CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS IN TAPE MEASURES, AND IN THE CASES USED FOR CONTAINING THE SAME, AND IN THE MACHINERY OR APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING OR MAKING SUCH MEASURES AND CASES, OR CERTAIN PARTS THEREOF
Year: 1847

page_text: TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, JAMES
CHESTERMAN, of Sheffield, in the County of York, Machinist, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letter's
Patent under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Ireland, bearing date at Westminster, the Thirteenth day of November, in the
eleventh year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors, give
and grant unto me, the said James Chesterman, my exors, admors, and
assigns, Her special licence, full power, sole privilege and authority, that I
the said James Chesterman, my exors, admňors, and assigns, or such others as
I, the said James Chesterman, my exors, admors, or assigns, should at any time
agree with, and no others, from time to time and at all times thereafter during
the term of years therein expressed, should and lawfully might make, use,
exercise, and vend, my Invention of " CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS IN TAPE MEASURES,
AND IN THE CASES USED FOR CONTAINING THE SAME, AND IN THE MACHINERY OR
APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING OR MAKING SUCH MEASURES AND CASES, OR
CERTAIN PARTS THEREOF," within that part of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland called England, the Dominion of Wales, and Town of
Berwick-upon-Tweed; in which said Letters Patent there is contained a
proviso, requiring that I, the said James Chesterman, shall particularly describe
and ascertain the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the
same is to be performed, by an instrument in writing under my hand and

page_text: seal, and cause the same to be enrolled in Her said Majesty's High Court of
Chancery within six calendar months next and immediately after the date
of the said in part recited Letters Patent, as reference being thereunto had
will more fully and at large appear.
NOW KNOW YE, that in compliance with the said proviso, I, the said
James Chesterman, do hereby declare that the nature of my said Invention,
and the manner in which the same is to be performed, are particularly
described and ascertained in and by the following statement and Specification
thereof, reference being had to the accompanying Drawings, which are marked
with certain letters or characters for the purpose of such reference, that is
to say:-
SIα
My Invention consists, firstly, in a mode of marking the scales and figures,
&c., upon measuring tapes. composed of linen, cotton, or other suitable textile
material, whereby such marking may be effected with greater despatch and
accuracy than heretofore.
Secondly, in a mode of rendering the scales, figures, and other marks upon
measuring tapes of linen, cotton, or other suitable textile material more
permanent than heretofore.
Thirdly, in a mode or modes of rendering measuring tapes of linen, cotton,
or other suitable textile material less liable than heretofore to suffer alteration
in length from moisture.
4.
"
- Fourthly, in an improved mode or improved modes of making measuring
tapes of metal. for spring and winding tape measures!
66
Fifthly, in. improved modes of constructing tape measures (principally
"spring" tape measures) so as that a greater length of measuring tape may be
wound up within a circle of a given diameter than-by-"spring" tape measures
constructed according to the modes hitherto employed; or if a given length.is
required, the size of the cases of such measures may be reduced..
Sixthly, in an improved mode or improved modes of constructing a
"winding" handle for,tape measures.
=
• 1 : ?
Seventhly, in a modification of a description of tape measure constructed
with what is termed a multiplying motion, and in an improved handle (for
winding) adapted to such modification.
' A:
IT. L
isa
Eighthly, in a mode of manufacturing spring tape, measures with springs
less, liable to suffer oxidation or rust.than, heretofore.
Ninthly, in a mode or modes of making tape measure cases less pervious to
moisture than heretofore.
"
1 "
jst 1917 1,
Tenthly, in a mode or modes of improving tape measures generally, by

page_text: adding to or combining therewith certain articles herein-after mentioned;
adapted to the requirements of various parties using tape measures..
...
As to the first division of my Invention.-I mark the scales and figures, &c.
upon measuring tapes composed of linen, cotton, or other suitable-textile
material, by printing the same upon the tapes in the manner of calico 'printing;
by a 'modification of the ordinary and well-known calico- printing machine
constructed and arranged suitably for tlie purpose of printing tapes, whereby I
effect greater 'despatch and accuracy' than by the employment of the means
hitherto adopted for this purpose. Figure 1 of the Drawings shews a sectional
side elevation of parts of a machine modified and arranged accordingly. "Figure
2, a partial end' view; Figure 3, a' detached view of the reels on" which-the
tape is wound previously to being printed; and of the shaft on which they
are supported, one of the reels being represented in section; Figure 45 a
face view of one of the reels corresponding thereto. In these Figures, A
is the framework of the machine; B, B, the reels on which tápe is wound
previously to printing; C, C, guide reels or rollers for the purpose of
conducting the tapes into their proper position upon the roller D, between
which and the cylinder E they are 'pressed so as to receive the impression of
the scales and figures, &c. engraved or otherwise marked upon the 'surface
of such cylinder. The guide reels or rollers C; C, are of the same width as the
tapes required to pass over them; or, if preferred,' a'continuous roller may be
employed, having grooves of 'proper width for the tapes cut in its cylindrical
surface.
..i
The manner of inking the cylinder E and working the machine is similar
to the respective operation's in the ordinary calico printing machine.--The
tape reels and guide rollers may be of the same or various widths, and the
number represented in the Drawing, or a greater or less number, may be
employed, according to requirement. In order that the tape should not be
too loose before being printed, the tape reels should not revolve very easily
upon their shaft, but should offer a slight resistance to the tapes being unwound
therefrom. A plan of effecting this object is represented. The shaft has
at each place where à tape reel revolves thereon a flat groove or channel
formed therein, within which one end of a steel spring X is fixed, 'as
represented in the Figure 5, which is a transverse section of the shaft
across one of such grooves. The inside of the boss or centre portion of the
corresponding reel has also a flat groove of the same width; so that if the
spring be pressed so as to lay within the external figure of the shaft, the
reel may be slided thereon into its proper position, when the spring will exert
its elastic property' so as to enter the groove formed within the boss of the

page_text: reel (as shewn in Figure 3), whereby the reel will be retained in such position,
and an amount of friction produced varying according to the strength of the
spring employed, and the object desired will be accomplished. I would here
remark, that the printing cylinders need only be so large as that their cir-
cumference be equal to such portion of the scales or figures, &c. to be marked
on the tapes as is required to be repeated over and over again on such
measures; thus, for instance, in marking a measure required to have feet
and inches thereon, I propose to employ a cylinder whose circumference is
twelve inches, and to engrave or mark all the requisite lines or divisions
thereon, and also the numbers from 1 to 11 to. indicate "inches," but the
next figure or number, which should indicate "feet," I leave blank on the
cylinder, so that it may be filled in upon the tapes afterwards by stencilling or
otherwise.
As to the second division of my Invention.-I render more permanent than
heretofore the scales, figures, and other marks upon measuring tapes composed
of linen, cotton, or other suitable textile material, by first printing or marking
the scales, &c. upon the tapes, and afterwards covering the tapes so printed
or marked with a transparent or semi-transparent varnish, through which the
scales, &c. may be seen, whereby it is evident that the said scales, &c. will
be more durable upon the tapes, and not so likely to become obliterated from
wear as if printed or marked upon the tapes after they have been prepared
with paint or varnish as is ordinarily the case. The printing or marking may
under the first division of my
be effected either in the manner described
Invention or in any other convenient manner. The varnish which I prefer
to use, and the way in which the same is to be applied for the purpose
mentioned, are described under the next division of my Invention.
As to the third division of my Invention.-I render measuring tapes of linen,
cotton, or other suitable textile material less liable than heretofore to suffer
alteration in length from moisture by covering such tapes (either previous to
or after that the tapes have their scales, &c. printed or marked upon them)
with a varnish composed of gutta percha and caoutchouc dissolved in coal tar,
naptha, or other suitable solvent. Judging from what experience I have
already had, I consider that about equal portions of gutta percha and of
caoutchouc should be used, and that they should be dissolved in a greater or
less quantity of naptha according to the degree of fluidity which may be
preferred for spreading the same upon the tape. And in order to give the
tapes some degree of firmness or consistency, I mix with this varnish a small
quantity of paint, of whatever color may be preferred, taking care that when
the varnish is required to be applied to tapes prepared according to the

page_text: second division of my Invention, that too much paint be not mixed therewith;.
as otherwise the transparency of the varnish will be too far destroyed to.
allow the scales, &c. to be seen through the same. The property of this
varnish is to repel wet and moisture, and at the same time it is less likely to
crack and admit wet and moisture to the material of the tapes than paint or
other things hitherto used for the same purpose. When a strong tape is
required, I take two ordinary tapes and cement them together in a similar
manner to the preparation of Macintosh's waterproof cloth, with the kind of
varnish above described, only prepared rather thick, that is to say, with a less
quantity of naptha, but without paint. When the two tapes have been thus
amalgamated so as to form one tape, I treat it in all respects as a single tape;
and cover it with varnish, as above described. I apply this varnish to the-
tapes by means of a paint brush; or by passing the tapes through a trough
containing such varnish (which should be kept warm therein) on to reels (for
the purpose of drying), in a similar way to that ordinarily pursued in applying
paint to measuring tapes.
As to the fourth division of my Invention.-I make or manufacture measur-
ing tapes of metal for spring or winding tape measures in manner following:-
When a stong and wide tape is required I take fine rolled sheet steel or other-
suitable metal and cut it into pieces of any suitable width and length, such as
yards or feet, or any number of feet, and unite together any required number
of such lengths by joints, so as to form a continuous metal tape, which may
be wound upon a reel by a handle in the ordinary manner of constructing
"winding" tape measures with linen or cotton tapes. Previously however to
these joints being made, when steel is employed, I harden and temper the
strips and then plate them with copper, zinc, or tin, either by the ordinary
electro-galvanic process or by other suitable method, the object of which is to
prevent oxidation of the steel. Figure 6 of the Drawing represents the flat
side of a portion of a steel tape thus prepared, and a part of the case, in which
the greater portion of the tape is supposed to be wound on a reel. a is the
case; b and c parts of the steel tape united by a joint d. Figure 7 is a
similar view of a steel tape constructed with a different kind of joint. The
parts of this Figure corresponding to those of Figure 6 are similarly marked..
I intend to employ the joints to mark the principal divisions of the scales,
and I make as many intermediate divisions as may be required by soldering
or otherwise fixing small pieces of thin sheet brass having figures or marks
thereon to the strips of metal, or by electro gilding or plating such figures or
marks thereon. The Figure 6 shews the former, and the Figure 7 the latter.
of those two plans of marking the scales, &c. upon the tape. I consider that

page_text: case
a measuring tape thus, constructed will be useful for surveying purposes in.
place of the ordinary surveying chain, which weighs considerably heavier than
a tape measure constructed with metal, measuring tape of this description.
In Figure 8 I have. represented an, edge view,; and in, Figure 9.a. face view,
(partly in section) of such a tape measure, shewing improvements in the case
thereof adapted to the purpose. fi is a leathern handle rivetted to the case,
and ga guide piece in place of the ordinary rollers...This is furnished with.
springs h, h, which are faced with leather or other suitable material for wiping
off the dirt from the tape as it is wound into the case by turning the handle..
Figure 10 is an exterior face view of that portion. of the which is
represented in section in Figure, 9... When a narrow measuring tape, is
required,, I roll good. steel or other suitable metal, to: the required width. and
thickness, and, use, one single piece, without, a joint, and harden, and temper
the same (when made of steel) in the ordinary,manner of tempering .watch
clock springs. I then plate the tape (if of steel) as before described,,and
electro gild or plate or otherwise mark the scales, &c. upon, the tape... A small.
"spring".tape measure with measuring tape of this description is represented
by the Figures 11 and 12 of the Drawing, being edge and face views respec-
tively. The interior arrangement is similar to ordinary spring tape measures.
If, however, it is found desirable, this description of measuring tape may be
wound.into the case by..a handle..
or
As to, the fifth division of my Invention.-I construct tape measures so as to
effect the object stated under the said division in a two-fold manner. The
one is by placing the spring, when a spring is used, on an axis or centre
separate and apart from that of the tape reel, and, by employing a train of
wheelwork to communicate the motion. induced, by the spring to a tape
reel, the barrel of which is of but small diameter (in consequence of not being
required to contain the spring within it); or when a spring is not used, by
employing the same arrangement of wheelwork in combination, with a handle
on the axis of the wheel, which would otherwise first receive the impulse of
the spring. The other manner in which I effect the, object stated under the
fifth division of my Invention is, by placing the spring or springs. (when two
are used) central with but not in the same plane with the tape reel, that, is to
say, on the side or sides of such reel, the barrel of, which is of but small
diameter (in consequence of not being required to contain the spring within
it), and consequently admits a greater, length of tape to be coiled thereon
within a given diameter than on a tape, reel which contains a spring in the
interior of the barrel, thereof. A combination and arrangement of parts in
accordance with the first of these modes of construction is represented at the

page_text: following Figures of the Drawing. Figure 18 is a side view of a tape
measure -having 'one of the outer plates of the case removed; Figure 14 a
longitudinal section. a is the exterior case, which is of an oblong form; a¹
(Figure 14)-is-the plate of the case;- which is supposed to be removed in
Figure 13; b, a rim or box soldered on. to one of the plates of the exterior
case and on the inside thereof, being for the purpose of holding the spring 'c';
the outer extremity of this spring is fixed to the box-b, and its inner extremity
to a'hook on the brass collar d of-the wheel e, which revolves on a pin or axis
fixed to the 'case, and communicates by a-somewhat smaller wheel-f. with the
pinion 9. (The wheel of and pinion grevolve on pins or axes fixed to the
ease a.) The pinion g carries with it the-tape reel h, the barrel of which (it
is to be observed) is of but small diameter, so that the tape may be wound
thereon and occupy the space ordinarily occupied by the spring. In-making
this tape measure the inner end of the tape is to be passed through the guide
rollers and attached to the reel, and the various wheels and reel; with the tape
wound thereon, are to be placed upon their pivots .or-axes on the plate a
The spring c is to be inserted in the box 6 on the plate a, and the two parts
of the case-placed together, taking care to hook- the inner end of the spring
upon the brass collar d, the-two parts may then be. fastened together and. the
tape measure is complete; the action is almost self-evident. Suppose the tape
wound up on the reel, then as the tape is unwound from the reel.h, its revo-
lution will through the agency of the pinion and wheels wind up' the spring c.
which, when permitted so to do,' will uncoil itself, and reversing the action of
the wheels and pinion, will wind up the tape upon the reel; if, however, it
should be preferred, a handle of any approved form may be substituted in
place of the spring for winding-up-the tape.
...
..:
A combination or arrangement of parts in accordance with the other of the
modes herein above fifthly mentioned is represented at the Figures 15. to 21.of
the Drawing. It is a modification of and improvement upon the plan described
under the second division of the Specification of a Patent dated the Eleventh
day of January. One thousand eight hundred and forty-two, and "granted
jointly to me, the said James Chesterman, and John Bottom, of Sheffield;
Machinist, for "Certain Improvements in Tapes for Measuring, and in..the
Boxes for containing the same." According to the plan therein described;
two springs are employed to act simultaneously for the purpose of obtaining. a
greater number of revolutions, so as to wind up a long length of tape instead
of the employment of a single spring and wheelwork, but these two springs
were enclosed in a box within the inner case or covering, the exterior of which
formed the reel on which the tape was wound. The consequence of this was

page_text: that the tape could not be wound (at the commencement of the winding) on a
circle of so small a diameter as when the tape measure is constructed accord-
ing to my present improvement. The Figures 15 and 16 are exterior side and
end views respectively of a tape measure, the interior of which is constructed
according to such said improvement; Figure 17 is a cross section; Figures 18
and 19 a face view and cross section respectively of a portion of the case and
one of the springs hereafter mentioned, and certain other parts; Figures 20
and 21 a face view and cross section respectively of the tape reel and the other
of the springs herein-after mentioned, and certain other parts. In these Figures
a and b are portions of the exterior case; c, a box on the inner side of the
portion b, within which is coiled the spring d. The outer end of this spring is
attached to the box c, as shewn in Figure 18, and its inner end to a small
hook on one end of the collar e, which revolves freely upon the centre pin f.
The other end of this collar is also furnished with a hook, to which the inner
end of the spring g is attached, its outer end being attached to the box h,
within which it is coiled, as represented in Figure 20. A comparison of the
Figures 18 and 20, which are both viewed in the same direction, that is to
say, from the left-hand side of Figure 17 will shew that the two springs d
and g are coiled in opposite directions, whereby according to the above
arrangements they will act together as one spring. The box h is fixed upon
one side of the tape reel i, which revolves therewith upon the collar e. In
putting the various parts together, the tape is first to be passed through the
guide rollers of the case and aftached to the reel, and the springs coiled
into their respective boxes. The collar e is next to be placed on the
pivot f, which is fixed to the part 6 of the case, and hooked to the spring d.
Then the reel is to be put on the collar e, and the spring 9 hooked to the same.
The two portions of the case may then be connected together by a screw nut
on the end of the pivot f, and the tape measure is complete. The action is as
follows: Suppose the tape wound up on the reel, then by drawing out the
same the reel revolves, and the box h revolving therewith acts upon the outer
coil of the spring 9; this spring acts upon the collar e, which communicates
with the inner coil of the spring d, the outer end of which affords the fixed
resistance against which the springs act. The revolutions of the tape reel thus
become divided (in the action) between the two springs, which, when allowed
so to do, will reverse the motion of the reel, and consequently wind up the
tape. I would here remark, that in cases where only a comparatively short
length of tape is required, that one spring placed on one side of the reel will
be sufficient for the purpose, and in this case the means herein described for
uniting in one the action of two springs will be unnecessary.

page_text: As to the sixth division of my Invention.-I construct my improved "winding"
handle for tape measures by making the stud portion thereof, that is to say,
the portion to be held in the hand when in use, so that it may fold upon the
crank portion thereof, and lay thereon or half sunk therein when out of use,
whereby I obtain the advantage of a small and compact folding handle which
(acting as a winch or crank), has a less "throw" than the folding handles
hitherto made, and consequently the winding of the tape may be more readily
performed. A winding handle for tape measures made according to this con-
struction, and which I call my "semi-flush" handle, is represented at the
following Figures of the Drawing. Figures 22 and 23 are exterior end and
face views respectively of a tape measure having this kind of handle adapted
thereto, the handle being represented as folded; Figures 24 and 25 are cor--
responding views respectively of the handle and certain other portions when
the handle is in a position for use. In these Figures, a is a crank or winch
connected to the axis on which the tape is to be wound, and having a slot and
recess formed therein within which the stud of the handle lays half sunk when
the handle is folded; b is a hinge joint on which the part c of the stud turns.
The hinge end of this piece c is formed with two flat surfaces, against either of
which the spring d (which is fixed on the back of the crank a) will press, accor-
ding to the position of the handle, and will maintain it in either of the positions
represented. The end parte is made so as to turn easily upon the part c of the
handle. This kind of handle will be found very convenient for winding tape
measures having cases of leather, or of gutta percha, or horn, as herein-after
described. A modification of this handle, but made on a similar construction, is
represented at the following Figures of the Drawing. Figures 26 and 27 are
edge views of a "winding" tape measure having this kind of handle adapted
thereto, the former shewing the handle in a folded position, and the latter in a
position for use.
One side of the case, itself serves as the crank portion of the handle, and
instead of having a fixed stud portion, as has hitherto been done in similar
circumstances, the stud portion is jointed to the case, as shewn in the Draw-
ings, and maintained in either of the positions represented by means of a
spring, as already described with reference to the Figures 22 to 25.
As to the seventh division of my Invention.-I construct my modification of
"multiplying motion" tape measure with improved "winding" handle adapted
to such modification, by making the axis on which the tape reel (and pinion
connected thereto) revolves of a hollow form, so as to receive the stud portion
of the handle, which is capable of sliding through the crank portion thereof into
such hollow axis when out of use, whereby much compactness of the handle is

page_text: isa
effected. A combination and arrangement, of parts constructed, according to
'this modification, and with the improved handle adapted thereto, is represented
at; the following. Figures of the Drawings:-Figure 28 is a cross, section;
Figure 29, an exterior face view; Figure 30, a view from the interior, having
part of the outer, case and certain other parts removed; Figures. 31 and 32,
detached end or edge views; partially in section, shewing the handle in two
positions, and certain other parts, denoted by the letters of reference. a. is a
leathern or other suitable case; b and c, two plates, which cover an opening in
one side of the case, and clip the edges of the case at such opening; dis 'a
hollow pillar, one end.of which is soldered to the plate c, and forms a centre
or axis; on which the pinion e works.. The other. end of this pillar is fastened
by a screw, to a plate f, let into a hole in, the opposite side of the case; thus
rendering the case firm across the centre. gia strengthening plate, held in
its place by the screw which passes through it. The pinion eis furnished
with a collar h, which serves as the reel on which the tape is wound.
multiplying wheel, which gears with the pinion e: This wheel is supported as
shewn in the Drawing, and may be turned by the handle, which I will now
describe. .k is a crank, having at one end a square hole, which fits on the
axis of the wheel i,, and at the other end a round hole for the stud 7, which
has liberty of sliding through the same. It is furnished with a knob at the
outer extremity, and with a small projection or. button at the inner extremity:
m is a helical or, spiral spring, fixed within the hollow pillar. d. When the
measure, is not required for use, and it is wished to: put the handle into, a small
space, the crank. k is to be turned round, so as to bring its end over the
hollow pillar d, and the stud / is to be, turned in the round hole in the crank k;
so that, the button may be brought into the position denoted by the full lines
in Figures 30 and 31. The stud is then to be pushed against the spring m,
and within the hollow pillar d, and then turned into the position denoted by
the dotted lines in the Figure 30, when the button will catch against a pin on
the inside of the said hollow pillar, as shewn in Figure 32. When it is
desired to use the handle, the stud is to be turned, so as to release the
button from the pin on the inside of the hollow pillar, when it may be readily
brought into the required position for use. In making this tape measure the
inner end of the tape is first to be passed, through the guide rollers of the case,
and fastened to the reel h. The case. is next to be laid flat, and the plate g
placed in or about its proper position, being introduced through the large
orifice on one side. The reel h is then to be placed in proper position, and
the plate 6 put on to the pinion e (a hole being formed through the plate for
the purpose). The wheel i is then to be inserted so as to gear with the

page_text: pinion, after which the plate c, with the hollow pillar & thereon,, is.to bo
placed so that the said pillar may pass through the pinion and reel, and the
plates.b and c are to be fastened together by screws, as shewn by the Drawing.
The plate g is then to be placed in proper position (from the other side), the
plate inserted, as shewn, and these two plates secured by a screw,-which
takes into the solid end of the hollow pillar d, as shewn. The handle, may
then be placed upon the axis of the wheel i, and the tape measure,is.complete.
..As to the eighth division of my Invention.-I manufacture. "spring" tape
measures with springs which are less liable to rust or become. oxidized than
heretofore by plating such springs previously to their insertion in the
apparatus with copper, tin, zinc, or other suitable metal. This I effect..by
the ordinary electo-galvanic process, or by any other well-known and suitable
method, such plating to be effected after that the springs have been tempered!
in the usual manner..
' T
.
.f.
As to the ninth division of my Invention.-I make tape measure cases less,
pervious to moisture than heretofore in a two-fold manner. The one is by:
constructing such cases, of gutta percha, or of gutta percha and metal com-
bined; and the other by constructing them of horn, or of horn and metal,
combined. In constructing my "gutta percha" cases, I take gutta percha and
roll it into thin sheets, from which I cut suitably sized pieces, and operate upon.
them by the apparatus which is represented at the following Figures of the,
Drawing. Figure 33 is a sectional elevation of what is termed the "die" of.
the apparatus; Figure 34 a similar view of .the "core;" and Figure 35 a.
similar view of the "cap." These several parts are respectively..marked
A, B, and C, in the Figure 36, which is a similar view of the said parts. put
together as in use. The operation consists in placing the piece of gutta percha
into the die A, in putting the case,B into its place, and then covering both
with the cap C, and subjecting the piece, of gutta percha to pressure in any.
suitable kind of, hand or other press.. The die, core, and cap should be used -
in a warm state. When this has been accomplished, the apparatus may be
removed from the press, and when cold the various parts may be separated.
from each other, but before removing the gutta percha I pare the edge of the.
half case thus formed even with the upper surface of the die. I.employ two
of such halves so.prepared to form a case, and join them together by warming
the edges and placing the one against the other, when they will adhere,
together, having previously to their being joined inserted whatever apparatus
may be required, or having cut such openings as may be required for, the
introduction of such apparatus. In constructing my tape measure cases of
gutta percha and metal combined, I stamp two half cases out of thin, metal,;

page_text: such as brass, and then put these halves one at a time on the "core" of the
apparatus above described, and proceed as before, but use only a very thin.
piece of gutta percha, which will thus become pressed into form and adhere to
the metal and become evenly spread thereon. The two halves thus formed may
be connected together by such of the means above described or represented in
the various Figures of the Drawings as may be found convenient. By this
means a very light case may be formed. Another way in which I construct my
tape measure cases of gutta percha and metal combined is by lining or coating
the interior of such cases with tinfoil or thin sheet lead, which may be applied
in any ordinary and suitable manner. In order to give a pleasing appearance
to tape measure cases composed of gutta percha, I sometimes spread or shower
upon the material by means of a "drudging box," and while in the act of being
rolled into sheets, a small quantity of an earthy substance found in Yorkshire,
and commonly known and called rud or red raddle (in a pounded or pulverized
state), by means of which it can be beautifully mottled, and after this I cover
the cases with varnish of the ordinary description.
In constructing my "horn" tape measure cases, I take plates of horn, cut
them round, and press them while warm into shape, and thus form half cases,
by the apparatus above described for making my "gutta .percha" cases. I
turn at their edges each pair of halves so formed, the one with a rim, and the
other with a recess to fit such rim, in a similar manner to horn snuff-boxes,
and then cement the two together by gutta percha, or other suitable material,
and, if required, insert two or three pins through the edges, which are thus
joined together. Another way in which I join two halves to form a horn case
is by using small curved plates, with screws fixed therein, and passing the
screws thereof through corresponding holes in the rims or edges of both
half cases, and then fastening by small nuts on the exterior, which may be
countersunk into the horn, and filed off even with the exterior surface. The
Figure 87 of the Drawing is a sectional view of a horn case thus cônstructed;
the curved plates, with screws fixed thereto (and which serve as "bolts" to s
fasten the two halves together), are marked a, a; b, b, are the nuts. The parts.
a, a, are to be inserted through the centre orifices on the sides of the case,
or any other orifice of sufficient size and convenient for the purpose which
may be formed in either of the half cases. This plan of joining the half cases
affords a ready means of disconnecting the same, when required, for the s
purpose of taking to pieces, cleaning, or attaching a new tape to the reel of
the apparatus enclosed therein. In constructing my tape measure cases of
horn and metal combined, I cover or line the horn cases with tinfoil or thin
sheet lead, in a similar manner to constructing my tape measure cases of

page_text: gutta percha with a lining or covering of tinfoil or thin sheet lead as before
described.
"
As to the tenth division of my Invention.-I improve tape measures
generally by adding to or combining therewith the following articles, "viz*,
a knife and pencil, or a mariner's compass, or a "linen prover," or a reading
glass or glasses, or a pocket book, or a pair of callipers, or a pair of callipers
and ivory tablet together. The Figures 38 to 41 represent the combination
of a knife and pencil with a spring tape measure: Figure 88 being an edge.
view of the apparatus complete; Figure 39, a similar.view of its cap or cover
detached; Figure 40, a similar view to Fig. 38, with the exception of the cap
or cover; which is represented in section; and Figure 41, a plan view of
Figure 40, without the cap or cover. The Figures 42 to 45 represent the
combination of a mariner's compass with a spring tape measure: Figure 42
being an edge view of the apparatus complete; Figure 43, a similar view
of the compass portion removed therefrom; Figure 44, a similar view to
Figure 42, but having part of the exterior case broken away, in order to shew
how the box of the compass is adapted; and Figure 45, an inverted plan view
of Figure 43. I would here remark, that I am fully aware that "winding"
tape measures have been already combined with a mariner's compass, and
therefore wish it to be distinctly understood that I disclaim, as constituting a
part of my Invention, the combination with a mariner's compass of any other
kind of tape measure than a spring tape measure. The Figures 46 to 50
represent the combination of a "linen prover," (an instrument commonly used
by persons in the cloth trade,) with a spring tape measure: Figure 46
being an edge view of the apparatus complete, except the cap or cover,
which is represented as in section; Figure 47, an external edge view of the
cap or cover detached. In these Figures the cap or cover is marked a.
Figure 48 is a plan view of the remaining portions; Figures 49 and 50, two
edge views of such portions, but shewing the instrument in a position for use.
The Figures 51 to 53 represent the combination of a reading glass with a
spring tape measure: Figures 51 and 52 being edge and plan views respec-
tively of the apparatus complete; and Figure 53, a plan view, exhibiting the
reading glass as turned (on the joint by which it is connected to the case) into
a position for use. Two or more lenses or plain or coloured glasses may
readily be combined with a spring tape measure in a similar manner. The
Figures 54 and 55 represent the combination of a pocket-book with a tape
measure of the form represented at the Figures 18 and 14 of the Drawings,
and constructed accordingly: Figure 54 being a view shewing the pocket-book

page_text: open, and the cap or cover of the measure removed therefrom; and Figure 55,
a detached view of such cap or cover. I would here romark, that I am fully
aware that tape measures have been already combined with pocket-books, but
such measures have always been of some ordinary internal construction, and
very cumbersome when a spring tape measure with a considerable length of
tape has been required (in consequence of the width or diameter necessary to
such object); I wish it, therefore, to be distinctly understood, with reference
to such kind of combination; that I consider as constituting part of my Inven
tion' the following particular combination only, that is to say; the combination
of a pocket-book with a tape measure constructed according to the first
of the two modes described under the fifth division of my Invention, which
mode of construction renders 'a' tape measure peculiarly adapted for such
combination, and whereby a given length of tape may be placed within a
less width of "pocket-book spring 'tape' measure" than heretofore. My
"semi-flush" or other suitable handle may,liowever, be used in place of the
spring, if preferred. "The 'Figures 56 to 58 represent the combination of a
pair of callipers with a spring tape measure Figure 56 being a face-view;
and Figures 57 and 58, two edge views thereof. "When required for use the
legs of the callipers are to be turned round. upon their joint, as shewn by the
dotted lines in Figure 56. A pair of callipers may be combined in a similar
manner with a tape measure, having a handle for winding instead of a spring.
The Figures 59 to 61 represent the combination of a
pair of callipers and
ivory tablet together with a spring tape measure: Figure 59 being an edge
view; Figure 60, a sectional side view through the line z, z, of Figure 59; and
Figure 61, a sectional side view through the line y. y, of Figure 59. In these
Figures a is the measure; b, the callipers; c, the ivory or other tablet; and
d, a pencil, which may be inserted in a similar manner with à tape measure,
having a handle for winding instead of a spring.
Having now described the nature of my said Invention, and the manner in
which the same is to be performed, I claim as of my Invention,"
Firstly; the printing or marking the scales and figures; &c. upon measuring
tapes of linen, cotton, or other suitable-textile material in the mode heroin set
forth
CMS ...
.
"
Secondly, the rendering the scales, figures, and other marks' upon such
measuring tapes more permanent than heretofore in the mode herein set forth.
Thirdly, the rendering such' measuring tapes less liable than "heretofore to
suffer alteration in length (from moisture) in the mode or modes herein
set forth.
'

page_text: Fourthly, the making measuring tapes of metal for spring and winding tape
measures (whether such measuring tapes be plated or not) in the mode or
modes herein set forth.
Fifthly, the constructing tape measures so as to obtain the object stated
under the fifth division of my Invention in the modes herein set forth.
Sixthly, the constructing a "winding handle" for tape measures in the mode
or modes herein set forth.
Seventhly, the constructing a multiplying motion tape measure with im-
proved "winding" handle adapted thereto in the mode herein set forth.
Eighthly, the manufacturing spring tape measures with springs less liable
to suffer oxidation or rust than heretofore in the mode herein set forth.
Ninthly, the making tape measure cases less pervious to moisture than
beretofore in the mode or respective modes herein set forth.
Tenthly, the improving tape measures generally, with the exception of the
reservations herein-before mentioned under the tenth division of this Speci-
fication, by adding to or combining therewith the several articles herein-before
mentioned under the said division.
In witness whereof, I, the said James Chesterman, have hereunto set my.
hand and seal, this Thirteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord
One thousand eight hundred and forty-eight.
JAMES (L.S.) CHESTERMAN.
AND BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the Thirteenth day of May, in
the..year of our Lord 1848, the aforesaid James Chesterman came before our
said Lady the Queen in Her Chancery, and acknowledged the Specification
aforesaid, and all and every thing therein contained and specified, in form
above written. And also the Specification aforesaid was stamped according to
the tenor of the Statute made for that purpose.
Enrolled the Thirteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and forty-eight.