Patent 179027, describing an "electric bicycle lantern," represents a fascinating glimpse into the early days of integrating technology with personal transportation. While specific details about the design are scarce due to the age of the patent and limited online access to the full document, we can explore what we know and speculate on its significance within the context of late 19th-century innovation. This exploration will delve into the historical context, potential design features, and the broader impact of such inventions.
What We Know About Patent 179027
Unfortunately, accessing the full text of Patent 179027 directly is challenging. Patent records from this era are not always readily available online in a digitized, easily searchable format. This necessitates relying on secondary sources and historical context to understand its contribution. What we can surmise is that the patent likely described a lantern designed specifically for use on an electric bicycle. This implies a mechanism to power the light, likely via the bicycle's electric system.
What Kind of Technology Did It Use?
H2: What type of battery did the Elite Electric Bicycle Lantern use?
Given the timeframe (late 19th century), the lantern almost certainly utilized early battery technology, possibly lead-acid batteries. These were some of the earliest rechargeable batteries available and were relatively heavy and bulky compared to modern alternatives. The design would have needed to accommodate these limitations, possibly resulting in a lantern that was heavier and larger than modern counterparts.
H2: How did the lantern attach to the bicycle?
The patent would have detailed the lantern's mounting system. It likely involved a bracket or clamp designed to securely fasten the lantern to the bicycle's frame, handlebars, or perhaps even a specialized rack. Robustness and stability would have been crucial aspects of the design, ensuring the lantern remained securely in place even during rougher rides.
H2: Was the lantern's light source an incandescent bulb?
Considering the technology of the time, the most likely light source for the Elite Electric Bicycle Lantern would have been an incandescent bulb. Incandescent bulbs were becoming increasingly common in the late 19th century, even if still relatively new. The patent would have specified the bulb's wattage and the overall light output.
The Significance of Patent 179027
The existence of Patent 179027 highlights the early adoption of electric technology in personal transportation. This demonstrates an early attempt to enhance safety and visibility for cyclists, particularly in low-light conditions. While details remain elusive, the patent embodies the spirit of innovation and the drive to improve upon existing technologies. It represents a small but important step in the evolution of bicycle design and the integration of electrical systems into everyday objects.
Further Research & Conclusion
Further investigation into archival records, patent databases, and historical documents may uncover more detailed information about Patent 179027. This would allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the lantern's design, functionality, and its overall impact on the development of electric bicycle technology. Nevertheless, the patent's existence offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a testament to the ingenuity of inventors during a period of rapid technological advancement. While we might not be able to see the exact design, its spirit of innovation continues to inspire modern advancements in bicycle lighting and electric vehicle technology.
