Name/Title
Blueprint – Dimensions for Base Frames for the Standard DynamosDescription
This is a technical blueprint showing the dimensions for base frames used in standard dynamos, produced by The Edison Machine Works, Schenectady, NY. The document features a technical drawing of a wooden base frame, along with a table of specifications listing various amperage ratings and corresponding frame dimensions.
The top section of the blueprint contains a three-dimensional schematic of the base frame, complete with labeled dimensions (A, B, C, D, E).
The middle section contains a detailed table specifying various sizes of base frames for different dynamo amperage ratings. The columns include:
Style Number
Amperes
Dimensions (A, B, C, D, E)
The bottom section contains the company’s name:
"The Edison Machine Works, Schenectady, N.Y."
The blueprint is printed on deep blue paper with white line work, a characteristic of 19th-century engineering blueprints. The edges are slightly worn, with minor chipping at the corners. The ink has faded slightly but remains largely legible.Context
The Edison Machine Works was established in 1881 as one of the key manufacturing arms of Thomas Edison's electrical empire. It played a crucial role in producing electrical components, including dynamos, generators, and electrical distribution equipment. Dynamos were critical components in early electric power generation, converting mechanical energy into direct current (DC) electricity.
These base frames were likely used in power stations, factories, and electrical installations during the early expansion of electric lighting and power systems. Lewis H. Latimer worked for the Edison Electric Light Company, making this document significant within the broader history of electrical engineering. While Latimer was known for his carbon filament innovations, he was also a skilled draftsman and likely contributed to technical designs, diagrams, and engineering solutions related to Edison’s projects.Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Inscription/Signature/Marks
Transcription
Text at the Top:
"Dimensions for the Base Frames for the Standard Dynamos"
Table Columns:
Style Number
Amperes
Dimensions (A, B, C, D, E)
Bottom Section:
"The Edison Machine Works, Schenectady, N.Y."