US2201162A - Electrical communication system - Google Patents

Electrical communication system Download PDF

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US2201162A
US2201162A US82494A US8249436A US2201162A US 2201162 A US2201162 A US 2201162A US 82494 A US82494 A US 82494A US 8249436 A US8249436 A US 8249436A US 2201162 A US2201162 A US 2201162A
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relay
relays
contacts
tuning
circuit
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Harold F Elliott
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C23/00—Clocks with attached or built-in means operating any device at preselected times or after preselected time-intervals

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  • Each of the selected channels may be pretuned for optimum results commensurate with the prevailing conditions.
  • a distant station may have sharp tuning for selectivity while a nearby station may have broad band-pass tuning for improved quality.
  • the various channels may be adapted to varied purposes, for example; there may be provided several channels for reception over wires, several others for long wave radio, others for short wave radio, television or facsimile. Other settings may provide for the operation of household appliances, lighting the furnace, ringing a bell, turning on a percolater or regulating an even by a schedule. possibilities can best be grasped by referring to the attached drawings showing several preferred forms and illustrative examples of applications.
  • Figure 1 shows in outline the circuits of an electrical communication receiving set embodying the methods, apparatus and principles of my inventions;
  • Figures 2 and 3 show an elevation, and details of the receiver of Fig. 1;
  • Fig- The many advantages and 1936, Serial No. 82,494
  • ures 4 and 5 show an alternative arrangement of details;
  • Figure 6 shows a partial view and certain' details of another receiver suitable for use with my system;
  • Figures 7-12 inclusive show partial sections and elevation of the same;
  • Figures l3 and 14 show partial assemblies and sections of still another receiver.
  • Figs. 15-19 show modifications of the system shown in Fig. 1.
  • Radio and wire line receiving circuits may be applied to any of these assemblies and the type of circuit may be any suitable to the purpose. Examples of circuits involving both superheterodyne and tuned radio frequency methods for radio, wire line, voice or other reception are illustrated in the circuit diagrams of which Figure 1 shows a tuned radio frequency receiving circuit embodying the principles and methods of my inventions, and Fig. 15 which, for lack of space, is continued in Fig. 16, shows circuits combining the two so that the advantages of each are obtained.
  • Figure l and Figure 17 show two relay control circuits utilizing two methods of control;
  • Figure 18 shows an application of my system to a receiver having motor operated controls;
  • Figure 19 illustrates a timing and control system having several stations.
  • Figure 1 wherein is shown, in diagrammatic form, the controls and circuits of a radio receiver embodying my system and utilizing the multiple function control clock described in my copending application Serial No. 82,495 filed May 29, 1936, to which reference is made for constructional details thereof.
  • This is one of the important fields of application of this clock and has been chosen here as an example to illustrate one method of its use.
  • the system of Figure 1 comprises a radio receiver having a relay controlled channel selecting system arranged for automatic operation under clock control and also for manual operation under push button control.
  • Numerals l to II inclusive indicate diagrammatically a plurality of station or channel busses, while one of a plurality of time busses is indicated by numeral I2.
  • busses of each set are preferably parallel, and one set is perpendicular to the other, but without direct contact, thus giving the crisscross appearance of the busses of the two sets.
  • Interconnection between any one bus of one set with any one bus of the other set may be accomplished by an interconnector such as is indicated at l3.
  • interconnectors there are busses in one set, that is, the
  • Member ll may be moved longitudinally of itself by means of time dial l4 and member it and thus projection 13 upon member i! may be brought opposite any one of the interconnectors, or, conversely said member may be longitudinally stationary and the bank or set of time busses may be moved laterally to obtain the relative positioning with any one bus opposite the projection.
  • projection 58 is poysitioned opposite the selected interconnector, member it is moved transversely of itself and Iongitudinally of the set of time busses, sliding interconnect-or l3 down to the desired cross bus of the other set such as station bus 3 illustrated.
  • member M is a time index dial which serves through control means [9 to move projection it; to a selected time bus.
  • the finger index dial l5 then serves by clockwise rotation to move the interconnector, as l3, associated with that time bus to a Selected station bus, as 3.
  • Member 2t actuated through mem her it by counterclockwise rotation of dial l5 serves to return all interconnectors to neutral bus l i.
  • time dial i4 preferably takes the form of a rotatable ring having ninetynotches, one for each quarter hour of the twenty-four hours of a day.
  • This ring is preferably indexed or graduated in quarter hour intervals.
  • Member i! is preferably a ring of insulating material having a projection I8 arranged to engage any individual interconnector, as [3. Rotation of dial it rotates ring ll through the medium of a pin or other linkage l9, thus bringing projection it opposite any selected interconnector. When projection l8 has been positioned opposite the interconnector corresponding to the selected quarter hour, this interconnector may then be moved to the desired station bus, as by rotation of dial l5.
  • the time busses, as 22, preferably take the form of a series of rods arranged in cylindrical formation around the axis of dials i l and 15, parallel with this axis, while the station busses, l to H, preferably take the form of a set of conducting rings concentric with the same axis, which is also the axis of ring ll.
  • Member is preferably a second insulating ring having the same axis, and arranged so that reverse rotation of dial I5 causes linkage IE to move ring 20 along its axis, engaging all interconnectors and returning all to neutral bus I l.
  • the receiver shown in Figure 1 is of the tuned radio frequency type, having two radio frequency amplifier stages 2! and succeeded by a governor 2324, a compensator and volume control stage 25, a demodulator 25, an audio frequency amplifier 2'1 with phase .reverser 2B and feeding power output tubes 29 and 3E).
  • the input to the first stage 2! includes an input transformer 3
  • the input circuits of stages 22, and demodulator 26 are similarly arranged with adjustable capacitors and relay contacts, identified by similar reference numerals but with the addition of exponents.
  • Relay contacts 36 and the corresponding contacts identified by numeral 36 with exponents in succeeding stages are closed in unison by a relay armature, shown at 38, through the medium of a common control member 38A (indicated by dotted line in Figure 1). Once closed, the associated group of contacts are held closed by a latch, or interlock 39. Suitable mechanism for these parts will be described more in detail in several forms hereinafter.
  • a trip mechanism, indicated at i-i opens previously latched relays whenever a shift is made from one channel to another and also whenever an off signal is given by the clock or by the push buttons which are indicated at 4
  • the relay contacts associated with channel 2 are shown closed, tuning all circuits for this channel.
  • Channel I is indicated as a variable channel whose tuning may be changed to receive a range of radio stations by turning dial e2.
  • Channels 2, 3, et sequel through 9, illustrate channels having tuning means which are pre-adjusted and then left fixed for the reception of definite stations. Additional channels are omitted for sake of simplicity in the circuit diagram, but may be similar to those shown or take other suitable form.
  • the relays may be arranged in a great variety of ways to serve many purposes. For example, one variable and three fixed channels may be provided for reception of radio broadcast programs, three other channels may be provided for reception of programs over wire lines at audio or carrier frequency, another may provide for television, another for facsimile or news service and so on for as many channels as desired to include in the apparatus. Each channel may have the construction and response characteristics best suited to the purpose thereof.
  • the relays may also be used to control the household furnace, range or other appliances.
  • control impulses which operate the various relays are of short duration and are routed from source through bus 48, clock contact arms 46 and 47 to the time busses, as 52, thence through the interconnectors, as 13, to the station bus, as 3, contacted by said interconnector, thence to the relay operating coils, as l3, and trip coil 44 back to the source of control current 4'5.
  • This source is indicated at as comprising a step down transformer, copper oxide rectifier and storage capacitor.
  • the relays may also be operated manually by the push buttons indicated at 4
  • contact arm 46 is driven with the minute hand of the clock and makes a contact of brief duration at 15 minute intervals with bus 48. Arm 4'!
  • the interconnectors may be set for any desired schedule of programs, or other functions by use of the time index and station dials shown schematically at I i and E to which reference has been made. As described in detail in my copending application it is only necessary to set time index is at the desired quarter hour and then to dial the desired station on dial ii: in order to make the interconnection necessary to bring in that station at that time. With a 24 hour clock and 96 time busses arranged at quar ter hour intervals, a change of programs may be had every 15 minutes if desired. In the arrangement of busses shown in Figure 1, station bus I, is an off bus and serves to energize the trip coil 44 whenever it is desired to turn the receiver off either by the clock or by the push buttons.
  • Rheostats for volume and tone control are shown at 49 and 5B.
  • Signal lamps, as indicated at 53, may be included to show which channel is in operation if desired.
  • Interlock contacts 54'. may be operated in conjunction with the power relay for opening the circuit of the off bus, i, if desired. This refinement prevents the trip relay 4t from clicking in case the clock passes off impulses when the set has already been turned off.
  • a further refinement which may be desirable in some cases comprises a set of interlock contacts introduced in series with the relay closing coils, such as 43, as indicated by crosses, as at 55. As described hereinafter in connection with Figures 2 and 7 these contacts are preferably arranged to open after the associated relay has been latched closed, thereby opening the operating circuit of that relay. This refinement prevents the relay drawing current or clicking after it has been closed.
  • a set of interlock contacts as indicated at 56. These contacts cause the automatic gain control bus to receive a negative charge from rectifier 57 whenever any of the relays are in process of opening or closing. The gain of stages 2
  • the construction of fading relay contacts, as 56 is such that a circuit is momentarily closed from bus 56A to 56B whenever any of the channel selecting relays is in the process of opening or closing.
  • the use of relays operated by impulses of short duration and held by mechanical interlocks has several advantages.
  • the clock and push button controls may be connected directly in parallel without interference and the relay coils may be designed for intermittent service. Additional control units as described in connection with Fig. 19 may readily be provided if desired.
  • the receiver here illustrated includes a plurality of shield cans as 58 housing electrical circuit tuning apparatus, a plurality of switches of which 59, 60, BI and 62 are examples, a plurality of relay mechanisms for operating the switches of which 63, 64 and 65 are examples.
  • a suitable base plate, electronic tubes, transformers, capacitors, inductors and the like are of course provided but will not be enumerated in detail here for the sake of simplicity.
  • the arrangement of tubes, tuning apparatus, switches and relays is such that each amplifier stage may be connected with any one ofa plurality of circuit tuning elements by the action of the relays.
  • the relays are in turn arranged so that the operation of any one relay brings into action a coordinated set of circuit elements specifically adapted to the purpose to which the relay is devoted, as for example an entertainment program via a wire line, or via radio, or a television program via short wave radio.
  • each relay comprises a rotary shaft, as 66, carrying rotary switches as 67 and 68, operated by electromagnets such as are shown at 69 and armatures such as and H.
  • the armature is shown in open position at 10 and in closed position at H, being held closed by latch 12.
  • Each amplifier stage may be provided with one or more busses as 13, through which connections may be made to the tuning elements associated with that stage, via the switches.
  • the busses and switches for each stage may be grouped in suitable shielded compartments as indicated at 13A.
  • the shaft of each relay, as 86 may carry as many sets of contacts as required to perform the switching operations necessary to connect and tune the channel associated with that relay.
  • the contacts may be constructed in a great variety of ways depending upon the service to be performed, production methods, etc.
  • the arrangements shown at 59 and 60 provide double break connections from the bus 13 to the tuning elements such as are shown in shield 58.
  • the switches, busses and tuning elements are thus completely isolated when the switches are open, avoiding capacity effects and interactions between circuits.
  • a switch such as is shown at 62 may be used where a single break with nominal stray capacity coupling is satisfactory.
  • provides for momentary connections between busses 83 and 84 in the fader circuit discussed further below.
  • the relay arrangement shown in Figure 2 includes a mechanical interlocking system which provides for holding the relays closed after they have been set by electrical impulses of short duration, When the operating coils of any relay are energized the switches attached to that relay are closed and locked and all other relays are opened automatically. This is arranged by providing each relay with a latch, as illustrated at I2 for relay 64 which is shown closed, and at 2B for relay 65 which is shown open. Release relay l4 is mechanically connected with the latches of all relays through release bar 1.
  • a trip mechanism 16 interconnects release relay M and release bar 15 in such a way that an impulse to relay 14 moves the bar E5 to the left thereby tripping all relay latches and then immediately permits bar 15 to return to its original position.
  • the release relay M comprises two electromagnets 14A and MB and an armature MC which pivoted to rotate on pin MD.
  • a trip arm ME is attached to the armature and rotates with it about pin MD as an axis.
  • Spring MP holds the rotating elements in the position illustrated against the stop MG when the magnets are not energized.
  • electromagnets MA and MB armature 74C rotates clock-- wise, carrying with it trip arm ME.
  • the outer end of the trip arm ME engages with latch to which is attached to the bar it: through the pivot 76A. Bar '15 is pulled to the left, as viewed in Fig. 2, by the rotation of the trip arm ME about the pivot MD.
  • the outer end of the trip arm 14E swings in an arc about the pivot W-D as shown by the dotted line H. Due to this curvature, after a few degrees of rotation. the outer tip of arm ME. slides from the outer tip of latch 16 to disengage the two members. Spring i lii then pulls bar 15 to the right against the stop 15A. Bar 15 may slide in grooves or may be suspended on rotatable arms as 153. When the magnets MA and MB are tie-energized, spring 14F pulls trip arm 14E back to the position illustrated in Fig. 2. Latch arm I5 which is pivoted to bar 15 at 16A is pushed out of the way by the tip of arm ME as it passes.
  • the circuit tuning elements may be of any type suitable to the function to be performed.
  • each tube may have a single tuning inductor and a plurality of adjustable tuning capacitors which may be connected successivetively to the inductor by the relays for tuning in various channels or stations. This is the arrangement indicated in Figure 1.
  • a plurality of tunable circuits, each cornplete in itself, may be provided.
  • the circuits pair of circuits embodying features disclosed and claimed therein is illustrated in the present disclosure as the circuit tuning means within the shield cans at 58 in Figure 2.
  • Inductors ll and 18 are movable relative to one another and relative to damping ring 79 by means of knob 80.
  • Each inductor has its adjustable tuning capacitor illustrated at ill and 82.
  • band pass action may be obtained in any set of circuits by staggering the tuning of the element comprising the amplifier stages thereof, introducing damping if required by use or" either fixed or variable resistors, either in series or in shunt with tuning elements. Examples of this are discussed further in connection with the circuit diagrams, Figures 16 and 15.
  • a switch suitable for operating the fading" or biasing arrangement indicated at in Figure 1 is shown at 6! in Figure 2.
  • Busses 8 3 and 34 ( Figure 2) are momentarily connected together whenever the shaft is rotated either to open or close the switches thereon. This accomplished by proportioning the switch elements; so that switch contact (HA (Fig. 2) closes before contact 3513 opens, and vice versa,
  • Figure 3 shows a cut away plan view of the switches of the type described in connection with Figure 2, like numerals of reference indicating like parts.
  • FIGS 4 and 5 show an alternative arm-agement for switches and tuning apparatus adapted for use with circuits and relays of the type shown in Figures 1 and 2.
  • oi switches in closed and open position ar shown at and Each switch has its associated.
  • adjustable tuning capacitors illustrated at iii and 853.
  • a flexible bus as 89 connects each group of switches with its associated inductor system, outlined at 93 anal corresponding amplifier tube, as illustrated.
  • Suitable shielded compartments, as 9! and 212 are provided for the busses and tu ing elements asso ciated with. each amplifier
  • associated tuning elements, as capacitors 8i and 88 may be assembled in groups on a suitable base, as 93.
  • the stud carrying th adjusting nut of the capacitor may extend to form one of the switch, as shown at 94, (see Figure 5).
  • Each relay may be provided with switches for energizing the power supply system of the receiver either directly or through a power relay, as indicated at in Figure 1.
  • Each relay may also carry a switch or switches for cutting oil the speakers, or for reducing the output or gain during switching operations in order to avoid objectionable noises or other disturbances due to switching.
  • An example of one suitable form of switch for purpose shown at 95 which is proper-tic ed so that contacts 95A close before contacts open, and vice versa, thus energizing a fading" or closing circuit as illustrated at :35 in Figure 1.
  • interlock contacts associated with the latches may be used. Such contacts are useful when the clock or push button mechanism is such that the control circuit is continually energized. Such contacts may also be inserted in series in the control circuit as indicated at in Figure 1 to avoid clicking when an impulse is sent to a relay already closed.
  • the tuning elements and relays of a radio receiver especially well suited to circuits of the type discussed in connection with Figures 1, l5 and 16 are shown in Figure 6 and associated partial elevational and sectional views '7 to 12 inclusive.
  • Numerals 98 and 99 ( Figure 6) indicate two of a plurality of relays which are used for making the connections necessary to tune the receiver for various channels or stations.
  • Four banks of adjustable tuning capacitors are indicated at Hill to I03 inclusive.
  • Each relay as 99 comprises an electromagnet, as shown at M Figure '7, and an armature, I05, which serve to operate a plurality of contacts through the medium of an insulating tie bar, see I96 in Figure '7.
  • This figure is a section along line l-l of Figure 6 taken so as to show in elevation the operating mechanism and contacts of relay 99, which is shown here in closed position.
  • Four sets of contacts, till, I08, I09 and H8 are provided for connecting into tuned circuits the tuning capacitors as Iflll, Ilil, Hi2 and IE3, associated with the channel or station assigned to this particular relay.
  • the trans formers of the amplifier stages whose circuits are thus tuned may be housed in suitable shields as indicated at i I l, Figure 6, and a bank of amplifier tubes may be placed adjacent thereto as indicated at H2.
  • the switches and capacitors associated with each stage may be housed in a shielded compartment as indicated at H3, Figures 6 and 7.
  • a stationary insulating bar i M may be provided for holding the stationary contacts in the required positions, cooperating with the insulated tie rod, Hi6, Figures 6 and 7, which serves for actuating the moving contacts of the several switches. Further details of these contacts, rods. and bars are shown in Figure 12 representing a perspective view of contacts H0 and associated tie rod I96 and bar IM.
  • Each switch as Hll, (Figs. 6, 7, and 12), comprises two spring leaves as l MA and HllB which carry contacts as Hill) and IHJD.
  • Spring leaf HilA is dovetailed into the insulating tie rod H36 as illustrated at i ME in Fig, 12. Spring leaf HlA therefore moves with rod I86 whenever the latter is actuated by armature 195 (Fig. 7).
  • Armature I H5 is pivoted at HlliA. Energization of the electromagnet Iil l attracts armature N35 to the magnet and shifts the bar M5 to the left as shown in Fig. 7.
  • spring leaf N63 is provided with a projection 5 ml" which engages with a fixed stop H413. This stop is formed by a notch IHIA in the stationary insulating bar H4 (Fig. 12).
  • Leaf HiiB is free to move to the left when leaf 1 WA moves to the left for bringing contacts I WC and HOD into closed position.
  • leaf IIDA moves to the right, the motion of leaf HUB is limited by the projection BIDF engaging the stop II IB.
  • the notch IHIA thus positions leaf H813 so that motion of the tie bar I586 may open and close contacts H00 and HOD.
  • the pressure applied to the contacts is determined by the tension of the spring leaf KB, and this pressure is applied to the contacts the moment they are closed, being approximately the same as the pressure exerted by spring leaf HilB against stop (MB.
  • the notched bar HA therefore serves to determine the position of its associated spring leaves as HUB, and the construction permits definite contact pressures to be maintained as well as definite positions.
  • the construction also permits the moving switch elements as spring leaf HOA to serve as the spring for actuating armature m5 pulling it away from the magnet Hi4 when ole-energized.
  • the dovetail and notch construction of insulating bars Its and I! permits the use of low cost stampiugs and this construction likewise facilitates the assembly of the multiple switch parts.
  • each relay may carry as many auxiliary switches as needed.
  • a three element auxiliary switch H5 is provided for operating the biasing circuits which provide for fading to give quiet operation during the shift from one channel to another as discussed in connection with switch 56, Figure l.
  • a second auxiliary switch H6 serves to energize the power supply contactor, and light a signal lamp if desired, as shown at 5!, 52 and iii! in Figure l.
  • a third set of auxiliary contacts indicated at i i! may be arranged to function in cooperation with the latch H8, Figure 6, providing means for opening the control circuit of the relay after it is latched closed, as indicated at 55, Figure 1, when such an arrangement is considered desirable.
  • Other arrangements of contacts for other purposes may, of course, be provided as required. It will be evident that the construction shown provides great flexibility in the switching airrangements which may be carried out. A great variety of contact opening and closing arrangements, with or without intervening may be assembled along the lines indicated.
  • Relays which are to be held closed after receiving a closing impulse may be provided with latches as illustrated at H8, Figures 6, '7 and 8.
  • the latter shows also the trip mechanism com,- prising electromagnet I26, armature I2! and linkage 122 interconnecting the armature m and trip bar H9.
  • Linkage $22 may take a variety of forms. As shown in Figure 9 it comprises a link and bell crank so arranged that bar H8 is momentarily lifted to trip the latches whenever the trip coil I20 is energized. Bar H9 is then allowed to drop again even though the relay is still energized. This permits any relay receiving an impulse to be closed and latched, while previously closed relays are released.
  • Figures 10 and 11 indicate arrangements wherw by, contacts, as I23, for handling power circuits may be applied to the relays. If certain of the relays are to perform household functions such as lighting the furnace or operating an appliance, such construction may also be applied thereto. Such power contacts may be used also with any of the tuning relays to close the power circuit in place of using a separate contactor therefor. This construction may be used also to make a power circuit contactor from standard relay parts. Such a contactor may he provided with interlock contacts similar to contacts H5, and
  • FIGS 13 and 14 outline arrangements for employing relays, as IE4, similar to those widely used in telephone systems.
  • Each set of contacts, as I25 may have a small separate magnet, as IE8, or the contacts may be arranged two sets to each magnet with suitable shields between contacts when necessary.
  • Tuning capacitors, as I27, or other circuit elements may be grouped in association with the relays.
  • An alternative arrangement for a tuning capacitor is shown at I28. This has worm nut [29, and worm I36 arranged for Vernier adjustment and compact mounting.
  • Figure 15 shows a superheterodyne type of receiver having three circuits I3I, I32 and 533 whose tuning is varied in order to select various channels. These circuits are radio frequency input circuit i3I, frequency changer input and oscillator input I 33. The circuits may be tuned by adjustable capacitors which are connected by relay control as indicated and as described in detail with reference to numerals 32, 33-3li, 3E; etc. of Figure 1. Electrical control, latching and interlocking may be provided as indicated and discussed in connection with Figure 1.
  • FIG 16 indicates diagrammatically, further circuit arrangements which may be used in the combination there indicated or in other con1binations.
  • the first three tubes I I35? and E35 constitute the radio amplifier, frequency changer and oscillator of a superheterodyne receiver suit" able for both short and long wave reception.
  • For short wave reception. 2.
  • wide range doublet antenna, or other suitable wave interceptor is connected through a suitable short wave circuit, as I31, to tube HM.
  • the antenna becomes a T type of aerial feeding long wave input circuits hit for tube I3 3.
  • Circuit MI provides long wave input for tube and circuit I42 for the oscillator I36.
  • Tube I43 serves the multiple purpose intermediate frequency amplifier for superheterodyne reception, tuned radio frequency amplifier for high quality local reception, and carrier amplifier for wire line carrier reception.
  • a sharply tuned intermediate frequency input transformer is indicated at I44 and a band pass transformer for high quality reception at M5. hese may be tuned for the same or for different intermediate frequencies and additional transformers may be provided for additional characteristics if desired.
  • Circuit MB indicates a sharply tuned in put circuit for use with a tuned radio frequency channel, either with separate aerial or with the same aerial as shown, wherein a suitable autotransformer I ll is employed.
  • the circuit MS may be a broadly tuned band pass input circuit for tuned radio frequency operation.
  • Circuits I4? and I48, and others when desired may be constructed in accordance with my copending application 741,139, filed August 23, N34, or in any other suitable manner. This applies also to circuits I 49 and used for applying wire line carrier signals to tube I43 from line ISUA. Any suitable coupling means and input system may be used. Additional amplifiers succeeding stage I 43 may be provided as required, followed by suitable governor, compensator, demodulator and audio stages. These need not be discussed in detail here as it will be evident from the foregoing illustrative examples that practically any desired combination of circuits may be brought into play through suitable arrangements.
  • FIG. 1 shows an example of relay control circuits utilizing a control clock in which the hour hand serves for both the timing and circuit routing functions.
  • the hour hand I 5I makes successive contact with the time busses, as I2, and these in turn route the circuit through interconnectors, as I3, to the station busses I to I0 inclusive.
  • the relay coils indicated at I52 may be of a type held closed by continuous current thercthrough eliminating the latches if desired, and the power supply circuits may be energized by a contactor 53 in the common return circuit of all relays.
  • a reject button I54 and relay I55 are indicated to turn elf the set by shunting the power supply relay coil 56.
  • the reject button i5 5 opens a circuit shunting the operating coil I5!
  • resistor i58 supplies holding potential to 55? after the reject button again closes.
  • Reject relay 555 opens whenever the current is momentarily interrupted, by hour hand I 5! dropping from one contact to another. It closes and cuts 01? the power supply only when reject button 5 is or nod: at all otier times. the potential across resistor I58 is insutfficient to close it. Th potential sufficient however, to hold it closed after being closed by operating button I54.
  • two way switch 259 permits a set of butto a.) ibil, to be substituted for the clock control.
  • buttons are preferably of the type having a mechanical interlock which holds one button closed while releasing all others.
  • circuits having relays operated by impulses may be applied to a clock of the type indicated in Figure 17. having only hour hand timing control by providing suitable interlocks and releases.
  • Figure 18 shows diagrammatically one form of circuit connections suitable for applying the mul-- tiple function control clock of my copending application, Serial No. 82,495. filed May 29, 1936, to an all wave radio receiver utilizing motors for operating the tuning and switching mechanism hereof.
  • Outline I6! designates the clock control unit which may be similar to that shown in Figure 1, or like that of Figure 1'? or one of the other forms outlined in the application just mentioned.
  • Unit iii! may operate a tuning motor directly or via a set of relays as indicated at I52. Each relay shown at H52 operates two sets of contacts.
  • a split spiral commutator, I55, I55A having a plurality o1 brushes as !66 arranged therearound is utilized.
  • the brushes must, of course, be arranged to slide axially the commutator is 1'0- tated so as to remain always in engagement with the spiral commutator.
  • This commutator may be driven from an intermediate gear, as Hi1, and may maize several revolutions for one revolution of the tuner I63. Connections from the two halves of the commutator may be made to a split field I68, MEA of motor I64.
  • Additional connections may be made to an armature or other winding, I69, combining with winding I68 to rotate the motor in either direction as determined by the commutator.
  • a similar arrangement indicated at I10 may provide for rotating a switch to select a desired wave band. If the latter feature is omitted, the relays I62 may also be omitted and the'tuner I53, motor I64, commutator I85, etc. connected directly to the control unit I51.
  • Each remote control station has a bank of control buttons, as "I, a tone control I80 and a volume control I81.
  • igure 19 is to provide a set of interlocked relays, similar to those shown in Figures 2 and 7, for transferring the control from the clock unit to one or more auxiliary control stations.
  • Each station may have a master button or other means of actuating the relay which transfers the control to that particular station. Details of this suggestive alternative and others need not be discussed here.
  • a communication receiver comprising a plurality of communication channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said communication channel selecting means, a source'of energy for operating said relays, and a control circuit for selectively directing the source of energy to correspondingly selected relays to energize the same, interlock means for holding closed any one of the relays so selected and operated, means including a magnetically operated mechanical trip member for releasing the interlock when the new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed via an Oil position, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuits of the receiver when any communication channel relay is closed and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the output of the receiver during operation of the relays.
  • a communication receiver comprising a plurality of channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said channel selecting means, a source of energy for operating said relays and a control circuit for selectively operating said relays, interlock means including a latch for holding closed any one of the relays selected and operated, means for releasing the interlock when a new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed through an ofi position, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuits of the receiver when any channel relay is closed, and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the output of the receiver during operation of the relays.
  • a communication receiver comprising a plurality of channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said channel selecting means, a source of energy for operating said relays, means for energizing a selected relay for operating a corresponding channel selecting means, interlock means for holding closed any one of the relays so selected and operated, means common to all of said relays for releasing the interlock when a new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed through an off position, with said interlock means acting immediately, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuit of the receiver when any channel relay is closed, and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the gain of the receiver during operation of the relays.
  • a radio receiver tuning system including a plurality of electrical tuning means for connection to the tunable stages of a radio receiver circuit, a plurality of relay units corresponding in number to said tuning means for selectively connecting said tuning means into the receiver circuit, each of said relay units including a plurality of switches, movable means common to all of said switches and operatively connected therewith, an electromagnet unit including an armature connected with said movable means, interlock means for mechanically locking said armature in closed position, a single trip means operatively common to all of said relay units acting on said interlock means for opening all closed armatures, means for closing a power circuit in the radio receiver when .any relay unit is closed and means acting directly on at least one tuning stage in the receiver circuit for reducing the gain in such stage when any relay unit is opening or closing.

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Description

May 21, 1940.. H. F. ELLIOTT ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Filed May 29, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet l INVENTOR.
H r ld FEM/oft 71 2 W ATTORNEY.
May 21, 1940. H. F. ELLIOTT 2,201,162
ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Filed May 29, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet 2 INVENTOR Harolcl F Elliott May 21, 1940.
H. F. ELLIOTT ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Filed May 29, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet 3 e Illlllllllllllllllllill 4 llllllllllllllllli j llllllllllllllllllfll j INVENTOR Harold FI Ell/bit y 21, 1940- H. F. ELLIOTT 2,201,162
ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Filed May 29, 1936 8 SheetsSheec 4 AAAAAA AAAAAAA INVENTOR Harold F Elliott May 21, 1940 HRELUOTT ,201,16
ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATI 0N SYSTEM Filed May 29. 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet 5 l H t "W 1 M I ;E I m fill v 2:: 42 mrl g INVENTOR.
A ORNEY.
Filed May 29, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet 6 I'NVENTOR glam/a HEN/ail ATT RNE
May 21, 1940. H. F. ELLIOTT ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Filed ma 29,1936
8 Sheets-Sheet 7 I INVENTOR I BY Harold [EH/ a May 21, 1940. H, F. ELLIOTT 1 ELECTRICAL COMMUNIGATION SYSTEM Filed May 29, 1956 8-Sheets-Sheet 8 INVENTOR {Ham/1 BY I F I MORNE r l l I I I I I I I I I I I I I I l I l I I I I I I I I I I I l l l I I I I I I I I I I I Patented May 21, 1946 UNITED STATES tATENT OFFICE Application May 29,
4 Claims.
The inventions described in this application and in my pending application Serial No. 82,495 filed May 29, 1936, pertain to Electrical communications and multiple function control clocks. The methods and apparatus described and claimed in these applications are not limited to the usages chosen for illustration but are useful in a wide variety of fields as will be evident to those skilled in mechanical and electrical arts.
For the purpose of illustrating principles and methods I have chosen for description herein electrical communications and receiving systems such as may be used for receiving intelligence by wire or radio in the form of speech, vision, facsimile or other signaling methods. It will be understood that I do not limit myself to the examples or applications chosen for illustration, but claim broadly the inventions set forth in the claims of this and the aforesaid copending application. As applied to receivers for home entertainment, my system has the advantages of permitting scheduled programs to be received auto matically at predetermined hours by simple presetting means. It also has the further advantage of using precisely pre-tuned circuits which relieve the operator of the tuning operation required in existing methods. The pretuned circuits assure improved quality of reception since errors in tuning resulting from carelessness or lack of operative skill are avoided. Each of the selected channels may be pretuned for optimum results commensurate with the prevailing conditions. For example: a distant station may have sharp tuning for selectivity while a nearby station may have broad band-pass tuning for improved quality. The various channels may be adapted to varied purposes, for example; there may be provided several channels for reception over wires, several others for long wave radio, others for short wave radio, television or facsimile. Other settings may provide for the operation of household appliances, lighting the furnace, ringing a bell, turning on a percolater or regulating an even by a schedule. possibilities can best be grasped by referring to the attached drawings showing several preferred forms and illustrative examples of applications.
Referring to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals of reference indicate similar parts throughout the several views;
Figure 1 shows in outline the circuits of an electrical communication receiving set embodying the methods, apparatus and principles of my inventions; Figures 2 and 3 show an elevation, and details of the receiver of Fig. 1; Fig- The many advantages and 1936, Serial No. 82,494
ures 4 and 5 show an alternative arrangement of details; Figure 6 shows a partial view and certain' details of another receiver suitable for use with my system; Figures 7-12 inclusive show partial sections and elevation of the same; Figures l3 and 14 show partial assemblies and sections of still another receiver. Figs. 15-19 show modifications of the system shown in Fig. 1.
Radio and wire line receiving circuits may be applied to any of these assemblies and the type of circuit may be any suitable to the purpose. Examples of circuits involving both superheterodyne and tuned radio frequency methods for radio, wire line, voice or other reception are illustrated in the circuit diagrams of which Figure 1 shows a tuned radio frequency receiving circuit embodying the principles and methods of my inventions, and Fig. 15 which, for lack of space, is continued in Fig. 16, shows circuits combining the two so that the advantages of each are obtained. Figure l and Figure 17 show two relay control circuits utilizing two methods of control; Figure 18 shows an application of my system to a receiver having motor operated controls; Figure 19 illustrates a timing and control system having several stations.
In the specific embodiments of the invention illustrated in said drawings, reference will be made initially to Figure 1, wherein is shown, in diagrammatic form, the controls and circuits of a radio receiver embodying my system and utilizing the multiple function control clock described in my copending application Serial No. 82,495 filed May 29, 1936, to which reference is made for constructional details thereof. This is one of the important fields of application of this clock and has been chosen here as an example to illustrate one method of its use. Briefly the system of Figure 1 comprises a radio receiver having a relay controlled channel selecting system arranged for automatic operation under clock control and also for manual operation under push button control. Numerals l to II inclusive indicate diagrammatically a plurality of station or channel busses, while one of a plurality of time busses is indicated by numeral I2. The busses of each set are preferably parallel, and one set is perpendicular to the other, but without direct contact, thus giving the crisscross appearance of the busses of the two sets. Interconnection between any one bus of one set with any one bus of the other set may be accomplished by an interconnector such as is indicated at l3. There are as many interconnectors as there are busses in one set, that is, the
nun'lber of busses in the set of busses upon which the interconnectors are slidable determines the number of interconnectors provided. Diagrammatically indicated at M and iii are control means by which the interconnectors may be moved individually to selected interconnecting positions by members it and 51. Control means 55 comprises a finger index dial somewhat like "do dial of an automatic telephone. In the normal or unset position the interconnectors l3 are all slid to a place where they will overlie bus 2 i, which as shown but not necessarily, is a neutral or inactive bus merely affording a position of rest for the interconnectors. As between the time busses such as if. on which the interconnectors slide and members I l, Eli, i6 and I! which actuate the interconnectors, there is a relative movement. Member ll may be moved longitudinally of itself by means of time dial l4 and member it and thus projection 13 upon member i! may be brought opposite any one of the interconnectors, or, conversely said member may be longitudinally stationary and the bank or set of time busses may be moved laterally to obtain the relative positioning with any one bus opposite the projection. After projection 58 is poysitioned opposite the selected interconnector, member it is moved transversely of itself and Iongitudinally of the set of time busses, sliding interconnect-or l3 down to the desired cross bus of the other set such as station bus 3 illustrated. As stated, member M is a time index dial which serves through control means [9 to move projection it; to a selected time bus. The finger index dial l5 then serves by clockwise rotation to move the interconnector, as l3, associated with that time bus to a Selected station bus, as 3. Member 2t, actuated through mem her it by counterclockwise rotation of dial l5 serves to return all interconnectors to neutral bus l i. Reference is made to my aforementioned copending application Serial No. 82,495/ filed May 29, 193d, for mechanical arrangement and constructional details of these parts. As set forth in detail therein, time dial i4 preferably takes the form of a rotatable ring having ninetynotches, one for each quarter hour of the twenty-four hours of a day. This ring is preferably indexed or graduated in quarter hour intervals. Member i! is preferably a ring of insulating material having a projection I8 arranged to engage any individual interconnector, as [3. Rotation of dial it rotates ring ll through the medium of a pin or other linkage l9, thus bringing projection it opposite any selected interconnector. When projection l8 has been positioned opposite the interconnector corresponding to the selected quarter hour, this interconnector may then be moved to the desired station bus, as by rotation of dial l5. This is preferably brought about through the medium of a cam or lead screw, or other suitable linkage diagrammatically shown at it in Fig. 1. This linkage serves to translate rotary motion of dial l5 into transverse motion of ring ll, and projection it. As set forth in detail in my co-pending application S. N. 82,495, filed May 29, 1936, the time busses, as 22, preferably take the form of a series of rods arranged in cylindrical formation around the axis of dials i l and 15, parallel with this axis, while the station busses, l to H, preferably take the form of a set of conducting rings concentric with the same axis, which is also the axis of ring ll. Member is preferably a second insulating ring having the same axis, and arranged so that reverse rotation of dial I5 causes linkage IE to move ring 20 along its axis, engaging all interconnectors and returning all to neutral bus I l.
The receiver shown in Figure 1 is of the tuned radio frequency type, having two radio frequency amplifier stages 2! and succeeded by a governor 2324, a compensator and volume control stage 25, a demodulator 25, an audio frequency amplifier 2'1 with phase .reverser 2B and feeding power output tubes 29 and 3E). The input to the first stage 2! includes an input transformer 3|, which is tuned to select desired program channels by adjustable capacitors 32-33- 34 etc. which are connected into the circuit by relay contacts 35, 36, 37, etc. of which relay contact 36 is shown actuated into circuit closing position. The input circuits of stages 22, and demodulator 26 are similarly arranged with adjustable capacitors and relay contacts, identified by similar reference numerals but with the addition of exponents. Relay contacts 36 and the corresponding contacts identified by numeral 36 with exponents in succeeding stages are closed in unison by a relay armature, shown at 38, through the medium of a common control member 38A (indicated by dotted line in Figure 1). Once closed, the associated group of contacts are held closed by a latch, or interlock 39. Suitable mechanism for these parts will be described more in detail in several forms hereinafter. A trip mechanism, indicated at i-i, opens previously latched relays whenever a shift is made from one channel to another and also whenever an off signal is given by the clock or by the push buttons which are indicated at 4|. In Figure l, the relay contacts associated with channel 2 are shown closed, tuning all circuits for this channel. Channel I is indicated as a variable channel whose tuning may be changed to receive a range of radio stations by turning dial e2. Channels 2, 3, et sequel through 9, illustrate channels having tuning means which are pre-adjusted and then left fixed for the reception of definite stations. Additional channels are omitted for sake of simplicity in the circuit diagram, but may be similar to those shown or take other suitable form. It will be obvious that the relays may be arranged in a great variety of ways to serve many purposes. For example, one variable and three fixed channels may be provided for reception of radio broadcast programs, three other channels may be provided for reception of programs over wire lines at audio or carrier frequency, another may provide for television, another for facsimile or news service and so on for as many channels as desired to include in the apparatus. Each channel may have the construction and response characteristics best suited to the purpose thereof. The relays may also be used to control the household furnace, range or other appliances.
In the arrangement illustrated in Figure 1, the control impulses which operate the various relays are of short duration and are routed from source through bus 48, clock contact arms 46 and 47 to the time busses, as 52, thence through the interconnectors, as 13, to the station bus, as 3, contacted by said interconnector, thence to the relay operating coils, as l3, and trip coil 44 back to the source of control current 4'5. This source is indicated at as comprising a step down transformer, copper oxide rectifier and storage capacitor. The relays may also be operated manually by the push buttons indicated at 4|. In the arrangement shown in Figure 1, contact arm 46 is driven with the minute hand of the clock and makes a contact of brief duration at 15 minute intervals with bus 48. Arm 4'! is driven with the hour hand and distributes the impulse from arm '36 to the time bus, as l2, corresponding to the particular 15 minute interval. The interconnectors, as it, may be set for any desired schedule of programs, or other functions by use of the time index and station dials shown schematically at I i and E to which reference has been made. As described in detail in my copending application it is only necessary to set time index is at the desired quarter hour and then to dial the desired station on dial ii: in order to make the interconnection necessary to bring in that station at that time. With a 24 hour clock and 96 time busses arranged at quar ter hour intervals, a change of programs may be had every 15 minutes if desired. In the arrangement of busses shown in Figure 1, station bus I, is an off bus and serves to energize the trip coil 44 whenever it is desired to turn the receiver off either by the clock or by the push buttons.
Rheostats for volume and tone control are shown at 49 and 5B. A set of contacts indicated at 5|, operated in conjunction with the tuning relay contacts, as 36, 36', etc. as indicated by common control 38A, serves to close contactor 52 and energizes the power supply circuits whenever any of the program relays are closed. Signal lamps, as indicated at 53, may be included to show which channel is in operation if desired. Interlock contacts 54'. may be operated in conjunction with the power relay for opening the circuit of the off bus, i, if desired. This refinement prevents the trip relay 4t from clicking in case the clock passes off impulses when the set has already been turned off. A further refinement which may be desirable in some cases comprises a set of interlock contacts introduced in series with the relay closing coils, such as 43, as indicated by crosses, as at 55. As described hereinafter in connection with Figures 2 and 7 these contacts are preferably arranged to open after the associated relay has been latched closed, thereby opening the operating circuit of that relay. This refinement prevents the relay drawing current or clicking after it has been closed.
In order to cushion surges in the amplifier and speakers when a shift of channels is made, a set of interlock contacts, as indicated at 56, is provided. These contacts cause the automatic gain control bus to receive a negative charge from rectifier 57 whenever any of the relays are in process of opening or closing. The gain of stages 2|, 22 and 25 is thus momentarily reduced causing one station to fade out and the other to fade in. As described in greater detail hereinafter in connection with Figures 2, 4 and 7, the construction of fading relay contacts, as 56, is such that a circuit is momentarily closed from bus 56A to 56B whenever any of the channel selecting relays is in the process of opening or closing.
It will be obvious that a great variety of means may be conceived for carrying out the various functions illustrated and described above. When used with the multiple function control clock described in my copending application Serial No. 82,495 filed May 29, 1936, to which reference has been made, a receiver possessing many highly desirable features is obtained. Broadcasting, although a relatively new art, has already settled quite definitely into schedules and channels. By means of the time and station dials any desired schedule of programs may be set up for the succeeding 24 hour period. Alternative selections may be made via the push button controls at any time, the push button being effective only for the one period then in progress and the clock resuming control whenever a previously set schedule is encountered as the clock rotates. The use of relays operated by impulses of short duration and held by mechanical interlocks has several advantages. The clock and push button controls may be connected directly in parallel without interference and the relay coils may be designed for intermittent service. Additional control units as described in connection with Fig. 19 may readily be provided if desired.
Several methods of arranging the receiving circuit, relays, tuning capacitors, coils and other elements for use with circuits of the type shown in Figures 1, l5 and 16 will now be described.
Referring to Figure 2 the receiver here illustrated includes a plurality of shield cans as 58 housing electrical circuit tuning apparatus, a plurality of switches of which 59, 60, BI and 62 are examples, a plurality of relay mechanisms for operating the switches of which 63, 64 and 65 are examples. A suitable base plate, electronic tubes, transformers, capacitors, inductors and the like are of course provided but will not be enumerated in detail here for the sake of simplicity. The arrangement of tubes, tuning apparatus, switches and relays is such that each amplifier stage may be connected with any one ofa plurality of circuit tuning elements by the action of the relays. The relays are in turn arranged so that the operation of any one relay brings into action a coordinated set of circuit elements specifically adapted to the purpose to which the relay is devoted, as for example an entertainment program via a wire line, or via radio, or a television program via short wave radio.
In the arrangement shown in Figure 2 each relay comprises a rotary shaft, as 66, carrying rotary switches as 67 and 68, operated by electromagnets such as are shown at 69 and armatures such as and H. The armature is shown in open position at 10 and in closed position at H, being held closed by latch 12. Each amplifier stage may be provided with one or more busses as 13, through which connections may be made to the tuning elements associated with that stage, via the switches. The busses and switches for each stage may be grouped in suitable shielded compartments as indicated at 13A. The shaft of each relay, as 86, may carry as many sets of contacts as required to perform the switching operations necessary to connect and tune the channel associated with that relay. The contacts may be constructed in a great variety of ways depending upon the service to be performed, production methods, etc. The arrangements shown at 59 and 60 provide double break connections from the bus 13 to the tuning elements such as are shown in shield 58. The switches, busses and tuning elements are thus completely isolated when the switches are open, avoiding capacity effects and interactions between circuits. A switch such as is shown at 62 may be used where a single break with nominal stray capacity coupling is satisfactory. The switch shown at 6| provides for momentary connections between busses 83 and 84 in the fader circuit discussed further below.
The relay arrangement shown in Figure 2 includes a mechanical interlocking system which provides for holding the relays closed after they have been set by electrical impulses of short duration, When the operating coils of any relay are energized the switches attached to that relay are closed and locked and all other relays are opened automatically. This is arranged by providing each relay with a latch, as illustrated at I2 for relay 64 which is shown closed, and at 2B for relay 65 which is shown open. Release relay l4 is mechanically connected with the latches of all relays through release bar 1. A trip mechanism 16 interconnects release relay M and release bar 15 in such a way that an impulse to relay 14 moves the bar E5 to the left thereby tripping all relay latches and then immediately permits bar 15 to return to its original position. The release relay M comprises two electromagnets 14A and MB and an armature MC which pivoted to rotate on pin MD. A trip arm ME is attached to the armature and rotates with it about pin MD as an axis. Spring MP holds the rotating elements in the position illustrated against the stop MG when the magnets are not energized. When current is applied to electromagnets MA and MB armature 74C rotates clock-- wise, carrying with it trip arm ME. The outer end of the trip arm ME engages with latch to which is attached to the bar it: through the pivot 76A. Bar '15 is pulled to the left, as viewed in Fig. 2, by the rotation of the trip arm ME about the pivot MD. The outer end of the trip arm 14E swings in an arc about the pivot W-D as shown by the dotted line H. Due to this curvature, after a few degrees of rotation. the outer tip of arm ME. slides from the outer tip of latch 16 to disengage the two members. Spring i lii then pulls bar 15 to the right against the stop 15A. Bar 15 may slide in grooves or may be suspended on rotatable arms as 153. When the magnets MA and MB are tie-energized, spring 14F pulls trip arm 14E back to the position illustrated in Fig. 2. Latch arm I5 which is pivoted to bar 15 at 16A is pushed out of the way by the tip of arm ME as it passes. After this the spring 16B pulls the latch l6 back against the stop 16C to the position illustrated in Fig. 2 and trip arm l lE and the latch 56 are in position for another cycle of operation. This permits any main relay, as 64, simultaneously or thereafter energized, to be latched shut as shown accomplished withrespect to latch 12. Any relay not energized will be left open, as is the case with respect to relay 65. It is thus possible to set any relay, and release any previously set relay by a single impulse of short duration. To this end, the operating coils of the release relay T l may be connected in a return circuit common to the operating coils of all relays shown at it in Figure 1. Release relay 'M then operates whenever any of the setting relays are actuated. All relays may be opened by routing an impulse through the coils of release relay l4, separately. In the circuits of Figure 1, bus 5 is allocated to this service, being an oil bus.
The circuit tuning elements may be of any type suitable to the function to be performed. In some instances each tube may have a single tuning inductor and a plurality of adjustable tuning capacitors which may be connected succestively to the inductor by the relays for tuning in various channels or stations. This is the arrangement indicated in Figure 1. In other instances a plurality of tunable circuits, each cornplete in itself, may be provided. The circuits pair of circuits embodying features disclosed and claimed therein is illustrated in the present disclosure as the circuit tuning means within the shield cans at 58 in Figure 2. Inductors ll and 18 are movable relative to one another and relative to damping ring 79 by means of knob 80. Each inductor has its adjustable tuning capacitor illustrated at ill and 82. Oth r methods discussed in this application may also be applied; for example band pass action may be obtained in any set of circuits by staggering the tuning of the element comprising the amplifier stages thereof, introducing damping if required by use or" either fixed or variable resistors, either in series or in shunt with tuning elements. Examples of this are discussed further in connection with the circuit diagrams, Figures 16 and 15.
A switch suitable for operating the fading" or biasing arrangement indicated at in Figure 1 is shown at 6! in Figure 2. Busses 8 3 and 34 (Figure 2) are momentarily connected together whenever the shaft is rotated either to open or close the switches thereon. This accomplished by proportioning the switch elements; so that switch contact (HA (Fig. 2) closes before contact 3513 opens, and vice versa,
Figure 3 shows a cut away plan view of the switches of the type described in connection with Figure 2, like numerals of reference indicating like parts.
Figures 4 and 5 show an alternative arm-agement for switches and tuning apparatus adapted for use with circuits and relays of the type shown in Figures 1 and 2. oi switches in closed and open position ar shown at and Each switch has its associated. adjustable tuning capacitors, illustrated at iii and 853. A flexible bus as 89, connects each group of switches with its associated inductor system, outlined at 93 anal corresponding amplifier tube, as illustrated. Suitable shielded compartments, as 9! and 212 are provided for the busses and tu ing elements asso ciated with. each amplifier To reduce manufacturing costs, associated tuning elements, as capacitors 8i and 88 may be assembled in groups on a suitable base, as 93. The stud carrying th adjusting nut of the capacitor may extend to form one of the switch, as shown at 94, (see Figure 5). Each relay may be provided with switches for energizing the power supply system of the receiver either directly or through a power relay, as indicated at in Figure 1. Each relay may also carry a switch or switches for cutting oil the speakers, or for reducing the output or gain during switching operations in order to avoid objectionable noises or other disturbances due to switching. An example of one suitable form of switch for purpose shown at 95 which is proper-tic ed so that contacts 95A close before contacts open, and vice versa, thus energizing a fading" or closing circuit as illustrated at :35 in Figure 1.
For circuit arrangements wherein it is desired to open the control circuit 0.? a given relay after it has been closed and latched, interlock contacts associated with the latches, as indicated at 95 and 8! in Figure 2 may be used. Such contacts are useful when the clock or push button mechanism is such that the control circuit is continually energized. Such contacts may also be inserted in series in the control circuit as indicated at in Figure 1 to avoid clicking when an impulse is sent to a relay already closed.
The tuning elements and relays of a radio receiver especially well suited to circuits of the type discussed in connection with Figures 1, l5 and 16 are shown in Figure 6 and associated partial elevational and sectional views '7 to 12 inclusive. Numerals 98 and 99 (Figure 6) indicate two of a plurality of relays which are used for making the connections necessary to tune the receiver for various channels or stations. Four banks of adjustable tuning capacitors are indicated at Hill to I03 inclusive. Each relay as 99 comprises an electromagnet, as shown at M Figure '7, and an armature, I05, which serve to operate a plurality of contacts through the medium of an insulating tie bar, see I96 in Figure '7. This figure is a section along line l-l of Figure 6 taken so as to show in elevation the operating mechanism and contacts of relay 99, which is shown here in closed position. Four sets of contacts, till, I08, I09 and H8 are provided for connecting into tuned circuits the tuning capacitors as Iflll, Ilil, Hi2 and IE3, associated with the channel or station assigned to this particular relay. The trans formers of the amplifier stages whose circuits are thus tuned may be housed in suitable shields as indicated at i I l, Figure 6, and a bank of amplifier tubes may be placed adjacent thereto as indicated at H2. The switches and capacitors associated with each stage may be housed in a shielded compartment as indicated at H3, Figures 6 and 7. A stationary insulating bar i M, Figures 6 and '7, may be provided for holding the stationary contacts in the required positions, cooperating with the insulated tie rod, Hi6, Figures 6 and 7, which serves for actuating the moving contacts of the several switches. Further details of these contacts, rods. and bars are shown in Figure 12 representing a perspective view of contacts H0 and associated tie rod I96 and bar IM.
Each switch, as Hll, (Figs. 6, 7, and 12), comprises two spring leaves as l MA and HllB which carry contacts as Hill) and IHJD. Spring leaf HilA is dovetailed into the insulating tie rod H36 as illustrated at i ME in Fig, 12. Spring leaf HlA therefore moves with rod I86 whenever the latter is actuated by armature 195 (Fig. 7). Armature I H5 is pivoted at HlliA. Energization of the electromagnet Iil l attracts armature N35 to the magnet and shifts the bar M5 to the left as shown in Fig. 7. This moves all of the switch leaves IIBA which are dovetailed to the bar 596 to the left and closes all of the associated contacts as H86 and Hill) thereby connecting into the circuit the tuning elements controlled by these switches. Latch H8 engages the armature I85 and holds the switches closed after the magnet is de-energized When the latch H8- is tipped, as
* described hereinafter, the spring leaves IIBA of the switches pull tie bar N38 to the right until the armature Hi5 rests against the stop H3513. In order that this motion may open the contacts as H06 and Hill), spring leaf N63 is provided with a projection 5 ml" which engages with a fixed stop H413. This stop is formed by a notch IHIA in the stationary insulating bar H4 (Fig. 12). Leaf HiiB is free to move to the left when leaf 1 WA moves to the left for bringing contacts I WC and HOD into closed position. When leaf IIDA moves to the right, the motion of leaf HUB is limited by the projection BIDF engaging the stop II IB. The notch IHIA thus positions leaf H813 so that motion of the tie bar I586 may open and close contacts H00 and HOD. The pressure applied to the contacts is determined by the tension of the spring leaf KB, and this pressure is applied to the contacts the moment they are closed, being approximately the same as the pressure exerted by spring leaf HilB against stop (MB. The notched bar HA therefore serves to determine the position of its associated spring leaves as HUB, and the construction permits definite contact pressures to be maintained as well as definite positions. The construction also permits the moving switch elements as spring leaf HOA to serve as the spring for actuating armature m5 pulling it away from the magnet Hi4 when ole-energized. The dovetail and notch construction of insulating bars Its and I! permits the use of low cost stampiugs and this construction likewise facilitates the assembly of the multiple switch parts.
In addition to the switches for performing tuning operations, each relay may carry as many auxiliary switches as needed. In Figures 6 and 7, a three element auxiliary switch H5 is provided for operating the biasing circuits which provide for fading to give quiet operation during the shift from one channel to another as discussed in connection with switch 56, Figure l. A second auxiliary switch H6 serves to energize the power supply contactor, and light a signal lamp if desired, as shown at 5!, 52 and iii! in Figure l. A third set of auxiliary contacts indicated at i i! may be arranged to function in cooperation with the latch H8, Figure 6, providing means for opening the control circuit of the relay after it is latched closed, as indicated at 55, Figure 1, when such an arrangement is considered desirable. Other arrangements of contacts for other purposes may, of course, be provided as required. It will be evident that the construction shown provides great flexibility in the switching airrangements which may be carried out. A great variety of contact opening and closing arrangements, with or without intervening may be assembled along the lines indicated.
Relays which are to be held closed after receiving a closing impulse may be provided with latches as illustrated at H8, Figures 6, '7 and 8. The latter shows also the trip mechanism com,- prising electromagnet I26, armature I2! and linkage 122 interconnecting the armature m and trip bar H9. Linkage $22 may take a variety of forms. As shown in Figure 9 it comprises a link and bell crank so arranged that bar H8 is momentarily lifted to trip the latches whenever the trip coil I20 is energized. Bar H9 is then allowed to drop again even though the relay is still energized. This permits any relay receiving an impulse to be closed and latched, while previously closed relays are released.
Figures 10 and 11 indicate arrangements wherw by, contacts, as I23, for handling power circuits may be applied to the relays. If certain of the relays are to perform household functions such as lighting the furnace or operating an appliance, such construction may also be applied thereto. Such power contacts may be used also with any of the tuning relays to close the power circuit in place of using a separate contactor therefor. This construction may be used also to make a power circuit contactor from standard relay parts. Such a contactor may he provided with interlock contacts similar to contacts H5, and
latch, similar to H8, if desired.
An electrical interlocking and latching system may be used in place of the mechanical latches illustrated by H8 and release bar H9 if desired. It will be apparent that a great variety of constructions may be applied to relays and tuning means of the type described.
Figures 13 and 14 outline arrangements for employing relays, as IE4, similar to those widely used in telephone systems. Each set of contacts, as I25, may have a small separate magnet, as IE8, or the contacts may be arranged two sets to each magnet with suitable shields between contacts when necessary. Tuning capacitors, as I27, or other circuit elements may be grouped in association with the relays. An alternative arrangement for a tuning capacitor is shown at I28. This has worm nut [29, and worm I36 arranged for Vernier adjustment and compact mounting.
Figure 15 shows a superheterodyne type of receiver having three circuits I3I, I32 and 533 whose tuning is varied in order to select various channels. These circuits are radio frequency input circuit i3I, frequency changer input and oscillator input I 33. The circuits may be tuned by adjustable capacitors which are connected by relay control as indicated and as described in detail with reference to numerals 32, 33-3li, 3E; etc. of Figure 1. Electrical control, latching and interlocking may be provided as indicated and discussed in connection with Figure 1.
Figure 16 indicates diagrammatically, further circuit arrangements which may be used in the combination there indicated or in other con1binations. The first three tubes I I35? and E35 constitute the radio amplifier, frequency changer and oscillator of a superheterodyne receiver suit" able for both short and long wave reception. For short wave reception. 2. wide range doublet antenna, or other suitable wave interceptor is connected through a suitable short wave circuit, as I31, to tube HM. Short wave frequency changer and oscillator circuits for tubes I 35 and 13 3 indicated at I38 and I33. For long wave reception, the antenna becomes a T type of aerial feeding long wave input circuits hit for tube I3 3. Circuit MI provides long wave input for tube and circuit I42 for the oscillator I36. Additional input circuits adapted to whatever radio or wire line channels are to be used may be added and connected into the systems as required by suitable relays. Tube I43 serves the multiple purpose intermediate frequency amplifier for superheterodyne reception, tuned radio frequency amplifier for high quality local reception, and carrier amplifier for wire line carrier reception. A sharply tuned intermediate frequency input transformer is indicated at I44 and a band pass transformer for high quality reception at M5. hese may be tuned for the same or for different intermediate frequencies and additional transformers may be provided for additional characteristics if desired. Circuit MB indicates a sharply tuned in put circuit for use with a tuned radio frequency channel, either with separate aerial or with the same aerial as shown, wherein a suitable autotransformer I ll is employed. The circuit MS may be a broadly tuned band pass input circuit for tuned radio frequency operation. Circuits I4? and I48, and others when desired may be constructed in accordance with my copending application 741,139, filed August 23, N34, or in any other suitable manner. This applies also to circuits I 49 and used for applying wire line carrier signals to tube I43 from line ISUA. Any suitable coupling means and input system may be used. Additional amplifiers succeeding stage I 43 may be provided as required, followed by suitable governor, compensator, demodulator and audio stages. These need not be discussed in detail here as it will be evident from the foregoing illustrative examples that practically any desired combination of circuits may be brought into play through suitable arrangements.
Figure 1? shows an example of relay control circuits utilizing a control clock in which the hour hand serves for both the timing and circuit routing functions. The hour hand I 5I makes successive contact with the time busses, as I2, and these in turn route the circuit through interconnectors, as I3, to the station busses I to I0 inclusive. The relay coils indicated at I52 may be of a type held closed by continuous current thercthrough eliminating the latches if desired, and the power supply circuits may be energized by a contactor 53 in the common return circuit of all relays. A reject button I54 and relay I55 are indicated to turn elf the set by shunting the power supply relay coil 56. The reject button i5 5 opens a circuit shunting the operating coil I5! of the reject relay, E55, causing the latter to close and cut off the power supply by shunting coil A. resistor i58 supplies holding potential to 55? after the reject button again closes. Reject relay 555 opens whenever the current is momentarily interrupted, by hour hand I 5! dropping from one contact to another. It closes and cuts 01? the power supply only when reject button 5 is or nod: at all otier times. the potential across resistor I58 is insutfficient to close it. Th potential sufficient however, to hold it closed after being closed by operating button I54. two way switch 259 permits a set of butto a.) ibil, to be substituted for the clock control. buttons are preferably of the type having a mechanical interlock which holds one button closed while releasing all others.
It will be evident that circuits having relays operated by impulses, as shown in Figure 1 may be applied to a clock of the type indicated in Figure 17. having only hour hand timing control by providing suitable interlocks and releases.
Figure 18 shows diagrammatically one form of circuit connections suitable for applying the mul-- tiple function control clock of my copending application, Serial No. 82,495. filed May 29, 1936, to an all wave radio receiver utilizing motors for operating the tuning and switching mechanism hereof. Outline I6! designates the clock control unit which may be similar to that shown in Figure 1, or like that of Figure 1'? or one of the other forms outlined in the application just mentioned. Unit iii! may operate a tuning motor directly or via a set of relays as indicated at I52. Each relay shown at H52 operates two sets of contacts. One set controls a tuning mechanism I63 by means of a actor 46 1 and suitable reduction In order to provide for precise tuning, a split spiral commutator, I55, I55A having a plurality o1 brushes as !66 arranged therearound is utilized. The brushes must, of course, be arranged to slide axially the commutator is 1'0- tated so as to remain always in engagement with the spiral commutator. This commutator may be driven from an intermediate gear, as Hi1, and may maize several revolutions for one revolution of the tuner I63. Connections from the two halves of the commutator may be made to a split field I68, MEA of motor I64. Additional connections may be made to an armature or other winding, I69, combining with winding I68 to rotate the motor in either direction as determined by the commutator. A similar arrangement indicated at I10 may provide for rotating a switch to select a desired wave band. If the latter feature is omitted, the relays I62 may also be omitted and the'tuner I53, motor I64, commutator I85, etc. connected directly to the control unit I51.
In some installations it may be desirable to provide several remote control stations in addition to the clock and the buttons thereon. The simplest form of this comprises one or more sets of push buttons connected in parallel with those in the clock unit as shown at "I, Figure 19. Alternative programs may thus be selected without in any way interfering with future programs scheduled via the clock. When a parallel connected control such as this is employed, it may be convenient to operate the volume and tone controls by means of small split field motors as illustrated at I12 and H3, Figure 19. Motor I13 may if desired operate a rheostat or other means for changing the response of the audio amplifier and also operate variable band pass radio frequency circuits, as H in accordance with my copending application S. N. 741,139 of August 23, 1934. In Figure 19, numeral 116 outlines the clock unit with its clock and button controls. Tone and volume controls IT! and I18 may be double throw key switches, normally open. A remote control station of which any number may be provided is indicated at I19.
Each remote control station has a bank of control buttons, as "I, a tone control I80 and a volume control I81.
An alternative to the arrangement shown, in
igure 19, is to provide a set of interlocked relays, similar to those shown in Figures 2 and 7, for transferring the control from the clock unit to one or more auxiliary control stations. Each station may have a master button or other means of actuating the relay which transfers the control to that particular station. Details of this suggestive alternative and others need not be discussed here.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the electrical and mechanical arts that my system possesses great flexibility and that it may take many forms and be applied to many purposes beyond those chosen for illustration herein. I do not limit myself to the forms shown but claim broadly as my invention the features of novelty and utility set forth in the claims appended hereto and to my copending applications to which reference has been made.
I claim:
1. In combination, a communication receiver comprising a plurality of communication channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said communication channel selecting means, a source'of energy for operating said relays, and a control circuit for selectively directing the source of energy to correspondingly selected relays to energize the same, interlock means for holding closed any one of the relays so selected and operated, means including a magnetically operated mechanical trip member for releasing the interlock when the new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed via an Oil position, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuits of the receiver when any communication channel relay is closed and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the output of the receiver during operation of the relays.
2. In combination, a communication receiver comprising a plurality of channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said channel selecting means, a source of energy for operating said relays and a control circuit for selectively operating said relays, interlock means including a latch for holding closed any one of the relays selected and operated, means for releasing the interlock when a new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed through an ofi position, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuits of the receiver when any channel relay is closed, and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the output of the receiver during operation of the relays.
3. In combination, a communication receiver comprising a plurality of channel selecting means, a plurality of relays for operating said channel selecting means, a source of energy for operating said relays, means for energizing a selected relay for operating a corresponding channel selecting means, interlock means for holding closed any one of the relays so selected and operated, means common to all of said relays for releasing the interlock when a new relay is selected and for opening all relays when the control circuit is routed through an off position, with said interlock means acting immediately, a contactor operated with the relays for energizing the power circuit of the receiver when any channel relay is closed, and an interlock operating with the relays for reducing the gain of the receiver during operation of the relays.
4. A radio receiver tuning system including a plurality of electrical tuning means for connection to the tunable stages of a radio receiver circuit, a plurality of relay units corresponding in number to said tuning means for selectively connecting said tuning means into the receiver circuit, each of said relay units including a plurality of switches, movable means common to all of said switches and operatively connected therewith, an electromagnet unit including an armature connected with said movable means, interlock means for mechanically locking said armature in closed position, a single trip means operatively common to all of said relay units acting on said interlock means for opening all closed armatures, means for closing a power circuit in the radio receiver when .any relay unit is closed and means acting directly on at least one tuning stage in the receiver circuit for reducing the gain in such stage when any relay unit is opening or closing.
HAROLD F. ELLIOTT.
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Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2485675A (en) * 1945-08-01 1949-10-25 Standard Telephones Cables Ltd Compensating system
US2496819A (en) * 1946-02-04 1950-02-07 Albert R Simpson Pulse generator
US2550784A (en) * 1947-03-25 1951-05-01 Paul G Coupland Radio clock
US2577155A (en) * 1946-02-23 1951-12-04 Gen Electric Electric switching system
US2675467A (en) * 1949-03-09 1954-04-13 Phantom Dial Company Time controlled radio frequency preselection apparatus
US2696536A (en) * 1949-12-21 1954-12-07 Gen Electric Control arrangement for circuit breakers
US2789214A (en) * 1955-09-08 1957-04-16 William A Seargeant Junction transistor superregenerative receiver
US2847564A (en) * 1955-10-13 1958-08-12 Gen Electric Volume control circuit for a clock radio
US3502945A (en) * 1967-08-17 1970-03-24 Essoldomatic Ltd Switching control apparatus

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2485675A (en) * 1945-08-01 1949-10-25 Standard Telephones Cables Ltd Compensating system
US2496819A (en) * 1946-02-04 1950-02-07 Albert R Simpson Pulse generator
US2577155A (en) * 1946-02-23 1951-12-04 Gen Electric Electric switching system
US2550784A (en) * 1947-03-25 1951-05-01 Paul G Coupland Radio clock
US2675467A (en) * 1949-03-09 1954-04-13 Phantom Dial Company Time controlled radio frequency preselection apparatus
US2696536A (en) * 1949-12-21 1954-12-07 Gen Electric Control arrangement for circuit breakers
US2789214A (en) * 1955-09-08 1957-04-16 William A Seargeant Junction transistor superregenerative receiver
US2847564A (en) * 1955-10-13 1958-08-12 Gen Electric Volume control circuit for a clock radio
US3502945A (en) * 1967-08-17 1970-03-24 Essoldomatic Ltd Switching control apparatus

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