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In addition to the spiral, the elliptic and the volute steel springs, we have in the invention here illustrated an entirely novel form, which may be called the flat coil, and which is said to be superior in all respects to any other form of steel spring; sustaining, with the same weight of metal, a larger load. It was invented by J. E. Jerrold and Eugene Beggs, of Paterson, N. J., who have scoured patents in the United States and Great Britain through the Scientific American Patent Agency. The modo of placing this spring is shown in Fig. 1 of the annexed cuts, and its construction is represented in Figs. 2 and 3. A flat ribbon or plate of tempered cast steel is wound in a circular ring, as shown in Fig. 2, and two stiff clasps, a , of metal, are secured to opposite sides of the coil. In use, one of these clasps is secured to the sustaining bar or table, while the body of the carriage rests upon the other, as shown in Fig. 1. To stiffen the spring and prevent its yielding too far to the load, a strong metal clasp, B, Fig. 3, is made to embrace it at right angles to the clasps, a a, thus causing it, under pressure, to yield outward at four parts of the circle. The clasp, B, may be secured in place by keys, c c, Fig. 3. The patentees say that this spring will support 400 lbs. of load to 1 lb. of steel in the spring, while the elliptic springs sustain only about 80 lbs. It is especially adapted to strengthening elliptic springs, by being placed between the two halves at the middle of the opening. As rubber costs about 70 cents per pound and these springs can be made for about 25 cents, they will probably supersede that costly material in many situations. In short, these light, simple and durable springs seem destined to go into very extensive use. The United States patent was issued on July 17, 1860, and further information in relation to the invention may be obtained by addressing Jerrold & Beggs, at Paterson, N. J.
