GB138848A - Improvements in or relating to devices for determining the speed of flowing water - Google Patents

Abstract

138,848. Paulin, J. G. Feb. 13, 1919, [Convention date]. Pitot-tube apparatus.-The speed of water currents is ascertained by means of a Pitot - tube arranged in an anchored buoy and combined with a differential manometer, the indications of which are recorded or signalled. In order to determine the direction of the currents, the buoy may be anchored so that it is unable to rotate, the Pitot-tube being arranged so that it is turned by the current, and means for signalling its position relatively to the buoy being provided. In another form, the Pitot-tube is slowly rotated, and the current speeds at various tube positions are signalled. In further modifications, two Pitot-tubes each connected to a manometer are provided, together with means for successively measuring current speeds in two directions at right-angles; or one manometer mav be brought into communication with different Pitot-tubes or different pressure openings in the same tube in succession. In the form illustrated, the tubes 2, 3, Fig. 1, manometer chambers 4, 5, and an indicator 6 are rotatably mounted on a pin 1 inside the buoy 13 and provided with one or more magnets' A. The buoy and manometer are provided with cocks, through which accumulated air may be periodically let off. In order to signal the readings of the indicator 6, clockwork mechanism is provided which causes the indicator nointer to be pressed periodically against one of a series of contacts, thus completing a circuit to give a luminous, sound, or wireless signal, or two or more of these. The clockwork may also be arranged so that, after the current speed has been signalled as regards the North-South direction, an electro-magnet is operated to rotate the tubes into the East-West position, so that the corresponding current speed can be signalled.