NOVEL HYDRAULIC RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVE.
The above illustration shows a novel mode of locomotion which has been successfully applied in some parts of California. The carriage rests on ordinary flanged wheels, which traverse rails laid on the edges of a flume. On the axles are attached paddle-wheels, which correspond in shape to the section of the flume on which the car runs, and are acted upon by the current therein. It is clear that the current turning the paddles will so rotate the wheels of the vehicle, which will consequently move in a direction opposite to that of the current. When it is desired to move in the same direction as the current, the paddles are stayed stationary and the water impels the car down stream. The rate of travel is regulated by brakes ; and the paddle-wheels are attached to the shafts with clutch gear, to be unshipped at pleasure. The frame is built in two sections, and the platforms rest on anti-friction balls, for the purpose of turning curves with but little friction. By double gearing. the speed may be greatly increased for passenger transportation, of course, at the expense of power.
An interesting reference piece, supplied without mat or mount.
