electric bell An audible warning device in which a small clapper is made to vibrate rapidly against a resonant metal gong. This is usually archived by using a direct-current electromagnet to attract the clapper arm toward the gong, while a make-and-break contact cuts off the current just before the clapper strikes, so that the spring-loaded clapper arm recoils– remaking the circuit and commencing another cycle. In the single-action bell, there is no repeater mechanism. Related categories • ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM • TECHNOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |