GB523242A - Improvements relating to signal actuating mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

523,242. Multiple switches. LINK, E. A. March 15, 1939, No. 8337. Convention date, March 15, 1938. [Class 38 (v)] [Also in Group XL] A signal acuating mechanism for use in apparatus for training pilots comprises a number of independently rotatable concentric members, one of which is axially slidable relative to the others, all sliding and rotary movements being effected by one hand and all actuating separate signals. A panel 12 carries a support 11 and a bush 13 through which pass three concentric tubes 31, 36, 42 and 'a shaft 14 all capable of independent rotation. The shaft 14 has a handle 27, and tube 42 has a handle 43 which partially embrace knurled finger pieces 32, 37 on tubes 31, 36 respectively. The three tubes must therefore slide together, and through members 53 and 55, rotate a shaft 56 to operate flight signal control contacts 57. The three tubes 31, 36, 42, when rotated, control the moving contacts 34, 39, 45 respectively of volume control rheostat 35 in marker beacon circuits, of rheostat 40 in the beam signal circuit, and of a rheostat 46 which controls the " left or right " indication of the beam signal. Separate axial sliding of the shaft 14 against a contact spring 20 opens contacts 28, 29 in the beam circuit and closes contacts 28, 29 in a telephone circuit, while rotation of the shaft 14 against a contact spring 18 in one direction closes left-hand contacts 23, 24 and in the other direction closes righthand contacts 23, 24, thus operating inner and outer marker beacon circuits respectively. A pointer on handle 43 co-operates with a dial 47 on the panel 12, and handle 27 co-operates with markings on the handle 43. With this switch an instructor seated either in an aeroplane or at the desk of a link trainer can control signals to be observed by a pupil in the aeroplane.