This invention describes an improved auxiliary engine or motor for reversing engines of the Diesel or slow combustion type.
The invention consists essentially in providing each working cylinder of the auxiliary engine or motor with two distributing devices so relatively arranged that the auxiliary engine may be started in one of the other direction, and with an exhaust which has its period always at or near the dead centre. The casings for the distributing devices are in communication with a multiple-way casing , or with a suitable device by means of which the casings of the distributing devices can be placed in communication alternatively with a pressure vessel and with the atmosphere. This particular combination enables the distributing devices to be so arranged that their periods are fixed relatively to the various positions of the piston.
The features claimed as novel comprise an auxiliary piston engine or motor with dead centres in which each working cylinder is fitted with two distributing devices so relatively arranged that the motor may be started in one or the other direction, and with an exhaust device having its period at or near the dead centre, means, such as a multiple-way valve, being provided for placing the distributing devices alternatively in communication with a pressure vessel and with the atmosphere, for the purpose of enabling the distributing devices of the auxiliary engine or motor to have periods that are fixed relatively to the positions of the piston.
The multiple-way valve is also connected with a flushing or scavenging air vessel or receiver, into which air is delivered through one or other of the distributing devices of each cylinder during normal working, and also when starting.
The auxiliary engine or motor has double-acting cylinders, and the exhaust device consists of an aperture formed in the side of the cylinder, the length of the piston being such that the aperture is opened by the piston when it reaches the end of its stroke. The part which activates the multiple-way valve is connected to the part or parts of the main motor, that require to be reversed, when reversing the main motor.