Induccion de Bobinas

The principle of electromagnetic induction was discovered by Michael Faraday (1791-1867) in 1831. Induction coils
were used widely in electrical experiments and for medical therapy during the last half of the 19th century, eventually
leading to the development of radio in the 1890's. For more information on the application of induction coils in radio,
see my chapter on spark coils in the "The Wireless Age" section of this web site.

An induction coil essentially operates like a big buzzer: The interrupter's contacts (C), are wired in series
between the battery (B), and the coil. The contacts are closed in their resting state. When power (B) is
applied, the coil is activated which produces a magnetic field at the metal core of the coil. The magnetic
contact arm (V) is pulled toward the core, opening the interrupter contacts and breaking the circuit. The
falling magnetic field relaxes its hold, the contacts close, and the entire cycle repeats.

The rising and falling magnetic field of the primary coil induces a high voltage across the secondary.

How They Were Used

Induction coils were used in many different kinds of experiments. In
order to facilitate easy access to a variety of devices, an experiment
table was commonly used. A typical table is shown at the right. The
output of the coil was connected to the vertical brass uprights and
the connections could be adjusted safely using the insulated handles.

The "hand electrodes" shown in the photo were used in experiments

where the output of the coil was connected to a person (not directly - High Voltage Experiment Table
through a rheostat!) Many people of the time believed the mild and Hand Electrodes
electrical shock to be therapeutic. An entire industry of "quack" 1868
medical devices was born from the invention of the induction coil.

Henly's Universal Discharger

J. Newman, Lisle Street, London
1st Qtr, 19th Century

Mahogany base measures 15" x 6"; the

glass pillars are 8-3/4" in height. See
8" Experiment Table Public and Private Science: The King
George III Collection pg 520, fig. E213.
A specialized type of induction coil called a Rhumkorff coil was
used in early radio transmitters - so called "Spark" transmitters in
the "teens". You can see some examples of these spark coils by
clicking here.

Powering an Induction Coil

The photo at left is of a Grenet cell. These early acid jar batteries was used widely in
electrical experiments during the last quarter of the 19th century and were commonly used
as the primary power source for induction coils. For more information and a photo of
Thomas Edison using the cell, click here.

Grenet Cell Some other examples of induction coils in my collection are shown below.
1885
 Griggs Machine
Griggs Conical Electromagnetic Machine
1873
William Sturgeon Mercury Interrupter
English
1838
Described in "Annals of Electricity,
Magnetism and Chemistry" Vol. III,
William Sturgeon Mercury Interrupter
London 1838 pgs 331-334, Plate Il figs. 15
and 16.
Rhumkorff coil (signed)
Label 1850
Primitive Hand-wound Interrupter
English
1840
The brass and ivory handle turns a
cogged wheel and the axle of a double
ratchet, which engages the cogs is
connected to a horizontal copper bar.
The axle and the ends of the horizontal
bar are bent to dip in mercury cups. On
rotating the crank handle, the pinion
English wheel causes the bar to execute a rapid
1830 see-saw movement which then causes
the end pieces to make and break
contact rapidly with the measuring in
the two side cups. Described in The
Scientific Apparatus of Nicholas Callan ,
Mollan and Upton, 1994 pg. 84-85, fig.
102. .
 Compound Magnet and Electrotome
Daniel Davis
1840 Double Helix and Vibrating Electrotome
Daniel Davis
1848
Invented by Charles Page in 1838 (see Page's
biography: Physics, Patents and Politics by R.C. Post pg.
Described in slightly different form in Manual of
24) but patented in 1868. First described by Page in
Magnetism pg 301 fig. 182. (2nd Ed). Invented by
"Magneto-Electric and ElectroMagnetic Apparatus and
Charles Page and patented in 1868 but developed in
Experiments, " American Journal of Science, (1839), pgs
1838.
252-68, figs. 1-7.

Double Helix and Vibrating Electrotome

Daniel Davis
"Dr. C.B. Barrett Medico Electro-Medical Machine" 1842
Likely Daniel Davis
1848 This is a larger version described in Davis's Manual of
Magnetism pg. 301 fig. 182 (2nd Edition). Included are
two rosewood and brass medical shock handles and
Pictured and described in Manual of Magnetism (pg. battery (some paint worn off) as shown in Davis's
301 fig. 182) Catalog pg. 38, fig 182.
 Pike's Vibrating Magnetic Instrument for Medical Use
Hinds and Williams Double Helix and Vibrating Benjamin Pike, Jr.
Electrotome 1848
Likely Daniel Davis
1848
Signed by Benjamin Pike, Jr., on bottom of mahogany
base with trade card reading "Benjamin Pike, Jr.,
(See pg. 301, fig. 182 of Davis' Manual of Magnetism
Optician, Importer and Manufacturer of Mathematical
2nd Edition. )
and Philosophical Instruments, No. 294 Broadway, New
York". This machine is described in Pike's Catalog, on
pg. 47 of Volume II, fig. 469.

PIKE'S ROTARY MAGNETIC MACHINE

Benjamin Pike, Jr.
1848
"DR. S.B. SMITH'S 18 POUND MAGNETIC CURRENT
An electromagnetic machine and battery and with trade AND 6 POUND DIRECT CURRENT MACHINE"
card attached to inside cover of walnut box measuring 1845
16" x 6" x 7". Trade card reads "Benjamin Pike, Jr.
Optician, Importer and Manufacturer of Mathematic Box made of walnut measuring 6" x 3-1/2 " with
and Philosophical Instruments, No. 294 Broadway, New electromagnetic machine and accessories. Label of
York". Elaborate label also an inside top lid of box reads inside cover reads "Dr. S.B. Smith's Pocket Magnetic
"Pike's Rotary Magnetic Machine introduced Nov. 1843 machine of very strong Intensity" with instructions.
" with extensive instruction on use.
This machine is described in Pike's Catalog Vol. II on
pages 44- 47 and pictured in fig. 468. The device is
featured on the front wall (in a large advertisement) of
Pike's first shop in 1848 as seen in the woodcut
frontispiece in his catalogs of 1848 and 1856.

NEW PORTABLE MAGNETO-ELECTRICAL

MACHINE FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES
NEW PORTABLE MAGNETO-ELECTRICAL
Benjamin Pike, Jr.
MACHINE FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES
1848
Benjamin Pike, Jr.
1848
Described in Pike's Catalog Vol. II pg. 49 fig. 471.
Described in Pike's Catalog Vol. II pg. 49 fig. 471

FOSTER'S IMPROVED ELECTROTOME,

"DR. S.B. SMITH'S DIRECT AND TO-AND-FRO "James Foster, Makers, Cincinnati, O"
CURRENT ELECTRIC MACHINE" 1850
1850.
Has green label with instructions on inside lid of
mahogany box measuring 7-1/4" x 7". Electromagnetic
medical device with separate glass and wood battery
also signed. Fine condition; box has been restored.
 Double Helix and Vibrating Electrotome Complete with
ELECTROMAGENTIC MEDICAL MACHINE Battery and Handles in Wooden Box
"Manufactured for G.M. Boardman by William Mead N.B. Chamberlain
409 Broad Street, Newark, N.J." 1840's
1840's
Identical to Davis set on pg. 301, fig. 182 in the Manual
Contained in_ wooden box measures 6-1/2" x 6" x 3-1/2" of Magnetism. Extremely rare in it's completeness..
with primitive copper-zinc battery.

JEROME JEWELL: ELECTRO-MEDICAL DOUBLE

"DR. C.B. BARRETT MEDICO ELECTRO-MEDICAL HELIX AND RECIPROCATING ARMATURE ENGINE
MACHINE" 1848
New York, 1848
A fine and early reciprocating engine with four poles
Pictured and described in the Manual of Magnetism mounted atop the helix instead of a vibrating
pg. 301, fig. 182 and likely made by Davis but signed by electrotome. Clearly in the style of Daniel Davis with
"Barrett". typical components, including four brass ball feet
supporting the base. Signed. "Jerome Jewell,
Manufacturer of Galvanic Instruments, Bristol, Conn.
 "DR. S.B. SMITH'S DIRECT AND TO-AND-FRO
CURRENT AUTOMATON ELECTROMAGNETIC
Double Helix and Vibrating Electrotome MACHINE"
Daniel Davis, Jr. New York, Patented June 4, 1850
1840's
The electromagnetic device measures 7-3/4" x 3" and
Missing a finial. Illustrated in the Manual of Magnetism
instead of an electrotome as the interrupter, this device
on pg. 301, fig. 182.
has a rotating engine similar to "Pike's Rotary Magnetic
Machine"

"DR. S.B. SMITH'S TORPEDO MAGNETIC

A36 MACHINE"
1840's

Label on inside cover reads "Dr. S.B. Smith's Torpedo

Magnetic Machine" and shows a horse and buggy in
front of Dr. Smith's establishment. . A primitive battery
is included in the box as well.
 "HINDS AND WILLIAMS, MANUFACTURER'S OF
APPARATUS TO ILLUSTRATE MAGNETISM, Double Helix and Vibrating Electrotome
GALVANISM, ELECTRODYNAMICS, C. Williams, Boston
ELECTROMAGNETISM, MAGNETO ELECTRICITY, 1860
THERMOELECTRICITY, NO. 313 WASHINGTON
STREETS, BOSTON, MASS" Very similar to above "Hinds and Williams" except
1850
missing inner label to box. Battery is missing,
accessories include rosewood electromagnetic eye-cup
A vibrating electrotome and double helix complete in
and two rosewood electro-shock handles. The
walnut box measuring 10" x 7"x 7" with purple backed
electromagnetic device is on a walnut base and
label with gold lettering as above on inner lid. The
measures 6-5/8" x 4-1/2" and is stamped "C. Williams,
electromagnetic instrument measures 4-1/2" x 6-1/2"
Boston" on brass support straps holding coil which is
rosewood base, the green painted circular battery is 4-
painted red.
1/4" (d) and 6" (h). Accessories include: electro-shock
handle; an electromagnetic glass eye-cup and a natural
sponge.

A45
VIBRATING MAGNETIC MACHINE
signed "H.H. Sherwood, M.D." VIBRATING MAGNETIC MACHINE,
1840's signed "H.H. Sherwood, M.D."
1840's

Pictured and described in the Manual for Magnetizing Identical to coil at left except with brass attachments to
with the Rotary and Vibrating Magnetic Machine in the binding posts leading to wire to connect to
Duodynamic Treatment of Diseases, by H.H. Sherwood, electromagnetic shock handles.
M.D. (9th Ed), New York, 1847 on page 31.

BOX OF EARLY ROSEWOOD-HANDLED

ELECTROMAGNETIC MEDICAL ACCESSORIES
American.
1840's - 1850's ELECTRICAL BELT
signed "Pulvermacher Galvano Co. Electricity is Life"
American
Pictured and described in Illustrated Catalog of
1880's
ElectroMedical Instruments Manufactured and sold by
Thomas Hall, Boston, 1864 on pages 19-23. Contained
In black cloth covered box measuring 8-5/8" x 61-3/8"
neatly in a mahogany box measuring 13-1/2" x 6-1/2" x
(h) and accompanied with instruction book and catalog
2-1/2" are six fine rosewood and brass electromagnetic
by the Pulvermacher Galvano Company. Belt is made of
medical accessories including two adjustable rosewood
a brass weave.
eye cups. A very rare and unusual set, likely earlier than
the one pictured in the above catalog.

VERY EARLY PIKE AND SON

S.B. SMITH PREMIUM ELECTROMAGNETIC ELECTROMAGNETIC MEDICAL MACHINE,
MEDICAL MACHINE Pike and Son
1850s 1842
 COMPOUND MAGNET AND
ELECTROMAGNETIC MEDICAL DEVICE
ELECTROTOME
Benjamin Pike, Jr. Daniel Davis
1848 1840's

In box with shock handles, box with extensive

instructions and labels from Benjamin Pike on inside Jumbo style version of this instrument invented by
cover, fig 472, pg 52 of Pikes Catalog Charles Page.

Rhumkorff Coil English Induction Coil

Griffin & George English Induction Coil
c. 1900 4th Qtr 19th Century
Rhumkorff Coil 4th Qtr 19th Century

Laboratory Induction Coil

Rhumkorff Coil
1900 French Induction Coil
c. 1870
c. 1870
Unmarked Induction Coil

Early Induction Coil

Small Lab Induction Coil
1840's
Knott Vertical Laboratory Induction
Coil
 Spark Coils
The spark coil formed the heart of the earliest radio transmitters. Marconi used a Rhumkorff coil
similar to the one below in his early experiments. A Rhumkorff coil combines the spark coil,
interrupter, and spark gap all into one unit. The coil essentially operates like a huge buzzer: The
interrupter's contacts are wired in series between the battery and the coil and are closed in its
resting state. When power is applied, the coil is activated which produces a magnetic field at the
metal core of the coil. This pulls the interrupter contacts open, breaking the circuit. The falling
magnetic field relaxes its hold, the contacts close, and the entire cycle repeats.

The rising and falling magnetic field of the primary coil induces a high voltage across the secondary.
When the voltage is high enough it jumps the gap creating a spark. During the time the spark is
present there is a high frequency alternating current field radiated from one pole of the spark gap.

The output of a spark gap transmitter is turned on and off by the operator using a special kind of
telegraph key, designed with large contacts to carry the heavy current. I have several of these spark
keys in my collection, you can click here to have a look.

Simple Spark Gap Transmitter

Early Sullivan Wireless Rhumkorff Coil Marconi 10" Spark Coil

(With 01A for scale) c. 1910
 c. 1895

Wireless Spark Coil

c. 1880 Interrupter for Wireless Induction
Coil

Small Weitzmann Rhumkorff Coil

c. 1900

Weitzmann Rhumkorff Coil

c. 1900

E.I. Co.
1" Spark Coil E.I. Co.
1914 1.5" Spark Coil
1914 "Bull Dog" 1/2" Spark Coil
E.I. Co, 1914

Splitdorf Spark Coil

Patent Date: 1898 Queen & Co.
Induction Coil
 Early Dow Spark Coil

Bing Spark Transmitter

with Rigi Spark Gap
W. Watson & Sons Rhumkorff Coil (German)
(British) c. 1905
APPS Induction Coil c. 1895
1891

Grenet Cell
1888

Grenet Batteries were single-element battery source with flasks of varying volumetric capacity, from 1/3 liter to 3
liters. These battery elements, when filled with an acid solution and placed in series, were a common source of
electrical current prior to the development of the dry-cell battery.

For more information on the development of the battery, see Allessandro Volta.

Thomas Edison in 1888 after seventy-two hours of

Grenet Cell Battery work on his phonograph. Note the Grenet Cell in
1888 the left of the photo.
Source: Thomas Alva Edison by Margaret Cousins, Random
House 1993