Patent GB-158197-A (GB)
Abstract: 158,197. Fournier, L., and Mang, G. Sept. 2, 1919. Keyboards.-A key-set, multiple-bank, independently-operated calculating machine, is provided with a compact form of key-board in which the keys 82, Fig. 2, have overlapping projections 82<2> so arranged that the depression of a key takes down there with all the keys of lower numerical value. The Specification as open to inspection under Sect. 91 (3) (a) comprises also means in machines of the Thomas type for controlling the reversing mechanism which determines the nature of the calculations performed on the totalizing- counters, for effecting this operation and other operations such as the zeroizing of the totalizer discs by grouping the control levers therefor at the front of the machine, and for automatically setting the axially movable pinions. Each key 82 has in addition to the overlapping projections 82<2> a bent arm 84, Fig. 5 (Cancelled), which on the depression of a key is, together with those of lower numerical value, withdrawn out of the path of a forked member 84 integral with a spring- controlled rack bar 86<1> and carrying the axially movable pinion 76 which is thereby set to a position depending on the key depressed. The member 84 is provided with a spring abutment 84<1> which prevents sudden stoppage of the pinion 76 and is sufficiently wide to lock the lower bent arms in depressed position. The racks 86<1> engage corresponding pinions 85 on numeral discs 86 to indicate the setting. An abutment on the key guide 83 limits the movement of the member 84 should all the keys be depressed. The members 84 may be restored individually by hand or collectively in one operation by means of a key 88<2>, Fig. 3 (Cancelled). The key 88<2>, which is mounted on a bent T-piece, is adapted to rock parallel levers 88<4>, 88<5> to oscillate a shaft 88<1> provided with arms 88 adapted to engage pins 86<2> on the racks 86<1>. Totalizing-counters reversing-mechanism control. Two handles 106, 107, Fig. 3 (Cancelled), which can be operated separately to change the nature of the calculations performed on the two totalizing-counters, are arranged so that when one handle is acted upon the other is automatically operated, the operation of the two totalizing- counters being simultaneously reversed. The lever 107 is loose on a shaft 109 and is connected by means of links and levers to a bar arranged in the usual manner relatively to the pinions 62<1>, 62<2> to allow of one or the other being moved into engagement with the pinions 62<3> of the totalizer numeral discs or both into an idle position. The lever 106 is connected in a similar manner to a corresponding bar 108<11> ; the lever 106 is, however, composed of two parts 106<2>, 106<3> having a pin-and-slot connection and so arranged that by pulling out the part 106<3> against the action of a spring a pin 106<7> thereon engages a recess in a pivoted lever 107<1> the opposite end of which isslotted to receive the lever 107 providing it is in the reverse position. In the mid-position of the levers 106, 107 the totalizing-counters are inoperative. Grouping of the control levers. The key 88<2>, the levers 106, 107 and the keys 113, 114, 115 arearranged at the front of the machine and are within reach of the left hand of the operator. The keys 113-115 are mounted on bent T-pieces, and each is adapted to engage an abutment 112<5> on a corresponding lever 112<2> which, when the key is depressed, is rocked and through a link 112<3> and lever 112 operates an abutment lever 111 adapted to engage heart-cams on the numeral wheels and effect their return to zero in the known manner. This subject-matter does not appear in the Specification as accepted.