OR IMPROVED INDICATING MEASURING TAPS FOR SPIRITS OR OTHER LIQUORS, PARTS BEING APPLICABLE FOR OTHER PURPOSES, AND CASK BUNG HOLE STOPPERS FOR USE IN CON- NECTION THEREWITH.
Year: 1877

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to David Mason, of Chapel, Cambuslang, in the County of
Lanark, North Britain, for the Invention of "NEW OR IMPROVED INDICATING
MEASURING TAPS FOR SPIRITS OR OTHER LIQUORS, PARTS BEING APPLICABLE
FOR OTHER PURPOSES, AND CASK BUNG HOLE STOPPERS FOR USE IN CON-
NECTION THEREWITH.
"
Sealed the 21st August 1877, and dated the 22nd February 1877.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said David Mason at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 22nd February 1877.
DAVID MASON, of Chapel, Cambuslang, in the County of Lanark, North Britain.
"NEW OR IMPROVED INDICATING MEASURING TAPS FOR SPIRITS OR OTHER LIQUORS,
PARTS BEING APPLICABLE FOR OTHER PURPOSES, AND CASK BUNG HOLE STOPPERS
FOR USE IN CONNECTION THEREWITH."
This Invention relates to indicating measuring taps, or apparatus for drawing off
in separate measured quantities spirits or other liquors contained in casks or other
vessels; parts of said apparatus consisting of four-way cocks and a four-way valve,
being also applicable for regulating the flow of liquids or fluids generally; and to
cask bung hole sealing stoppers for use in casks from which liquor is drawn off and
indicated by indicating measuring taps.
The essential feature of the Invention, which may be carried out under several
modifications, is the employment of a collapsable bag or bladder, or a reversible bag
or diaphragm, of thin, flexible waterproof material, which acts as a movable partition
inside and practically divides the measuring chamber of the apparatus into two
compartments, and whereby the apparatus operates expeditiously and dispenses with
the objectionable features, viz., the air valves, chambers, and vents hitherto
generally suggested and used in mesuring taps.
According to one modification the apparatus consists of a shell or body somewhat
similar to that of an ordinary cock, having a barrel and two branches known as the
tail and nose, which branches respectively form the inlet and outlet passages of the
apparatus. The tail or inlet branch is inserted into or communicates with the cask
or other receptacle containing the liquor to be drawn off. The barrel is fitted with
a hollow cylindrical key or plug which constitutes the measuring chamber of the

page_text: apparatus, and contains a collapsable bag of india-rubber or other suitable flexible
material, liquor to or from the interior of which flows through a port on one side
of the key while to or from the exterior side thereof it flows through a different port
on another side. These ports are so arranged that while either is open to the inlet
passage the other is simultaneously open to the outlet passage, so that accordingly
as the key is operated the bag is filled or collapsed, and thus displaces a quantity
of liquor depending on the size of the hollow key of the apparatus and bag con-
tained therein.
The quantity of liquor drawn off by the above, or any of the herein-after
described modifications of this Invention, may be indicated by registering how
often the key of the apparatus has been operated by means of suitable registering
mechanism. The mechanism most suitable for this purpose consists of a cylindrical
case containing two or more register ratchet wheels with respective spring detent
pawls or floats for preventing retrograde movement thereof, and lever with stepped
pawl for actuating the ratchet wheels, motion to which is imparted from the key
by means of a cam or pin in such a manner as to register before the liquor begins
to flow each time the key is operated.
Under another modification of this Invention a shell or body, somewhat similar
to that of the last modification, is fitted with a hollow key or plug which forms the
measuring chamber of the apparatus, and contains, fixed midway therein by a ring
or other suitable means, a thin diaphragm or reversible bag of india-rubber or other
suitable flexible material. The hollow key is provided with oblong or other
suitably shaped ports for admitting the liquor to or from different sides of the
diaphragm. The ports are so arranged that while one leading to one side of the
diaphragm corresponds with the inlet port of the barrel, another leading to the
other side of the diaphragm simultaneously corresponds with the outlet port, so
that by turning the key into one position the liquor is admitted from the inlet port
to one side of the diaphragm, while simultaneously the former charge of liquor on
the other side thereof escapes through the outlet port, and the diaphragm is reversed
and expelles the former charge of liquor through the outlet port. To draw off
another quantity the key is again turned, and the action being thereby reversed
the pressure of the liquor supply on the other side of the diaphragm forces it back
again to its former position and displaces another quantity through the outlet,
depending on the size of the apparatus.
Under another modification of the present Invention the apparatus consists of a
cock of peculiar construction, having fixed to the end thereof a measuring chamber
containing a fine india-rubber or other suitable flexible bag. The cock consists of
a tapered barrel or shell, having three ports at equal angles to but not opposite
each other, fitted with a key having a longitudinal channel or groove open at the
inner end and terminating at the outer barrel port. On the key, directly opposite
said channel, a flow way is formed extending from the inner to the outer barrel
port. The measuring chamber of the apparatus is fitted over the inner end of the
cock, far enough to clear the inner port. One side of the bag is open to the longi-
tudinal channel of the key and the other side to the inner port of the barrel. The
apparatus is inserted into or communicates with the cask or other receptacle con-
taining the liquid. Accordingly as the key of the cock is operated liquid is
admitted to flow to one side of the bag through the inlet port, and simultaneously
from the other side thereof through the outlet port, and thus is discharged a
measured quantity, depending on the size of the apparatus.
Under another modification of the said Invention the apparatus consists of a
case which constitutes the measuring chamber, and contains a fine collapsable bag
of india-rubber or other suitable waterproof material, the mouth of which is secured
to a pipe or nozzle projecting thereinto, and through which the liquor flows to or
from the interior of the bag. To permit the liquor to flow freely from the interior
of the bag it may be attached to the case at a point opposite its connection with
the said pipe or nozzle, or a piece of wire projecting into the bag serves the same
purpose. To any convenient part of the case another pipe is connected, which leads

page_text: the liquor to or from the exterior side of the bag. The case is connected with, and
the flow of liquor to or from the interior and exterior of the bag regulated by either
of two constructions of four-way cocks, or a disc valve designed for the purposes of
this Invention, and herein-after described, or other equivalent device. The inlet
branch of the cock or valve is inserted into or communicates with the cask con-
taining the liquor to be drawn off. By operating the key of the cock or spindle of
the valve (accordingly as the one or other is used) the liquor flows to the interior
of the bag through one pipe, and simultaneously from the exterior thereof through
the other, or vice versa, and the bag being thereby either inflated or collapsed
discharges a quantity of liquor depending on the size of the measuring chamber.
In lieu of the case, as above set forth, being fitted with a collapsable bag, it may
be of different construction, and fitted with a reversible bag or diaphragm.
The construction of one of the four-way cocks, herein-before referred to, consists
of a barrel having three ports at equal angles to one another, viz., 120°, one of
which may be arranged to form the inlet or outlet port. The barrel is fitted with
a key having a longitudinal channel or groove, which may be arranged to act as
the supply or outlet port. The channel is open at the narrowest end of the key
and terminates at the barrel ports. The key has also formed in it, directly opposite
the said channel or groove, a flow-way which serves to open communication between
two of the barrel ports.
The other cock herein-before referred to consists of a barrel formed with three
ports, two on one side, and the other diametrically opposite them. The barrel is
fitted with a key, having a longitudinal central channel, open to two ports at
right angles to one another, each of which ports in certain positions of the key
corresponds with one of the barrel ports aforesaid. Immediately opposite each of
the key ports a channel or flow-way is formed in the key, which serves to open
communication between one of the two ports on one side of the barrel and the
other port on the opposite side thereof.
The four-way valve herein-before referred to, and which may also be advan
tageously employed for regulating the flow of liquids or fluids generally, especially
under high pressure, where the action of such valves is required, consists of a
cylindrical case, in the ends of which central passages leading to the flow pipes
and annular passages leading to the outlet are formed by circular partitions. The
case contains, fixed therein opposite the inner edges of the circular partitions,
flexible annular diaphragms or discs of india-rubber or other suitable flexible
material, which are stiffened by metal or other rings provided with leather or
rubber washers. The washers in their normal positions bear against the edges of
the circular partitions by virtue of the pressure of the supply (which is admitted at
the middle of the case) acting on the inner sides of the annular flexible diaphragms
or discs. In the centre of the case, supported by guides or otherwise, is a spindle
having valves which bear against the washers or rings fixed to the annular
diaphragms, and is actuated by a lever or handle in either direction as desired,
which has the effect of opening communication between the supply and one of the
flow pipes, and simultaneously between the other flow pipe and the outlet.
Other modifications of apparatus, according to this Invention, may be made by
combining two single-acting bags, ie., bags to measure the liquor from one side
only with either of the four-way cocks or valve herein-before described, or other
equivalent device, in such a manner that while one bag is open to the supply the
other is simultaneously open to the outlet, so that while one is being filled with
liquor the other is discharging.
Another part of the said Invention relates to new or improved cask bung hole
stoppers, to be used along with registering measure taps. The object of said
stoppers is to prevent any of the liquor in the casks, to which they are fitted, from
being abstracted thereat without the knowledge of the party in charge.
The stopper consists of a cylindrical frame or ring which is inserted into and
secured to the bung hole, and fitted with a perforated or other lid or cap to admit
of air entering the cask. The lid when in position is secured by means of a lock,

page_text: and can only be removed by means of a key which breaks a paper or other seal
when inserted into the keyhole. The seal requiring to be destroyed every time
the lid is opened will obviously prevent any liquor being abstracted thereat without
it being shown.
In lieu of locking devices the stopper may be simplified in construction by
simply using sealing wax and a stamp to seal the lid when in position, the said
seal requiring to be destroyed before the lid can be opened, and access thereby had
to the contents of the cask.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed
by the said David Mason in the Great Scal Patent Office on the 22nd August
1877.
DAVID MASON, of Chapel, Cambuslang, in the County of Lanark, North Britain.
"NEW OR IMPROVED INDICATING MEASURING TAPS FOR SPIRITS OR OTHER LIQUORS,
PARTS BEING APPLICABLE FOR OTHER PURPOSES, AND CASK BUNG HOLE STOPPERS
FOR USE IN CONNECTION THEREWITH."
My said Invention relates to indicating measuring taps, or apparatus for drawing
off in separate measured quantities, spirits, wine, beer, or other alcoholic liquors con-
tained in casks or other vessels, and also to cask bung hole stoppers for use in con-
nection therewith.
The essential feature of my said Invention which may be carried out under several
modifications, is the employment of a collapsable bag or bladder, or a reversible
bag or diaphragm of thin flexible waterproof material, which acts as a movable
partition inside, and practically divides the measuring chamber of the apparatus into
two compartments, and whereby the tap operates expeditiously, and can be economi-
cally adapted to draw off liquor at a counter by gravitation or directly from the
cask itself.
And in order that my said Invention may be properly understood, I now proceed
more particularly to set forth the system, mode, or manner in or under which the
same is or may be used or practically carried into effect, reference being had to the
two annexed Sheets of Drawings, and to the letters and figures marked thereon,
that is to say:~
On sheet 1 of the Drawings, Figure 1 is a vertical section of one modification of
measuring tap constructed according to my said Invention; Figure 2 is a sectional
plan thereof on the line a, b, Figure 1; while Figures 3 and 4 are transverse sections
of the barrel and key thereof, on the line a, b, Figure 1; Figure 5 is a front elevation
of part of the saine. Under this modification the measuring chamber of the tap
may be placed at any convenient place, level, or distance from the cock for drawing
off the liquor. As shown, the measuring chamber is fixed to the back of a counter
Z and consists of a water-tight case A, globular in shape inside, and formed of two
parts which screw into each other, and are kept water-tight by means of a washer
W.
The case A contains a very thin collapsable waterproof bag n, so made and
fitted inside the said case, that when filled or inflated by liquor under low
pressure the shape and size thereof is such that it exactly fits against the inside
of, and fills the said case A, as represented at Figure 2, Sheet 1. Midway between
the top and bottom of the A projects thereinto part of a flow pipe B, over which
is fixed, water-tight, the inwardly turned mouth or orifice e of the bag n. (The
bag n is not shown in the case A, at Figure 1, Sheet 1.) The flow pipe B conveys
the liquor to or from the interior of the bag n. I have found it advisable to support
the bag n when nearly collapsed in order to prevent it to some extent from folding
or crumpling over the orifice of the pipe B, and thereby obstructing the free flow of
liquor from its interior to the said flow pipe B. For this purpose I put inside the bag n
the wire frame C, which is fixed into the pipe B. The cross wires or grating d is to

page_text: prevent the bag n, when under high external pressure, from being burst or partly
pressed into the pipe B.
Instead of the frame C and grating d a piece of perforated pipe closed at one end,
similar to that shown at K, Figure 22, may be used for the same purpose, the pipe
K being partly inserted into and projecting from the pipe B. The quantity of
liquor measured by the bag n under this arrangement may to soine extent be ad-
justed by lengthening or shortening the pipe K, by pushing it in or drawing it
out of the pipe B, owing to some space being thereby added to or abstracted
from the volume of the bag n.
Another flow pipe D, for conveying the liquor to or from the exterior side of
the bag n, is connected to the chamber A, preferably at as high a level as is con-
venient, as thereby I have found the liquor to flow more freely from the exterior
side of the bag n when inflating. Over the orifice of the pipe D is fixed to the
inside of the case a bulging wire sieve or retainer e to retain the bag n when under
internal pressure. The flow pipes B, D, are connected with, and the flow of liquor
through them regulated by, a four-way cock which consists of a shell or body
formed with a tail E and barrel F provided with three ports at equal angles to one
another, viz., the two flow ports m, v, and outlet port o. The barrel F is fitted
with a key G, having a longitudinal passage or channel 2, of the same width at the
periphery of the key as the said flow ports m, v. The passage acts as the supply
passage by opening communication to either of the said flow ports m, v, as shown
at Figures 3 and 4, Sheet 1. The key G has also formed in it directly opposite the
passage pa flow way or recess 7, which serves to open communication between
either of the flow ports m, v, and the outlet port o, as shown at Figures 3 and 4,
Sheet 1. The key is operated by the handle I and is checked by the pin 8 coming
against the ends of a slot in the top of the barrel F in a well known manner, so that
it can only be turned a third of a revolution, and is kept in position in the
barrel F by the screw cap H, kept tight by a pin (not shown). The key G when
turned half way, as shown at Figures 1 and 2, Sheet 1, shuts off communication
between all the ports. When the said key G is turned into the position shown at
Figure 4, Sheet 1, it allows the liquor from the interior of the bag n (which is re-
presented at Figure 2 as nearly filled) to flow through the pipe B, flow port m, flow
way, outlet port o, and outlet branch or nose L, and the liquor from the inlet branch
or tail E (which branch communicates with the cask containing the liquor), to flow
simultaneously through the supply passage p, flow port v, flow pipe D, and retainer
e, to the exterior side of the said bag n, which is thereby collapsed and discharges
as before described its contents, which contents constitute the measured quantity
of liquor the apparatus is capable of drawing off at a time, and depends on the size
of the measuring chamber A and bag n. By turning the key G back into the posi-
tion shown at Figure 3, Sheet 1, the flow of liquor to and from the bag n is reversed
and another measured quantity thereby drawn off from the exterior side of the now
collapsed bag n, which flows therefrom through the flow pipe D, flow port v, flow
way, and outlet branch L, the liquor from the inlet branch E simultaneously
flowing to the interior of the bag n through the supply passage p, port m, and flow
pipe B until the said water-tight bag n is inflated and retained on all sides by the
chamber A and retainer e, thereby shutting off the flow of liquor.
Figure 7, on Sheet 1 of the Drawings, is a vertical section of another construction
of the cock herein-before described and shown at Figures 1 and 2, Sheet 1, with an
indicator X attached thereto; Figure 8 is a horizontal section thereof on the line
x, y, Figure 7; whilst Figures 9 and 10 are respectively a front elevation and
plan of the same.
Under this construction the barrel port oacts as the inlet port, and is open directly
to the tail E, which communicates with the cask containing the liquor. The two
flow ports m, v, are open to hollow branches k, l, formed on the barrel F. The
longitudinal passage p in the key G, terminates in a passage I drilled up the centre
of the key G, which said passage I forms the outlet. The key G is kept in position
in the barrel F by an ordinary nut t, and washer u, and is provided opposite the

page_text: passage p with a flow way r, which accordingly as it is turned, opens communica-
tion between the inlet port o and either of the flow ports m, v; into the branches k, l,
are inserted the ends of the flow pipes B, D. The key G is checked by a pin (not
shown) to turn a third of a revolution as in the last arrangement. When the key
G is turned into the same relative position as that shown at Figure 4 (Sheet 1), so
as thereby to open communication through the flow-way between the inlet port o
and the pipe B, communication through the passage p is simultaneously opened
between the flow pipe D and outlet I; or if turned into the relative position shown
at Figure 3 (Sheet 1), the action is thereby reversed. The action of this cock will
be fully understood by referring to that of the last arrangement of cock, herein-before
more particularly described.
Figure 11, Sheet 1, is a section of another construction of measuring chamber
fitted with a diaphragm or reversible bag in accordance with my said Invention,
and which may be used in lieu of that herein-before described and shown at
Figures 1 and 2 (Sheet 1); Figure 12 is a plan of the upper half A thereof
inverted.
The chamber under this construction consists of two metal halves or cups A, B,
the insides of which are exactly alike in configuration. Pieces of perforated block
tin C are fixed in each cup A, B, flush with the inside thereof. The cup A is formed
with a thin part or ring m, round which is tied or fixed the rim n of a very thin
flexible waterproof diaphragm or reversible bag o (similar to that herein-after
described and shown at Figure 8, Sheet 2 of the Drawings). The bearing edges of
the cups A, B, fit against and opposite each other truly, so that when they are
joined together by the screw ring E with the diaphragm or bag o between them
they make a water-tight joint. From the junction of the two cups A, B,when joined
together, the diaphragm o exactly corresponds in shape and size with and fits against
the inside of either half or cup A, B, and retainers C, accordingly as the liquor is
admitted to either side of the diaphragm 0. The chamber is provided with flow
branches G, H, which respectively lead to the upper and under sides of the
diaphragm o. The chamber may be placed in any convenient position, place, or
distance from the four-way cock herein-before described and shown at Figure 7
(Sheet 1) as fixed to the front Z of a counter. The chamber in the position shown
relatively with the cock at Figure 7 is attached to the under side of the top of a
counter. The ends of the flow pipes B, D, are respectively connected to the flow
branches G, H, the pipes being passed through a hole in the front Z, and bent as
indicated by the dotted lines. Accordingly as the key of the cock is operated the
liquor flows through the branches G, H, in contrary directions until checked by the
diaphragm o fitting against the inside of one half of the chamber, and either
retainer C, which prevents it bursting thereat when under pressure. The diaphragm
by being thus folded either way allows only a certain measured quantity (depending
on the size of the chamber and diaphragm) of liquor to escape from the chamber
each time the key G is operated.
The quantity of liquor drawn off by the apparatus, herein-before or herein-after
described, may be indicated by registering how often the key thereof has been
operated, and a measured quantity of liquor thereby drawn off by means of suitable
registering mechanism or indicators.
Figures 7, 14, and 15, on Sheet 1 of the Drawings, illustrate a mode in accordance
with my said Invention of actuating an indicator reciprocating lever or arm in
such a manner as to reciprocate the said lever, and thereby to actuate the regis-
tering mechanism before the key with which it is combined has been turned far
enough round to open the ports. No liquor can thereby be drawn off without first
operating the indicator. As shown at Figures 7 and 14 (Sheet 1) the key G has a
groove 1 cut in it, leaving a stem or thinner part 2 in the centre. The end of the
indicator reciprocating lever or arm 3 is formed with two curved prongs 4 and 5,
which work into the groove 1. In the lever 3, midway between the prongs 4, 5,
is formed a recess 6 into and against the ends of which works the outer end of the
actuating pin 7, which is fixed into the centre part 2 of the key G. The key G is

page_text: shown at Figure 14 as turned midway. When the said key G is turned in the
direction shown by the arrow the pin 7 bears against one end of the recess 6, and
carries the lever 3 along with it until it clears the said recess C, by which time the
lever 3 shall have completed its stroke in that direction. The pin 7 (which does
not pass the point of either of the prongs 4, 5,) prevents the said lever 3 from getting
back again far enough to set or actuate the mechanism, owing to the prong 4
coming against it, until the key G is turned back in the opposite direction. When
the key G is turned back in the opposite direction the piu 7 again works into and
bears against the other end of the recess 6, and thereby carries the lever 3 back in
the other direction until, as before, it clears the said recess 6, by which time the
lever 3 shall have completed its stroke in that direction. The curve, length, and
size of the prongs 4 and 5, recess 6, and pin 7, are made to suit the diameter of the
key stroke of the reciprocating iever and are through which the pin 7 turns, and
may be varied to suit circumstances.
Figure 15 is a plan of a key G with a handle I, which is represented. as turned
full round in one direction relatively with the lever 3, which said lever 3 is also
shown as at one end of its stroke. The key G in this case has no groove in it for the.
prongs to work in, and consequently the said prongs have to be made wider apart
than as shown at Figure 14 (Sheet 1).
Figure 17 (Sheet 1) is a vertical section of another four-way cock constructed
according to my said Invention, and which may be used instead of that herein-
before described; Figure 16 is a sectional plan thereof on the line k, l, Figure 17;
and Figure 18, a transverse section of the barrel A and key E on the line m, n,
Figure 17; Figure 19 is a front vertical section of the key E and part of the barrel
A at right angles to Figure 17; Figures 20 and 21 are respectively transverse sec-
tions of the barrel A and key E.on the lines k, l, and m, n, Figure 17, with tlic
key E in a position at right angles to that shown at Figures 16, 17, and 18.
The barrel A is formied with three ports, namely, the two flow ports a and b on
one side thereof, one above the other, and the outlet port c, whose length is equal
to that of the ports a and b, together with the intervening distance between them.
The port c is diametrically opposite the ports a and b, and leads into the outlet or
nose C. The barrel A is fitted by means of the screw cap G with a key E, which
turns in an angle of 90°, and is checked by the pin d in the ordinary manner.
The key E is provided with a longitudinal central channel e, which is open to the
supply branch or tail E, and supply ports f, g, which ports f, g, in plan are at right
angles to one another. The ports f, g, in certain positions of the key E correspond
respectively with the flow ports a, b, as shown at Figures 20 and 18. In the key E;
directly opposite the supply ports f and g, flow-ways or channels h, i, are formed.
The flow-way h serves to open communication between the flow port a and outlet
port c, and the flow-way i between the flow port 6 and outlet c, as shown respec-
tively at Figures 16 and 21. The port a communicates with the flow pipe B, and
the port b with the flow pipe D.
In combination with this arrangement of cock, another construction of measuring
chamber is shown in vertical section at Figure 22. The chamber under this construc-
tion consists of a spherical case F made in one piece, with a hollow branch in the top
and bottom thereof. Into the top branch is secured, water-tight, a screw nail o
for fixing it in position, and also one end of the flow pipe B. The case contains a very
thin flexible bag p, shown in section as collapsed over the pipe K. The bag p when in-
flated under low pressure exactly fits against the inside of the case F, and a retainer q,
consisting of a piece of wire gauze fixed over the orifice of the top branch to
prevent the said bag ? when under internal pressure from bursting thereat. The
bag p is fitted inside the chamber F by means of a piece of partly perforated pipe K,
one end of which is closed, the other end thereof being attached to the flow pipe D
by a coupling (not shown). The mouth t of the bag p is drawn over, and to the
bottom of the perforated part of the said pipe K, and thereto secured water-tight
before the said pipe K is placed inside the chamber F.. The length of the perforated

page_text: part of the said pipe K is such that when placed in position, the top of the mouth t of
the bag p is opposite the top of the lower branch 8 of the chamber F. To the pipe
K is fixed water-tight a collar u by which the pipe K is coupled water-tight to the
branch 8 of the chamber F by means of the nut v.
The apparatus under this combination operates in the following manner:-
When the key E is turned into the position shown at Figures 17, 16, and 18, com-
munication between the flow pipe D and supply branch F is opened through the
channel e, supply port g, and flow port b, and simultaneously between the flow
pipe B and outlet C, through the port a, flow-way h, and port c. The flow in the
pipes B, D, is reversed by turning the key E into position shown at Figures 20 and
21, which thereby opens communication between the supply F and the flow pipe B
through the channel e, supply port f, and flow port a, and simultaneously between
the flow pipe D and outlet C, through the flow port b, flow-way i, and outlet port c.
Communication between the ports is shut off by turning the key midway in its
turn of 90°. Thus as the key is operated, the liquor flows through the pipes to the
measuring chamber in contrary directions, until the collapsible bag p stops the flow
by being either retained (when inflated) by the inside of the chamber F and the
retainer q, or (when collapsed) by the perforated pipe K, which acts as both a
support to the bag p and retainer to prevent it being burst when under external
pressure. A measured quantity of liquor is thereby drawn off, depending on
the size of the chamber F, bag p, and space occupied by the perforated part
of the pipe K.
On Sheet 2 of the Drawings Figure 1 is a vertical section on the line a, b,
Figure 2, of another modificationof measuring tap constructed in accordance with my
said Invention; Figure 3 is a vertical section of the barrel A on the lines e, e, f, f,
Figure 2, with the key B in front elevation; and Figures 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, represent
parts of the same.
Under this modification the shell or body of the apparatus is formed with a barrel
A, having three oblong ports, viz., the inlet port a, flow port b, and outlet port c, all
at equal angles to one another. The barrel A is fitted by means of a nut u and
washer with a key B, having a flow passage R up its centre, the lower orifice of
which passage corresponds in shape and size with the inlet port a, and communicates
with either the said inlet port a or outlet port c. The top of the key B is formed
into a part of the measuring chamber of the apparatus, which measuring chamber,
under this modification, also forms the handle for turning the key B.
The measuring chamber consists of a metal cup D, metal ring g, leather
washer h, and inverted cup E, which cup E is screwed into the top of the cup D,
all of which parts when put together, as shown at Figure 1, Sheet 2, constitutes a
hollow globular case whose inner surface is spherical in shape, and hemispherical
either way from the bottom or seat of the ring g. The mode in which the parts are
joined together is shown more distinctly at Figure 9, which is an enlarged view.
By this means the diaphragm or bag i can be easily got at when desired. Round
the ring g (shown more distinctly at Figure 7) is stretched or secured the rim or
mouth of a thin flexible waterproof diaphragm or bag i (shown more distinctly at
Figure 8), which is provided with an extra thickness of material k at bottom to
strengthen and prevent it rupturing thereat when under high pressure. The shape
and size of the said bag i from the bottom of the ring g is made as near as possible
to correspond with either half of the inside of the measuring chamber, in which it is
placed midway, by the ring g, which is fixed therein by the cup E, the washer h
being interposed to keep the chamber water-tight. The bottom of the bag i is
shown at Figure 1 slightly raised for the sake of clearness. Communication is
established between the upper side of the diaphragmn or bag i and the flow port b
by means of a flexible india-rubber or other suitable flexible tube G, one end of
which is attached, water-tight, to the top E of the measuring chamber, and the other
end to a nipple projecting from the barrel A. In the key B, directly opposite the
lower orifice of the passage R, is formed a flow-way or recess H, which accordingly

page_text: as the key B is operated, opens the flow port b to the outlet port c, as shown at
Figures 2 and 3 (Sheet 2), or opens the said flow port b to the inlet port a, as shown
at Figure 4 (Sheet 2).
The outlet port c, as shown more distinctly at Figure 3, Sheet 2, is much longer
than the flow port b, and communicates with the outlet passage I of the tap, as
shown at Figures 5, 6, Sheet 2, which are horizontal sections on the line o, p,
Figure 1, with the key B turned full on in opposite directions. The said outlet
passage I and extra length of the outlet port c may be dispensed with by forming
on the barrel A an outlet branch or nose (similar to that shown at L, Figures 1 and
2, Sheet 1) opposite the outlet port c, and making the said port c open directly thereto.
In the top and bottom of the measuring chamber are fixed pieces of perforated block
tin or wire gauze s, t, to retain the bag i when under pressure and prevent it from
being burst.
The key B is shown in one position at Figures 2 and 6, Sheet 2, and in another
at Figures 4 and 5, Sheet 2, relatively with the barrel A, and is checked to turn a
third of a revolution by the pin r. When the apparatus is in operation (the tail
thereof being inserted into or communicating with the cask containing the liquor)
and the key B is turned into the position shown at Figures 1, 2, 3, and 6 (Sheet 2)
the liquor contained in the measuring chamber on the upper side of the bag or dia-
phragm, when the diaphragm i is fitting closely against the under half D (which
quantity of liquor constitutes the measured quantity the apparatus is capable
of drawing off at a time), flows through the retainer 8, tube G, port b, flow-way H,
port c, into and out by the outlet passage I. The liquor from the cask simul-
taneously flows up the passage R to the lower side of the diaphragm i which is
thereby caused to be reversed and to shut off the flow of liquor by fitting closely
against the inside of the upper half of the measuring chamber and retainer s.
To draw off another quantity of liquor the key B is turned into the position
shown at Figures 4 and 5, Sheet 2, which thereby reverses the action of the appa-
ratus, i.c., the liquor contained in the measuring chamber on the under side of the
diaphragm i (which now lies against the upper half of the chamber) flows through
the passage R, outlet port c, and out by the passage I. The liquor from the cask
simultaneously flows through the port a, flow-way H, port b, tube G, and retainer s
to the upper side of the diaphragm i, until the said diaphragm i is completely
reversed and shuts off the further flow of liquor by fitting against the inside of the
lower half of the measuring chamber and retainer t.
When a collapsible bag similar to that shown at Figure 13, Sheet 2, is used
(instead of the reversible bag or diaphragm i) in the tap herein-before last described,
the ring g is dispensed with and the half D of the measuring chamber continued up
to the seat of the washer h. The retainer t is also kept out, and the collapsible
bag n, as herein-after described with reference to Figure 10, Sheet 2, is fitted in
the same manner as there shown and described, only that a suitable retainer
is provided to prevent the collapsible bag being ruptured when under external
pressure.
On Sheet 1 of the Drawings Figure 23 is a partly transverse section of apparatus
constructed in accordance with my said Invention, wherein single acting bags, i.e.,
bags to measure the liquor from one side only are used; Figure 24 is a vertical
section thereof on the line d, e, Figure 23.
Under this combination, two measuring chambers, each alike, are used. Each
chamber consists of a hollow globular-shaped case formed of a metal cup D, ring g,
washer h, and inverted cup E, and contains a reversible bag or diaphragm i.
The case E, D, and diaphragm i is constructed and fitted similarly to that herein-
before described and shown at Figures 1, 7, 8, and 9, Sheet 2, except that the
branch there shown at the top of the upper cup E is dispensed with, and the cup E
thereat, under this arrangement, perforated with holes x, x, as shown at Figure 23,
Sheet 1, to allow of the air passing to the upper side of the diaphragm i which is
represented as partly raised by liquor.
The two measuring chambers are connected with, and flow of liquor to them con

page_text: trolled by a four-way cock almost similar to that herein-before described and shown
at Figures 1 and 2, Sheet 1, of the Drawings, to which reference is here made for a
full description thereof, and wherein like letters indicate the same or similar parts.
The barrel F, under the construction shown at Figure 24, projects horizontally from
the tail E; the nose L projects forward underneath the handle I. G is the key
having a supply passage p and flow-way r; m, v, are the barrel flow ports, and o,
the barrel outlet port. H is the screw cap for keeping the key G in place. The
measuring chambers are connected to the top of the barrel F by rigid flow pipes
B, D, which communicate respectively between the flow ports m, v, and the under
sides of the diaphragms i. The tail E communicates with the cask.
When the apparatus is in operation and the key G turned into the position shown
at Figures 23 and 24, liquor flows through the key supply passage 2, flow port m,
and pipe B to the under side of the diaphragın i contained in the chamber connected
to the said pipe B¹. The diaphragm i therein contained is thereby raised until it
fits against the upper half of the inside of the measuring chamber (the air escaping
meanwhile from the upper side thereof through the holes x, x, and thereby retains
a measured quantity of liquor. The liquor contained in the other measuring
connected to the pipe D¹ meanwhile escapes through the flow port v, flow-way ",
outlet port o, and nose L. When the key is turned back so that the supply passage p
coincides with the flow port v, the flow of liquor through the flow pipes B¹, D¹,
is thereby reversed.
In lieu of the measuring chambers as last set forth being fitted with the reversible
bags or diaphragms i, they may be of that construction and fitted with the collapsible
bag n herein-after described and shown at Figures 10, 13, and 14, Sheet 2, to which
reference is here made for a full description thereof.
On Sheet 2 of the Drawings Figure 10 is a vertical section of a measuring tap,.
wherein only one single-acting bag is employed; Figure 11 is a horizontal section
thereof on the line a, b, Figure 10 (Sheet 2); Figures 12, 13, and 14 represent parts
of the same.
According to this modification, the shell or body is of the ordinary construction,
having a barrel A, tail B, and nose C with ordinary ports. The barrel A is fitted
water-tight with a tapered key or plug D having a passage E up the centre. The
upper part of the key D is formed into a preferably hemispherically shaped cup F
into which a correspondingly shaped cup G with perforated top is screwed, thus
forming a hollow spherical case, which constitutes the measuring chamber of the
apparatus, as also the handle for operating the key D. Into the upper end of the
key D is fitted, water-tight, by means of a slightly tapered ring m, the mouth of a
very thin collapsible bag n (shown inflated at Figure 13) which exactly corresponds
with and fits the inside of the measuring chamber. The pliable bent wire o, the
ends of which are fixed diametrically opposite each other inside the ring m, and
shown more particularly at Figure 14, is bent inside the bag n, before the mouth?
of the said bag n is secured to the outside of the ring m. The object of the wire o
is for the purpose of keeping the bag n (when collapsing) in a vertical position.
The quantity of liquor the apparatus is capable of drawing off each time it is
operated depends on the size of the measuring chamber and bag n contained therein,
the contents of which constitute the measured quantity.
The action of the tap when in operation is as follows:-)
-When the key D is in
the position shown at Figures 10 and 11, the liquor flows up the passage E into the
collapsible bag n; the air on the outside of the bag n meanwhile escaping through the
perforated top G. The bag n fills with liquor until it is retained on all sides by
the measuring chamber. The key D is now turned at right angles to its former
position as shown at Figure 12, Sheet 2, and communication with the interior of
the bag n, thereby shut off from the inlet B, and opened to the outlet C when the
contents of the said bag n by virtue of its specific gravity now flows through the
outlet C. When the bag n is empty the key D is turned back again to its former
position, when the bag is again filled as before described, and ready to discharge its
contents when the key is again operated.

page_text: Another part of my said Invention relates to cask bung hole stoppers, to be
applied to casks from which liquor is drawn off by indicating measuring taps con-
structed in accordance with my said Invention. The object of said stoppers is to
prevent, when so desired, any liquor from being abstracted thereat without the
knowledge of the party in charge.
Figure 26, Sheet 1, of the Drawings is a vertical section of the stopper which
consists of a metal frame or ring A, which is shown screwed into the bung hole at
the top B of the cask, and fixed therein by the screw nail C. The frame A. is fitted
with a lid or cap D, the inside of which is shown in plan at Figure 27. The lid D
is provided with an air hole to which is fixed a piece of wire gauze E to admit of
air freely entering the cask. To the lid is fixed a pin a which enters a hole in one
side of the frame A. Opposite the pin a the lid D is provided with a lock consisting
of a sneck b hinged at its upper end, and against which bears the spring c fixed into
the said lid D. Opposite the hole in the frame A into which the pin a fits, the said
frame A is provided with a recess d into which the sneck b catches, when the lid D
put in position, owing to the spring c pressing it outwards.
When it is desired to remove the lid D the sneck 6 must be taken out of the
recess d. This is effected by means of a curved key E (shown in dotted lines at
Figure 26) which is passed through the keyhole f in the lid D, and the point thereof
put into the hole in the projecting part e formed on the said sueck b. By pressing
down the key E (which has formed on it a shoulder F), as indicated by the dotted
arrow, the sneck b is thereby lifted out of the recess d, and by keeping it so out
until the lid D is raised, the said lid D can be removed. Before the lid D is placed
in position in the frame A a seal consisting of a piece of paper, cloth, or other
material marked in a manner only known to the party in charge, is fixed between
the keyhole and a spring i. The spring i is fixed at one end to the lid D by
nails j,j; the other end thereof being provided with a hole s round which prongs h, k,
(as shown more distinctly at Figure 28) are fixed. The prongs k project into holes
in the under side of the lid D. The seal n (indicated by dotted lines at Figure 27)
is placed in position by lifting, by means of the hook r, the prongs & clear of the
lid D, and then pushing the said seal n in between the lid D and said prongs k,
which said prongs k keep the paper or other seal in position and prevent it being
shifted. The key E must pass through and consequently destroy the seal n before
the lid D can be removed. By inspecting the seal n through the keyhole f it
can be ascertained whether it has been destroyed. It is assumed that the seals
used are kept in the possession of, and are renewed only by, the party in charge.
It is essential for accurate measuring, where the chamber in which the collapsible
bag is contained is made of such internal capacity as to contain the quantity of
liquor which it is constructed for measuring, that the said collapsible bag shall have
its exterior of an area and configuration exactly, or as nearly so as possible, corre-
sponding to the area and configuration of the interior of the chamber, in order that
the bag may, when filled, fit closely against the sides of the measuring chamber, and
so measure practically the same quantity as the said chamber would contain.
I prefer in most cases to use very thin elastic bags or diaphragms made of the
same material and in the same manner as toy balloons or French letters, as thereby
they can be conveniently made of the requisite fineness or thinness, so as readily to
adapt themselves to fit the interior of the chamber. The shape of the bag so made
is principally determined by the shape of the pieces of material of which they are
made before being joined together. The diaphragms are made of bags, parts of
which have been formed into the desired shape and thinness. The part so formed
is cut out of the bag and constitutes the diaphragm. I prefer to have the bags of
as thin material as French letters, strengthened by an extra thickness round the
rim or mouth, and at those parts which close over the retainers, when such
retainers are of small area and when the said bags have to work under very high
pressures.
When very thin elastic bags or diaphragms are used and a certain given pressure
from the cask can always be depended on, it is not essential that the said bags or

page_text: diaphragms should fit the chambers exactly; provided they be not larger, as the
pressure causes them to expand and fit the chamber by virtue of their elasticity.
Having now described and particularly ascertained the nature of my said Inven-
tion, and several modifications in or under which the same is or may be used or
practically carried into effect, I wish it to be understood that I do not confine
or restrict myself to the precise details or arrangements herein-before described and
illustrated in the accompying Drawings, as many modifications thereof may be
made without departing from the true principles or main features of my said Inven-
tion, but what I consider to be novel and original, and therefore claim as the
Invention secured to me by the herein-before in part recited Letters Patent is,―
First. The general constructions, arrangements, and combinations of measuring
taps or apparatus for drawing off in separate measured quantities spirits, wine, beer,
or other alcoholic liquors from casks or other vessels, substantially as herein-before
described and shown on the accompanying Drawings, or any mere modifications
thereof.
Secondly. The novel application and use to and in the measuring chambers of
measuring taps, or apparatus for drawing off spirits, wine, beer, or other alcoholic
liquors from casks of thin flexible waterproof bags or diaphragms, as and for the
purposes described.
Thirdly. The several modes of fitting the bags or diaphragms to the measuring
chambers, as described and shown.
Fourthly. Constructing measuring taps for drawing off spirits or other alcoholic
liquors with a measuring chamber containing a collapsible bag or diaphragm, as
herein-before described.
Fifthly. The particular combination in the particular manner of reciprocating
indicator actuating levers with measuring taps, as herein-before described and
shown, for causing the mechanism to register before the ports are opened.
Lastly. The construction of locking bung hole stopper, as described and shown.
In witness whereof, I, the said David Mason, have hereunto set my hand and
seal, this Eighteenth day of August, One thousand eight hundred and
seventy-seven.
DAVID MASON. (L.S.)