GB148309A - Apparatus for supporting the rotor of a vertical gyroscope when the gyroscope is not in use - Google Patents

Abstract

148,309. Krupp Akt.-Ges., F. Nov. 18, 1915, [Convention date]. Gyroscopic apparatus is provided with means for supporting the rotor when not in use so as to take the load off the bearings. The rotor A is carried by the vertical shaft C within a casing B which is mounted in gimbals in an outer casing E. At its lower end the casing B has a cylindrical extension around which is a sleeve F capable of movement against a spring G. The sleeve F has four lugs f<1> passing through apertures in the casing B and faced with leather &c. f<2>. The sleeve is prevented from moving downwards by stops b<2> secured to the casing, and is held in its normal position by right-angled pawls H<2> pivoted to the sleeve and engaging with shoulders b<1>. The operating-device carried by the casing E comprises a plunger J having a collar i<1> and surrounded by a sleeve K, within which is a sleeve Q abutting against the collar i' and capable of sliding against a spring P. The sleeve K has rack teeth k<1> gearing with a pinion M operable by a lever M<1>. To stop and support the rotor A the lever M<1> is turned downwards, causing the plunger J to enter the bore b<3> and the sleeve Q to turn the pawls H<2> and release the sleeve F, which is then pushed upwards by the sleeve K. The surfaces f<2> are thus pressed against the rotor and bring it to rest. When the lever M<1> is pressed into its lowermost position, the force exerted by the spring P is sufficient to support the whole weight of the rotor and thus relieve the bearings of pressure.