Improvements in and Connected with Compositors' Type Cases.
Year: 1886

page_text: Improvements in and Connected with Compositors' Type Cases.
I JOHN CLAYTON MEWBURN, of 169 Fleet Street, in the City of London, Fellow
of the Institute of Patent Agents do hereby declare the nature of this invention
(a communication from abroad by Louis Kossuth Johnson and Abbott Augustus
Low, both of Brooklyn, United States of America, Citizens of the United States
of America) and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly
described and ascertained in and by the following statement:-
This invention relates to the class of compositors' type cases in which the types
are arranged, in prescribed positions, in containing channels, from the lower ends
of which they may be removed by hand.
The object of the improvements is to more completely adapt type cases of this
class to the wants and convenience of a compositor, and at the same time simplify
and cheapen the construction of the case as a whole, and the invention consists,
generally in the special construction, arrangements and combinations of parts
hereinafter described.
In the accompanying drawings Figure 1 is an elevation of the right hand side
of a compositor's case constructed in accordance with this invention, the case being
shown closed; Figure 2 is a front elevation of the same, when open and ready for
use; Figure 3 is a vertical section on line x
x of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a
transverse sectional view of adjoining portions of the superimposed bed plates and
their division pieces, full size, showing the method of interlocking the parts;
Figure 5 is a front elevation, full size, of the projecting end of one of the division
pieces, with a metallic "finger piece" or seat secured thereto, the latter being
represented as supporting the lower portion of a containing channel and the types
therein; Figure 6 is a front elevation of the lower portion of one of the sheet
metal type containing channels; and Figure 7 an edge view of the same taken
from the left hand side. Figure 8 is a front elevation of one of the metallic finger
pieces, or channel and type seats; Figure 9 is a side elevation taken from the left
hand side of the same; and Figure 10 a plan of the same. Figures 11 and 12 are
respectively rear and side elevations of one of the interchangeable denomination
marks; Figure 13 is an elevation of the front side of one of the first upper four
bed plates with division pieces and type and channel seats; Figure 14 is a
transverse section of the body of the case; Figure 15 is a vertical section of the
right hand side of the case, on line ¹ - x1, Figure 2; Figure 16 is a vertical
section of the body of the case, on line x - - - x, Figure 2, shewing the enclosed
space for the projection of the containing channels beyond the channel compart-
ments when the latter are made shorter than the containing channels; Figure 17

page_text: is a detail view of the construction shown in Figure 16, being a plan of the left
hand portion of one of the bed plates, &c and showing the enclosing shell in
section; Figure 18 is a plan of a portion of the belt plate and upper extremities
of the space compartments showing the flaring mouths or entrances to the latter.
Heretofore the bodies of these type cases have been constructed of a series of
superimposed interlocking metallic plates; but such construction, though durable
and effective, is expensive and renders the case objectionably heavy, while the
metallic surfaces are liable to injure the faces of the type should the latter
accidentally be brought in contact therewith.
In the construction shown in the drawings above referred to the body of the
case A, is composed or built up of a series of superimposed plates a, formed of wood,
or. other similar material which affords a comparatively high degree of lightness
and elasticity of surface combined with the requisite degree of strength. These
plates are provided with division pieces or ribs a¹, at of the same or a similar
material, which answer the double purpose of separating the bed plates a, a to the
required distance, thereby creating longitudinal grooves or recesses a³, a³ for
the reception of the bodies of the type containing channels, and of furnishing
means, at their lower extremities, for the attachment and support of the combined
type and channel seats, which it is desirable to form of metal.
For the purpose of rendering the case, when secured together, strong and rigid,
and preventing the warping of the material, it is preferred to form longitudinal
grooves a³, a³ upon the under sides of the bed plates a, corresponding to, and
receiving the upper sides of, the division pieces a, a, which latter, of wood or
other similar material, are made of strips in which the grain or fibre extends
longitudinally and substantially at right angles to that of the bed pieces.
By this means, when the series of plates a, a are clamped together by means of
bolts B passing through the superimposed bed plates and coinciding division pieces,
as shown in Figure 14, a perfectly rigid nest or frame work for the reception of the
type containing channels is created, which is comparatively light and inexpensive,
while affording all the advantages of the former metallic case, since by using a
suitable number of clamping devices, B the construction will be, for all practicable
purposes, sufficiently strong and permanent in form, while the comparative softness
and elasticity of the material used greatly diminishes the danger of injury and
excessive wear,
to both type and channels, which was liable to occur in the
metallic case by reason of contact with the hard unyielding surfaces of the latter.
It will be observed that owing to the form of the containing channels, which
are preferably if not necessarily made open upon one side (the left) so as to expose
the face ends of the types, the said type faces are liable to be brought into contact
with the opposed right hand sides of the division pieces owing to carelessness in
inserting the containing channels into their places in the body of the case, or by
reason of jar or from other accidental cause. In fact, the said right hand side
of each division piece, a¹, performs the office, to a greater or less extent, of a guiding
and retaining surface to the column of type in the opposed containing channel.
It is therefore obvious that, owing to the softness of the type metal, the division
pieces a¹, a¹, formed of wood, or other similar semi-elastic substance, are a decided
and important improvement upon the old form of metallic division pieces, since
they furnish a guiding and retaining surface to the column of type which will do
the least possible damage to the faces of the types, when the latter suffer contact
therewith.
The bolts B, are preferably connected at the top with broad bearing plates B¹,
into which the ends of the bolts are countersunk, or tapped, as shown in Figure 14,
for the purpose of distributing and equalizing the clamping or binding action of
the bolts; and they secure the superimposed bed plates as a unit to a metallic
frame or spider C, formed with a bearing or axis c, which projects at right angles
to the planes of the bed plates a. This axis c, is supported in a suitable socket d,
formed upon the upper end of the vertical screw D, by means of which the case may
be raised or lowered bodily through the medium of the hand nut d. The socket d,

page_text: is provided with a set screw c¹ for binding against the axis c. The elevation and
inclination of the case is thus provided for, as described in United States patent
No 271,711, except that no provision is made for varying its vertical inclination,
the most appropriate angle, when considered with relation to the descent and
withdrawal of the types, being ascertained and made permanent, while any
variation in the weight or size of the different fonts of types to be used may be
compensated for by the lateral adjustment of the body of the case upon its axis, so
as to cause the types to rest more or less upon their lower ends or feet. By this
arrangement the presentation of all the types to the compositor in the same vertical
plane under all circumstances can be ensured.
An additional feature in this connection not heretofore used is the means for
limiting the lateral movement of the case upon its axis, consisting of a shoulder or
projection, c³, upon the axis c, which travels in a slot or recess d³, formed in the
socket piece d, and by its contact with one or the other of the shoulders forming
the extremities of the said alot preventing the revolution of the case upon the
axis c.
"
The lower extremities of the division pieces a¹, project beyond the lower edges
of the bed pieces, a, a. sufficient distance to permit of the attachment of the
finger pieces," or combined type and channel seats E, which are preferably
formed of metal. These seats E are formed with a shank e, which is equal to, or
less than the thickness of the bed plates a, so that, when they are secured to the
under sides of the projecting portions a³ of the division pieces a¹, and the bed
plates a, are secured together as herein before stated, the said shanks e will occupy
the spaces between adjoining and vertically coinciding ends, as, of the division
pieces, a¹, the said spaces being equal vertically to the thickness of the portions of
the bed-plates between the super imposed division pieces.
These combined type column seats and channel supports E, are also preferably
formed with shoulders or abutments e¹, which rest against and protect the lower
extremities of the division pieces a¹, a³ and practically render the "finger pieces'
or seats E, extensions of the division pieces a¹.
"
These metallic seats or finger pieces E, are secured to the lower projecting
ends a³, of the division pieces a¹, independently by means of screws or similar
fastenings, as shown in Figure 5, or a series of them, consisting of those coinciding
in position vertically, may be simultaneously secured and held in position upon
the ends a³, of the division pieces by means of a single bolt E, passing alternately
through the division pieces a³, and shanks e, as shown by dotted lines in Figure 3.
The "finger pieces" proper or type and channel supporting portions of the
pieces E, project laterally from the bodies of the said pieces E, toward the left so
as to extend underneath and opposite to the lower extremities of the longitudinal
cells or recesses a² for the reception of the type containing channels F. This part
of the device is substantially the same in construction and operation as that
known form (see L. K. Johuson's United States Patent of 12th June 1883
No 279,168) in which the type supporting shoulder, e², is so formed that, after
the lowest type has been only partially withdrawn and while its rear portion is
still within the containing channel, it will clear the type supporting shoulder e³,
thereby expediting and rendering easier the removal of the type. This is effected
mainly by forming the type supporting shoulder with a depression or recess e³,
immediately under the position of the foot or rear end of the lowest type in the
column, so that when the face or head portion of the said lowest type is turned
laterally during the action of cutting it off or removing it from its column, its foot
or rear end will be free and unrestrained before it is entirely withdrawn from the
containing channel F.
In the known form above referred to this action was still further contributed to
by making the type supporting shoulder of less width than that of the body of the
type, so that the latter would havo the least possible distance to travel laterally
before clearing or being cut off from the said support, but there are objections to
this construction owing to variations in the widths of types of the different fonts

page_text: that it may be required to use in the case and the same result is therefore
accomplished by, and the only novel feature of construction in this connection
consists in, making the type supporting shoulders e¹ of a width equal to the
greatest width of any of the different styles of types for which the particular
case is adapted and designed, so as to support all types alike uniformly and
evenly, and in forming its rear end or portion adjoining the depression or recess e³,
so that it terminates in an oblique angle e', with relation to the position of
the body of the lowest type, the front edge of the type supporting shoulder being
considerably shorter than its rear edge, as shown in Figure 10, so that when
the body of the lowest type, which is grasped by its upper or face end, and which
is therefore naturally turned more or less laterally during the act of withdrawing
it, has assumed an angle corresponding to that of the rear edge or junction e*,
between the shoulder e³, and the slot es, it will be quickly released from the weight
of the column of type above.
The type containing channels F, which are supported upon the finger piece by
an adjustable screw S, substantially in the same manner shown and set forth in
the United States Patent to L. K. Johnson, N° 254,019 dated February 21st, 1882,
are made of sheet metal struck up into the desired form. The adjustment of the
width of the transverse slot or type opening f, is effected by means of this screw S,
which is in the present case provided with a set nut 8, for rendering the adjustment
more permanent when effected.
For the purpose of enabling the compositor to readily change the relative
arrangement of the different characters in his case to suit his fancy or convenience,
or adapt it more fully to the requirements of a particular class of work inter-
changeable denomination marks L are provided.
I am aware that in the United States Patent of L. K. Johnson N° 263,707, an
interchangeable denomination mark is shown, but in that case the device performs
the more important function of an adjustable channel support, and can be removed
or replaced only by loosening or tightening a set screw. Besides, owing to the
correspondence in thickness of a large number of the types in every font, it may
be frequently desirable to change the denomination mark without the necessity
existing of altering the width of the "transverse slot" or type opening f. For
these reasons an independent interchangeable denomination mark L is provided,
which consists of a plug or button, upon which the required character is marked in
any desirable manner, which fits into any one of the holes l, with which the
metallic finger piece, E, is provided for this purpose. Although there are a variety
of forms in which this interchangeable plug L, may be made, it is preferred to
make it as shown in the accompanying drawings, consisting of a head or disc the
face of which bears the denomination mark, and from which a split stem l',
projects, the elasticity of the two parts of the stem assisting in retaining the
mark in its proper position when inserted in one of the holes l.
In cases where economy is desirable, or where the compositors prefer such
'means, the ordinary types in use in the case may be substituted for the plugs L,
by inserting the appropriate types in the holes 1, in such manner that their faces
project outward, as shown in Figure 8.
The containing channels F, are passed into their positions in their compart-
ments as in the body of the case, from its lower front end over the seats or finger
piece E, as in the United States Patent of L. K. Johnson N° 254,019.
In the present improved case the upper rear ends of the channel compartments a³
are enclosed, as shown at a' in Figures 3 and 16, so as to exclude all dust and
foreign substances therefrom, thereby protecting the columns of type and ensuring
their uniform and uninterrupted descent, and obviating the necessity of cleaning
or blowing out" the compartments from time to time, as has heretofore been
necessary.
There the channel compartments a³, and bed pieces a, extend upward a distance
equal to the full length of the containing channels, Figures 3 and 13; the upper
extremity of each channel compartment, a will be sealed by the back plate a

page_text: Dut, in order to cheapen and guten the construction as much as possible, it 18,
preferred to construct the bed plates a, and division pieces a¹ as small as practicable,
consistent with the proper support of containing channels-that is, so that the
channel receptacles support the containing channels for the greater portion of their
lengths, but allow their upper ends to project beyond the upper extremities of the
bed plates a, as shown in Figure 17, and the space essential for this projection of
the upper extremities of the containing channels F, is enclosed and sealed by the
surrounding portions of the rear and side walls a, a, as indicated in Figures 16
and 17. The upper extremities of both the type containing channels F, and their
compartments a³, will thus be effectually protected from dust, or contact with
foreign substances, while the weight of the body of the case is reduced.
When thus constructed of less length than that of the containing channels F, the
upper extremities of the division pieces a', are bevelled or rounded off, as shown.
in Figure 17, upon the sides opposed to the faces of the types in the containing
channels, so that they will gradually return the types in the upper part of a
column into proper alignment as the column descends, in case any of the types
should from any cause project too far from the edge of the containing channels.
The front edges a³, of the lower ends of the bed pieces a, being exposed more or
less to accidental contact with the ends of the type containing channels during the
operation of inserting the latter into their respective compartments and being in
the present case made of wood, or other similar substance, are protected by strips
of metal or guards a³, (shown in Figures 3 and 13) secured to them in any suitable
manner.
As a result of investigation and experiment, entered into for the purpose of
effecting the most complete, compact and convenient arrangement of all the parts
of a case, constructed upon the principle involved in the United States Patent of
L. K. Johnson N° 230,784 dated August 3rd 1880, the relative arrangement of type
channels, space holders, & hereinafter described has been designed as being
specially advantageous when considered with relation to the various requirements
of the different kinds of work ordinarily required of a compositor.
One feature to be noticed in connection with almost all, branches of composition
is the comparatively large quantity of spaces that are used in connection with a
given quantity of the character types. These spaces are not only inserted between
each word, but frequently between the individual letters composing the words, and
in "justifying" or completing each line in the stick. Some of these spaces are
almost invariably discarded and other spaces of greater or less thickness substituted
in order to perfect the line. The consequence is that in a case constructed upon;
this principle, ie, in which the types are arranged in prescribed positions in
columns in containing channels, an unusual and inconveniently large number of
containing channels have to be devoted to the holding of the necessary spaces, in
order to approximate the proper position with relation to the number of character
types in the case, while the spaces discarded during composition, as above
mentioned, have to be provided for by the use of separate receptacles from which
they have to be removed and redistributed into the containing channels.
For the purpose of obviating these difficulties, and economizing both space and
labor, there is combined and arranged with the channel case, in which the types
are arranged in prescribed positions in columns as before mentioned, a series of
space holding compartments T, T in which the types are deposited loosely, and
without regard to relative position, in elongated inclined boxes or compartments,
from the lower ends of which they may be removed by hand at any angle or
inclination.
That is to say, there is incorporated with the superimposed bed plates a, and
division pieces a¹, forming the channel compartments a², and preferably underneath
the latter, a suitable number of elongated box compartments T, for the reception
and presentation of the necessary proportion of spaces of all kinds.
The space compartments T, T, extend backward and upward from the lower
front end of the case, and are the same length as, and are parallel to, the, channel

page_text: compartments a³, a² above; and they may be constructed as shown in the drawings,
by a series of division pieces a', a their bottoms or floors being formed by the final
bed piece or plate t.
The spaces are fed into the compartments T, through the rear openings or tops t¹
which are (protected when not in use) enclosed by suitable. doors or covers t from
which they descend by gravity to the lower front ends of the compartments where
they are supported by the front walls or type shoulders t³..
The openings or tops t¹, of the space compartments T, are enlarged by bevelling
the upper extremities of the division pieces a', a', as shown in Figure 18, for the
purpose of facilitating the introduction of the spaces.
The lower front ends of the space compartments T, extend outward in front of
and beyond the channel seats E, above, a sufficient distance to afford ample space
for the access of the fingers of the compositor, for the purpose of picking up and
withdrawing the spaces as required.
"
For the purpose of allowing the greatest possible capacity in these "space"
holding compartments, the space enclosed by the base plate t, is divided into a
number of compartments, equal to the different sizes of spaces only, and their
depth may be made, say, about equal to the depth of two of the channel spaces, as
indicated in the drawings, so that each space compartment T, will present, in cross
section, an area and capacity much greater than the combined area and capacity of
any four of the channel compartments a³, above, while monopolizing only a like
space in the body of the case, as will be seen by reference to Figure 14.
The space holding compartments T, T constructed and arranged substantially as
described are adapted to perform a double function. They afford a storage capacity
for large quantities of "spaces" which may thus be included in a case in proper
proportion to the quantity of character types without duplication of compartments
for a given denomination of "space," the spaces being fed down automatically to
the lower front ends of the compartments, as fast as those in advance are removed;
and their open lower ends also afford ever ready and convenient receptacles for the
spaces discarded by the compositor during the formation of the lines in the "stick"
as herein before described.
This combination of functions is of great importance in practice, since it is to be
remembered that "spaces" may be used indiscriminately in composition as far as
regards position,-either end being placed uppermost according to convenience,―
so that the spaces thus discarded and dropped into the open ends of the compart-
ments T, will always be available for reuse, thus avoiding the necessity of
redistributing or re-handling them in any manner whatsoever.
The capacity of the case so far as "spaces" are concerned, is thus increased in a
double sense, the compartments themselves being virtually reservoirs that hold
comparatively large quantities of spaces and feed them to the compositor as
required, while their lower open ends, by receiving the discarded spaces and
re-presenting them for immediate use, thus obviating all waste or "pie," practically
augment the working capacity of the case in a still larger degree.
It is to be observed in this connection that in practice the number of types so
discarded and returned to the compartments during the operations of composition
will always be comparatively few with relation to those permanently removed, so
that there will never be any danger of an accumulation sufficient in number to
exceed the capacity of the ends of the compartments.
"
For the purpose of allowing of a temporary increase of the quantity of "spaces
of a given denomination to be stored and presented by the case, as would be found
advantageous in connection with certain peculiar classes of composition, the lower
portions 3, of the division pieces a' are made removable, so that adjoining com-
partments may be united at the lower front end when filled with spaces of the
same denomination. This may be done by mortise and tenon joints, as shown in
Figure 2, or by any other suitable means.
To provide for the convenient emptying or discharge of the space compart-
ments T, when desired for any case, the front wall or type supporting shoulder t

page_text: is made removable. This is preferably accomplished by making the said supporting
shoulder adjustable laterally with relation to the case, so that one or more of the
compartments may be emptied without disturbing or endangering the others.
As shown in Figures. 2 and 3, the supporting shoulder t³, rests between the lower
extremities of the division pieces d, and the stationary lugs or shoulders c³, of the
spider or frame C, and is held in position by suitable pins t, or other similar device
by which it engages with the bed plate t.
During the composition or "setting up" of tabular matter, such as market
quotations, price lists, & large numbers of numerals and "quads" are frequently
required to be used in connection with comparatively few letters, and in this class
of work it is also frequently necessary to use "leads" between the lines, to a
greater or less extent. For these reasons the respective compartments in the case
are arranged in the following manner, as will be more fully understood by reference
to Figure 2.
In the central and left hand portion of the case are arranged the one hundred
(more or less) denominations of character types &, constituting the bulk of the
Bo-called upper" and "lower" cases, with the enlarged space compartments
underneath.
"
On the right hand side is arranged a series of type containing channel com-
partments A¹, and seats E2, in the upper part of the case, for the accommodation
and presentation of the numerals, marks, &, and underneath these are constructed
one or more drawers or sliding compartments M, for the reception and presentation
of "quads," "leads," &, arranged to present these essentials within convenient
reach of the compositor, especially when he is engaged in the use of the numerals, &
above.
This construction is effected preferably by extending the first four or more upper
bed plates a, a over the space to be occupied by the drawers M and the locker V
or receptacle hereinafter described, and by extending the base plate t, in a
corresponding manner, as will be clearly seen by reference to Figure 14, or in any
other convenient manner, the design being simply to incorporate the said "quad"
and "lead" holding drawers in the case in the most appropriate and convenient
position to the other compartments when considered with relation to the class of
work in which quads and leads are most frequently required. It is preferred to
arrange a series of three or four of these drawers M, one above the other as shown
in Figures 2 and 15, so as to accommodate and store within convenient reach extra
quads, leads, spaces, brackets &°, and the accented and other character types seldom
used in composition. The drawers rest upon ways or supports m, m, which are
parallel to the bed plates a, and when closed or pushed back to their fullest extent,
their fronts occupy in common a plane which is at right angles to the longitudinal
extensions of the channel compartments thus leaving a portion of the bed plate, t,
in front of them unoccupied, sufficient in area to afford a convenient temporary
resting place.
The space back of the set of drawers M, formed by and between the extensions
of the upper bed pieces a, a, and the lower base plate t, as before stated, are
enclosed at the back and provided with a hinged door or cover v, at the side thus
utilizing all the available space and constituting a convenient "locker" or
receptacle for the storage of articles not required for immediate use.
Mounted upon the top of the case A, is a combined copy-holder and type case
cover W, hinged to the upper part of the case in such manner that it may be
turned and lowered into the position shown in Figure 1, and thereby entirely
enclose and protect all of the several compartments constituting the "case,”-its
width being made equal to that of the case itself for this purpose. When the case
is in use this cover is supported in a suitably inclined position, with relation to
the front of the case and the position of the operator, as indicated in Figure 3, by
an adjustable device which will allow of slight variations in the angle of support,
that shown in the drawings consisting of a brace or pawl w, secured to the top of
the case, which engages with a rack wl, upon the cover W, the said parts being

page_text: i
held in engagement with each other and the accidental descent of the cover W;
being thereby prevented, by means of an elastic link, or spring coupling, w³,
interposed between and connecting the pawl w, and the cover W.
The edge or shelf, w³, for the support of "copy," may be formed upon the
cover W, if desired, but, as shown in the drawings, it is permanently attached to
the top of the case and furnishes a convenient bearing upon which to pivot the
cover itself, the latter being recessed as shown at w, in Figures 2 and 3, to allow
it to pass over the said shelf, w³.
The case thus constructed and arranged, as the result of experiment and
investigation, affords a simple, compact and convenient device, that is especially
adapted to the ordinary requirements of a compositor when in use, while it is to be
observed that when not in use the several compartments may be entirely enclosed,
and the type containing channels & effectually protected from dust or injury.
The case, as a whole, also, while being sufficiently durable for all practicable
purposes is much cheaper to construct and more light and convenient to handle
than those heretofore constructed.
Another feature of the invention is a special construction and arrangement of
a printers compositing compartment, and the combination and use therewith of a
special form of portable and interchangeable channel case, for the reasons and
substantially in the manner I will now explain.
It will be seen that in the class of type case, hereinbefore described, the
containing channels are inclined at such an angle that the columns of type
contained therein descend automatically by their own weight as fast as those
below are withdrawn by the fingers of the compositor. As heretofore constructed,
and as shown and described in most of the Patents herein before mentioned the
.type containing channels have been arranged in the body of the case "upon the
flat" with their open edges and the faces of the types toward the left hand side of
the case, experiment having demonstrated that such position is the best attainable
for the removal of the types from their respective channels laterally when the right
hand was employed, as has heretofore been usual with compositors, the stick
being held in the left. By this arrangement the lower types in each column being
withdrawn transversely and slightly toward the right, were cut off without danger
of moving those next above longitudinally, any tendency to auch longitudinal
motion being in the direction of the back or bottom of the containing channels and
being therefore calculated to preserve the alignment of the types.
In order to relieve the lower types in a column as much as possible from the
weight of the column above, so as to facilitate their withdrawal transversely from
between the type supporting shoulders and the ends of the containing channels, it
is desirable to make their inclination sufficient only to just allow the types to slide
slowly forward and downward upon the under side or back of the containing
channels, the latter sustaining the greater part of the weight of each type. It is
obvious, therefore, and experience has demonstrated, that the presence of even a
comparatively slight quantity of dust or other foreign matter in the containing
channel is sufficient to retard or prevent the uniform descent of the types, besides
tendency to scratch, and unduly wear them. This is especially the case where the
finer grades of type are used, in which the delicate hair lines are very easily
deranged. In practice it is also desirable that a compositor should be able to
leave work in the midst of a job without the necessity of disturbing the case or
copy and at the same time have the types isolated and protected from dust,
interference, &c. Since compositors frequently work independently or by the
"thousand ems" it is important to each individually that his case after it is filled,
and arranged to suit his convenience, should remain undisturbed during his absence,
especially since, in these cases whole columns or channels of type may be quickly
and conveniently withdrawn from their position in the body of one case and
inserted into another. Again when types are withdrawn heedlessly, or otherwise,
from this case, by others, and not to be at once placed in the stick, they are
necessarily "pied" since they cannot be dropped back into place as might be dọng
-

page_text: in the old form of compositors type case, but must be transferred to the distributing
apparatus to be reset in a prescribed manner, thus involving a waste of time and
labor which it is desirable to guard against. To obviate these difficulties
I construct a compositors type compartment which is adapted to receive and
properly present the type containing channels constituting a "case" and also to
receive and store large quantities of distributed types, which compartments may be
readily opened or closed without disturbing the contents, and which practically
gives each compositor exclusive control of the material placed under his charge;
and enables him to maintain the apparatus in clean and good working order with
comparatively slight expenditure of time and labor.
An incidental feature of the present construction consists in provision for the
storage of large quantities of types not in use. It is one of the advantages of the
system herein described of handling type that the latter, after use, can be distributed
into the containing channels and held ready constantly for insertion in the setter
case, whereas in the old system the matter printed from had to be stored away
without distribution until needed or until there was room in the case to receive
the types. Under my system the compositor is relieved from distribution, and the
'setting " is rendered practically continuous. Under these circumstances the
convenient storage of large quantities of type within reach of the compositor,
without his leaving his position in front of the case, effects a great saving in time
and labor.
"
Taken as a whole, the compositors compartment also includes a movable seat,
which, when not in use, may be slid out of the way, and a platform, which may be
similarly disposed of, and which is also adjustable vertically to conform to the
height and convenience of the operator.
A novel and useful compositors compartment is thus produced which contains in
convenient form all the facilities required by the compositor, while capable
being isolated and enclosed from interference or disturbance.
Not the least important feature of the invention consists in making the type
channel case, which forms an essential part of the said compartment, independent, of
and removable from its support, so that two or more interchangeable cases may be
used in conjunction with the compartment. By this means an exhausted case may
be readily and quickly removed and a full one substituted therefor. This feature
is also of advantage where an entire change in style or size of type is called for, by
the nature of the work to be done.
Figure 19 is a front elevation, upon a large scale, of one of the compartments
open, and of adjoining portions of two other compartments. Figure 20 is a front
elevation of one of the compartments open, and showing the arrangement of the
right and left hand case, &. Figure 21 is a sectional elevation of the front portion
of the compartment, shown in Figure 20. Figure 22 is a vertical transverse section
of one of the compartments. Figure 23 is a similar view of the top portion of a
compartment, showing the combination of the vibrating channels, with the ordinary
channel case. Figure 24 is a side elevation of a channel case made removable from
the compartments. Figure 25 is a detail view, illustrating the construction and
operation of the sliding doors or covers.
The series of compartments D, D are preferably constructed of uniform size and
dimensions, and with a continuous table or type case support d, extending from one
end of the series to the other. The roof or top d, is also thus made uniform and
continuous, from end to end, except in compartments where the type cases A
are removable, when the top is hinged so that it may be raised to facilitate the
insertion or removal of the type case. Each compositors compartment D, D is
divided into two sections, an upper E, and lower F, by the table d. Each of these
sections is enclosed at the rear by walls or partitions d', d, which like the top and
table, are continuous from one end of the series to the other. The side walls e, e, f, f
of both sections E, F of each compartment D, are made hollow to receive the
sliding doors or partitions e¹, e¹ and f¹, f¹ by which the fronts of the sections E, F
are closed when not in use. The construction and operation of these doors, will be
3

page_text: more readily understood by reference to Figure 25, which represents a horizontal-
section through one of the lower side walls f. In this view one of the slides or
doors f¹is shown as withdrawn from the recess f³, and turned at right angles
thereto, to close one side of a section e, while the other door or slide f¹, is
represented within the recess. The doors or slides f¹, f¹ are prevented from being
fully withdrawn from the fronts of the recess f* in the side walls f,f, by projections
or shoulders f³, f³ upon their inner ends which, when the doors are drawn out
fully, come in contact with suitable stops which however allow the doors to swing
laterally into position at right angles to the side walls. The doors enter the side
walls e, e and are constructed and operated in substantially the same manner. It
is obvious that the door for closing both sections E and F, may be arranged to slide
into horizontal recesses, if preferred, instead of into the vertical recesses herein
shown and described. The doors e¹, f¹ are preferably provided with locks, &, 80
that each compositor may have exclusive control of his own compartment. By
thus providing for the disposition of the doors when not in use the compartments
can be arranged side by side and alleys be left between the rows free and
unobstructed. The lower sections F, are formed upon opposite sides with a series
of rails or brackets f f which receive and support between them a series of
drawers or racks G, G which may be readily inserted or withdrawn from the front
of the compartment when the doors f, f are slid into the side walls f¹. The
containing channels C, are held upon the racks G, in any convenient manner, that
shown in the drawings consisting in supporting them against lateral movement
by vertical pins g, while they are held against longitudinal movement by the
shoulders g¹, g¹ which engage with the notches or off-sets formed in both extremities
of the containing channel. Any particular channel upon a rack may thus be lifted
therefrom without disturbing the remainder. Sliding upon and between ways or
rails f, f in the lower sections F, in a similar manner to the channel racks G, are
seats U, which may be pulled outward into position when the compositors desire,
and slid back into the sections F, entirely out of the way when not in use.
similar manner sliding platforms W, are arranged in the lower portions of the lower
sections F, which may be drawn forward more or less, for a foot rest when desired,
or which may be used as a platform upon which to stand while working at the case.
The sides of the platform W, are supported between the ways w, w while its front
end when extended and in use is supported and prevented from return by the
ratchet brace w³, which engages with the rack bar w².
In a
The type case bodies A, A may be built and incorporated directly into and with
the compartments, or they may be formed independently (as indicated in Figure 22)
so as to be inserted into or removed from the upper sections E, of the com-
partments D, at pleasure. In the figures the details of construction, such as the
type and channel supporting shoulder, and the containing channels, are omitted
from most of the views, and the bodies of the cases A, A alone are indicated. The
case may be constructed (as shown in Figure 20) in two sections A, A, one for the
right hand and one for the left hand, as will be hereinafter more fully described.
The space race T, (Figures 20 and 21), which acts to store and present the spaces,
may be made in the form of drawers to be inserted or withdrawn from the front of
the case where the latter is built directly into and forms part of the compartment,
as in Figure 20. For convenience in representation, the division pieces, a¹, forming
the floors of the channel recesses a, a are shown as occupying a horizontal position
laterally, although inclined downward from back to front. In practice these
division pieces a¹ will be built into the compartments D, upon an incline downward
from left to right, in the case, of a single or right hand setter. The double incline
thus imparted to the containing channels and their contents ensures the descent of
the type in perfect alignment with their heels all resting against the bottoms or
closed edges of the channels. Where the double or "right and left hand" case is
employed the division pieces, a¹, upon the left hand side of the case are corre-
spondingly inclined in the opposite direction, that is from the centre of the case
downward toward the left hand wall of the compartment.

page_text: Another feature, in the invention, 18 a special arrangement and construction
of the case, which I will now explain, whereby the compositor is enabled to utilize
both hands indiscriminately in setting type therefrom.
As heretofore constructed, and as has been already herein before explained, the
type containing channels, of the kind herein referred to, have been arranged in the
body of the case, "upon the flat" with their open edges and the faces of the types
toward the left hand side of the case, experiment having demonstrated that such
position was the best attainable for the removal of the types from their respective
channels laterally, when the right hand was employed, as has hereto been usual
with compositors, the stick being held in the left. By this arrangement the lower
types in each column being withdrawn transversely, and slightly toward the right,
were cut off without danger of moving those next above longitudinally; any
tendency to such longitudinal motion being in the direction of the back or bottom
of the containing channels and being therefore calculated to preserve the alignment
of the types. But it is obvious that if the left hand of the operator were used to
withdraw the types from the channels so arranged, the natural tendency would be
to withdraw each type more or less toward the left, and the types next succeeding
would be disturbed and prematurely withdrawn more or less from the open edge of
their containing channels. To obviate this difficulty and enable a compositor to
employ either the right or left hand, or both simultaneously in the operations of
setting, I construct the case in two divisions which may be designated respectively
as the right hand and left hand divisions. The type and channel seats, & upon the
right hand division are constructed and arranged in the same manner as heretofore,
while those constituting the left hand division, while substantially the same in
construction and arrangement, are reversed in position so as to expose the open
edges of the containing channels and the faces of the types toward the right side,
that is to say the faces of the types, in the respective divisions, are all turned
toward the centre of the case. By this means the withdrawal of a type from its
seat in the left hand division can be effected as safely as the withdrawal of a type
from the right hand division by the right hand.
This construction also enables a compositor to "justify" the matter he is setting
as he proceeds, and economizes in the time and labor involved in handling and
making ready, &c.
+
This part of the invention also includes a stationary case or channel support in
which the floors of the several type channel receiving recesses in the body of the
case, are permanently built in at such an angle transversely, that the type con-
taining channels, when in position, will incline not only downward longitudinally
from rear to front but also transversely, so that their open edges which expose the
faces of the types will be slightly higher than the rear or closed edges, thus tending
constantly to keep the types, by their own gravity, in alignment and prevent the
faces of the types from coming in contact with the opposed sides of the recesses.
Figures 26 to 29 illustrate this part of the invention. Figure 26 is a front
elevation of the right and left hand case, &c. Figure 27 is a vertical section
through the body of the case; Figure 28 a vertical section through the body of the
case, taken at right angles to Figure 2, and Figure 29, a view illustrating upon a
larger scale the relative arrangement of the type channels for, and the method of,
setting type with both the right and left hands.
The case, A, consists of a suitable number of channel receiving recesses a,
provided at their lower extremities with channel and type supporting shoulders, &°.
The main feature of novelty, in this connection, is the construction (shown in
Figures 26 and 27) of the case in two sections B1, B2, the one upon the right (B¹)
adapted to the right hand as heretofore and the other (B) adapted to the left hand
of the compositor. This is accomplished by forming the type and channel seats b,
the so-called "finger pieces" upon the left hand side B2, of the case in such manner
that they will project toward and support containing channels and the columns of
type therein when the latter are arranged to rest " upon the flat" or upon their
right side. They are practically the same in construction and operation as those

page_text: heretofore shown and described, and as used upon the right hand division B',
except that they are reversed in position. The containing channels upon this left
hand side of the case are new in construction, their left side walls being inade less
in width, than their right, thus providing for the exposure of the faces of the types
toward the right side. The types are removed from the channels in the left hand
division B, by the finger and thumb of the left hand, in precisely the same manner
that those in the right division B¹, are removed by the thumb and finger of the
right hand. This is illustrated in Figure 29.
The types from either hand are deposited in a galley or stick, C, which forms a
permanent attachment to the case. This galley stick may be mounted upon the
case in any suitable manner, the essential feature being the combination and
arrangement with the right and left hand case of a suitable receptacle in which the
types may be "set up" properly in line, thus relieving the compositor from the
necessity of supporting the "stick" by hand as heretofore, and thereby rendering
the right and left hand case effective. It is obvious that this self-supported stick is
essential to and forms an important part of the apparatus as a whole and I do not
therefore confine myself to any special form of such self-supported stick or galley.
The stick C is secured in position in front of and below the working face of the
case and is provided with the usual adjustable side rest c. The floors ff, of the
'channel recesses a in addition to their inclination downward from the rear to
the front of the case are also inclined laterally, as shown in Figure 27. This is
accomplished by suitably inclining the superposed beds or plates f, ƒ which con-
stitute the floors. The floors f, upon both sides B₁ B* incline thus laterally down-
ward from the centre of the case, as shown, so as to cause the heels of the types in
the containing channels, upon both sides of the case to tend constantly toward the
backs or spines of their respective channels by gravity.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said
Invention, and in what manner the same is to be performed, as communicated to
I declare that what I claim is :-
me,
1. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, a series of
superimposed bed plates, provided with division pieces, of a comparatively soft
non-metallic substance, the lower ends of the said division pieces extending beyond
the lower front edges of the bed plates, and being provided with metallic seats for
the support of the containing channels and type columns, substantially in the
manner and for the purpose described.
.
2. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, the combination
and arrangement with the division pieces a¹, secured to the bed pieces a, of the
finger pieces or seats E, formed with shanks e, which project between the adjoining
and vertically coinciding outer ends a³, of the said division pieces and with suitable
type and channel supporting seats, substantially in the manner and for the purpose
described.
3. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated a type and
channel seat provided with a type supporting shoulder of a width equal to that of
the largest type to be supported, and with a depression or recess immediately under
the position of the foot of the lowest type resting thereon, the edge of the said type
supporting shoulder adjoining the recess being bevelled outward at an oblique
angle, substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
4. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, a type column
and channel supporting seat formed with a suitable hole or recess for the reception
of the body of a type, or other suitable independent interchangeable piece bearing
a denomination mark, substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
5. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, the combination
with a type column and channel supporting seat formed with a suitable hole or
recess for the reception of a piece bearing a denomination mark, of an indepen-
dently interchangeable denomination mark, consisting of a plug or button the stem

page_text: of which is composed of two or more slightly elastic segments; for the . purpose
set forth.
6. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, the combination
and arrangement of a series of type containing channels and supports, in which the
types are arranged in prescribed positions as set forth, and one or more inclined
space holding compartments into the upper end of which spaces may be deposited
loosely and by which they will be conducted downward and exposed for removal
at any angle from the front of the case, substantially in the manner and for the
purpose set forth.
7. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, provided with a
series of inclined compartments into the upper rear ends of which the spaces may
be deposited loosely and by which they will be conducted downward and exposed
for removal at any angle, from the front of the case as described, the removable
division pieces or partitions arranged at the lower ends of the said inclined space
compartments for the purpose and substantially in the manner set forth.
8. In a compositors type case, substantially such as designated, provided with a
series of inclined compartments into the upper rear ends of which the spaces may
be deposited loosely and by which they will be conducted downward and exposed
for removal at any angle, from the front of the case, as described, a removable end
wall or type supporting shoulder common to all the said compartments, and
adapted to be wholly or partially withdrawn from position, for the purpose and
substantially in the manner described.
9. The combination and arrangement in a single case of the series of type
containing channels and supports in which the types are arranged in prescribed
positions, the series of sliding compartments for holding "leads, quads &" and the
inclined "space" receptacles into the upper ends of which spaces may be loosely
deposited and from the lower ends of which they may be removed at any angle, the
whole constructed and operating substantially in the manner and for the purpose
described.
10. A compositors compartment formed with inclined recesses for the reception of
type containing channels, substantially such as designated, with a series of sliding
drawers or racks for the purpose described, with a sliding seat, and a sliding and
vertically adjustable platform, and with sliding fronts or doors for enclosing and
protecting the whole arranged and operating substantially in the manner and for
the purpose described.
11. In combination with a compositors compartment, substantially such as
described, a removable type channel holder or case, constructed substantially in the
manner and for the purpose described.
12. A compositors type case, substantially such as designated, consisting of a
Beries of type containing channels, seats &, upon the right side, which expose the
faces of the types toward the left side, and of a series of type containing channels,
seats &, upon the left side which expose the faces of the types toward the right,
substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
13. A compositors type setting compartment formed with a series of permanent
channel supports which incline downward from the rear to the front of the case
and which also incline laterally for the purpose of preserving the alignment of the
types in the containing channels, substantially in the manner and for the purpose
described.