Patent GB-189824011-A (GB)
Title: Improvements in Linotype Machines.
Inventor: LOCK WILLIAM HENRY
Filed: 1898-11-15
Granted: 1899-11-11
Abstract: 24,011. Lock, W. H., [Mergenthaler Linotype Co.]. Nov. 15. Linotype machines.-Relates to linotype machines in which the matrices are strung on rods leading from the storage point to the assembly point. Fig. 9 is a vertical section showing the matrices G at the assembly point. There are twelve groups of matrices, each of which has eight formative cavities g<3> in one edge, and eight aligning-notches g<4> in the other. A matrix belonging to any one group can be brought to the assembly point on either of the eight supporting-rods F corresponding to that group, the required formative cavity being thus brought into the proper position before the mould I, into which hot metal is pumped in the usual manner. A guide H provided with converging gathering-arms brings the matrices hanging from the various rods together at the assembly-point. Fig. 11 shows in edge view the matrices and spacebars assembled to form a line commencing with the words: "If not " plainly shown." Fig. 2 shows the machine in side elevation, and Fig. 7 a detail view on a larger scale. An inclined shaft C carries a crosshead D to which are pivoted two matrix-sustaining frames E, E<1>, the opposite ends of which are furnished with rollers e' resting on a track B. In Fig. 2, the frame E is in the inclined position for the composition of a line, while the frame E' pivoted at the opposite side of the crosshead is horizontally disposed for the casting of a linotype and the subsequent distribution of the assembled matrices. The shaft C is moved through half a revolution intermittently, so that the frames alternately assume the aforesaid positions. The matrices belonging to any one group normally hang from a short rod f<11>, Fig. 7, the lowest resting against the end of the frame E. The depression of one of the keys f actuates the corresponding wire f lever f wire f<4>, vertical rod f<3>, and lever f<2>, so as to retract one of the short rods f which form the continuations of the guide or supporting rods F. By means of shoulders f the retracted rod carries with it all the rods above it in the series, including the storage rod f<11>, and the lowest matrix is thus released so as to fall upon the rod beneath the one retracted, and descends upon such rod to the assembly point. A spring- pressed finger f pressing on the lowest matrix ensures its delivery. The line is thus composed of matrices of the same or of different groups, released in turn by the successive depression of the keys and with the proper formative cavities aligned as shown in Fig. 11. The shaft C is now given a half-revolution, bringing the frame E into the horizontal position and the frame E' into the inclined position with its levers f<2> in engagement with the rods f<3> for the composition of a new line. The linotype is cast from the assembled matrices, and they are subsequently swept back along the rods F to the storage end by an arm actuated by a cord e<9> having a ball e<10> adapted to be engaged by a cam-actuated lever e<11>. The rods f are temporarily retracted by cam-actuated mechanism, and a plate K then rises, lifting the matrices so that they shall be re-engaged by the storage-rod f<11> on the return of the rods f. By this time a new line has been composed on the other frame, and the cycle of operations is recommenced. The plates or matrices G may be provided with cameo instead of intaglio characters, to produce impressions in papier mÔchÚ &c., or impression devices may take the place of the mould.