An Improved Torpedo Boat

25,318. Elias, G. C. y. May 31, [date applied for under Sec. 103 of Patents &c. Act, A.D. 1883]. Torpedo boats.-Relates to submerged or partly-submerged cigarshaped vessels adapted to carry a single torpedo from a larger vessel or from the shore to within easy striking distance of the enemy. A longitudinal s e c t i o n of one is shown. The torpedo is carried in a central tube, closed at one end by a hinged conical cap B and at the other by a fixed cone containing a compressed-air bottle D. To eject the torpedo, the air is released from this bottle and acts on the pistons E and F. The vessel is propelled by a compressed-air engine N, and is controlled by a man seated in a chamber I, and attired in a Fleuss or similar diving-dress. The torpedo is directed by means of sighting-rods P and Q, the latter being made luminous for night work. Blocks of cork 0 protect the vessel against rifle fire and damage from wreckage. C', D is the ordinary working water line, but the boat can be further submerged by admitting water to a compartment T.