IMPROVEMENTS IN THE METHOD OF AND MATERIALS FOR MANUFACTURING AMMUNITION BOXES, PONTOONS, BAGGAGE AND OTHER WAGGONS AND CARRIAGES, AND VARIOUS EQUIPMENTS FOR MILITARY, NAVAL AND CIVIL PURPOSES."
Year: 1867

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Thomas Charles Clarkson, Manufacturer, of 56,
.
Stamford Street, Blackfriars Road, in the County of Surrey, for the
Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE METHOD OF AND MATERIALS FOR
MANUFACTURING AMMUNITION BOXES, PONTOONS, BAGGAGE AND OTHER
WAGGONS AND CARRIAGES, AND VARIOUS EQUIPMENTS FOR MILITARY, NAVAL
AND CIVIL PURPOSES."
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Thomas Charles Clarkson
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on
the 19th September 1867.
I, THOMAS CHARLES CLARKSON, Manufacturer, of 56, Stamford Street,
Blackfriars Road, in the County of Surrey, do hereby declare the nature of
the said Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE METHOD OF AND MATERIALS
FOR MANUFACTURING AMMUNITION BOXES, PONTOONS, BAGGAGE AND OTHER WAGGONS
AND CARRIAGES, AND VARIOUS EQUIPMENTS FOR MILITARY, NAVAL AND CIVIL
PURPOSES," to be as follows:-
My Invention consists of improvements I have made in applying and.
forming the various materials as specified in my Patents, No 12,466,
dated 8 Feby., 1849, which Patent has been prolonged for five years by
Price Sd.1

page_text: the Privy Council, and in my Patent, No. 84 1856, also No. 2579, dated
21st day of Oct. 1863, by using in combination with all or part" the cork
wood of the West Indies, known under the botanical title of ochroma
lagopus, into various equipments for military, naval, and civil purposes.
The practical experience I have gained by close application has enabled me to
improve and modify my process, having made many valuable improvements,
not only in having discovered that the cork wood of the West Indies, ochroma
lagopus, can be made available in combination with the said material by
using the said cork wood in many cases in lieu of and with the ordinary sheet
cork in the manufacture of the herein-after named articles, for which improve-
ments I desire to have secured to me by Letters Patent.
My Invention relates, first to the improvements in building limber, shell,
ammunition, powder boxes and cases with the cork materials, avoiding nails,
screws, and seams, whereby I reduce the weight one-half to two-thirds of the
ordinary wooden limber and ammunition boxes. In cases that require
internal fittings either to detach or remain fixed I commence first by making
a mould the size of the internal magazine, box, or case, and fit over a thin
wood or cork, or the said cork wood, a quarter inch thick, "more or less,"
covered with canvas on both sides. I fit on the case blocks of cork with round
holes, (by which means the shells are preserved from injury,") sufliciently
deep and large to hold the number of shells required; I then place three
moulds the width of the blocks of cork sufliciently high to form the size of the
box; I then fit a strong canvas over the bottom and sides, and coat it with
india-rubber solution; I then adhere sheets of cork on the bottom and sides;
I then make a frame to form the lid and secure a thin pine board with
canvas adhered on the inside and sheet cork on the outside. I place two or
three strips of strong flax webs on the back of the box, and adhere them to
the top lid and side of the box to form the hinge; I then adhere a canvas or
leather cover over the body and lid of the box.
The 2nd part of my improvements consists in forming shell and shot boxes
in the following manner-I first cut holes the size of the shells in blocks of
cork or the cork wood prepared for the purpose, and then adhering a sheet of
cork half inch thick, which forms the external surface which gives the form of
the box, but I propose in some cases to have the box in two halves, one half
with a flange to fit over the other half so as to form a flush side when screwed
together, and to place in the bottom part of one of the halves a screw nut,
leaving a small hole through the centre of the box so that a small bolt with
screwed end and an eye at the top can screw into the said nut; by this

page_text: means I secure the shells in the holes by screwing the two halves together
which prevent the shells from injury, which they are so liable to in ordinary
wooden boxes now in use; I then cover the external part with my prepared
leather; I also secure a rope into each half which forms a handle and keeps
the halves connected, so that the box with the shells can be carried or
suspended either on horseback or over poles when carried by men in
transport.
The 3rd part of my improvements consists in forming gunpowder cases. I
form a mould the shape and size of the case required; cover over the
mould a strong prepared canvas which forms the internal lining; I then take
a sheet of cork half or three-quarters of an inch in thickness and coat it over
with india-rubber solution, and adhere the cork on the said canvas on the
mould; I fix in the neck or opening of the case either a metal rim with a
screwed thread or other fastening; I then adhere a canvas over all; and if
preferred I cover the case with my prepared leather.
The 4th part of my Invention consists in making cases for transporting and
carrying cartridges or gunpowder from a magazine in or from fort or ship-
board. These cases also in case of shipwreck form a life buoy; one. case can
support in water three to four men. These cases are made of canvas, sheet
cork, with an external covering of leather or canvas. The cover lid is looped
on the handle of the case.
The 5th part of my improvements is in constructing and forming of my
cork, canvas, wood, and leather, military portable pontoons, baggage, and
other carriages, whereby I not only make my pontoons and baggage waggons
water and splinter-proof, but form them into non-submergable boats which are
one-half lighter than ordinary pontoons and baggage waggons. I take thin pine
boards or the cork wood ochroma lagopus, from one-eight to three-eights thick
"more or less." I adhere a strong canvas with prepared india-rubber solution
on one or both sides of the said wood; I then form an oblong square case six to
twelve inches deep and four to five feet wide, and in length twelve feet, "more
or less," with fall down sides, by which arrangement the sides turn flat on
the bottom. I form water-tight compartments transverse and longitudinal,
which prevent the liability of the pontoon being submerged, and which can
be used for holding stores and ammunition. In building the body of my
pontoons, baggage or other carriages, I form a mould or frame to shape the
various forms required, and if compartments or internal fittings are desired I
make moulds the size required and adhere thin wood or canvas thereon, and
adhere all-the fittingstogether, representing inform a sort of honeycomb. If the

page_text: fittings when adhered do not give the shape of the exterior required I then
fix moulds so as to give the form required, taking care to leave various recesses
to admit of ribs or framework if required, which framework must be made
flush with the moulds; a strong canvas is then adhered over all, and either
thin wood or sheet cork is adhered on the canvas, which gives the form
required; and I either adhere a canvas or my prepared leather to form the
outer cover. Detachable axles are screwed into screw nuts which are fixed in
blocks of wood in the interior of the case at each side of the pontoon, so that
wheels can be attached or detached as required.
The 6th part of my improvements refers to applying a filter to my water
bags and canteens. I take a mould the shape of the bag or case required to fit
the horse or man, and I fit over the said mould a prepared leather or canvas,
adhering the edges at the side and bottom with a prepared solution of india-
rubber; I then adhere on the said canvas either a layer of cork or felt, or both
as may be required, I then adhere an outer cover of leather. Prior to fitting in
the bottom or neck of the case I secure a block of carbon in the inside of the
case, to which I attach the end of an elastic tube to the outer end of the tube
I fix a metal tap to let out the filtered water. I also have a screw plug
which I fix in a convenient part to admit of filling the case.
The 7th part of my improvements consists in forming my cork material into
portable knapsacks. I proceed to block a thin leather upon a concave mould,
the shape of the back of the man; I adhere a sheet of cork to form the back
and also the sides, by which means the back and sides are kept in shape
when the knapsack is filled. I form elastic gussets at the bottom and top
corners, so that the knapsack can be packed flat when desired. I have at each
corner a metal plate with pins and screws so as to secure the corners when
the knapsack is in wear. In my method of carrying the knapsack I place a
tough wood or metal rib the shape of the back. I place loops at various
distances so that my shoulder straps can be placed as required; the
shoulder part of the straps being made with alternate layers of cork, leather,
and felt in a manner to form a cushion on the part resting on the man's
shoulders. The part under the arm is formed round without sewing. The strap
end buckels or hooks on to the curved end at the bottom of the knapsack, the
left-hand strap being secured by a buckle or otherwise, and by passing in
the left arm and throwing over the head the loose strap with the right hand
the knapsack can be momentarily fitted on or taken off. By this method the
arms are perfectly free without the least painful pressure either on the chest
or shoulders of the man, avoiding all the evils attending ordinary knapsacks.

page_text: The 8 part of my improvements is in using in my thin flexible flat straps
and traces a strip of my tawed prepared leather in the centre, and on the top
of the internal web in lieu of the layer of sheet cork, as specified in my afore-
named Patents, so that the edges of the outer covering of leather which
envelopes the web adheres closely together in the middle of the said strip of
tawed leather, which not only prevents the seam opening, but the wet or damp
from getting into and rotting the web. I apply the same method to my
round reins and traces.
The 9th part of my improvements is in covering my cork helmets, shakoes,
and head dresses with a wash leather "in lieu of cloth," known under the
name of chamoise leather, adhered with india-rubber solution, by which means
all seams and sewing are not only done away with, but the head dresses can
be washed and pipeclayed and otherwise cleaned, and are doubly durable;
also in my waterproof dresses and leggings I make them in small corrugated
lines, which corrugation admits of a current of air which ventilates and
prevents damp, which in all close fitting water-tight dresses injuriously exists.
The 10th part of my improvements consists in applying the aforesaid
materials in making beacon and other buoys. I form a mould the shape
required; I cover over the said mould a strong canvas, and when tightly fitted
to the mould I coat over the said canvas with a solution of india-rubber, and
adhere a layer of sheet cork to inch in thickness; I then adhere on the
cork a second canvas and if desired a second layer of cork, and then cover the
cork with a strong canvas or prepared leather which forms the outside cover;
a man-hole having been made in the mould allows room for a man to pass
into the inside whereby he can remove the mould if required. My improve-
ment in circular life buoys is made on the same principle.
To give
greater security against the buoys submerging I either fit in cases air-tight
or build in sections; iron or other fastenings can be applied in the ordinary
way.
The 11th
part of myimprovements consists in applyingthe aforesaid materials
in making railway carriages and waggons heat and dust proof for carrying
meat, milk, fruit, fish, and other perishable goods. To attain this advantages
I adhere my cork material on the sides, top and bottom on
the present
carriages; but in constructing new carriages I build the body of the carriage
of the said material complete as described in building my pontoons and
carriages. I also make the door frame and ports of vessels elastic by letting
in a strip of the cork material into the frame of the doors, or windows; or
ports.

page_text: The 12 part of my improvements consists in applying the afore-named
materials informing buffers andother springs in lieu of steel or india-rubber. I
find by cutting the cork in sheets from an to inch in thickness, and
adhering alternatelylayers of strong canvas or my prepared leather coated with
india-rubber solution, and by placing the materials in an iron case and com-
pressing the materials by hydraulic or other pressure prior to fixing the buffer
head and piston into the iron case, by which means I attain not only a
powerful buffer spring, but one of great durability and not liable to derange-
ment. If it is required to give more elasticity I work in the cork material
a spiral steel rod, whereby the spring rod is preserved from the possibility of
fracturing; the same description of the cork material as named for the buffers
I form into washers of an inch "more or less" in thickness and 7 to 10 inches
in diameter "s
more or less," with a hole in the centre sufficiently large to
admit the bolt end which holds on the armour plates to the sides of the vessels
to pass through, and by placing the cork washer between an iron washer the
size. of the cork washer and the side of the vessel internally, and by screwing
up the nut sufficiently the liability to fracture the bolts is avoided. I encase
the bolts with cork and canvas as a further preventive against fracture. Equal
good results are attained for draw springs, and in avoiding vibration in railway
and other carriages, by inserting a small block of my cork material into the
frames of railway and other carriages as a bed for the crook iron which
suspends and connects the carriage to the springs also in and between the
iron chair and wood sleepers on railway roads. If the cork material is not
sufficiently rigid I place a compressedwood between the layers of cork, leather,
canvas, or sheets of iron.
The 13th part of my improvements consists in taking a mould the size
required for cannon wads, and by first adhering a strong canvas or tough leather
over the mould, and after the canvas or leather has been coated over with
india-rubber solution alternatelayers ofsheetcork, canvas, or leather areadhered
until the required thickness is attained; the wad can be secured to a bag made
of prepared skin which contains the powder, but in all cases the mould should
be a little convex to allow the wad to expand in the gun when discharged. I
also find an improvement in making steam-tight joints by placing a cork core
in the centre of canvas laid round the said core and adhered with india-
rubber solution, which produces a perfect packing for steam and other tight
joints. In the method hitherto employed the cork charred by being exposed
to the steam which caused failure. In packing for pistons or shafts for
screw propellers I place my cork material between the metal coils, either cut

page_text: out of solid iron by an endless band saw or otherwise made, by which means
I obtain a latteral elasticity which removes the present friction and vibration.
The same arrangement is applicable for bearings for trunnions for guns in
gun carriages and gun beds.
The 14 part of my improvements consists in making portmanteaus, hat
cases, bullock trunks, surgical, musical, gun, and despatch cases, human and
animal figuars. I form moulds the various forms required, and byfirst closely
fitting on a canvas or a woven netting cover, and by coating it over with
india-rubber solution and adhering alternate layers of sheet cork until the
thickness is attained, I then cut the various parts which cannot be otherwise
removed from the mould, and when removed I adhere the parts that have
been cut so as to form the object complete; I then if required adhere either
leather or a calico cover, and paint or otherwise ornament the exterior, as may
be desired.
SPECIFICATION filed in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent,
and of an Order of the Lord Chancellor, by the said Thomas Charles
Clarkson in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 4th April 1868.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I THOMAS
CHARLES CLARKSON, Manufacturer, of 56, Stamford Street, Blackfriars Road,
in the County of Surrey, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letters
Patent, bearing date the 19th day of September, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and sixty-seven, in the 30th year of Her
reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors, give and grant unto me,
the said Thomas Charles Clarkson, Her special licence that I, the said Thomas
Charles Clarkson, my executors, administrators, and assigns, or such others asI,
the said Thomas Charles Clarkson, my executors administrators, and assigns,
should at any time agree with, and no others, from time to time, and at all times
thereafter during the term therein expressed, should and lawfully might
make, use, exercise, and vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, an Invention for
"IMPROVEMENTS IN THE METHOD OF AND MATERIALS FOR MANUFACTURING
AMMUNITION BOXES, PONTOONS, BAGGAGE AND OTHER WAGGONS AND CARRIAGES, AND
VARIOUS EQUIPMENTS FOR MILITARY, NAVAL AND CIVIL. PURPOSES," upon the
condition (amongst others) that I, the said Thomas Charles Clarkson,

page_text: my executors or administrators, by an instrument in writing under my,
or their, or one of their hands and seals, should particularly describe
and ascertain the nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the
same was to be performed, and cause the same to be filed in the Great
Seal Patent Oflice within six calendar months next and immediately after the
date of the said Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE that I, the said Thomas Charles Clarkson, do hereby
declare the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to
be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement :-
My Invention consists of improvements I have made in applying and
forming various materials, part of which are specified in my Patents,
No. 12,466, dated the Eighth of February 1849, (which Patent was prolonged
for 5 years by the Privy Council,) also in my Patent, No. 84, 1856, and in
No. 2579, dated the 21st October 1863, by using in combination with all. or
a part of the said materials the cork wood of the West Indies (known under
the botanical title of ochroma lagopus") in making various equipments
for military, naval, and civil purposes. The practical experience I have
gained by close application has enabled me to improve and modify my original
process, having made many valuable improvements not only in having dis-
covered that the above-named cork wood ("ochroma lagopus") can be
made available in combination with the said cork, canvas, and leather
materials, but that in many cases it can be used both in lieu of and with the
ordinary sheet cork in the manufacture of the hereafter-named articles, for
which improvements I desire to have secured to me by Letters Patent.
My Invention relates, first, to the improvements in building limber, shell,
ammunition, and powder boxes or cases with the cork materials, whereby nails
screws, and seams are avoided. By my process I reduce the weight one-half
to two-thirds of the ordinary wooden limber and ammunition boxes or cases.
In cases that require internal fittings either to detach or to remain fixed in
limber boxes I commence by making a mould the size of the internal
magazine, box, or case, and fit over the mould a canvas solutioned over with
india-rubber; I then adhere a thin wood or cork or said cork wood a quarter
inch more or less; I then adhere canvas on the outside of the case; I fit on
to the case blocks of cork with round holes sufficiently large and deep to hold
the shells, by which means they are preserved from injury; I then place
three moulds the width of the blocks of cork sufficiently high to form the
size and shape of the box; I then fit a strong canvas solutioned over the

page_text: bottom and sides, which gives the foundation to receive to sheet cork; I
coat the cork with india-rubber solution, and then adhere the sheets of cork
or the cork wood to the bottom and sides. I next proceed to make a frame
to form the lid and flange, and secure a thin pine board with canvas adhered,
which forms the top on the inside, and sheet cork on the out. I place two
or three strong webs of flax on the back of the box, and adhere them on the top
of the lid and on the side of the box to form the hinge; I then adhere (with
the india-rubber solution) a canvas or leather cover over the body and lid of
the box, which completes it ready for fixing straps, handles, or ironwork,
I either rivet or secure the straps or ironwork with small screws, bolts, and
nuts.
The 2nd part of my improvements consists in making shot and shell
boxes, which is performed in the following manner :-I commence, first, to
cut holes the diameter of the shells in a block of cork, or the cork wood pre-
pared for the purpose, and then adhering sheet cork half-inch thick, with
canvas also adhered on the inside, which gives the form of the box. I make
it in two halves, the one with a flange to fit over the other, making the
outside flange flush when screwed together by placing in the bottom part of
one of the valves a screwed nut, and making a hole through the centre of the
box to admit a small bolt to screw into the said nut, by which means I secure
the shells in the holes and the two halves together, preventing the shells from
injury, which they are so liable to in the ordinary wooden boxes now in use.
I then cover the external part with my prepared leather. I also secure a
rope into each half, which forms a handle and keeps the halves together, and
by this means the box with the shells can be carried or suspended either on
horseback or on poles.
The 3rd part of my improvements consists in forming gunpowder cases.
I form a mould the shape and size of the case required; I cover over the
mould a strong prepared canvas or leather, which forms the internal lining;
I then take sheet cork or the cork wood one-half or three-quarters of an inch
in thickness, and coat it over with india-rubber solution, and adhere the cork
to the said canvas on the mould. I fix to the neck or opening of the case
either a metal rim with a screw thread or other fastening. If the mould be
in one piece or the neck of the case is smaller than the mould, the mould
must be withdrawn before the bottom of the case is fixed in; I then adhere
a canvas or leather cover over all, which completes the case. Leather or web
handles can be rivetted or otherwise fixed.
The 4th part of my improvements consists in making cases for transporting

page_text: and carrying carriages or gunpowder to or from the magazine in fort or
shipboard: I take a mould the size required and fit over a strong canvas;
I coat the canvas over with a solution of india-rubber, also the sheet cork, and
adhere the cork on the canvas when on the mould; I then adhere two or
three strips of cork round the bottom. and sides to form the band and stiffen
the case; I then cover the outside with leather or canvas before I take the
case off the mould. I use the top of the case as a mould to form the lid by
fitting over a canvas cover the size of the lid, and then adhere sheet cork to
give the form; I then adhere a canvas or leather cover; I then rivet loops
on the lid to secure it to the handle of the case, which is made of rope covered
with leather, adherent thereon by india-rubber solution. The ends of the
handle is rivetted to the case; it can be used as a life buoy, one case being
capable of supporting three to four men in water.
The 5th part of my improvements is in constructing and forming the cork
or cork wood, canvas, wood, and leather for portable military pontoons,
baggage, and other carriages, whereby I not only make them water and
splinter proof, but make them into non-submersible boats, which are one-half
lighter than ordinary pontoons and baggage waggons. I commence by taking
thin pine wood boards or the cork wood ("ochroma legopus") from to th
thick, more or less; I adhere a strong canvas with prepared india-rubber
solution on one or both sides of the said wood; I then make an oblong square
case (not however confining myself to this particular shape) from 6 to 12
inches deep, and from 4 to 5 feet wide, and in length 12 feet, more or
less. I attach fall down sides to the above-named oblong case by prepared
leather hinges, by which arangement the sides turn flat on the bottom for
convenience of transport and stowage, but when required for use the sides turn
up and are secured by thwarts, and braced up by ropes or screwed rods, as
shown in Fig. 8. I adhere or screw on a keel gunwales and bilge pieces
made of hard wood, but should it be preferred to have a pontoon in two parts
I form a longitudinal middle vertical section, with a flap over keel and thwart
fore and aft, so that the halves can be used separate or connected and secured
by rods passing through the floor deck section transversely (Fig. 8), and the
thwarts are secured by screwed bolts passing through the end of the thwarts
in blocks in the sections, as shown in Fig. 8. By this improvement I can
separate the halves without disconnecting them. The bolts or rods which
pass through the sections keep the halves at a certain distance, whereby a
platform can be laid over, giving a large space for landing troops, mer-
chandise, or military stores, also for carrying guns. I form water-tight

page_text: compartments in the oblong case by transverse and longitudinal sections,
which prevent the liability of the pontoons becoming submerged...The com-
partments can be used for holding stores and ammunition, water, or, other
liquids. In building the body of my baggage, pontoons,, or other carriages
I make a mould or moulds to shape the various forms required, and if com-
partments or internal fittings are desired also, make moulds of requisite size,
and adhere thin wood or the cork wood with canvas adhered thereon, and
adhere all the fittings together when on the moulds, representing in form a
sort of honeycomb. If when adhered the internal fittings do not give the
shape of the exterior required, I then fix moulds so as to give the shape,
taking care to leave various recesses to admit of ribs, which form the frame-
work. The said ribs must be made flush with the mould; a strong canvas
is then adhered over all, and either the cork wood or sheet cork is adhered on
the canvas which gives the shape required, and I then either adhere my
prepared leather or another canvas to form the outer covering. Axles
detachable or fixed are screwed into screw nuts, which are fixed into blocks of
wood in the interior of the case on each side of the pontoon or baggage waggon
so that wheels can be attached or detached as circumstances may require; but
in making my ambulance carriage of my cork material I commence by forming
a framework to admit of oblong cases of sufficient size and shape, each case
to hold a wounded man lying flat, and with room to turn if desired. I place
rollers in each opening to allow the cases to be drawn in and out when the
men are contained in them, bywhich means thewounded are saved unnecessary
pain. I place in the centre of each case a tube or opening to admit of the
men being relieved. I also make an opening at the head part of each case,
so that the head of one man is over or under the feet of the other. The roof
and sides are made corrugated or with longitudinal openings, so as to open or
shut, similar to Venetian blinds. If required I also arrange loose calico
linings to regulate the temperature. The cork baggage pontoon can be used
to float up or down rivers when opportunity offers, thus saving the wounded
unnecessary pain from jolting over rough ground on wheels. I also arrange
tubes in connection with water contained in bag or tank, enabling the men to
suck filtered water at pleasure.
The 6th part of my improvements have reference to the application of a
filter to my water bags and canteens. I take a mould the shape of the bag or
case required to fit the horse or man, and fit over the said mould a prepared
leather or canvas, adhering the edges at the side and bottom with a prepared
solution of india-rubber; I then adhere on the said canvas either a layer of

page_text: cork or felt, or both, as may be required; I then adhere an outer cover of
leather prior to fitting in the bottom or neck of the case, and then secure a
cylindrical block (or other shape) of carbon or other porous material as a
filter in the inside, to which I attach one end of an elastic tube; to the outer
end I fix a metal tap to let out the filtered water. I also have a screwed plug
fixed in a convenient part to admit of filling the case.
The 7th part of my improvements consists in forming the cork or cork
wood material into portable knapsacks. I proceed to block a thin leather
upon a concave mould the shape of the man's back. I adhere a sheet
of cork to form the back and also the sides, by which means both are kept in
shape when the knapsack is filled. I fix elastic or other gussets at the bottom
and top corners, so that the knapsack can be packed flat when required. I
have at each corner a metal plate with pins and screws, so as to secure the
corners (or to lace) when the knapsack is in wear. "In my method of carrying
the knapsack I place a tough wooden or metal rib curved to the shape of the
back of the knapsack and place loops at various distances, so that my shoulder
straps can be secured as required. The shoulder part of my straps is made
to fit the shoulder, alternate layers of cork, leather, and felt being employed
in a manner to form a cushion on the part resting on the shoulders, but
sufficiently rigid to keep its shape and prevent a pressure on the arms. The
part which passes under the arm I make round without sewing, thus avoiding
any ridge. The end of the straps buckle or hook on to the curved ends at
the bottom of the knapsack, the left-hand strap being secured with a buckle
or otherwise, and by passing in the left arm and throwing over the head, the
loose strap held with the right hand, the knapsack can be instantly fitted on
and taken off. By this method the arms are perfectly free without the least
painful pressure either on the chest or shoulders, thus avoiding all the evils
attending the wear of the ordinary knapsack. The bottom of my knapsack I
make with a recess to admit of a water can or bottle, not only serving for
this purpose, but for cooking and boiling rations. Recesses are also made for
carrying ammunition, &c.
The 8th part of my improvements is in my harness for military and other
purposes, and consists in using with my thin flexible flat and round straps,
traces, and reins a strip of my prepared leather adhered in the centre and on
the top of the internal web in lieu of the layer of sheet cork, as specified in
my afore-named Patents, so that the edges of the outer covering of leather
which envelopes the web adheres closely together on the middle of the said
strip of my tawed leather, which not only prevents the seam opening, but the

page_text: wet or damp from getting into and rotting the web or cords; but before I
apply my india-rubber on the cords and web I pass them through a solution of
chloride of zinc or other dessicating fluid, and when dry I rub the rope or web
with glass paper to cause a woolley surface. I then coat the rope or web over
with solution of india-rubber, likewise the leather which is to cover the rope
or web. I then adhere over the rope or web the said leather cover. At the
joining I pass over a tooth wheel which represents sewing. I then apply
hooks or buckles in the ordinary way, or my patent fastening, as specified in
my Patent, No. 2579, 1863.
The 9th part of my improvements is in covering my cork helmets, shakoes,
and head dresses with a leather known under the common name of chamois
or buff leather. I take a piece of this leather and coat it over with an indian-
rubber solution (also the cork which is on the block), and by pressing it over
by degrees the leather adheres to the cork on the mould, by which means all
seams and sewing are not only done away with, but the head dresses can be
washed and pipeclayed and otherwise cleaned, and are doubly durable than
the ordinary helmets, shakoes, and other head dresses. In military waterproof
leggings and dresses I take a corrugated mould which forms corrugated lines
that admits a current of air, ventilating and preventing damp, which in all
close fitting waterproof dresses injuriously exists.
The 10th part of my improvements consists in applying the aforesaid
materials in making beacon and other buoys. I make a mould or frame the
shape required, then cover over the said mould or frame with a strong canvas,
which when tightly fitted to the mould I coat over with a solution of india-
rubber and adhere thereto a layer of sheet cork or cork wood, as before
named, to inch in thickness. I then adhere on the cork a second canvas,
and if desired a second layer of cork, and then cover the whole with a strong
canvas or prepared leather, forming the outside cover. A man-hole having
been made in the mould allows room for a man to pass into the inside,
whereby the mould or frame can be removed or allowed to remain for the
sake of greater strength if required. For the security against submersion of
beacon buoys I either fit in air and water tight cases, or make sectional com-
partments. I also fit in the interior of the buoy a receiver for gas if required,
whereby a light may be exhibited at the entrance of harbours or at sea. I
fit on iron or other fastenings in the ordinary way. In my improvement in
portable circular life buoys I make a mould the shape and size required. I
fit over this mould a strong canvas, and coat it over with india-rubber solution;
I then adhere sheet cork wood or sheet cork upon the canvas while on the

page_text: mould, removing the latter prior to fitting in the bottom; I then fit in four
wood sections placed vertically, with a hole in each to secure hand lines to the
buoy when finished. Before I put in the bottom I fix a rim of cork inside
the buoy to support the bottom. I then fit the latter in and adhere the
canvas or a leather cover over all. Holes are made through the cover to
admit the hand lines passing through these in the solid sections. By the same
method I make wash deck and other buckets.
The 11th part of my improvements consists in applying the aforesaid
materials in making railway carriages and waggons heat and dust proof for
carrying meat, fruit, fish, and other perishable goods. To attain this advantage I
adhere my "cork material"'on the sides, top, and bottomof thepresent carriages;
but in constructing new carriages I build the body of the carriage of the said
cork wood and materials as described in building my baggage pontoon carriages.
I also make the door frames (and likewise ports of vessels) elastic by letting
in a strip of the "cork material" into the frame of the doors and windows,
whereby doors, windows, ports, and hatchways in vessels and carriages are
made air and water tight without caulking or padding. In ordinary doors
and windows by making the edges of the doors and frame a little bevelled the
elasticity given by the cork not only causes a tight fit, but prevents jarring
and noise.
The 12th part of my improvements.consists in applying the afore-named
materials in forming buffer and other sprngs in lieu of steel or india-rubber.
I find by cutting the cork in sheets from to inch in thickness, and
adhering the cork with alterate lays of strong canvas or my prepared
leather coated with india-rubber solution, and by placing the said materials
when adhered in block into metal or other cases, and by compressing the
material by hydraulic or other pressure prior, to fixing the buffer head and
piston into the iron case I attain not only a powerful buffer spring, but one of
great durability and not liable to derangement. If it is required to give more
elasticity, Iwork in the "cork material" a spiral steel rod (vide Fig.9), whereby
the spring rod is preserved from any possibility of fracturing. The same
description of the cork material" as named for the buffers if formed into
washers of an inch, more or less, in thickness, and 7 to 10 inches in diameter,
more or less, with a hole cut in the centre sufficiently large to admit the bolt
end holds on the armour plates to the sides of vessels to pass through, and
by placing the cork washer between an iron washer (the size of the cork
washer) and the side of the vessel internally, and by screwing up the nut
sufficiently tight, the liability to fracture the bolts is avoided, and as a further

page_text: preventive, I cover the bolts up to the neck and head with cork and canvas
to fit the holes in the iron plates. By. the application of my improvements I
remove vibration in railway and other carriages by inserting a small block
of sheet cord an to inch, more or less, thick, adhered with canvas,
leather, and wood alternately let into the frames of railway or other carriages
as a bed for the "crook iron" which connects and suspends the carriage
to the springs. I also apply the said material between the "iron chairs" and
"wood sleepers
on railway roads and iron bridges. If the "cork material ??
is not sufficiently rigid I place "compressed wood" between the layers of
cork, leather, or canvas, also between sheets or plates of iron in the con-
struction of iron-clad vessels and iron fortifications.
"
tough
The 13th part of my improvements is in making cannon wads I form a
mould the size required for them by first adhering a strong canvas or to
leather over the mould, and after it has been coated over with india-rubber
solution, alternate layers of sheet cork, canvas, or leather are adhered until
the required thickness is obtained. The wads if required can be secured to a
skin or wood bag containing the powder, but in all cases the mould for the
wads should be a little convex to allow the wad to expand in the gun when
discharged. I also find important results in my improvements in making
steam-tight joints by placing a cork core in the centre of canvas laid round
the said core, and adhered with india-rubber solution which produces a perfect
elastic packing for steam or other tight joints. In the method hitherto
employed the cork charred by being exposed to the steam, which caused a
failure. In the packing for pistons and shafts for screw propellers I place
sheet cork or "cork material" between metal coils, either cut out of solid iron
by an endless band saw, or otherwise coiled or made, by which means I
obtain a lateral and vertical elasticity which avoids the present friction and
vibration in the bearings both in the axle and working boxes. The same
arrangement is applicable for bearings for trunnions of guns in gun carriages
and gun beds, and frames for beds for holding heavy guns.
The 14th part of my improvements consists in making military, bullock,
and other trunks, portmanteaus, hat, surgical, musical, and other cases, alsó
in making human and animal figures. In making my bullock trunks and
portmanteaus I not only make them without sections, but make them in
case of emergency in shipwreck (or for crossing rivers) to form a life-raft or
boat. I make moulds various sizes, and shapes; I fit over the moulds a plain
or ornamental fabric cover, and coat the same over with an indian-rubber
solution, and adhere either a thin sheet of cork or the cork wood ("ochroma

page_text: lapogus") or thin pine wood. I then adhere a calico on the wood or cork
with india-rubber solution on every alternate mould; I then adhere the whole
together and arrange the moulds so that they make a uniform exterior; I
then cover over the exterior a strong canvas or leather. If desired I divide
the moulds in two or more sections independent of each other, but still so to
fit as to form one, but each one can be used separate. Before withdrawing
the mould I close up one end of the cases; when the moulds are withdrawn
they have a number of openings or sells of various size which can be used
for stowage with or without extra cases to fit into the openings; these cases
I make of similar material and plan to fit into the openings to be used as
drawers. The whole can be hermetically sealed and used with or without the
outer cover; the latter can be used as a case to hold baggage, &c. In
making surgical and musical cases, also human and animal figures, I take a
mould the size and shape required and cover it with a woven fabric or leather
cover; I adhere thereto sheet cork with india-rubber solution, and the cover
over the cork with a leather, canvas, or cloth cover. In forming human or
animal figures I cover over the mould a netted fabric; I solution it over with
india-rubber, and then adhere sheet cork over the fabric when on the mould;
I then cover over either a thin leather, calico, or felt covering. In taking
the covering of the mould I cut the required parts, taking care so to cut them
that they can be joined when off, and when united I cover the form with
either a thin leather, cloth, or felt, and paint or enamel the surface as may be
desired.
:
!
Having now described my Invention, and the manner of carrying the same
into effect, I wish it to be understood that I claim, under the above recited
Letters Patent,-
First, I claim the application and use of the cork wood of the West Indies,
known under the botanical name "ochroma lagopus," in combination with all
or part of the before-named sheet cork, india-rubber, leather, woven or felted
fabrics.
1
Secondly. I claim the use of the before-named materials in the making
of limber, shot, shell, gunpowder, cartridge, and all description of cases or
receptives, as before named and described.
Thirdly. I claim the combining and arranging the before-named materials in
the formation of pontoons, pontoon boats, baggage and other carriages, and
waggons, as before described and shown in Fig. 1 to 8.
Fourthly. I claim combining the said materials in making cases for carrying
water, with a filter fitted in or otherwise attached to the cases.

page_text: Fifthly. I claim the covering of helmets, and making knapsacks and
leggings, also in placing strips of my tawed leather on the webs and ropes of
my round and flat traces and reins, as before described.
Sixthly. I claim the use of the said materials in making beacon and life
buoys, and cases for life boats, as before described.
Seventhly. I claim the use of the before-named materials in making blocks
for buffer and other springs, and packing for steam and other joints, and
placing cork betwixt coils of metal, spiral or otherwise, and likewise beds
for guns, and wads for cannon, as before set forth and described. Vide Fig. 9
& 14.
Eighthly. I claim the use of the said materials in making bullock and
other trunks, portmanteaus, cases for surgical and musical instruments, and
also for forming human and animal figures, as before set forth and described.
In witness whereof, I, the said Thomas Charles Clarkson, have hereunto
set my hand and seal, this Fourth day of April, One thousand eight
hundred and sixty-eight.
i
THOS. CHAS. CLARKSON. (L.S.)