercury falls into
the receiver F, from whence it again falls by its spout into the
cistern G, where the constant revolution of the screw takes it up
again as before.
To overcome this (the power of the fluid in the screw to turn
it backwards), I thought of placing a metallic ball, or some
mercury, on the ledge above the floats (as at H in the drawing),
of just so much weight, and no more, as would exactly neutralize
this backward endeavor; whether or no this would increase the
difficulty of raising the mercury in the screw I cannot say,
having never tried the experiment.
John Sims's Problem. 1830
John Sims, a Welshman, furnished the following suggested device to
"Mechanics' Magazine" in 1830:
Let us suppose an apparatus to be constructed of the description
represented in the annexed engraving: _a_ is a water cistern,
whence water is to be raised by the pump _b_, to supply the
cistern; _c d_ is a small pipe with a stop-cock at _e_, which
lets the water from cistern _c_ into a strong water-tight bellows
_f_. The bellows have no valve, but a cock _g_ to let out the
water into cistern _a_; _h_ is a weight, and _i_ a rack on the
top of the bellows which works in the cogs on the axle of the
large cog-wheel _j_; _j_ turns the little cog-wheel _k_, that
gives motion to the arm _l_, and works the pump-handle _m_; _n_
is an upright rod on the end of the lever _o_, which rod has a
turn at _p_ and _q_ for the top of the bellows to press against
in ascending and descending. The water being let into the bellows
from the pipe _d_, will cause the top of the bellows, with the
weight and rack, to ascend till the former reaches and presses
_p_, which will move the lever _o_ and the arm or rod _r_; by
which means the stop-cock _e_ of the pipe will be shut, and the
cock _g_ opened, and the water let in from the bellows into the
cistern _a_. The top of the bellows will now descend till it
comes down and presses the turn _q_, which will again shut the
cock _g_ and open _e_, on which the water will again flow from
the pipe into the bellows, and cause the top with the rack to
ascend.
[Illustration]
Now it is generally known that the power of an hydrostatic
bellows is thus calculated:--
As the area of the orifice or section of the pipe,
To the area of the bellows:
The weight of water in the pipe is,
To the weight the bellows will sustain on the top-board.
We will suppose, therefore, the pipe _d_ to be 10 feet high, with
a bore equal to 1 square inch, which would give 120 cubic inches,
and about 4¼ lbs. of water. Let us suppose, also, the boards
of the bellows to be 20 inches square, which gives 400 square
inches. When the water is let from the pipe into the bellows,
there will be a pressure of 4¼ lbs. on every square inch, which
on the whole will amount to 1,700 lbs. Now take half of this
force and place it on the top of the bellows; there will then be
a working power of 850 lbs. up and down, and allowing the bellows
to raise one foot, it will contain about 20 gallons of water.
Now the question is, will not the machinery, with a moving power
of 2 feet and 850 lbs., raise 20 gallons of water 10 feet, which
would, of course, cause the motion to be perpetual?--JOHN SIMS.
Pwllheli, North Wales, Dec. 11, 1829.
The foregoing device brought from another correspondent the following:
Had Mr. Sims gained the power exerted by the descending weight
on his bellows, he would have been fortunate indeed; but it
unfortunately happens that its returning power (or an equivalent)
was expended in raising it.
With respect to his question, whether a circulation of water
would be kept up by the arrangement, I answer, no; as the
velocities will be in the inverse ratios to the forces, and the
descending column of 120 inches must expend itself forty times
to raise the ascending one to the height of twelve inches, as
proposed:--
10 ft. or 120 in. × 40 = 4,800, lifting force or power.
400 in. × 12 = 4,800, opposing force, resistance, or weight.
Here is an equilibrium, and nothing gained to overcome friction
or the weight of the atmosphere on the piston of the pump. Were
it possible to annihilate both friction and atmospheric weight,
even then, unless the power exceed the weight, the power would
not be a moving one.
A Perpetual Pump, by an Unknown Inventor
In Volume I of "Mechanics' Magazine," 1823, appears an account by a
correspondent of a Perpetual Motion device which is illustrated by the
figure, and the quotations following:
_a b c d_ is the section of the reservoir, &c., showing the
wheel, the pump, &c. A B is an overshot water-wheel; C D the
working beam; E the pump; F a pipe from the top of the pump,
through which the water was to fall upon the wheel; C G an arm,
communicating, by means of a crank attached to an horizontal
shaft through the centre of the wheel, motion to the lever or
working beam, and so raising water from the reservoir by means of
the pump; H I the water. It was supposed that the water which had
fallen upon the wheel into the reservoir would be raised by means
of the pump, fall through the horizontal pipe, and so produce a
continued rotary motion.
[Illustration]
The persistence of Perpetual Motion workers is amusingly illustrated
by the inventions of William Willcocks Sleigh and Burrowes Willcocks
Arthur Sleigh. Their devices were so extremely complicated and not
susceptible of being understood, and hence are mentioned rather than
shown in this work.
In 1845, William Willcocks Sleigh, a doctor of medicine and surgery,
of Chiswick, Middlesex, England, applied for and obtained British
Patent on what he called
"A Hydro-mechanic apparatus for producing motive power."
He took out other patents on hydro-mechanical devices in 1853, 1856,
and 1860. Then in 1864, his son, Burrowes Willcocks Arthur Sleigh took
out two patents on similar devices, and then in 1866, still another
patent.
The specifications for each of the above mentioned patents are lengthy
and detailed. The inventors evidently had the greatest confidence in
their efforts, though surely they never put them to actual test. They
seemed to have been mechanically stupid, and incapable of correct
mechanical thinking, but their efforts were so tireless and so earnest
that we submit that the Sleigh family had done its full, fair share in
the efforts to accomplish Self-Motive power.
Equally amusing are the efforts of James Smith of Seaforth, Liverpool,
and Sidney Arthur Chease, Liverpool, gentlemen: These two co-laborers
applied for British patents on four different Hydro-mechanical
devices--one in 1858, two in 1863, and one in 1865. On three they
obtained patents, and on the other one provincial protection. One of
them seems to have been a capitalist, and the other one a machinist.
Their models were complicated beyond understanding, and apparently
they were laboring in the dark without intelligent plan. They seemed to
have thought that when a complicated mess of machinery parts and fluid
were assembled Perpetual Motion must somehow result.
Nothing could be gained by setting forth their inventions fully, but
their labors were so great, and their efforts so intense that we feel
like preserving their names from oblivion, and hence we give them
mention here.
Why Hydraulic and Hydro-Mechanical Devices for Obtaining Perpetual
Motion Failed to Work
Next to wheels and weights, the use of liquids in a hydraulic,
hydrostatic, or hydro-mechanical manner have been sought to be utilized
by Perpetual Motion seekers as a means of obtaining energy from the
machine not supplied to the machine. The foregoing are only a few of
the many devices of that kind, but they are the most simple of those
that have been brought to light, and consequently better illustrate
the manner in which it has been sought to utilize the interesting
properties of liquid pressure and mobility in the solution of the
problem.
An examination of the preceding devices discloses that in each case the
inventor sought by the energy of the descent of a liquid to elevate
through the same distance of ascent the same or a greater quantity of
the same liquid, or in some cases to obtain from the pressure of a
liquid a greater force than is required to expand a bag, bellows or
vessel, submerged the same distance below the level.
The impossibility of all of these schemes is apparent from the same
reasoning that is applied to illustrate and show the impossibility of
obtaining Perpetual Motion by the use of wheels, weights, levers and
the force of gravity.
In each case the basic idea and error was in supposing that by some
possibility the descent of a liquid through a given distance could be
made to deliver more energy than would be required to elevate the same
quantity of liquid the same distance. As a matter of fact, the descent
of a liquid, the same as any other weight, through a given distance
represents exactly the amount of energy necessary to elevate the same
weight of liquid through the same distance measured vertically. Some
loss by friction of the liquid in the containing tubes is inevitable as
well as from friction in the working parts of the mechanism. Therefore,
as this loss continues, some outside energy must be supplied. If all
friction could be eliminated (which is an impossibility) and if the
liquid were started in motion, the motion would be constant, but no
energy could be taken from it for running other machinery without
reducing the motion.
There have been many arguments on this subject. We select one which was
elicited by the publication in "Mechanics' Magazine" of an account of
the device of the author of the "Voice of Reason." This argument was
published in "Mechanics' Magazine" in 1831, and is as follows:
I am induced to make an attempt to demonstrate the utter
impossibility, under any circumstances, of making a water-wheel
that will supply itself instead of having any surplus power.
The accompanying drawing represents part of an overshot wheel
in section, the buckets only part filled, by which the whole of
the water expended continues to act through a greater portion of
the circumference than it otherwise would do. The area of the
vertical section of the complement of water to each bucket is
made 40 inches; and taking the breadth of the wheel at, say 28
2/3 inches, gives 40 lbs. as the weight of water in each bucket;
therefore, as there are 12 buckets containing 40 lbs. each, No.
13 30 lbs., and No. 14 only 20 lbs., altogether making a total of
530 lbs. acting on the wheel at the same time;--to show clearly
all the effect that can be expected from this, I have divided the
horizontal radius into a scale of 40 equals parts (there being
40 lbs. in each bucket); and from the gravitating centre of the
fluid contained in each is drawn a perpendicular to the scale,
where the effective force, or weight in each bucket, may be read
off as on the arm of a common steelyard. The weights will be
found as follows, viz:--
No. Lbs.
1 21½
2 26¼
3 30½
4 33¾
5 36¾
6 38¾
7 39¾
8 40
9 39½
10 38
11 35¾
12 32½
13 21
14 12
It is therefore quite evident that, although we have 530 lbs.
acting on one side of the wheel, a column of water weighing
446 lbs. reacting at the same distance from the centre, on the
opposite side, will exactly balance the whole 530 lbs. contained
in the buckets; so that about a sixth of the expenditure rests on
the axis without producing any useful effect, and the wheel so
loaded must remain in a state of rest. Now, in spite of friction
and the _vis inertia_ of matter, if we suppose the wheel at
work, it can raise only 446 lbs. at the expense of 530 lbs.; but
even if it could raise the whole 530 lbs., we should then be but
little nearer the mark, for we must remember that the gravitating
centre of our power falls through a space of only 8 ft. 11 in.,
while the water must be raised at least 11 ft. before it could be
laid on and delivered clear of the wheel.
[Illustration]
As a further means of coming at the end I had in view at the
commencement of this letter, I will conclude with a simple rule
for calculating the quantity of water a wheel of this kind will
raise:--Multiply the number of pounds expended in a minute by
the height or diameter of the wheel in feet, divide the product
by the height (also in feet) of the reservoir to be filled, and
two-thirds of the quotient will be the answer required. Example,
for the wheel above described, making six revolutions per
minute:--
42 buckets on wheel.
6 revolutions per minute.
---
252 buckets filled per minute.
40 the weight of water in each bucket.
-----
10080 lbs. expended per minute.
10 feet height of wheel.
------
11) 100800 momentum, dividing by 11 feet as the height of reservoir.
------
3) 9163.636 divided by 3.
--------
3054.545 multiplying by 2.
2
--------
6109.09 answer in lbs.
So that for every 1008 gallons expended on the wheel, we only
gain sufficient power to supply 611 nearly.
See also Chap. XV, Bishop Wilkin's Work, appearing at page
297 et seq. supra.
CHAPTER IV
PNEUMATIC, SIPHON AND HYDRO-PNEUMATIC DEVICES
The Hydrostatical Paradox
Next to the wheel with levers and weights, we believe this simple
Hydrostatical Paradox has more frequently occurred to mechanical and
scientific tyros as a means whereby it was hoped to attain Perpetual
Motion. There is no record that we know of of the name of anyone who
has ever attempted it, and, yet, the instances are doubtless myriads.
The author believes he has heard dozens of young persons mention it as
a means of obtaining a continuous flow of water.
In 1828, Niel Arnott, M. D., published the third edition of his
"Elements of Physics, or Natural Philosophy." At page 141 under
the subject of "Mechanics" he comments generally on the subject of
Perpetual Motion, and says:
What an infinity of vain schemes--some of them displaying great
ingenuity--for perpetual motions, and new mechanical engines
of power, etc., would have been checked at once, had the great
truth been generally understood, that no form or combination of
machinery ever did or ever can increase, in the slightest degree,
the quantity of power applied. Ignorance of this is the hinge on
which most of the dreams of mechanical projectors have turned. No
year passes, even now, in which many patents are not taken out
for such supposed discoveries; and the deluded individuals, after
selling perhaps even their household goods to obtain the means
of securing the supposed advantages, often sink in despair, when
their attempts, instead of bringing riches and happiness to their
families, end in disappointment and utter ruin. The frequency and
eagerness and obstinacy with which even talented individuals,
owing to their imperfect knowledge of this part of natural
philosophy, have engaged in such undertakings, is a remarkable
phenomenon in human nature.
At page 270 in treating on "Hydrostatics," he says:
[Illustration]
A projector thought that the vessel of his contrivance,
represented here, was to solve the renowned problem of the
perpetual motion. It was goblet-shaped, lessening gradually
towards the bottom until it became a tube, bent upwards at _c_,
and pointing with an open extremity into the goblet again. He
reasoned thus: A pint of water in the goblet _a_ must more than
counterbalance an ounce which the tube _b_ will contain, and must
therefore be constantly pushing the ounce forward into the vessel
again at _a_, and keeping up a stream or circulation, which will
cease only when the water dries up. He was confounded when a
trial showed him the same level in _a_ and in _b_.
Pickering's Device
In 1858, Peter Pickering, Landed Proprietor of Danzig, Prussia, applied
for a British patent on
"An Atmospheric Engine."
It may be described as follows:
[Illustration]
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, are cylinders 18 feet long or high and 3 feet
diameter, so that the surface of each piston has 1,296 square
inches acting with an atmospheric pressure of 15 lbs. to the
square inch, causes a pressure of 19,440 lbs. to each cylinder
(saying nothing of friction, which will be accounted for later);
6, 7, 8, 9, 10, pistons of each cylinder, as they must be placed
when the engine begins to work; 6, 7, 8, 9, causing a vacuum
under each piston (as they have for the first time been brought
into their present situation by main force), afterwards, when the
engine is permitted to start, they will regulate themselves; No.
10 lies flat on the bottom of the cylinder; 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,
piston rods acting on shaft No. 16; 17, wheel to communicate the
engine's power to the machinery of the engine itself; 18, wheel
to communicate the engine's power to the wheel or propelling
screw of a ship, manufactory, locomotive, etc.
Stuckey's Device
In 1842, William Henry Stuckey, Esquire, of St. Petersburgh, applied
for a British patent on
"A Pneumatic Engine for Producing Motive Power."
His specifications describe his alleged invention as follows:
[Illustration]
Fig. 1 is a front view of my said pneumatic engine, partly in
section. A¹ and B¹ two horizontal cylinders, united at their
inner extremities a, a, which rotate on gudgeons that have
their bearings C, C, in the upright standards D, D; A² and B²
two pistons which work to and fro in these cylinders; E¹ and E³
two hollow arms or tubes which radiate from the cylinder A¹,
and E², E⁴, two similar arms or tubes which radiate in opposite
directions from the cylinder B¹, each cylinder having an open
communication with the arms or tubes attached to it. F¹, F²,
F³, and F⁴, four other cylinders, affixed to a circular ring
R, R, open at top to the atmosphere, and open at bottom to the
radial tubes E¹, E², E³, E⁴, connected with them at their outer
extremities. G¹, G², G³, G⁴, pistons working in the cylinders F¹,
F², F³, and F⁴, and H¹, H², H³, and H⁴, caps screwed on to the
flanges of the cylinders. The different parts described form a
wheel, which, on being set in motion, rotates on the gudgeons in
the bearing C, C. The motion is produced as follows:--I adjust
the wheel so that the tubes E¹ and E³ shall be in a vertical
position; and pour into the tube E¹, through the cylinder F¹,
withdrawing the piston G¹, as much mercury or other suitable
fluid body (previously determined by calculation) as will fill
the tube from the point of its connection with the inner cylinder
A¹ up to the bottom (_a_, _a_,) of the outer cylinder F¹. The
mercury thus introduced flows into the cylinder A¹ at the back of
the piston A², and presses that piston forward to the extremity
of its range, the piston G¹ being then restored to its place in
the cylinder F¹, and pressed close down on the mercury in the
tube E¹. I next turn the wheel till the tubes E² and E⁴ are in a
vertical position, by which turning the mercury therein is forced
into the tube E³, flowing down which it drives the piston G³ of
the cylinder F³ forward to the extremity of its range, leaving a
vacuum in the cylinder A¹ at O, equal to the difference between
the heights from which the mercury descends in the tubes E¹ and
E³. I then fill the tube E² and cylinder B² with mercury, to the
same extent and in the same way as I previously filled the tube
E¹ and cylinder A¹, after which I turn the wheel till the tubes
E¹ and E³ are once more in a vertical position, whereby I produce
a vacuum in each pair of tubes, and their intermediate cylinder,
to the degree of the difference before explained. To the four
tubes there are attached four cocks K¹, K², K³, K⁴, which, after
the vacua have been obtained, are closed; and to the four rods
of the pistons of the outer cylinders F¹, F², F³, F⁴, there are
attached four hanging or balance weights L¹, L², L³, L⁴, in such
manner that they shall co-operate with the atmospheric pressure
on the said vacua in giving rotation to the wheel. M¹, M², M³,
M⁴, are jointed levers, by which these weights are connected at
one end with the pistons G¹, G², G³, G⁴; and N¹, N², are cords
or bands, by which they are suspended at the other end from
standards P, P, projecting from the ring R, and bearing pulleys,
over which the cords or bands pass, each cord or band serving to
suspend the two weights which are opposite to each other, for
which purpose it is passed internally across the wheel and over
the exterior of one of the cylinders A¹ or B¹. The cords or bands
are attached to the weights at the lower ends thereof, and pass
over small pulleys close to the points of connection, so that
the cords or bands, when pulled, may act the more effectually on
the weights. It will be readily understood that when any two of
the tubes are in a vertical position, and the mercury or other
suitable fluid has descended to the bottom of the lower tube,
its pressure on the piston of the outer cylinder G¹, or G², or
G³, or G⁴, will cause the weight connected with that piston to
turn inwards towards the centre of the wheel, by which movement
a strain is exerted on the connecting cord or band N¹ or N²,
which throws up the opposite weight at top, and causes it to
force down the piston of the top cylinder, or the surface of the
mercury in the upper tube, whereby any excess of pressure at
the bottom of the lower tube is transferred to the top piston,
where it acts in aid of the atmospheric pressure on the vacua
obtained in manner aforesaid. The four cocks K, have regulating
rods connected to them in the way common in steam and other
engines, so that as each tube comes into a vertical position
the cock attached to it is opened, and as it passes from that
position towards the horizontal, is shut, so that the mercury
always retains its proper position in the tubes or cylinders, and
is acted on by the pressure of the atmosphere at those points
only where such pressure can be of service. The power of this
wheel will be, of course, in proportion to the vacua produced in
manner aforesaid, and to the altitude of the columns of mercury
employed. The inner cylinders might be dispensed with, and the
tubes be made to communicate directly with each other, but I
prefer, for most purposes, the arrangement which I have before
described, with the two intermediate cylinders A¹, B¹; where the
inner cylinders are dispensed with, I make use of eccentrics
instead of the joined levers before described, to enable the
weights to turn to the extent of about half a circle. The number
of tubes also need not be limited to four, but increased to any
convenient extent.
Prof. George Sinclair's Device
This device was invented by George Sinclair, who was a professor of
philosophy at Glasgow University. He died in 1696. In 1669 he published
a work on Pneumatics, and in that work claimed to have discovered
Perpetual Motion. Explanations of his device consumed eighteen pages of
a Latin work on Pneumatics. It very absurdly depended for its operation
upon the delivery of water from the short leg of a siphon, instead of
the long leg. The figure illustrates the contemplated operation.
[Illustration]
Jacob Brazill's Device
In 1839 Jacob Brazill, of Deptford, Kent, Governor of Trinity Ground,
applied for a British patent on
"Improvements in Obtaining Motive Power."
In his application he describes his alleged invention as follows:
My invention consists in a certain arrangement or combination
of mechanism wherein the atmospheric air is employed as the
impelling agent, being brought to bear in such a manner as by
exerting a constant urging pressure, to produce a continuous
rotary motion, and applies to all the purposes where a prime
mover is required.
[Illustration]
Fig. 1 is an end view of the apparatus _a_, _a_, are the
bearings, top and bottom, for the vertical shaft _b_, which
bearings are to be so constructed as to produce the least
possible amount of friction. _c_ is a large drum furnished with
radial plates or fans, some of the plates being so arranged as to
slope down towards the bottom plate, thus forming, as it were,
a series of boxes decreasing in their transverse dimensions as
they approach the boss. This drum is to be put in motion by means
of a current of air directed through the pipes _d_ and _e_,
from the two pairs of double bellows _f_ and _g_. _h_ is a worm
fixed on the vertical shaft by means of a tightening screw, or
in any other convenient way, taking into the worm wheel _i_ on
the horizontal crankshaft _j_, supported in bearings _k_, _k_.
The cranks _l_, _l_, work the bellows by connecting rods _m_,
_m_; _n_ is a spur wheel taking into a pinion _o_, on the axle of
which is a winch handle _p_, for starting the apparatus.
What I claim as my peculiar right is, the impulsion of a current
of air against the fans of a drum (as that at _c_) through
pipes, as at _d_ and _e_, for the purposes of a motive power,
together with a certain arrangement of mechanism, by means of
which the action first induced shall be kept up.
Läserson's Device
In 1860 Marc Antoine F. Mennons, of Paris, applied on behalf of Louis
Diodor Läserson of Moscow, Russia, for, and obtained, a British patent
on
"Certain Improvements in the Production of Motive Power, and in the
Apparatus Connected Therewith."
He described the essentials of his device as follows:
[Illustration]
The invention consists in the application of the ascensional
force of air or gases developed under water to the generation
of motive power, and in the combination of apparatus, by means
of which the power thus produced is accumulated, transmitted
and applied. The principal element of this combination is a
wheel or disc (shown in plan and section, Figs. 1, 2), the
dimensions of which are proportioned to the power required. On
the circumference of this wheel are fixed at equal distances
a given number (say sixteen) of flexible air reservoirs _a_,
communicating with an equal number of tubular passages _b_,
which open in the nave _c_. In the length of the fixed shaft
_d_, on which this wheel is mounted, are formed two cylindrical
cells E by which the air is admitted to and discharged from
the flexible reservoirs _a_ by the tubular passages _b_, with
which they correspond. The hydro-atmospheric wheel thus mounted
and immersed to the required depth in a suitable reservoir as
in _f_, is placed in communication by its hollow shaft with an
air-compressing apparatus of any convenient form, which in its
turn is connected with the shaft of an ordinary hydraulic wheel.
The latter being set in motion acts on the forcing apparatus, by
which a jet of compressed air is thrown into the hollow shaft
of the hydro-atmospheric wheel by the entry cell corresponding
with the orifices of the fourth quadrant or lowest immersed
section of the latter. The air injected following the tubular
passages within its range enters and inflates the corresponding
flexible reservoirs, which thus acquiring an ascensional
force proportioned to their displacing capacity and degree of
immersion, carry forward the wheel in their movement towards
the surface. On reaching the water line the tubular passage
come into communication by the nave orifices with the discharge
cell of the fixed shaft, and give egress to the air compressed
in the flexible reservoirs, which collapse simultaneously with
the inflation of the succeeding series by which they have in
the meantime been replaced in the fourth quadrant. The latter
following the ascensional movement of their predecessors give
place to a third series, and collapse in the same way on passing
the surface, so that each air reservoir on re-entering the water
in the continued revolution of the wheel presents comparatively
little resistance until it arrives at the turning point, when
the communication with the entry cell of the axle being again
established the movements above described are reproduced. The
force thus developed by the hydro-atmospheric wheel, which
represents about three times that of the prime motor, may be at
this stage applied to the required transmissions of movement.
When natural watercourses are not to be had within a reasonable
distance of the locality in which the force is to be applied, it
becomes necessary to replace them by an artificial fall.
Von Rathen and Ellis's Device
In 1866 Anthony Bernhard Baron Von Rathen and George Henry Ellis, both
of London, applied for and obtained British patent on
"A New or Improved Mode of Constructing a Motive-power Wheel Whereby to
Obtain Permanent Motion by the Application of Compressed Air or any
other Elastic Fluid."
In the specifications for patent the essentials of their invention are
described as follows:
This invention may be considered supplementary to an invention
of the Baron Von Rathen of an elementary motive-power engine,
for which a patent has been granted to him, No. 818, and dated
March 23, 1865, and consisting in a newly-discovered plan for the
construction of a motive-power wheel or engine, on the principle
that the motor, consisting of compressed air or other elastic
fluid, is maintained in permanent activity and without removal
or renewal, and the useful resistance of the air in the chambers
is on the surface of a fixed cylinder, the motion is regular and
direct, the wheel rotating on its fixed central axis.
The nature of our present invention consists principally in our
providing, instead of that a motive-power wheel having its axis
upon fixed bearings in an eccentric position and turning in an
oscillating cylinder. The motor being brought through a hollow
shaft, or any convenient channel, is introduced into one or more
closed chambers formed upon the longest arm of the power wheel
for the purpose of driving it round; by this means, according to
the uniform pressure of the elastic fluid upon all surfaces, we
obtain not only a continuous but an additional degree of driving
power from the leverage given by the position of the wheel. There
is, as shown in Fig. 1 of the accompanying drawing, a fixed arm
or driving rod fixed upon the cylinder by which to impart motion
to a crank, piston, or other apparatus. We propose to obtain
the motor by pumps worked by or in connection with the power
wheel, and having other suitable and necessary appliances for
regulating, storing, transmitting, and manipulating the force
supplied to or communicated by the power wheel, as have been
described, to be applied with the plan for working the elementary
motive-power engine hereinbefore referred to.
Fig. 1 is a vertical section of the power wheel revolving inside
and moving the oscillating cylinder.
A¹ and A² are air-tight chambers, the former being the driving
chamber and the latter intended to check or counterbalance its
wedging or binding effect upon the cylinder, owing to the extra
leverage obtained and the pressure upon the surface of the rod
B, the wheel will revolve in that direction by the action of the
elastic force which finds its useful resistance on the internal
surface of the cylinder C. D¹, D², D³, D⁴, are packings to render
the two chambers air-tight and to afford bearings for the four
arms of the wheel upon the cylinder; E, E, are two tubes for
conducting the motor into the chambers, and F is the axle, upon
which the wheel is firmly fixed and driven round with it.
[Illustration]
Fig. 2 is a side elevation of the power wheel. F is the hollow
shaft or axle through which the motor passes from the pumps or
reservoir in connection therewith, and upon which the wheel
rotates; G is the rod or arm fixed at one end to the cylinder C,
and attached at the other end by a joint or coupling H to the rod
I, acting within a cylinder to give motion to the piston K; L is
one of the side covers of the power wheel, and N the support or
framework for the wheel.
Richard Varley's Device
In 1797 Richard Varley, of Damside, Lancashire, England, a merchant,
applied for and obtained a British patent on
"A New Perpetual Moving Power."
His device is explained by the following excerpt from his application:
"My invention consists of a method of applying the weight of the
atmosphere upon a wheel in any other fluid, and by that means
destroying its spring or reaction, the manner of doing which I
describe as follows, agreeable to the drawing (Fig. 6) annexed:
[Illustration]
"A is a circular vessel, made of copper or any other substance,
capable of containing water, and covered with a top part so as
to be perfectly air-tight. B is a wheel placed in the inside of
the vessel, with its axle perpendicular, the uppermost part of
which comes through the top of the vessel, and is made to work
air-tight; the lower end runs in a step within the vessel, and
no part of the wheel is to touch the vessel but its axis. C is a
cylinder placed firmly upon the wheel. D is the piston, suspended
by a chain to a strong spring fixed on the wheel. This spring
is to be made of such strength as that when the whole weight
of the atmosphere is upon the piston the air will only move it
about one inch down. E is the tube leading from the axle, which
is hollow from the top to the level of the wheel, so as to admit
the external air by this tube to the piston D, which piston is a
circular vessel, made air-tight, and exactly fits the cylinder.
There is a joint in the tube E at F, which is made air-tight by
leathers, so that when the piston descends the tube may give way
to it. G is a small tube leading from the bottom of the cylinder
to the center of the axle, and from thence brought out at the
end of it, and by which the air is extracted from the cylinder
by means of an air pump and a vacuum formed in it. On the top
part or any other convenient place of the vessel, are fixed two
cylinders or tubes of a proportional size to the cylinders on
the wheel, one of which is a condensing cylinder, by means of a
screw and piston, and by which the water in the vessel may be
compressed; the other has its piston suspended at the bottom,
and the top part of the cylinder being filled with air as the
other piston is screwed down this rises, and condenses the air in
the cylinder, the spring of which keeps the water in the vessel
pressed to all parts alike; and when the air is extracted from
the cylinder C and the piston D is forced down by the external
atmosphere into the cylinder, this pressure is continued, and the
condensed air expands in proportion and prevents any tendency
to a vacuum being formed, which would cause a cohesion of all
the parts. By this means the external air is suspended upon the
wheel by the chain, the same as a weight, and the spring of the
atmosphere being taken from the cylinder there is nothing to
oppose this weight, there being no spring in water; and this
power may be increased in proportion to the size and number of
cylinders on the wheel and its diameter."
Siphon and Funnel Device
This was the work of an Englishman whose name is unknown. An account of
it appeared in "Mechanics' Magazine," 1828, in the following language:
_a_ is a circular glass vessel 1 foot 6 inches diameter; _b b_ a
tube fixed thereunto; _c c_ are funnels containing valves; _d_,
a float of hollow copper, or any light substance; _e_, an open
mouth; _f_, an open vessel filled with mercury as high as the
dotted line.
It is well known that several experiments were made by M.
Venturi, Sir Isaac Newton, etc., demonstrating that a vessel
shaped thus--
[Illustration]
will emit water with a much greater rapidity than a vessel shaped
thus--
[Illustration]
say, with more than a third as much speed. I propose, then, to
have the mouth of the vessel _a_ of the former shape, being the
natural form of flowing water. The vessel _a_, and tube _b_,
must be completely filled with mercury, by means of the funnels
_c c_, which will also contain mercury. In order to set the fluid
in motion, the valve in the large vessel _c_ is to be raised;
the mercury (which was hitherto held up by a greater weight of
atmosphere) will instantly run out of the mouth _e_, and must
be suffered to do so till the mercury in _c_ is level with the
dotted line; by this time the mercury in _a_ will have obtained
a momentum which will be more than equivalent to the pressure of
the atmosphere: consequently, the mercury will run out of the
large vessel _a_, till it falls as low as the dotted line; the
float _d_, resting on the mercury, of course, falls with it,
opens the valve, and admits a proportionable quantity of mercury
through the tube _b_, driven by the pressure of the atmosphere
(the height from the mercury in _f_, to the top of the tube
_b_, being only 26 inches, which is 2 inches less than what the
atmosphere will at all times raise mercury in a vacuum).
[Illustration]
By this means will there not be a continual circulation of
mercury?
Orchard's Vacuum Engine
In 1826 there was published in "Mechanics' Magazine," London, a
communication from a Mr. Orchard, concerning an invention he considered
himself as having made. The account is published in his own words, and
is as follows:
A is an iron reservoir nearly filled with mercury; B, a tube
twenty-four inches long, having its lower end inserted in that
reservoir; and C and D, two cocks for the convenience of filling
the tube B. From this another tube M proceeds at right angles, to
the vessel G. In this latter tube is the cock F, to admit of, or
shut off, a communication between the tube and the vessel G. This
communication being closed, the tube B is carefully filled with
mercury; after which the cock D is closed and the cap E screwed
on.
[Illustration]
The vessel G is to be filled with mercury through the cock H,
the pipe I being open to allow of the escape of air. When this
vessel has been filled, the cock H should be closed and its cap
screwed on; and the pipe I be also closed by a valve, which is
to be pressed tight by the cap on the head of the pipe. I is a
vent-pipe, open at the top. The space represented by the double
lines is a panel of thick plate glass having two horizontal lines
described on its surface, whereby the attendant may observe the
quantity of mercury within the vessel.
The cock F being closed, a quantity of mercury must be allowed
to run out of the vessel G, equal to the space 1, 2, 3, 4,
which space will become a vacuum. If, therefore, the cock L be
then opened, to allow of the discharge of a certain quantity of
mercury on the wheel, and the cocks C and L also opened, the
mercury will continually rise from the reservoir A into the
vessel G, and thence be discharged on the wheel, whence it will
again fall into the vessel A, to keep up the supply. The cock F
must be so adjusted as to admit into the vessel G a quantity of
mercury equal to that which is discharged by the cock L. This can
be ascertained and regulated by means of the panel of glass above
described.
The specific gravity of mercury being 7½ ounces, it is evident
that but a small quantity of it is required to turn the wheel,
which has no friction but that of the axis on which it turns.
Robert Copland's Device
In 1819 Robert Copland applied for a British patent on
"A New or Improved Method or Methods of Gaining Power by New or
Improved Combinations of Apparatus, Applicable to Various Purposes."
His specifications describe in great detail his invention in the
following language:
[Illustration]
Figure 1 is a view of a machine by which I purpose to derive a
disposable force or power from the action, weight or pressure
of the atmosphere, through the medium of the column of water
or other heavy liquid descending on one side of the enclosed
vertical wheel, and from thence through the centrifugal wheel,
being returned into the same reservoir from which the pressure
of the atmosphere raises it to be again delivered on the top of
the vertical wheel to supply the discharge on the descending
side, arising from the centrifugal force communicated to it by
the rotary velocity of the centrifugal wheel, and the pressure of
the descending column overbalancing the reaction or resistance of
the atmosphere at the discharging apertures of the centrifugal
wheel. Thus a small quantity of water or other liquid (according
to the size of the machine required) being continually returned
onto the top of the vertical wheel by the pressure or action of
the atmosphere, and acting by its unbalanced gravity or impetus
in its descent, will produce a disposable force or power of
any required magnitude, by increasing the size or number of
the machines, provided the height the fluid is required to be
raised is not quite so high as the column which the atmosphere,
when lightest, will raise of that fluid, and allowing for the
requisite velocity on the vertical wheel. In Fig. 1, A is the
feeding pipe through which the fluid is raised by the pressure
or action of the atmosphere on the fluid in the lowest reservoir
in which the lower end of the pipe is immersed, closed by a
cock, sliding plate, valve or shutter, to allow the machine
to be filled at the commencement, and which may be under the
surface of the fluid, also to keep it air-tight. The other end
is inserted air-tight into the top reservoir, or by a curve, as
shown by the dotted line _a_, joined to pipe C, and delivering
upon the vertical wheel, without any top reservoir. In this case,
if water is used, the highest part of the bend or curve inside
should not exceed thirty feet above the level of the water in
lowest reservoir. B is the top reservoir, the lowest internal
part of which should never exceed twenty-nine or thirty feet
above the water in lowest reservoir, but it will admit the top
of the reservoir, if wished, to be rather higher than when the
curved tube _a_ only is used. It must be quite air-tight, and
supported as convenient. C is a pipe, joined air-tight to top
reservoir, or forming part of A, _a_, C. C is a movable flap
of strong leather, or other substance, which may be joined to
the lowest part of C, where the water is delivered so high on
the wheel and where floats with hinges are used on the wheel to
prevent its going down on the ascending side; but not necessary
when water is delivered lower on the wheel. D, D, D, D, is the
fixed and immovable waterway, and the fixed case or cover (of
the vertical wheel), of which it is a part, joining also the
stuffing boxes, through which the axle of the vertical wheel
moves air-tight, thus entirely enclosing and surrounding every
part of the wheel but the projections of the axle, and allowing
the float boards and wheel just to turn freely in it without
touching in any part except the axle in turning in the packing
of the stuffing boxes; the float boards are fastened on to the
iron rim or sole of the vertical wheel by very strong hinges or
movable joints just within the fixed waterway D. E is a pipe or
pipes joined air-tight to the fixed cover or case enclosing the
vertical wheel where the water is to be taken off it, having
their lower ends inserted air-tight also into the bottom of
the fixed and immovable top of the centrifugal wheel in such
a direction that they may deliver the water into the moveable
waterway of the centrifugal wheel as near as possible in the
same direction as the water circulates in the wheel. F, F, is
the centrifugal wheel, of any diameter convenient, according to
the size of the machine, placed horizontally above the fluid
in the lowest reservoir, so as to move on its axis as near as
possible to the surface of the fluid without touching it, having
an immovable cover or top, leaving a hollow waterway round the
rim, into which the fluid is discharged from E in the direction
of the wheels' motion. G, G, are the discharging apertures of the
centrifugal wheel. H, H, is the surface of the fluid in I, I,
the lowest reservoir, containing a sufficient quantity of water
when the machine is put to work, to allow the bottom of feeding
pipe A to be immersed in it at least two feet below the surface,
or a greater depth may be given to that part of the reservoir
under the mouth of pipe A, forming a sort of well in which A may
be inserted any required depth, better to exclude any particles
of air or bubbles mixed with the water nearer its surface from
ascending in pipe A. This reservoir should be large enough to
contain the whole of the water used before the machine is filled.
K, K, are the ends of the axle of vertical wheel outside of the
stuffing boxes of the fixed case, and are the only parts of the
vertical wheel seen, and turning air-tight through the packing
or stuffing boxes, or in any other manner the external air is
entirely excluded from the vertical wheel when at work; _e_ is
an air-tight cock to discharge the air out of the machine when
filling. L is an aperture into top reservoir, or into highest
part of pipe A, _a_ when no top reservoir, closed air-tight by
a screw cap; by this the whole machine is filled in every part
with the fluid used before it can be set to work, the bottom of
pipe A and apertures G (as well as cock to bottom of pipe E
when required) being previously closed. P is part of the axle on
which the centrifugal wheel revolves. Before the machine can be
put to work everything being previously arranged as directed, the
apertures at G and bottom of A (and at E if required also), must
be closed by sliding plates, valves, cocks, or other methods, as
most convenient, and every part of the machine must be filled
with the water or fluid used by the aperture L, or any other
convenient method by which the highest parts may be filled, the
air allowed to discharge by opening E and O, the latter to be
shut as soon as the centrifugal wheel is filled, and the cock at
E closed where required, when the water is above it a little, _e_
continuing open so as to allow the air to be entirely discharged
from every part, which being done, and the machine entirely
filled with water, this cock and aperture L must be carefully
closed; having then fixed upon the most convenient method for
giving the required assistance to set the machine to work, by
giving the centrifugal wheel motion, and assisting it till
arrived at the velocity fixed, it must be put in motion and the
apertures G opened; after it has got a little into motion, and as
soon as the velocity of the wheel has given a centrifugal force
to the water sufficient to overbalance the slight difference in
the height of the feeding and descending columns, the pipe A must
be opened; a discharge from the apertures G will now take place,
which is supplied from top reservoir B over the loaded side of
vertical wheel, where, by its gravity and impetus acting on
the float boards, it causes the wheel to turn till it descends,
so as to be discharged through E, on the rim or waterway W, of
the centrifugal wheel, which it strikes with the velocity of
its descent in nearly the direction of the wheel's motion, and
is discharged through apertures G into the water contained at
commencement in lower reservoir I, from whence this discharge
is again supplied by the pressure of the atmosphere, returning
it through pipe A into top reservoir, or through _a_, C, and
the part intended of the vertical wheel. As the velocity of the
centrifugal wheel is accelerated, the velocity of the descending
column over the vertical wheel will also be accelerated, and,
consequently, the vertical wheels, when having arrived at their
respective fixed velocities, the assisting force being no longer
necessary, may be withdrawn, and the centrifugal wheel may now
receive what assistance is required to support its velocity from
the vertical wheel through the connecting shafts and wheelwork,
or in any other manner.
Eaton's Perpetual Siphon. London. 1850
The account of this is taken from Dircks's great work, mentioned in the
preface, and is as follows:
This is a plan proposed by Mr. Eaton in 1850, and consists in
providing two water cisterns A, B; the short leg of a siphon C
enters the upper cistern, and terminates in three escape pipes,
capable of being rotated by the pulley _a_, connected by a
band with the pulley _b_, affixed to the vertical shaft _c_,
rotated by the inverted Barker's mill D, constructed on the short
leg of the inverted siphon E, supplied from the bottom of the
upper water cistern. By this means it was expected to keep up a
continual flow down the pipes C and up E, as shown by the arrows.
[Illustration]
Legge's Hydro-Pneumatic Power Device. 1850
This is an English production, and the inventor claims that it is the
result of fourteen years' study. We take the description from Dircks.
It is as follows:
It is a dome-shaped vessel; its upper part A filled with air,
and the lower half with water, as at B. This vessel contains two
apparatus for returning the water which is worked through C D,
apparently like pump barrels. The air is to be at from 250 to 500
pounds pressure on the square inch. When once started it will (it
is stated) go on as long as it is oiled. The inventor estimates a
one thirty-second share at one thousand pounds value.
[Illustration]
Waterblowing Machine
In 1827 "Mechanics' Magazine," London, published an account of an
invention which was furnished to it by some correspondent. The
invention, it seems from the communication, had previously been
described in an appendix by Dr. Brewster to a volume of Ferguson's
lectures, and it also seems that the description furnished "Mechanics'
Magazine" was copied from such appendix. The following is the article
as it appeared in "Mechanics' Magazine":
I am encouraged to send you the following attempt at perpetual
motion, because I think it is upon a principle that has not yet
been examined in your pages.
In Dr. Brewster's appendix to Ferguson's lectures, the following
description is given of what is called a "Water Blowing Machine":
"Let A B (see Fig.) be a cistern of water, with the bottom of
which is connected the bended leaden pipe B C H. The lower
extremity H, of the pipe is inserted into the top of a cask or
vessel, D E, called the condensing vessel, having the pedestal P
fitted to its bottom, which is perforated with two openings, M N.
When the water which comes from the cistern A is falling through
the part, C H of the pipe, it is supplied by the openings or
tubes, _m_ _n_ _o_ _p_, with a quantity of air which it carries
along with it. This mixture of air and water, issuing from the
aperture H, and impinging upon the surface of the stone pedestal
P, is driven back and dispersed in various directions. The air
being thus separated from the water, ascends into the upper part
of the vessel, and rushes through the opening F, whence it is
conveyed to the fire, while the water falls to the lower part
of the vessel, and runs out by the openings M N." The author
then goes on to describe the construction of the pipe B C H,
in the curve of which some nicety is required, and to explain
some atmospherical phenomena upon the principle of this machine,
adding that "Franciscus Tertius de Lanis observes that he has
seen a greater wind generated by a blowing machine of this kind
than could be produced by bellows ten or twelve feet long."
[Illustration]
Now, if, instead of the pedestal P, a wheel were placed in the
condensing vessel, as in the figure, would not the water, in
falling upon the wheel, be sufficiently dispersed to disengage
the air at the same time that it drove the wheel, and would
not the motion of the wheel be retarded by the density of the
internal air?
I do not apprehend that any considerable resistance would be
offered by the internal air, and the motion of the wheel can be
regulated by its load, so as to offer a sufficient resistance to
the descending stream of water; and I, therefore, assume that
the water, in its descent, would produce by means of the wheel,
a power capable of raising a part of the water expended back
again to the cistern; and this is the extent of the power of
most of those machines which have been mistaken for perpetual
motions by their projectors. But I have a blast of wind which
is described as being of great force. Can this blast be in any
way applied to raise the surplus water? I think I see the smile
which the proposal will produce in those who deny the possibility
of a perpetual motion. "A mere puff of wind!" is doubtless
ejaculated from all sides. But let me tell these gentlemen
that, though I may not know any method by which such blast can
produce that effect, it does not, by any means, follow that the
impossibility of the thing is thence to be presumed. Far from
it; for such a conclusion rests upon the supposition that the
powers and application of a blast of wind are fully known, and
that no research or experience can add to our knowledge on that
subject--assumptions which appear to me somewhat ridiculous.
Allow me, for the sake of argument, to suppose that this blast
instead of wind, had been a blast of steam. Time was when wise
men would have smiled and said, "A puff of steam--a mere puff of
steam!"--and had some one, more sanguine than the rest, attempted
by its application to produce a motion, he would have applied it
to the floatboards of a wheel, as in Branca's engine, and have
been disappointed. It is not given to man to know when the powers
of any great agent have been fully developed; and those who act
upon such presumptions throw the greatest obstacles in the way of
inquiry. But, to show the anti-perpetualists that within their
own time since the commencement of the "Mechanics' Magazine," an
addition has been made to our knowledge of the powers of a blast
of wind, I have added a tube, G, to my figure, the proposed use
of which I shall now describe.
In a part of the "Mechanics' Magazine," published some time ago,
there was described a novel mode of raising water in a tube by
directing a stream of air over its mouth, thereby destroying the
pressure of the atmosphere.
I do not suppose it will rise to the height of the cistern as I
have figured it; but it may still be a question whether it may
not be accomplished by a series of short tubes, the bottom of
the one being placed in the cistern into which the next below
discharges its water, each being constructed with a blast and two
valves, in the same manner as the single tube--namely, the valves
_x_ (under water) and _y_, worked in such a manner by the arms
K L, that the one may shut when the other opens. Presuming that
the water will rise to the top of the tube when the blast is in
action (_x_ open and _y_ shut), the water in the part of the tube
between the blast and _y_ will be discharged into the cistern at
the next motion of the valves--namely, when _x_ is shut and _y_
opened, the blast, at the same time, being discontinued.
Device by Means of Buoyancy Through Media of Different Densities
An account of this appeared in "Mechanics' Magazine," 1825. The author
apparently had no great faith in the accomplishment of Perpetual
Motion, and yet it is manifest that he had not abandoned hope of
accomplishing it, and is still thinking along some line of attaining
it. It goes without saying that the device failed. The account
furnished, however, is as follows:
The unsuccessful (but far from fruitless) search made to discover
the "philosopher's stone," and the "elixir vitæ," were productive
of most important and beneficial results in the kingdom of
chemistry; so, by a parity of consequence, I am disposed to
believe that from inquiry after the "perpetual motion" (though
equally unsuccessful), a similar good will result to the
mechanical world. * * I beg leave to offer the prefixed device.
The point at which, like all the rest, it fails, I confess I
did not (as I do now) plainly perceive at once, although it is
certainly very obvious. The original idea was this--to enable a
body which would float in a heavy medium and sink in a lighter
one, to pass successively through the one to the other, the
continuation of which would be the end in view. To say that
valves cannot be made to act as proposed will not be to show the
_rationale_ (if I may so say) upon which the idea is fallacious.
The figure is supposed to be tubular, and made of glass, for the
purpose of seeing the action of the balls inside, which float or
fall as they travel from air through water and from water through
air. The foot is supposed to be placed in water, but it would
answer the same purpose if the bottom were closed.
[Illustration]
DESCRIPTION OF THE ENGRAVING.--No. 1, the left leg, filled with
water from B to A. 2 and 3, valves, having in their centers very
small projecting valves; they all open upwards. 4, the right
leg, containing air from A to F. 5 and 6, valves, having very
small ones in their centers; they all open downwards. The whole
apparatus supposed to be air- and water-tight. The round figures
represent hollow balls, which will sink one-fourth of their bulk
in water (of course will fall in air); the weight, therefore, of
three balls resting upon one ball in water, as at E, will just
bring this top even with the water's edge; the weight of four
balls will sink it under the surface until the ball immediately
over it is one-fourth its bulk in water, when the under ball will
escape round the corner at C, and begin to ascend.
The machine is supposed (in the figure) to be in action, and
No. 8 (one of the balls) to have just escaped round the corner
at C, and to be, by its buoyancy, rising up to valve No. 3,
striking first the small projecting valve in the center, which,
when opened, the large one will be raised by the buoyancy of the
ball; because the moment the small valve in the center is opened
(although only the size of a pin's head), No. 2 valve will have
taken upon itself to sustain the whole column of water from A to
B. The said ball (No. 8) having passed through the valve No. 3,
will, by appropriate weights or springs, close; the ball will
proceed upwards to the next valve (No. 2), and perform the same
operation there. Having arrived at A, it will float upon the
surface three-fourths of its bulk out of water. Upon another
ball in due course arriving under it, it will be lifted quite
out of the water and fall over the point D, pass into the right
leg (containing air), and fall to valve No. 5, strike and open
the small valve in its center, then open the large one and pass
through; this valve will then, by appropriate weights or springs,
close, the ball will roll on through the bent tube (which is made
in that form to gain time as well as to exhibit motion) to the
next valve (No. 6), where it will perform the same operation,
and then, falling upon the four balls at E, force the bottom one
round the corner at C. This ball will proceed as did No. 8, and
the rest in the same manner successively.
Device by Compressible and Distensible Bags in Liquid
In the year 1823, an account of a Perpetual Motion device was sent
to "Mechanics' Magazine" by some correspondent. This appears to have
considerable claim to ingenuity, though the correspondent states that
"it failed from friction." The figure and account furnished are as
follows:
[Illustration]
A A A A is a cistern of water, filled as high as B B. C C C C C C
are six bladders, communicating by the tubes D D D D D D with
the hollow axle E, which axle is connected with the bellows F by
the pipe G. H is a crank connected with the crank I by the rod
K. L is a saucer-wheel, M a pinion, N its shaft. O is a crank
attached to the bellows F by the rod P. Q Q Q Q Q Q are valves
with a projecting lever. R and S are two projecting knobs. T
is a hole in the axle E, forming a communication with it and
the lowermost bladder. The axle B being put in motion carried
round the bladders and tables, and by the cranks H and I, and
the connecting-rod K, caused the wheel L to revolve, which
communicating a similar but accelerated motion to the pinion M,
shaft N, and crank O, worked or blew the bellows F by the rod P;
the air entered the axle E by the tube G, and passing through the
hole in it at T, entered the lower bladder C by the tube D; this
bladder being thus rendered lighter than the space it occupied,
ascended, bringing the bladder behind it over the hole in the
axle T in like manner, and which thereby gained an ascending
power, producing a similar effect on the one behind it. When one
of the bladders arrived at the knob S, the lever of the valve Q
struck against it and opened the valve; when the bladder arrived
at U and began to descend, its pressure on the water drove out
the air and gave it a descending power; the knob R then closed
the valve Q and prevented the entrance of any water into the
bladder; by this contrivance three of the bladders were full and
empty, according as they passed over the hole T or the knob S.
George Cunningham's Mercurial Pneumatic Device. Ireland. 1729
[Illustration]
Among the papers in the British Museum is one which purports to relate
to the Royal Society, and in that Royal Society volume it is number
32. It is quite amusing. The author explains that he is withholding
many precise details and measurements "such as workmen should follow in
making the engine. Intending no more here than the endeavor to satisfy
some others as well as myself, that there is really such a thing to be
found as that long-sought for Perpetual Motion, which is looked upon by
every one to be the true parent of the Longitude.--Description of the
Perpetual Motion":
A, a cup nearly full of mercury.
B, the height the mercury will rise by its own weight in--
K, the main pipe, when--
C, the lower cock is open.
E, a hollow globe which must be capable of a greater quantity
than the whole pipe K.
F, the upper cock by which the mercury is filled into the engine
and about 27 inches higher than the line B.
D, the middle cock which, when open, lets the mercury fall upon
the buckets of the wheel--
G, and then passing down--
I, a funnel which contracts itself at
L, into a pipe which directs the mercury into the cup A.
H, a case which entirely covers the wheel (being of the same
metal, and of a piece with the pipe), through which the axis
of the wheel passes to set another wheel agoing; so becom [ing]
the principal mover in the clock or engine to be contrived.
_The Manner of Setting It to Work_
Stop the cock at C and fill mercury into the cup A, higher than the
line B; then stop the cock at D and turn in mercury at the cock F,
till K and E are full; stop the cock at F, very close, open C, first,
and then D, out of which the mercury will fall upon the buckets of the
wheel G, down the funnel I, L, into the cup A, and be pressed up K, by
the weight of the air, as in the barometer.
Why the Devices Described in this Chapter Failed to Work
The devices explained in the preceding chapter are of such complicated
and ridiculous structure that it is impossible to explain anything from
them. It is better to abandon them all and to discuss in a general way
why Perpetual Motion has not been, and cannot be, attained by devices
constructed on similar plans. An examination of the preceding devices
in this chapter shows that they depended ultimately upon the fact:
1. That air or some other gas is to be compressed by work done upon it
and that upon expanding it will do a greater amount of work than was
required for the compression, or
2. That a bag empty, or partially filled with air, or other gas, can be
easily immersed, and that if blown full of gas while immersed it will,
in its tendency to float, do more work than was required to immerse it,
or
3. That the weight of the atmosphere and its consequent pressure upon
vacua can be utilized to drive a piston, or compress a bag and by
some sort of means at the same time produce another vacua ready for a
similar operation, the loss of the driven piston, or the compressed bag
being utilized to drive machinery, if desired.
It is now believed by all scientific men that none of these things are
possible. In the first place, it is well known that compressed air
will do exactly the same work in regaining its former volume that was
expended upon it to compress it, and this with absolute exactness.
In compressing the gas with a piston the force exerted upon the rod
to drive the piston must be sufficient not only to compress the gas
but also to overcome the friction of the tight fitting piston, and
further, if the pressure on the rod be removed, the expanding gas will
deliver against the face of the piston exactly the force and energy
required to drive the piston for the compression, but not all of this
can be returned to any machinery driven by the piston-rod, for a part
will be lost in the friction of the tight-fitting parts. Thus here, as
elsewhere, there is an exact equivalent of energy a part of which is
consumed in friction, and only a part available for returned motion.
The same thing is true in compressing a bag, except that possibly
the bending of the fabric is less resistance than the friction of
the tight-fitting piston. Still, the bending of the fabric is some
resistance, and consequently the bag so expanding cannot return all
the energy required for its compression, the difference being the loss,
however slight, in the bending of the fabric of which the bag is made.
Again, let us admit that a dilated bag is easily immersed in water,
and that if inflated with air there will be considerable tendency to
rise, but how much energy is required for the inflation? It is manifest
that if it is immersed the weight of the water and its consequent
pressure will resist the attempted inflation, and must be overcome
before the inflation is complete. The deeper the immersion the more the
compression, and consequently the more work required for the inflation.
If a bag having a contents of one cubic foot were immersed a mile in
fresh water, and if it should be attempted to inflate it, the reader
will perhaps be surprised to know that the inflation would have to be
done against a pressure of substantially 2,400 pounds to the square
inch. It is simple that the deeper the bag is immersed the more work
it will do in rising to the surface, but it is equally plain that the
deeper it is immersed the more energy is required for its inflation. In
each case the work of inflating is exactly equal to the work returned
in rising to the surface, and there is not one whit to spare for
running machinery of any kind.
The third classes of devices above mentioned assume atmospheric
pressure, and a piston driven by atmospheric pressure. This is easily
attained, but in order for atmospheric pressure to drive a piston it
must only be on one side of the piston, and when the piston has been
driven what force and energy will be required to put it in a position
again such that there will be atmosphere on only one side, and a vacuum
into which it can retire, on the other side? It is easily answered. The
same work must be done, and the same work exactly, to put the piston
again in the position with the vacuum with equal dimensions into which
it can be driven by atmospheric pressure, that first drove it to occupy
the vacuum--exactly the same work, and no less and no more, except that
the amount lost by friction must be supplied in addition.
CHAPTER V
MAGNETIC DEVICES
A Magnetic Pendulum
Here we present a device for Perpetual Motion by magnetism, but we are
unable to give the inventor's name or his nativity. It seems to have
been brought forth in the early part of the nineteenth century, prior
to 1828. The description is as follows:
Let A A, in the prefixed engraving, represent two magnets
revolving on axes. Let B represent a larger magnet, hanging on
an axis, pendulum fashion, between the two former. As the poles
of the two smaller magnets lie in the same direction, the effect
will be to draw the larger magnet towards that on the left hand,
while it is at the same time repelled by that on the right; but
while this is going on, the upper end of the large magnet raises
by means of a guide wire, the tumbler D, which, just before the
magnets come in contact, passes the perpendicular and falls over,
carrying with it the lever connected with the two wheels C C, and
causing them to perform a quarter revolution; these wheels are
connected by lines with two small wheels fixed on the axles of
the two magnets A A. While the former make a quarter revolution,
the latter turn half round; consequently, the position of the
magnets is reversed, and the same motions are then performed by
the pendulum magnet being attracted and repelled in the opposite
direction; and just before the magnets touch each other the
arrangement is again instantly reversed.
[Illustration]
Magnetic-Driven Wheel
Another plan for Perpetual Motion by magnetism appeared in the public
journals of England in 1828. The inventor states in effect that he
desires to get before the readers an
"Attempt at Perpetual Motion by Means of Magnetism, Applied in a New
Way."
His attempt as published is as follows:
The object of the present communication is to lay before your
readers an attempt at perpetual motion by means of magnetism
applied somewhat differently to any that has yet been published
in your Magazine.
[Illustration]
The above is a wheel of light construction, moving on friction
wheels _in vacuo_; the rim is furnished with slips of
steel--pieces of watch-spring will do. N N are two magnets,
which, attracting the rim of the wheel, will render one side
lighter and the other heavier, causing it to revolve _ad
infinitum_: or to render it more powerful, let the steel rims
be magnetized and fixed on the wheel with their north poles
towards its center. Let two more magnets be added, as shown by
the dotted lines: let these two, S S, be placed with their south
poles nearest the rim of the wheel; and the other two, N N, with
their north poles in that position. Now, as similar poles repel
and opposite poles attract, the wheel will be driven round by
attraction and repulsion acting conjointly on four points of its
circumference. B B are blocks of wood to keep off the attraction
of the magnets from that part of the wheel which has passed them.
Mackintosh's Experiment
F. S. Mackintosh, of England, in 1823, sought to accomplish Perpetual
Motion, and made the attempt here described. It was not made public
until 1836, when it was published in "Mechanics' Magazine." In the
meantime, the inventor had become convinced of the impossibility
of perpetual motion, as his comments on his own alleged invention
discloses.
(The classification in this book of Mackintosh's invention is somewhat
doubtful. The article as contributed in 1836 would as aptly be
classified under arguments against Perpetual Motion, Chapter XII. But,
in view of the fact that at the time of the invention the inventor
was seriously working at a scheme for the accomplishment of Perpetual
Motion, it has been decided to classify it under Magnetic Perpetual
Motion Devices.)
The published article was in the nature of a contribution from the
inventor, and is as follows:
I herewith forward you a description of a machine which was
constructed by me in the year 1823, with a view to produce a
perpetual motion. With this machine and the studies necessarily
connected with it, first originated the suspicion that the
planets could not continue in motion unless they gradually
approached the center of the attraction.
In the first place, let us describe the machine. Fig. 1: A is
a sectional view of the interior of the wheel, which is formed
in two halves upon one shaft; each half or section is furnished
with a projecting ledge and an opening is left between the two
ledges sufficiently wide to admit of a magnet being introduced
between them, by which arrangement the magnet may be brought as
near to the ball as may be necessary (see Fig. 2). B is a magnet
whose line of attraction acts at right angles with the line of
gravity. C is an iron ball under the action of two forces. The
magnet continually drawing the ball up the inclined plane within
the wheel, and gravity continually drawing it to the bottom,
by their united action it was supposed the wheel would revolve
forever, or till it was worn out; upon the same principle that a
wheel revolves by the animal force or muscular action of a mouse
or squirrel, which carries it up the inclined plane, whilst it is
continually drawn to the bottom by the action of gravity, thereby
causing the wheel to revolve by the weight of its body. The
model was taken from the earth's motion round the sun; and the
following process of reasoning seemed to justify the assumption
that the wheel would move on till it was worn out:
"The earth is carried round the sun by the action of two forces,
one of which is momentum, which is not, in reality, a force
or cause of motion, but an effect derived from an original
impulse; and that impulse or the momentum derived from it is
not destroyed, because there is no resistance to the moving
body--that is, there is no friction. Well, I cannot make this
machine without having resistance to the motion--that is,
friction; but to compensate for this I have two real forces, two
causes of motion, each of them capable of imparting momentum to
a body: they are both constant forces; and from one of them,
the magnet, I can obtain any power that may be required within
certain limits."
[Illustration]
This reasoning appeared conclusive, and the wheel was made; but
when the magnet was applied instead of the ball rolling up the
inclined plane, the wheel moved backwards upon its center. It
occurred to me that by placing a small ratchet upon the wheel,
as shown at D, this backward motion of the wheel on its center
might be prevented, in which case the ball must roll up the
inclined plane, and that a perpetual motion might then ensue;
but this ratchet I never tried, having about that time begun to
perceive that the idea of a perpetual mechanical motion, either
on the earth or in the heavens, involves an absurdity; and that,
therefore, the motions of the planets must necessarily carry them
continually nearer and nearer to the center of attraction.
The above described device by Mr. Mackintosh brought forth the
following comment from R. Munro, which was published in 1836:
The result of Mr. Mackintosh's essay at perpetual motion might
be attributed to the avoidable friction caused by the manner in
which the iron ball is placed in the wheel. Curious to try the
experiment, I proceeded, and, with the view of diminishing the
friction, I placed two wheels on the axis of the ball, but the
result was precisely that described by Mr. Mackintosh. I next
applied the ratchet, as suggested, but with no better effect; the
ball rolled towards the magnet, but did not give the required
motion to the wheel. It is not unlikely, then, that the present
ingenious attempt will not be realized.
Spence's Device
John Spence, of Linlithgow, Scotland, was a shoemaker, but possessed
great mechanical ingenuity. He could not keep his mind from the subject
of mechanics. He devoted a great deal of time to designing mechanical
schemes for Perpetual Motion. An account of his efforts is taken from
"Percy Anecdotes."
The device was exhibited in Edinburgh and amazing to state it attracted
the attention of one of the greatest and most original scientists that
ever lived, Sir David Brewster.
It is from a letter written by Brewster, in 1818, to the "Annales de
Chimie," that we get a description of the Spence invention. The editor
of "Annales de Chimie," was evidently reluctant to publish any article
concerning Perpetual Motion, and only the great fame of Sir David
induced him to give space to the contribution. The article was first
published in France, but it has, with an introductory statement by the
editor, been translated into English, as follows:
The reader will readily conclude that in publishing this article
we are influenced solely by the great reputation of the learned
contributor. Sir David writes from Edinburgh:
[Illustration]
I am almost afraid to inform you that at this moment in Edinburgh
may be seen a machine, made by a shoemaker at Linlithgow, which
realizes the perpetual motion. This effect is produced by two
magnets A and B, acting alternately upon a needle _m n_, of which
the point of attachment _n_ corresponds exactly with the axis
around which turns the movable lever C D. When the needle _m n_
has been attracted into the position _m´ n_ by the action of the
magnet B, and C D is in consequence found in C´ D´, a _substance_
connected with m n is interposed by mechanism between _m´ n_ and
B. This substance has the property of intercepting, or rather of
modifying the action of the magnet B, and this permits the other
magnet A to draw the needle into the position _m´´ n_; but no
sooner has it reached this point than a second plate or layer of
the same substance places itself before magnet, and immediately B
attracts anew the needle.
[Illustration]
The annexed figure exhibits a second form of the machine. A
and B are two horse-shoe magnets, _a_ and _b_ the _mysterious
substance_, and _m n_ the needle, which turns constantly with
great rapidity. Mr. Playfair and Capt. Kater have inspected
both of these machines, and are satisfied that they resolve the
problem of _perpetual motion_.
Joannis Theisneri's Semi-Circle
An account of this invention has been preserved by Gaspar Schott in a
work entitled "Thaumaturgus Physicus, sive Magiae Universalis Naturae
et Artis," published in 1859. It is illustrated by the following figure:
[Illustration]
The inventor expected the operation of his device to be as follows: "A"
is a large magnet, elevated on a short pillar at the foot of which is a
straight inclined tube, "C" "F" the ends of which are connected with a
curved or semicircular tube "C", "D", "E", "F", as shown in the figure.
The weight at the lower extremity is supposed to ascend through the
curved tube by the attraction of the magnet "A" and upon reaching the
point "C" the supposition was that upon passing the point "C" the
attraction of the magnet "A" would be sufficient to hold it there * *
* back to the point "F" through the straight tube, and then be drawn
by the magnet through the curved tube to the point "C" and so on
perpetually.
The impracticability of the above device is manifest. At a point
between "D" and "E" it is plain the ball would have to ascend
perpendicularly and if the magnet exerts sufficient attraction to
elevate the weight at that point it would surely hold the weight at the
point "C", for at "C" the weight would be much nearer the magnet and
consequently much more strongly attracted.
Device of Dr. Jacobus
In the same work by Gaspar Schott from which an account of the
preceding device is obtained he gives an account of the device of Dr.
Jacobus.
Dr. Jacobus's scheme is illustrated by the following figure:
[Illustration]
It will be observed that the above figure shows a string of iron
balls "A" suspended on a grooved wheel "E" on an axle "C" between two
uprights "FF". At "H" lies a large lodestone, which is to attract the
balls at "D" and was expected by the inventor to cause the wheel to
rotate.
CHAPTER VI
DEVICES UTILIZING CAPILLARY ATTRACTION AND PHYSICAL AFFINITY
Ludeke and Wilckens's Device
In 1864, Johann Ernst Friedrich Ludeke, of London, and Daniel Wilckens,
of Surrey, applied for British patent on "Improvements in Motive Power
by Capillary Attraction." They describe their invention as follows:
Our invention consists of improvements in motive power by
capillary attraction constructed as follows:
[Illustration]
Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings represents in horizontal
section a square case or cistern; this cistern is filled with
water nearly to the top, and two wheels marked _a_, _a_, and
_b_, _b_, are placed in the water in the cistern. By capillary
attraction the water rises between the two wheels marked _x_,
_x_, to a height above the level of the water in proportion to
the distance of the wheels from each other at _x_, _x_. As the
water rises between the wheels marked _x_, _x_, above its level,
the weight of water between the wheels at _x_, _x_, will cause
the wheels to continually revolve.
Figure 2 represents the same as Figure 1, but in a vertical
section. The said power may be obtained by wheels moved on axis,
or by other apparatus by rise and fall in the water by vertical
motion.
The Jurin Device
The device which we have designated "The Jurin Device," was not, in
fact, invented by Jurin. James Jurin furnished an account of the
invention to The Royal Society of London, and it appears in the reports
of that society published in 1720. The invention was by a friend of
Jurin's whose name he does not give in the account.
Jurin's account of his friend's invention is as follows:
Some days ago a method was proposed to me by an ingenious friend
for making a perpetual motion, which seemed so plausible, and
indeed so easily demonstrable from an observation of the late Mr.
Hawksbee, said to be grounded upon experiment, that though I am
far from having any opinion of attempts of this nature, yet, I
confess, I could not see why it should not succeed. Upon trial
indeed I found myself disappointed. But as searches after things
impossible in themselves are frequently observed to produce other
discoveries, unexpected by the Inventor; so this Proposal has
given occasion not only to rectify some mistakes into which we
had been led, by that ingenious and useful member of the Royal
Society above named, but likewise to detect the real principle,
by which water is raised and suspended in capillary tubes, above
the level.
My friend's proposal was as follows:
Fig. 1. Let A B C be a capillary siphon, composed of two legs
A B, B C, unequal both in length and diameter; whose longer and
narrower leg A B having its orifice A immersed in water, the
water will rise above the level, till it fills the whole tube
A B, and will then continue suspended. If the wider and shorter
leg B C, be in like manner immersed, the water will only rise to
same height as F C, less than the entire height of the tube B C.
This siphon being filled with water and the orifice A sunk below
the surface of the water D E, my friend reasons thus:
Since the two columns of water A B and F C, by the supposition,
will be suspended by some power acting within the tubes they are
contained in, they cannot determine the water to move one way, or
the other. But the column B F, having nothing to support it, must
descend, and cause the water to run out at C. Then the pressure
of the atmosphere driving the water upward through the orifice A,
to supply the vacuity, which would otherwise be left in the upper
part of the tube B C, this must necessarily produce a perpetual
motion, since the water runs into the same vessel, out of which
it rises. But the fallacy of this reasoning appears upon making
the experiment.
[Illustration]
Exp. 1. For the water, instead of running out at the orifice C
rises upwards towards F, and running all out of the leg B C,
remains suspended in the other leg to the height A B.
Exp. 2. The same thing succeeds upon taking the siphon out of
the water, into which its lower orifice A had been immersed, the
water then falling in drops out of the orifice A, and standing
at last at the height A B. But in making these two experiments
it is necessary that A G the difference of the legs exceed F C,
otherwise the water will not run either way.
Exp. 3. Upon inverting the siphon full of water, it continues
without motion either way.
The reason of all which will plainly appear, when we come to
discover the principle, by which the water is suspended in
capillary tubes.
Mr. Hawksbee's observation is as follows:
Fig. 2. Let A B F C be a capillary siphon, into which the water
will rise above the level to the height C F, and let B A be the
depth of the orifice of its longer leg below the surface of the
water D E. Then the siphon being filled with water, if B A be
not greater than C F, the water will not run out at A, but will
remain suspended.
This seems indeed very plausible at first sight. For since the
column of water F C will be suspended by some power within the
tube, why should not the column B A, being equal to, or less
than the former, continue suspended by the same power.
Exp. 4. In fact, if the orifice C be lifted up out of the water
D E, the water in the tube will continue suspended, unless B A
exceed F C.
Exp. 5. But when C is never so little immersed in the water
immediately the water in the tube runs out in drops at the
orifice A, though the length A B be considerably less than the
height C F.
Mr. Hawksbee, in his book of Experiments, has advanced another
observation, namely, that the shorter leg of a capillary siphon,
as A B F C, must be immersed in the water to the depth F C, which
is equal to the height of the column, that would be suspended in
it, before the water will run out of the longer leg.
Exp. 6. From what mistake this has proceeded, I cannot imagine;
for the water runs out at the longer leg, as soon as the orifice
of the shorter leg comes to touch the surface of the stagnant
water, without being at all immersed therein.
Jurin's attitude concerning his friend's discovery is pleasing. He
appears to have had better judgment than to rush into print, or herald
forth that Perpetual Motion had been accomplished. Indeed, the account
as given to the Royal Society was that of an experiment and a failure.
Nevertheless, it presents an interesting point. Capillary Attraction,
however, creates no new energy. Adhesion is a force, and is often
quite a strong force in nature.
If a rod or tube be held by the hand at one end, and the other end
inserted in a liquid, it will be observed that in some instances,
depending upon the nature of the material of the rod or tube, and the
liquid, at the point of contact the liquid will slightly rise in the
tube and on the outside edges of the tube. In other instances it will
be depressed slightly at the same point. Whether it will be elevated or
depressed depends on whether the adhesion of the liquid to the material
of which the tube or rod is composed is greater than the cohesion of
the particles of the liquid.
If there be a depression it is manifest that the entire surface of the
liquid will be slightly elevated by reason of the depression. On the
contrary, if the liquid adheres to and creeps slightly upward on the
tube or rod, then it is manifest that the surface of the liquid will
come to rest slightly lower than though it did not so creep.
The net result finally gets back to the principle of flotation. The
immersion or insertion is a little more difficult in the case of
depression, and a little easier in the case of elevation. There is no
gain or loss of energy. It simply increases in one case, and diminishes
in the other case the amount of displacement, with all the resulting
mechanical phenomena.
Sir William Congreve
As stated in the preface of this work, pursuit of Perpetual Motion has
by no means been confined to mechanics and tradesmen. Many men eminent,
and even famous in professions, art and science have devoted much time
and thought to the subject. Among such eminent men is to be mentioned
Sir William Congreve, of England, a baronet. He was born 1772, and
died in 1828. He was an artillerist and an inventor, and was a son
of Lieutenant General Sir William Congreve; was distinguished as a
military man, as a member of parliament, and as a business man; was an
inventor of note, having invented a war rocket, a gun-recoil mounting,
a time-fuse, a parachute attachment for rockets, a hydro-pneumatic
canal lock sluice, a process for color painting, a new form of steam
engine, a method of consuming smoke, a clock which measured time
by a ball rolling down an inclined plane, besides other inventions
and discoveries. He published a large number of works on scientific
subjects.
It is not, therefore, surprising that whatever Sir William Congreve
said or did concerning any scientific or mechanical subject should have
attracted general attention.
He devised and made a Perpetual Motion Machine, which, like all others,
failed to work. We submit that his plan is peculiarly ingenious,
and we fail to see how, without a knowledge of the principles of
Conservation of Energy, the Congreve idea should not have appealed to
any one as reasonable, and its failure puzzling.
An account of the Congreve device and an explanation of his ideas
appeared in "The Atlas" in 1827, and the following description is taken
from the article appearing in "The Atlas":
The celebrated Boyle entertained an idea that perpetual motion
might be obtained by means of capillary attraction; and, indeed,
there seems but little doubt that nature has employed this force
in many instances to produce this effect.
There are many situations in which there is every reason to
believe that the sources of springs on the tops and sides of
mountains depend on the accumulation of water created at certain
elevations by the operation of capillary attraction, acting in
large masses of porous material, or through laminated substances.
These masses being saturated, in process of time become the
sources of springs and the heads of rivers; and thus, by an
endless round of ascending and descending waters, form, on the
great scale of nature, an incessant cause of perpetual motion, in
the purest acceptance of the term, and precisely on the principle
that was contemplated by Boyle. It is probable, however, that any
imitation of this process on the limited scale practicable by
human art would not be of sufficient magnitude to be effective.
Nature, by the immensity of her operations, is able to allow for
a slowness of process which would baffle the attempts of man in
any direct and simple imitation of her works. Working, therefore,
upon the same causes, he finds himself obliged to take a more
complicated mode to produce the same effect.
To amuse the hours of a long confinement from illness, Sir
William Congreve has recently contrived a scheme of perpetual
motion, founded on this principle of capillary attraction, which,
it is apprehended, will not be subject to the general refutation
applicable to those plans in which the power is supposed to be
derived from gravity only. Sir William's perpetual motion is as
follows:
[Illustration]
Let A B C be three horizontal rollers fixed in a frame; _a a a_,
etc., is an endless band of sponge, running round these rollers;
and _b b b_, etc., is an endless chain of weights, surrounding
the band of sponge, and attached to it, so that they must move
together; every part of this band and chain being so accurately
uniform in weight that the perpendicular side A B will, in all
positions of the band and chain, be in equilibrium with the
hypothenuse A C, on the principle of the inclined plane. Now, if
the frame in which these rollers are fixed be placed in a cistern
of water
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