IMPROVEMENTS IN HARVESTING OR REAPING MACHINES WHEREIN THE STALKS OF WHEAT OR OTHER CEREALS ARE OR MAY BE TIED OR BOUND IN BUNDLES OR SWRAVEO
Year: 1877

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Melville Thomson Neale, of No. 22, Buckingham Street,
Strand, in the County of Middlesex, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS
IN HARVESTING OR REAPING MACHINES WHEREIN THE STALKS OF WHEAT
OR OTHER CEREALS ARE OR MAY BE TIED OR BOUND IN BUNDLES OR
SWRAVEO "
Sealed the 5th February 1878, and dated the 13th December 1877.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Melville Thomson Neale at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 13th December 1877.
MELVILLE THOMSON NEALE, of No. 22, Buckingham Street, Strand, in the
County of Middlesex. "IMPROVEMENTS IN HARVESTING OR REAPING MACHINES
WHEREIN THE STALKS OF WHEAT OR OTHER CEREALS ARE OR MAY BE TIED OR
BOUND IN BUNDLES OR SHEAVES."
This Invention of improvements in harvesting or reaping machines wherein the
stalks of wheat or other cereals are or may be tied or bound in bundles or sheaves
has reference to further improvements upon machines such as are referred to in the
Specifications of two former Patents granted to me respectively the 3rd day of
August 1876 (No. 3102), and the 27th day of January 1877 (No. 368).
In the machine described in the last-mentioned Specification the uncut stalks
having been beaten down towards the knives by means of revolving beaters are cut
and moved backwards by a rake or brush on to an appropriately-formed part of
what I call the platform into a suitable position, and are then gathered together for
tying by means of a reciprocating fork or rake operating in conjunction with guides
80 arranged as to collect and hold the stalks in a compact form ready for tying.
Whilst the stalks are so held the binding material is carried round the collected
stalks to bind the sheaf, and by a pair of loopers having rotatory motion two loops
are formed simultaneously in a part of the tw ne intermediate between the reel and
the twine carrier pincers.

page_text: When the twine carrier pincers which have carried the twine round the stalks
have arrived at their normal position (by which I mean their position of rest), a pair
of reciprocating pincers darts through the said loopers and loops to seize that end of
the twine which has been carried round as aforesaid; then a tube (which I call the
sheath) closes the pincers so as to hold the twine fast, and the twine-carrier pincers
release their hold. The loopers are now immediately withdrawn from the twine,
leaving the loops on the reciprocating pincers' sheath; the reciprocating pincers
retire to a certain distance within the sheath, carrying the end of the twine with
them; a pusher then forces the loops off the sheath, over that part of the twino
whose end is still held by the reciprocating pincers, and a tension device draws the
knot tight. When the twine carrier takes hold of the twine near the knot and
commences its rotatory movement for binding another set of stalks the twine is
severed by a suitable knife or cutter. The reciprocating fork having retired, and
the guides having moved into a suitable position, the reciprocating pincers now
retire a little further within the sheath, open automatically, and release the end of
the twine, allowing the completed sheaf to fall to the ground. Now my present
Invention is designed to simplify the machinery and to improve its action, and
includes improvements having reference to the general arrangement of the machine,
the arrangements for gathering, collecting, and holding the stalks to be bound, and
the apparatus for binding and tying.
According to my present Invention the machine is constructed and arranged to
balance (or nearly so) on the main driving wheel; thus I dispense with hind wheels
without throwing weight to any material extent on the back of the horse (or
horses).
In conjunction with the platform which is (as before) in separate portions of
peculiar form, herein-after called the foreward platform and the rearward platform
respectively (the latter may be made of a curved form, with a surface by preference
corrugated, or may be flat with slots to allow the ends of the gathering fork to pass),
I use a roller or rollers suitably driven (it may be by friction gear), and so arranged
relatively to the platforms that stalks after being cut and forced partly up the fore-
ward platform by the revolving rake or bush are thence moved on to the rearward
platform by the action of the roller or rollers The revolving beaters and the rake or
brush are driven by chain gear from a sleeve on the main shaft.
The motions for driving the beaters, brush or rake, and tying gear are obtained
direct from the main axle. The rearward platform is made adjustable, concentri-
cally above it is centred a rake or set of rods having an intermittent reciprocating
radial motion given by a cam on the main shaft through a lever and connecting rod.
This lake or set of rods sweeps the stalks against and on to a row of tines or
teeth arranged at the inner side of the rearward platform, and centred below.
These tines or prongs are held normally in a nearly vertical position by means
of springs or counterbalances; but upon the stalks being pressed against them
by the reciprocating rake or fork they incline forward, that is, their upper
ends recode from the rearward platform, and they act as guides, over which the
stalks are moved. A set of curved compressing arms suitably centred and
operated by a cam on the main shaft through a lever yielding connection (to allow
for variations in the bulk of the collected stalks) and volute cam or pulley, raises
the stalks and presses them into and against a fixed receiver, which may consist of
fixed arms tied together and suitably curved, to partly surround the collection of
stalks to be bound. Thus these stalks are securely held and surrounded by the
compressing arms and receiver.
By the foregoing arrangement I am enabled in the event of its not being required
to bind the stalks into sheaves immediately after reaping to cause the machine to
deposit the stalks untied upon the ground in quantities suitable for a sheaf, which
will be dropped at the side of the machine, thus leaving room for the next traverse of
the horse or horses. To accomplish this the tying apparatus is thrown out of gear
and the compressing arms are fastened upward. The tines or prongs at the side of
the rearward platform may or may not be removed, according to circumstances.

page_text: When the machine is set for binding the stalks it collects, then whilst the stalks
are held by the compressing arms and receiver, as described, the binding material is
passed around them by the twine carrier.
The operations of binding and tying go on whilst the stalks are being cut and
forced over ready for the next sheaf; also when the machine is passing over ground
where there is little or nothing to reap; and likewise when the machine is stopped
and started again with the brush or rake in such a position that it has nothing on
the forward platform to force over. Now it is important to guard against entangle-
ment of the binding material at such times, and such is the object of one part of my
present Invention. In connection with the receiver and compressing arms I use
rods, bars, or parts arranged to be capable of sliding motion, and I cause such
motion to be imparted to the said rods, bars, or parts at intervals. Whilst the
twine carrier is revolving portions of the said rods, bars, or parts are in position to
receive the binding material that is being drawn out and passed round by the
twine carrier. After the knot has been made the said rods, bars, or parts are
caused to recede from the band of binding material, which having been duly
separated from the rest of the binding material, will fall to the ground with the
stalks (if any) it (the band) contains.
The arm of the twine carrier is made, as in any former arrangement, in two parts,
one sliding on the other, the two being gupped together by suitable coupling, and I
provide the one part with a shield or guard for preventing the stalks from being
entangled during the passage of the compound arm around them.
To prevent the overrunning of the arm, and also for the purpose of ensuring the
presentation of the proper tooth of the pinion, I apply a ring or circle to the side
of the toothed quadrant or segment whereby motion is intermittently given to the
arm through the pinion. The pinion has two projections or large teeth on its side.
These projections or teeth are arranged in such a position that when the quadrant
or segment has given a complete rotation to the pinion they rest upon the periphery
of the ring or circle, one above and the other below the centre, in such a manner
that the pinion and consequently the arm cannot be turned in either direction. Two
recesses are formed in the ring or circle in such a position that they allow the pro-
jections to pass whilst the quadrant or segment is in gear with the pinion.
The tying apparatus is attached to timbers made adjustable by sliding in sockets
wherein they are fixed when their position has been adjusted as required.
Two loops are made on the sheath of the reciprocating pincers by the loopers, with
which I combine a fixed loop retainer in lieu of the moving loop lifter used in my
former arrangement. The necessary motion for working the loopers is given direct
from the inain shaft by means of a cam lever and connecting rod.
The twine or binding material having been passed tightly around the collected
stalks, as described, it is desirable to retain the tension whilst the knot is being
formed. For this purpose a gripping apparatus is employed. A plate or abutment
is attached to the framing of the machine, a sliding presser or bar having a hori-
zontal movement, which may be given by a screw, and a nut sliding in a guide or
casing is caused to press towards the fixed plate or abutment after the twine or
binding material bas been passed tightly around the collected stalks; by this action
the presser grips a portion of the twine or binding material intermediate between
the portion that is being formed into a knot and the collection of stalks.
The fixed abutment and presser have curved or sloping ears or horns, over or
between which the cord is drawn when being passed around the collected stalks.
These ears or horns act as guides for the cord. So soon as the loops are formed by
the loopers and the twine or binding material is drawn tightly around the stalks,
the presser advances and tightly grips the twine or binding material between itself
and the abutment, as above described.
When the loopers have risen, the loops have been drawn tight, and the free end
5 of the twine or binding material has been grasped by the reciprocating pincers, the
twine or binding material is released by the gripping apparatus to allow of the

page_text: passage of the knot towards the sheaf; the loops are forced off the sheath and are
tightened by means of an improved tightener.
The whole of the motions for actuating the loopers, sheath, pusher, and recipro-
cating pincers are given from two double cams. The tail piece of the twine carrier
pincers is made in one with the sliding tube or casing, and is protected from the
stalks by a shield. The tail piece, tube, or casing and shield are worked by one
motion
The improved tightener has an intermittent reciprocating motion on a centre or
axis, such motion being given by a cam on the main shaft.
The knot having been formed, as described, the twine or binding material is
severed, the compressing arms retire, the reciprocating pincers open, and the tied
sheaf falls to the ground.
Striking levers for throwing the beaters, brush or rake, tying apparatus, and
knife gear in and out of gear are arranged close together and within easy reach of
the driver.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said Melville Thomson Neale in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 13th
June 1878.
MELVILLE THOMSON NEALE, of No. 22, Buckingham Street, Strand, in the
County of Middlesex. "IMPROVEMENTS IN HARVESTING OR REAPING MACHINES
WHEREIN THE STALKS OF WHEAT OR OTHER CEREALS ARE OR MAY BE TIED OR
BOUND IN BUNDLES OR SHEAVES."
This Invention of improvements in harvesting or leaping machines wherein the
stalks of wheat or other cereals are or may be tied or bound in bundles or sheaves,
has reference to further improvements upon machines such as are referred to in the
Specifications of two former Patents granted to me respectively the 3rd day of
August 1876 (No. 3102), and the 27th day of January 1877 (Nº. 368).
In the machine described in the last-mentioned Specification the uncut stalks having
been beaten down towards the knives by means of revolving beaters are cut and
moved backwards by a rake or brush on to an appropriately formed part of what I call
the platform into a suitable position, and are then gathered together for tying by
means of a reciprocating fork or rake operating in conjunction with guides so
arranged as to collect and hold the stalks in a compact form ready for tying.
Whilst the stalks are so held the binding material is carried round the collected
stalks to bind the sheaf, and by a pair of loopers having rotatory motion, two loops
are formed simultaneously in a part of the twine intermediate between the reel and
the twine carrier pincers.
When the twine carrier pincers which have carried the twine round the stalks
have arrived at their normal position (by which I mean their position of rest),
a pair of reciprocating pincers darts through the said loopers and loops to seize
that end of the twine which has been carried round as aforesaid, then a tube

page_text: (which I call the sheath) closes the pincers so as to hold the twine fast, and the
twine carrier pincers release their hold. The loopers are now immediately with-
drawn from the twine, leaving the loops on the reciprocating pincers' sheath, the
reciprocating pincers retire to a certain distance within the sheath, carrying the
end of the twine with them, a pusher then forces the loops off the sheath over that
part of the twine, whose end is still held by the reciprocating pincers, and a tension
device draws the knot tight. When the twine carrier takes hold of the twine
near the knot, and commences its rotatory movement for binding another set of
stalks the twine is severed by a suitable knife or cutter. The reciprocating fork
having retired and the guides having moved into a suitable position the recipro-
cating pincers now retire a little further within the sheath, open automatically, and
release the end of the twine, allowing the completed sheaf to fall to the ground.
Now my present Invention is designed to simplify the machinery and to improve
its action, and includes improvements having reference to the general arrangement
of the machine, the arrangements for collecting and holding the stalks to be bound
and the apparatus for binding and tying.
According to my present Invention the machine is constructed and arranged to
nearly balance on the main driving wheel, thus I dispense with hind wheels,
without throwing weight to any material extent on the back of the horse (or
horses).
The platform is (as before) in separate portions, herein-after called the foreward
platform and rearward platform respectively, but the latter is made with slots or
spaces to allow the ends of the gathering fork to pass. The revolving beaters and
the rake or brush are driven by chain gear from a sleeve on the main shaft.
The motions for driving the beaters, brush or rake, and tying gear, are obtained
direct from the main axle. The rearward platform is made adjustable, above it is
centred a rake, fork, or set of rods having an intermittent reciprocating radial
motion given by a cam on the main shaft through a lever and connecting rod.
This rake fork or set of rods sweep the stalks against and on to a row of tines or
prongs arranged at the inner side of the rearward platform, and centred below.
These tines or prongs are held normally in a nearly vertical position by means
of springs or counterbalances; but upon the stalks being pressed against them
by the reciprocating rake or fork they incline forward, that is, their upper ends
recede from the rearward platform, and they act as guides, over which the
stalks are moved. A set of curved compressing arms, suitably centred and
operated by a cain on the main shaft through a lever, a yielding connection
(to allow for variations in bulk of the collected stalks), and volute cam or pulley,
inises the stalks and presses them into and against a fixed receiver suitably
curved to partly surround the collection of stalks to be bound. Thus these
stalks are securely held and surrounded by the compressing arms and receiver
By the foregoing arrangement I am enabled in the event of its not being
required to bind the stalks into sheaves immediately after reaping to cause the
machine to deposit the stalks untied upon the ground in quantities suitable
for a sheaf which will be dropped at the side of the machine, thus leaving
room for the next traverse of the horse or horses. To accomplish this the
tying apparatus is thrown out of gear, and the compressing arms are fastened
upward. The tines or prongs at the side of the rearward platform may or may
not be removed, according to circumstances.
When the machine is set for binding the stalks it collects; then, whilst the
stalks are held by the compressing arms and receiver, as described, the binding
material is passed around them by the twine carrier as in my former machine.
The operations of binding and tying go on whilst the stalks are being cut and
forced over ready for the next sheaf; also when the machine is passing over ground
where there is little or nothing to reap, and likewise when the machine is stopped
and started again with the brush or rake in such a position that it has nothing on
the foreward part of the platform to force over. Now it is important to guard
against entanglement of the binding material at such times, and such is the object

page_text: of one part of my present Invention. In connection with the compressing arms I
use rods, bars, or parts arranged to be capable of sliding motion, and I cause such
motion to be imparted to the said rods, bars, or parts at intervals. Whilst the
twine carrier is revolving, portions of the said rods, bars, or parts are in position to
receive the binding material that is being drawn out and passed round by the twine
carrier; after the knot has been made the said rods, bars, or parts are caused to
recede from the band of binding material, which, having been duly separated from
the rest of the binding material, will fall to the ground with the stalks (if any) it
(the band) contains.
The arm of the twine carrier is made, as in my former arrangement, in two parts,
one sliding on the other, the two being gripped together by suitable coupling; but
I provide the one part with a shield or guard for preventing the stalks from being
entangled during the passage of the compound arm around them.
To prevent the overrunning of the arm, and also for the purpose of insuring the
presentation of the proper tooth of the pinion, I apply a ring or circle to the side
of the toothed quadrant or segment, whereby motion is intermittently given to the
arin through the pinion. The pinion has two projections or large teeth on its side;
these projections or teeth aro arranged in such positions that when the quadrant
or segment has given a completo rotation to the pinion they rest upon the
periphery of the ring or circle, one above and the other below the centre, in such a
manner that the pinion and consequently the arm cannot be turned in either
direction Two recesses are formed in the ring or circle in such positions that they
allow the projections to pass, whilst the quadrant or segment is in gear with the
pinion.
The tying apparatus is attached to timbers or bearers, made adjustable by
sliding in sockets wherein they are fixed, when their position has been adjusted as
required.
Two loops are made and delivered on to the sheath of the reciprocating pincers
as before by the loopers, with which I combine a fixed loop retainer in lieu of
the moving loop lifter used in my former airangement. The necessary motion for
working the loopers is given direct from the main shaft by means of a cam lever
and connecting rod.
The twine or binding material having been passed around the collected stalks,
as described, it is desirablo to retain the tension of such binding material around
them whilst the loops are being delivered on the sheath in the process of forming
the knot; for this purpose a gripping apparatus is employed. A plate or abutment
is attached to the framing of the machine, a sliding presser or bar having a hori-
zontal movement which may be given by a screw, and a nut sliding in a guide or
casing is caused to press towards the fixed plate or abutment after the twine or
binding material has been passed tightly around the collected stalks; by this action
the presser grips a portion of the twine or binding material intermediate between
the portion that is being formed into a knot and the collection of stalks.
The fixed abutment and presser have curved or sloping cars or hoins, over or
between which the cord is drawn when being passed around the collected stalks.
These ears or horns act as guides for the cord. So soon as the loops are formed by
the loopers and the twine or binding material is drawn tightly around the stalks,
the presser advances and tightly grips the twine or binding material between itself
and the abutment, as above described
When the loopers have risen the loops have been drawn tight, and the free end
of the twine or binding material has been grasped by the reciprocating pincers, the
twine or binding material is released by the gripping apparatus to allow of the
passage of the loops for the knot towards the sheaf. The loops are then forced off
the sheath, and are tightened by means of an improved tightener. This tightener
has an intermittent reciprocating motion on a centre or axis, such motion being
given by a cam on the main shaft.
The whole of the motions for actuating the loopers, sheath pusher, and recipro-
cating pincers are given from two double cams. The tail piece of the twine carrier

page_text: 5
incers is made in one with the sliding tube or casing, and is protected from the
talks by a shield. The tail piece, tube or casing, and shield, are worked by one
otion.
The knot having been formed, as described, the twine or binding material is
evered, the compressing arms retire, the reciprocating pincers open, and the tied
heaf falls to the ground.
Striking levers for throwing the beaters, brush or rake, tying apparatus, and
nife gear in and out of gear are arranged close together and within easy reach of
he driver.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.
In the accompanying Drawings I shew a machine embodying my present
improvements, as well as certain further improvements forming the subject of my
application for Letters Patent, No 1116, dated 20 March 1878, and which
though not claimed as parts of my present Invention may advantageously be used
in conjunction therewith, as herein-after described.
It will be observed that the machine illustrated is constructed in material
respects according to the Specification of my former Patent, No. 368, dated 27
January 1877, and the more recent improvements (not now claimed) forming the
subject of my said application for Letters Patent of 20 March last (No. 1116),
have relation to the following particulars, namely:
(1.) The arranging the gathering rake or brush at one end of a set of arms
pivotted or jointed to arms radiating from the axis of the beaters or dummies, and
by means of a ring or cam path, as herein-after described, causing the said rake or
brush to alternately somewhat recede from and approach the axis, and at tho
proper time to follow the inclined surface of the foreward platform, and deliver the
stalks on to the rearward platform This arrangement is shewn in Figs. 1, 2,
and 3, and will be herein-after referred to as "the gathering apparatus with cam
path."
(2.) The application in connection with the bobbin or reel carrying the binding
material of a device or contrivance, as herein-after described, whereby the bobbin
or recl is left free to revolve whilst the binding material is being pulled by the
This apparatus
tying apparatus, but is arrested and impeded when the pull ceases.
is shewn in Figs. 7 and 7ª, and will be herein-after referred to as "the reel or
bobbin brake apparatus"
It will be obvious that in lieu of the gathering apparatus with cam path
gathering apparatus, substantially as described in the Specification of my former
Patent, No 368 of 1877, may be applied to machines constructed according to my
present Invention, if there be applied at the rearward end of the foreward plat-
form 1, a roller or rollers suitably driven (it may be by friction gear), and so
arranged transversely of the platform that stalks, after being cut and forced partly
up the foreward platform by the action of the rake or brush, will pass on to or
between the said roller or rollers and be thereby delivered on to the rearward
platform.
Of the accompanying Diawings,-
Fig. 1 is a plan of the machine, Fig. 2 is a front elevation of the same, Fig. 3
is a sectional side elevation thereof.
Fig 4 is a plan, partly in section, of the tying gear; Fig. 5 is a side view
thereof.
Fig. 6 is a section, at right angles to Fig. 5, shewing also part of the rearward
platform.
Fig 7 is an end elevation of the tying gear.
Fig. 8 is a cross section of part of the main driving wheel of the machine, with
the gearing and framework in elevation; Fig. 9 is a section thereof in the line
A, B, of Fig. 8.
Fig. 10 is a sectional plan of the frame and gearing of the reaper proper; Fig. 11
is a section in the line C, D, of Fig. 10.

page_text: Figs. 12 and 13 are respectively a cross section and an elevation of the revolving
beater shaft, with a modified arrangement of bearings.
Fig 14 is an elevation of the lever-and gear for throwing the reaping knives in or
'out of gear.
Fig. 15 is a section in the line E, F, of Fig. 10, looking to the left.
Fig. 16 is a view of the framework taken in section through the line G, H, of
Fig. 10.
Fig. 17 is a view of the framework taken in section through the line I, K, of
Fig. 10
Fig. 18 is a plan of the gearing for giving an intermittent motion to the twine
carrier.
Fig. 19 is a view, partly in section in the line L, M, of Fig. 18.
Fig. 20 is a plan of the twine carrier and connections; Figs. 21, 22, and 23 are
details of the same.
Fig. 24 is a section of the twine carrier pincers; Fig. 26 is an clevation thereof;
Fig. 28 is an end view.
Figs. 25 and 27 are respectively an edge view and a side view of the knife for
cutting the binding material
Fig. 29 is a transverse section of the knife holder.
Figs. 30 and 31 are longitudinal and transverse sections of the twine carrier
pincer sheath, shield, and tail piece.
Figs. 32, 33, and 34 are views of the cleat herein-after described, shewing also
tail lever for working the same
Figs. 35 and 36 are respectively a cross section, and a sectional plan of the pusher,
which pushes the loops off the sheath of the reciprocating pincers.
Fig. 37 is a longitudinal section of the reciprocating pincers' sheath and pusher,
with the reciprocating pincers (shewn in elevation) lying in their sheath; Fig. 38
is a back end view.
Fig 39 is a sectional plan of the reciprocating pincers' sheath; Fig. 40 is an end
view of the same.
Fig. 41 is a plan of the reciprocating pincers, at right angles to Fig. 37, and shews
in dotted lines the open position of the pincer jaws.
Figs. 42, 43, 44, 45, and 46 are details of the gripping apparatus and means for
operating the same, whereby a portion of the binding material is at the proper time
gripped or held, as already described.
Figs. 47, 48, 49, and 50 are respectively an elevation a section, a plan and sectional
plan of the looper frame.
Figs 51 and 52 are elevations at right angles to one another of one of the
loopers
Figs. 53 and 54 are respectively an elevation and part plan of the other looper.
Fig 55 is a plan of the intergearing wheels of the loopers.
Fig. 56 is a cross section of one of the said wheels.
Figs. 57 and 58 are respectively a plan and elevation of the bracket carrying the
guide pin, for causing the partial rotation of the loopers.
Fig. 59 is a side elevation of the twine carrier, its pincers, their sheath, the en-
closing case, and the lever and cam or kicker, for actuating the said pincers at the
proper time.
Fig. 60 is a view at right angles to Fig. 59.
Fig. 61 is a cross section of the twine carrier, pincers, and other parts shewn in
Fig. 59.
Fig. 62 is a longitudinal section of the back portion of the twine carrier, pincers,
and their case.
Figs. 63, 64, and 65 are respectively a back end view, a longitudinal section, and
a front end view of the bush or cap of the twine carriers' pincers case.
Figs. 66 and 67 are a plan and elevation of the cam and lever for operating the
reciprocating rake or fork.

page_text: they are cut and laid on the platform 1, the brush or rake 4, by an eccentric move-
ment herein-after described (and forming part of the subject matter of my applica-
tion for Letters Patent, No. 1110, dated 20 March 1878) passes them on to the
rearward platform 28.
The arms 5 of the brush or rake are pivotted (as shewn at 5a) to the arms of one!
of the beaters, and carry a projecting bracket or lever 6, having a pin or roller which
travels in the fixed partially eccentric ring or cam pathway 7.
The beaters are fixed to a horizontal shaft 8, which may run in plain bearings,
or in antifriction bearings (as shewn in the modification, Figs 12 and 13), motion
being communicated to the said shaft by the pitch chain 9 (Figs. 2 and 3) and chain 1
wheels 10 and 11, driven by the first motion shaft of the machine.
In connection with one of the chain wheels 11 I arrange a catch or pawl which
operates in conjunction with the arms of the chain wheel to prevent the axis of
the beaters or dummies and rake or brush from being moved round in a reverse
direction by the weight of the beaters or brush, or by the action thereon of the 1
wind.
Motion is communicated to the knife gear 12 (shewn clearly in Figs. 10 and 11)
by the main driving wheel 13 by means of the internal wheel 14 and pinion 15.
16 is a lever in connection with the said pinion for throwing the knives out of
gear by the clutch arrangement shewn; 17, 17, are timbers or bearers (which may s
be tubular) sliding through openings in the frame 18, which timbers or beaiers
carry the tying gear in the rearward part of the machine, and by the aid of a
screw or rack or other suitable contrivance can be adjusted longitudinally, and the
position of the binding consequently varied to suit the length of the stalks, which
are to be operated upon, as will be readily understood.
The main wheel 13 gives motion direct to the driving shaft 19 by means of the
mitre wheels 20 and bevel wheels 21, shewn to an enlarged scale in Figs. 8 and 9;
the said driving shaft passes freely through a bush 22, and a feather key inserted and
fitted into a keyway on the shaft communicates the motion of the shaft to the
tying gear, and at the same time allows the said shaft to follow the longitudinal 3
sliding motion imparted to the timbers or bearers 17, for the purpose above
described. 23 is the driver's seat situated over or nearly over the centre of oscil-
lation (Figs. 2 and 3).
The rearward platform 28 is formed of boards, planks, or bars arranged with
intervening slots or spaces for the free passage of the ends of the rake or fork 29; 3
or the said platform may be made of corrugated iron, as partly shewn in side
elevation in Fig. 6. This platform is mounted on timbers or bars 28 sliding in
sockets so as to be adjustable longitudinally of the machine to agree with the back-
ward or forward position of the timbers or bearers 17 which carry the tying gear.
This movement may be imparted simultaneously with that of the timbers or 4
bearers 17 by means of a spindle, pinions, and racks, or their equivalent, as will be
readily understood
When the collection of stalks is deposited on the rearward platform 28 by the
action of the brush or rake, as before described, the rake or fork 29 collects and
forces them against and on to the row of prongs or tines 34. The fork, which is 4
centred over the rearward platform and suitably stayed and supported from the
framing of the tying gear, receives an intermittent reciprocating radial motion by
means of the cam 31, lever 32, and connecting rod 33 (see particularly Figs. 66
and 67). In connection with the cam 31 and driving shaft 19 is an arrangement
of clutch operated by a lever 39, the object of which will be presently described. 5
The driving shaft 19 gives motion to all the gearing connected with the binding
and tying operations.
The compressing arms 35 receive from the rake or fork 29 and row of tines 34
the collection of stalks, and compress them into the fixed receiver 35ª (which is
shewn as being formed of curved arms or parts attached to the framing of the tying 5
gear). Motion is given to the compressor arms 35 by a cam 36, connecting 10d 38,
and yielding connection 37. The yielding connection shewn is a spiral spring com-

page_text: 0
ed with a volute pulley and chain, and is for the purpose or aw
npressor arms to accommodate themselves to the bulk of the bundle of stalks
ey have to compress. In lieu of this arrangement the spring 37 may be dispensed
th, and the lever 38 made elastic for the same purpose.
The twine carrier arm 42, having at its extremity the twine carrier pinceis,
volves round the collected stalks, carrying with it the binding material. The
cessary intermittent rotary motion is communicated from the driving shaft 19 by
train of wheels 24, a quadrant 25, and pinion 20 (shewn separately in
igs. 18 and 19).
For the purpose of preventing the overrunning of the arm, and also to ensure the
roper presentation of the correct tooth of the pinion 26 to the quadrant 25, I
pply a ring or circle 27 at the side of the toothed quadrant 25. The pinion 26
as two projections or large teeth at its side, which are arranged in such relative
ositions that when the quadrant 25 has imparted a complete revolution to the
nion 26, and consequently to the twine carrier arm 42, the said projections or
arge teeth rest upon the periphery of the ring or circle, one above and the other
below the level of the centre of the ring or circle, in such a manner that the
pinion 26 cannot he turned in either direction, and consequently the twine cariier
arm 42 is retained in the necessary position. Two recesses are formed in the ring
or circle 27 (shewn clearly in Fig. 19) in such relative positions that they allow the
two projections at the side of the pinion 26 to pass whilst the quadrant 25 is in
gear with the pinion.
The arm (42) of the twine carrier is in two parts, and held together with a
suitable coupling, or may be telescopic, one part moving simultaneously with the
timbers or bearers 17 and platform 28. The object of this is to allow the arm to be
lengthened or shortened agreeably to the position of the tying gear, and according
to the length of stalks to be bound.
For the purpose of preventing the stalks froin being entangled during the passage
of the arm round them I provide a shield or guard 30 (see Fig. 1).
The twine carrier consists of a pair of pincers (Fig. 26), the jaws of which open
with a spring.
A sheath or tube (Fig. 30) slides on the outside of the pincers, so that when
forced forward it closes the jaws, and consequently the binding material when duly
presented is firmly gripped.
A small knife, which may be attached to a bar (as shewn in Figs 25 and 27)
or fixed to the end of the sheath itself, fits freely into a groove 24ª (Figs. 24
and 28) in the pincers, so that when the sheath is forced forward the knife also
advances and severs or shears off the binding material, which is gripped in the jaws
of the pincers.
The stud piece (Figs. 21, 22, and 23,) is attached to the end of the sheath 44,
and, with the pincers, is enclosed in a case 46. The stud 21° projects out of a slot
in the side of the case, and is used to give motion to the pincers, as herein-after
described.
A tail piece 45 (see Figs. 30, 31, and 59,) is attached to and slides with the
5 sheath 44, so that when the twine carrier revolves, the binding material passes
over it (the tail piece) and is presented with certainty to the reciprocating pincers,
heroin-after described. A shield (45º) on the side of the tail piece (45) prevents
loose pieces of straw from entering the jaws of the pincers. Now it is necessary
that the end of the binding material carried round by the twine carrier should be
50 released by the opening of the jaws of the pincers at the proper moment, and that
the jaws of the twine carrier pincers should be drawn back out of the way whilst
To accomplish this
the knot is tightened, and the binding material presented.
spring 59 (Fig. 59) presses against a collar 43 at the end of the pincers, keeping
it up to a stop inside the case 46. When therefore the stud 21 is moved back, th
55 sheath is first withdrawn, and consequently opens the jaws of the pincers, th
pincers remaining stationary; but when the stud piece 21 strikes the collar 43 the
pincers themselves are drawn bodily back inside the end of the case 46.

page_text: For the purpose of preventing the sheath 44 from drawing back by frictional
contact the twine-carrier pincers without opening the jaws, a spring 46a is attached
to the inside of the case 46 At the end of the spring is a projection 46b, which
springs into a recess 46d at the end of the pincers' spindle. When therefore the
stud piece (Figs 21, 22, 23,) (which is attached to the end of the sheath) is moved
by the action of the lever 47, the pincers cannot be drawn back until the
incline 46 has depressed the spring and released the projection
Motion is transmitted to the twine carrier by the can or kicker 48 and the
levers 47 and 47° (see Figs. 3, 59, and 60). When the twine carrier is completing
its revolution the stud 21ª of the pincer sheath enters between the flanges of tho
lever 47, so that when the lever is at the proper time moved, the motion is com-
municated to the twine carrier (see Figs. 50 and 60). When the cam or kicker 28
releases the end of the lever 47 a suitable spring draws the lever 47 back to its
normal position, and consequently operates the twine carrier in gripping and
cutting off the binding material.
When the twine carrier carries round the binding material it draws it in a
nearly horizontal line from the end of the tightener 67 (see Figs 6 and 7) to the
upper side of the collection of stalks. The loopers 50 and 51 (shewn in detail in
Figs. 47 to 58 inclusive) are then above the binding material but descend upon it
and revolve, and in doing so twist up that part of the binding material (which, as
will be now seen, is intermediate between the collection of stalks and the reel or
supply of binding material) into two loops, as before described.
A fixed loop lifter 52 (Figs 3 and 6) attached to the framing of the tying gear
receives that part of the binding material which is between the two loopers 50, 51,
and retains it in the position shewn in Fig. 6.
The motion for actuating the loopers is given by means of a cam 57 and lever 56
(details of which are shewn in Figs. 72, 73, and 75,) and a connecting lod 55
(Fig. 6). A fixed pin 52 (Figs. 5 and 6) enters into a spiral groove 53% of one of
the loopers, so that when the loopers are moved up or down by the action of the
cam and lever the necessary rotary motion is obtained. The loopers are geared
together by the wheels 53 (Fig. 55).
When the loopers 50, 51, have nearly completed their descent, a bar or pro-
jection 51° attached to the looper frame 54 stiikes and partially revolves the tail
nut (Figs. 46, 43, and 42), causing the horizontal movement of the bar or presser +9
and the gripping of the binding material, for the purpose herein-before explained.
After the loopers have descended, the reciprocating pincers 59 advance through
the space between the prongs of the two loopers, as shewn by dotted lines in Fig. 7.
The jaws of these pincers open as they advanco and pass one on each side of the
binding material previously carried round by the twine carrier (see Fig. 4 and
Fig. 7).
On the outside of each of the jaws of the pincers 59 is fixed a curved spring for
the purpose of allowing the jaws to receive and firmly grip (at the same time giving
way to any inequality of) the binding material. The pincers are actuated by the
cam 61 and levers 62 (Figs. 68 and 69). A tube or sheath 58 (details of which are
shewn in Figs. 37, etc.) then advances over the reciprocating pincers and closes the
jaws on the binding material (see Fig. 6). The tube or sheath 58 has two slots or
openings in its sides for the purpose of allowing the springs of the reciprocating
pincers to enter when it is the proper time for them to automatically open and
release the end of the binding material.
The tube or sheath 58 is worked by the cam 57 and lever 60 (Figs. 72, 73,
and 74).
When the sheath 58 advances it moves with it the tail of a nut 33ª (see Figs. 4,
5, and 6, also Figs. 32, 33, and 34 for details), by which the cleat 65 is operated.
Between the discs 65 of the cleat (Figs 5, 6, and 32) the binding material first
passes, as shewn clearly in Figs. 6 and 7. When therefore the sheath has passed
through the loopera 50, 51, aud closed the jaws of the pincers 59, the binding
material is gripped tightly between the discs of the cleat 65. The object of this is

page_text: to prevent any further supply of binding material from being drawn from the
bobbin or reel whilst the operation of tying is being completed.
To the looper frame 54 is attached a tension device 66 (see Figs. 5, 6, and 7),
carrying at its end a pulley 66ª, over which the binding material is passed; con-
sequently when the loopers rise the tension device rises also, and (the binding
material being meanwhile gripped by the cleat 65) draws the two loops tight on
the tube or sheath, and the bar or projection 51ª opens the presser 49.
The pusher or flange 64 (see Figs. 6 and 7, also details Figs. 35, 36, and 37)
sliding freely over the sheath 58 is caused to advance and pushes the two loops off,
as before described. The pusher or flange 64 is operated by the cam 61 and
lever 63 (see Figs. 4 and 5, and details, Figs. 68 and 70).
Whilst the pusher or flange 64 is advancing the tightener 67 (see Figs. 5, 6, and
7) also advances, and simultaneously with the forcing off of the loops darts out, with
speed accelerated by the spring 70 (see Figs. 6 and 7) and tightens up the knot;
the binding material which is between the knot and the end of the tightener is
thus presented opposite the jaws of the rotary twine carrier pincers 43, and is there-
upon cut off and gripped as already described.
The tightener 67 is worked by the cam 68 and connecting rod 69 (see Figs. 4, 5,
and 7). When the knot is thus completed and cut off the reciprocating pincers 59
receive a further backward movement until their two curved springs (see Fig. 41)
enter the two slots in the sheath 58 (see Fig. 39), whereupon the jaws open and
the end of the binding material is released. The bound sheaf is then deposited on
the ground by the falling of the compressor arms 35.
For the purpose of preventing entanglement when there are little or no stalks
to be bound, as herein-before referred to, I employ the arrangement shown clearly
in Figs. 1, 3, 5, and 6.
A curved plate or rod 41 is attached to the framing of the tying gear. In
connection with the compressor arms 35 is a frame or part having a forked end
which fits freely over the curve 41, so that when the compressors rise to a certain
height the fork follows the direction of the curve, and the rods, bars, or parts 40
are thereby caused to protrude.
Figs. 3 and 5 shew more clearly the form of the curved plate 41, and the frame
and sliding rods, bars, or parts 40. Fig. 6 shews in dotted lines the compressing
arms 35, risen to their extreme height, with the binding material around the said
rods, bars, or parts 40. One of these rods, bars, or parts works from a
spring hinge 40 for the purpose of giving way to any undue strain It will be
seen by this arrangement that when the compressing arms 35 rise to the highest
position shewn in dotted lines the rods, bars, or parts 40 project, and the twine
carrier 42 in revolving passes the binding material over one and under the other,
and the loop is tied around them. On the completion of the tying operation the
compressing arms 35 in falling carry with them the tied loop, and when the parts
40 are withdrawn the loop drops to the ground.
When it is desired to deliver on to the ground untied stalks the clutch 39 (see
Figs. 1, and 66 and 67) is operated, and the whole of the tying apparatus thrown
out of gear, but the fork 29 is kept in action.
Figs. 66 and 67 shew clearly the form of clutch I use for the purpose; the main
shaft 19 is in two parts, the ends of which abut together in the boss of the cam
31; through the said boss is a slot or space, in which a bar or joggle slides, and is
kept in gear with a recess in a collar on the shaft 19 by means of a spring as shewn,
it will therefore be obvious that on operating the lever 39 the joggle or bar may be
withdrawn, and the tying apparatus thrown out of gear, leaving the rake or fork
cam 31 in motion; consequently when the brush or rake 4 forces the stalks on to
the rearward platform 28 the fork 29 sweeps them untied on to the ground.; to
facilitate this the row of tines 34 may be removed, and the compressing arms 35
fastened in their extreme upward position out of the way.
Fig. 6 shews more completely the operation of tying; the two loops have been
made, the pincers 59 and sheath 58 have been forced through the loops, and the

page_text: loopers are ready to rise to deposit the loops on the sheath. The fork 29 having
delivered the stalks into the compressing arms are retiring. The dotted lines
shew the respective positions of the fork 29, compressing arms 35, and row of
tines 34.
To thread the machine the binding material is first passed between the discs of
the cleat 65; secondly, over the tension pulley 66; thirdly, under the guide pulley
66b; fourthly, through the eyo of the tightener 67, and lastly, between the jaws of
the twine carier pincers 43. To prevent over-running of the bobbin or reel when
the machine is at work, the following arrangement (forming part of the subject
matter of my application for Letters Patent, No. 1116, dated 20 March 1878) is
used. A vertical rod b (Figs. 7 and 7), working in guides c, c, has at its upper
end an eye or loop through which the binding material a passes. The lower end
of the rod is jointed to one end of the bent lever d; this lever works in bearings e, f,
and has at its other end a plate or presser g. When the binding material is drawn
out the rod b is raised, and the presser g kept clear of the bobbin ; but immediately
the binding material is slackened the rod b by its own weight drops, and the presser
acting on the flange of the bobbin arrests its progress.
Having described the nature of my said Invention, and the manner of performing
it, I desire to have it understood that (subject to the disclaiming notices herein-
before contained) I claim as secured to me under the Letters Patent first herein-
before in part recited,-
1. The constructing harvesting machines, as herein-before described and shewn
in the accompanying Drawings, but excluding what I have herein-before termed
respectively the gathering apparatus with cam path," and "the reel or bobbin
brake apparatus."
2. Making the rearward platform adjustablo, as herein-before described, to accord
with the position of the tying gear.
3. The combination with the rearward platform of the tines or prongs 34 (or
their equivalents) held normally in a nearly vertical position by springs or counter-
balances, and so arranged that when stalks are pressed against them they will
assume an inclined position, and act as guides over which the stalks may be moved,
substantially as described.
4. The combination with the fixed receiver of the moveable compressing arms
35 operating substantially as described.
5. Operating the compressing arms 35 by a cam on the main shaft through a
lever, a yielding connection (to allow for variations in bulk of the collected stalks)
and a volute cam or pulley, all substantially as described and shewn.
6. The method of gathering together, compressing and holding the stalks to be
bound by the use in combination with the rearward platform of the reciprocating
rake or fork 29, tines or prongs 34, yielding compressing arms 35, and fixed
receiver, all'arranged and operating, substantially as described.
7. The combination with the compressing arms 35 (or their equivalent) of
apparatus for receiving the binding material drawn out whilst the twine carrier is
revolving so as to prevent entanglement of the binding material through absence
or insufficiency of stalks to be bound, substantially as described.
8. Providing the one part of the compound arm of the twine carrier with a shield
or guard to prevent entanglement with the stalks during the passage of the said
compound arm around them, substantially as described.
9. Providing the pinion (26) of the twine carrier arm, with two projections or
large teeth at its side, and applying a ring or circle (having two recesses, as
described) to the side of the toothed quadrant or segment, whereby motion is
intermittently given to the said pinion, so that when the quadrant or segment has
given a complete rotation to the pinion, its said projections or large teeth rest upon
the periphery of the said ring or circle, one above its centre and the other below,
thus preventing the turning in either direction of the pinion, and consequently also
of the twine carrier arm, substantially as described.

page_text: 10. Attaching the tying apparatus to timbers or bearers 17, adjustavie II SCROW
in the framing, substantially as described.
11. The use in combination with the loopers 50 and 51 of the fixed loop retainer
52, as described.
12. The method of retaining the tension of the binding material around the
collection of stalks whilst the loops are being delivered on to the sheath of the
reciprocating pincers in the process of forming the knot by the use of gripping
apparatus, substantially as described.
13. The improved tightener, constructed and operated substantially as described,
for tightening the loops after they have been forced off the sheath of the recipro-
cating pincers, and for presenting the twine to be cut off.
14. Making the tail piece 45 in one with the sheath 44, and protecting the sail
tail piece and the twine carrier pincers, from the stalks by a shield, as shewn in
Figs 20, 30, 31, 59, and 60.
15. The arrangement whereby the whole of the tying apparatus may be thrown
out of gear by means of the clutch 39 (Figs. 1, 4, and 66) leaving the reaper proper
in operation, without the tying gear, as described.
In witness whereof, I, the said Melville Thomson Neale, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Sixth day of June, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight.
TONEALE
(L.S.)