CHANGES IN LOBSTER REARING. 187 



Rafts in Two Pool Units. 



The rafts which have previously been built in six-pool sections were tried out 

 this summer in units of two pools and were found much stronger and easier to 

 handle. It is intended that the whole plant shall be remodelled to conform to 

 these plans. 



Electric Motor. 



The idea of furnishing power to these units by placing a small electric motor 

 on each raft was partially tried out this sunamer. This scheme, if economical, is 

 much better in several particulars. It gets rid of the long line of shafting which 

 is necessary to transmit power to the extreme rafts. This shafting is constantly 

 bending by the motion of the waves, while wires necessary to transmit the electric 

 power can easily have enough slack to allow for all motion. Furthermore, power 

 can be turned on or off by simply turning a switch. A unit thus established could 

 be installed wherever there is an electric-lighting system. The apparatus con- 

 sisted of a ^-H. P. alternating current motor running at 1800 R. M. P., and im- 

 parts through a worm and gear a speed of 20 R. P. M. to a shaft which in turn, 

 by means of a beveled gear, gives a speed of 10 R. P. M. to the two paddles of the 

 unit. On account of delays the scheme was installed too late to be used in the 

 lobster season, but was tried out sufficiently well to warrant a more thorough 

 test next year. 



