matthewleechen/300YearsOfBritishPatents huggingface dataset:
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANUFACTURE OF RAILWAY AND OTHER SPIKES, NAILS, AND OTHER SIMILAR ARTICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by George Walter Dyson at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 26th February 1878.
GEORGE WALTER DYSON, of Sheffield, in the West Riding of the County of York,
Steel Manufacturer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANUFACTURE OF RAILWAY AND
OTHER SPIKES, NAILS, AND OTHER SIMILAR ARTICLES."
My improvements relate to the manufacture of spikes, nails, and other similar
articles, whereby articles of equal or better quality can be produced in a cheaper
manner than heretofore.
In the ordinary process of production of these articles, each article is forged,
stamped, pressed, or formed separately, by hand or by machinery, from ordinary
bar or sheet iron, steel, or other suitable material.
My improvements consist in "rolling" a series of spikes or nails (in a "rolling
mill"), side by side, in one long or short bar, and then cutting off each one from the
said bar, either simultaneously or otherwise, by revolving circular cutters or vertical
or horizontal reciprocating cutters or shears.
In section, the rolled bar will be made to assume the finished form of the spike
or nail, or it will be made to assume a form as near to the finished shape of a
spike or nail as is possible, so as to produce the desired article in as nearly com-
plete form as possible by "rolling," and so as to reduce to a minimum the labour
expended in finishing it after it leaves the "rolls."
The sectional bar will be rolled in an ordinary "rolling mill," different sections
of rolls being employed to produce the different sizes and forms of spikes and
nails.
The materials used in the process of manufacture can be iron, steel, or any other
suitable material.
AN IMPROVED COMPOSITION FOR FILLING WOOLLEN OR OTHER WOVEN OR FELTED FABRICS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Nenian Procter at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 16th October 1878.
NENIAN PROCTER, of Kippax, near Leeds, in the County of York. "AN IMPROVED
COMPOSITION FOR FILLING WOOLLEN OR OTHER WOVEN OR FELTED FABRICS."
The object of this composition is to render the material stouter and fuller to the
touch; it also adds weight and stiffness to the material.
I mix together fuller's earth and ale, porter, or other like fermented liquors, care
being taken that the liquor be free from dirt or other foreign matter. I take the
piece after being washed and pass or run it through a receiver containing the
composition, after which it is taken to the tentering machine to be dried and after-
wards finished in the ordinary manner.
The use of this composition dispenses with that of flour, starch, Irish moss, and
the like stiffening materials now in use, also a much better effect is produced.
It has also the advantage of saving the user a considerable amount of time.and
labour, and requires no boiling or other preparation further than mixing.
IMPROVED SELF- ACTING HOT-WATER FEED APPARATUS FOR BOILERS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by George Ashley Wilson and John
Lewis at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 13th June 1878.
GEORGE ASHLEY WILSON, of Liverpool, Engineer, and JOHN LEWIS, of Preston,
Engineer and Patent Agent, both of the County of Lancaster. "IMPROVED SELF-
ACTING HOT-WATER FEED APPARATUS FOR BOILERS,"
Our Invention relates to a very simple, safe, and effective mode of feeding steam
boilers with hot water without the aid of pump or injector, and consists of an iron
vessel fixed near to the boiler to be fed. Inside of this vessel we fix another smaller
vessel, but the same length, thus leaving a space between the outer side of the inner
vessel and the inner side of the outer vessel. These two vessels are secured to one
bottom, and are covered by one cover. Into the outer space of the inner vessel, or
between the two, we conduct our exhaust steam, or where it is far from the engine
a current of hot air obtained from the boiler flues or other source. From the top of
this chamber we carry an outlet or outlets away; to the inner chamber or vessel
we convey a water feed pipe furnished with a tap for feeding the inner vessel; we
likewise bring a jet of steam from the boiler on to the surface of this feed
water in the inner vessel. From the bottom of this inner vessel we carry a boiler
feed pipo into the boiler as near the fire surface as convenient. Between the vessel
and the boiler we fix a tap likewise, for shutting off and turning on.
The inner vessel is nearly filled with water (and if for automatic feeding the
water-feed tap is turned off). The exhaust steam or hot air is admitted con-
tinuously to the chamber between the two vessels.
The jet of steam is turned on to the top of the inner chamber. The water
becoming heated gradually falls from the inner vessel into the boiler. When such
is effected the lower and upper taps are turned, and the inner vessel filled again,
when the same operation takes place. But if a continuous feed is required the
inner vessel is kept supplied as the boiler shall require, and the amount of water
admitted and regulated by the upper and lower taps, and likewise by the jet of
steam on the surface of the inner chamber, which will have to be increased in
accordance with increased requirement,

page_text: We know that several experiments have been tried to effect this purpose by some
such means, and of one Provisional Specification lodged on the 30th day of
November 1864, by Eyre, Massey, Shaw, of London, and numbered 2988. In all
we find they failed for want of a quick continuous heating power, and better mode
of application and knowledge of the powers used.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF LAMPS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Claude Edward Grosvenor Wyrall at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 28th October 1878.
CLAUDE EDWARD GROSVENOR WYRALL, of 5, Southampton Buildings, in the
County of Middlesex. "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF LAMPS."
The object of this Invention is to construct a lamp which shall be applicable and
suitable for lighting the music placed on pianos and similar instruments, while at
the same time being suitable for other ordinary purposes.
With this view I make the stand or foot very low and hollow, and in the middle
inside I form it with a projection or socket (by preference of a taper form) to fit
in or on any ordinary sconce or candle bracket used on pianos and similar instru-
ments, but the projection is not so deep as the foot, or so as to touch any flat surface
on which the lamps may be placed; or the aforesaid projection on bottom of lamp
may be formed with a female screw cut in same in order to screw the lamp on to
the candle bracket in the event of the cup of the sconce bracket being taken off.
In order to cast a good light on the music, while at the same time the eyes of the
performer are shaded or shielded, I use a globe, opal or frosted, and on one side cut
out or formed with a notch below for the full light from the flame to fall direct or
unshaded on the music. The globe may have a shade formed with a corresponding
part cut out on one side below.
A lamp constructed according to this Invention may also be placed in or on an
ordinary candlestick, or it may be placed in any flat surface or table like an ordinary
lamp.
IMPROVEMENTS IN WINDOW FASTENINGS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by George Needham Mansfield at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 17th April 1878.
GEORGE NEEDHAM MANSFIELD, of New Bond Street, in the County of Middlesex,
Cabinetmaker. "IMPROVEMENTS IN WINDOW FASTENINGS."
The object of my Invention is so to construct window fastenings that the window
may be opened to a certain limited extent so as to admit of ventilation, and yet
prevent the sash from being raised sufficiently high or opened sufficiently wide to
allow any person to pass through from the outside to the inside of the room.
The fastening is composed of a spring bolt, which works in a socket forming part
of the bed plate, which is screwed down on the top of the upper horizontal rail of
the lower sash. This bolt has a nose, which projects out beyond the end of the
socket, and is forced forward by means of a coiled spring. The rear end of the bolt
is provided with a knob, whereby it may be drawn back so as to withdraw the
projecting nose within the socket when it is required to release the fastening in
order to open the window. Behind the knob or handle of the bolt the latter is
formed with a square, and when the bolt is drawn back and partially rotated the
angle of the square will bear against the rear end of the socket, and retain the bolt
in the new position.
On one of the vertical rails of the upper sash and in front of the spring fastening
just described is fixed a metal plate from 10 to 12 inches long, in which are made
two holes of suitable to receive the projecting nose of the spring bolt. These
holes are from eight to nine inches apart, and between them the vertical plate is
cut away in the form of a groove, along which the nose of the spring bolt slides as
the sash is moved up or down.
When the window is closed, and the spring bolt is free to move forward, its pro-
jecting end will be forced forward into the lowermost hole in the vertical plate, and
will thus secure the window in the closed position.
If it be desired to open the window wide the spring bolt must be drawn back,
and partially rotated so as to retain it in that position. The window sash will then
be free to be raised or lowered to any desired extent. If, on the other hand, it be
desired to open the window to only a limited extent, say, 8 or 9 inches, according
[Price 2d1

page_text: to the space apart of the holes in the vertical plate, it will only be necessary to draw
back the bolt, to release the fastening, then raise the lower sash half an inch, and drop
the nose of the bolt into the vertical groove in the plate. The window may then
be opened to any extent less than the distance between the holes, and upon con-
tinuing to move the sash the bolt will eventually drop into the topmost hole, and 5
will hold the sash in that position.
A NEW PROCESS FOR GIVING IRIDESCENT COLOURING TO FLOWERS, FEATHERS, FABRICS, AND OTHER ARTICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by John Imray at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 28th June 1878. A cominunication from
abroad by Francois Dupin and Jacques Dupin, both of No. 129, Boulevard de
Sebastopol, Paris, France.
JOHN IMRAY, of No. 20, Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lanc, in the County
of Middlesex. "A NEW PROCESS FOR GIVING IRIDESCENT COLOURING TO FLOWERS,
FEATHERS, FABRICS, AND OTHER ARTICLES." [A communication from abroad by
Francois Dupin and Jacques Dupin, both of No. 129, Boulevard de Sebastopol,
Paris, France.]
This Invention relates to the production of iridescent colouring on natural or
artificial objects, such as natural or artificial flowers and leaves, feathers, birds,
tissues, or fabrics, ornaments of gelatine or other material capable of taking fuchsine
dye.
The process for this purpose consists in the partial discharge by means of chlorine
or its analogues of the bronze colouring, of green, yellow, or golden tone, which is
imparted by a solution of fuchsine in spirit varnish.
The article to be treated is first coloured with the fuchsine solution applied by a
brush or otherwise, and it is then subjected to the discharging agent, which is
preferably chlorine in the form of hypochlorite of calcium.
The article is not placed in direct contact with the hypochlorite, which might act
injuriously on its structure, but is laid on a moistened linen or other porous fabric
interposed between it and the hypochlorite. Under those conditions the colour of
the article undergoes a series of changes presenting iridescent or opalescent tints,
which may be varied by varying the time of exposure, or the closeness of its
contact, or the number of its successive contacts with the moistened fabric.
The article may also be treated by chlorine in its gaseous form, or by other
re-agents which have the power of discharging fuchsine colouring.
AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE MANUFACTURE OF METALLIC PENS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Francis Duffett at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 21st September 1878.
FRANCIS DUFFETT, of Plumstead, Kent. "AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE MANUFACTURE
OF METALLIC PENS."
The Invention consists in the manufacture of pens from the alloy called phosphor
bronze, of a hardness and elasticity equal to steel, and as incorrodible as gold by
writing ink, the said alloy having never been before used for this purpose.
MENTS IN METALLIC BOXES OR CASES FOR HOLDING LUCIFER MATCHES AND OTHER ARTICLES."
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Henry William Herbst at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 30th April 1878.
HENRY WILLIAM HERBST, of Saint Luke's, in the County of Middlesex. " IMPROVE-
MENTS IN METALLIC BOXES OR CASES FOR HOLDING LUCIFER MATCHES AND OTHER
ARTICLES."
The object of this Invention is to construct metallic boxes or cases suitable for
holding lucifer matches and other articles in such manner that they shall not present
any sharp or pointed corners or angles, and be readily carried in the pocket without
fear of injury thereto.
I first cut the metal blanks to the required size and shape, and I then place them
between a matrix and mandrel, or in other suitable machine, wherein the portions
to form the front and back and ends of the box are stamped or struck out at the
same time, and assume a semicircular, convex, curved, or other suitable form. At
the same time as these portions are stamped or struck out, a groove, recess, or
trough is formed in the back portion of the box for its whole length, and into this
the lid or cover fits and works. The portions thus struck up or stamped out are
then removed froin the matrix or other machine, and the four sides then folded in
proper position by any suitable means, so as to form the body of the box, no solder
or other means of connection whatever being employed therefor.
The semicircular, convex, curved, or dished ends are indented at the same timo
as they are struck out or stamped, so as to receive the ends of a piece of wire which
forms the hinge joint or pivot upon which the lid or cover of the box or case turns
or works.
The central portion of the upstanding lip or flange, which forms one side of the
groove, recess, or trough, is higher than its two end portions, and acts as a spring,
against which the lid impinges when in its closed position, motion being imparted
to it by the back portion of the box, which, by being unfastened to the end portions,
is therefore springy.
The lid is bent to suit the box by being stamped or struck out, and it is held
secure to the front thereof when closed by two lips or inward projections on its
front edge taking into corresponding indentations in the front of the box. This

page_text: lid has also at its back two lips or tongues, which pass over the wire forming the
hinge or joint, and bear against the edges of the end portions of the lip or flange of
the groove at the back of the body of the box, which form springs, and are capable
of being depressed on the lid being closed, but on the lid being opened by pressing
the front and back parts of the box towards each other the end portions of the lip
or flange of the groove, tending to rise, will act against the lips or tongues of the
lid, and immediately cause the lid to fly open to its full extent, and it is held there
until it be again closed, when it will be kept securely fastened by its two front
lips entering the depressions in the front part of the box.
A NEW OR IMPROVED MANUFACTURE OF SIRUP TO BE USED FOR DIGESTIBLE PURPOSES IN FOOD
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Edward Beanes, of Dulwich, in the County of Surrey,
Gentleman, for the Invention of "A NEW OR IMPROVED MANUFACTURE OF
SIRUP TO BE USED FOR DIGESTIBLE PURPOSES IN FOOD."
Sealed the 29th November 1878, and dated the 3rd October 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Edward Beanes at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 3rd October 1878.
EDWARD BEANES, of Dulwich, in the County of Surrey, Gentleman. " A NEW
OR IMPROVED MANUFACTURE OF SIRUP TO BE USED FOR DIGESTIBLE PURPOSES IN
FOOD."
This Invention relates to the production of diastased sirup, and it consists in
manufacturing a sirup containing diastase in an active form, which sirup is not only
very easily digestible in itself, but will cause all farinaceous food with which it is
taken to digest with great facility.
In that part of the process of brewing malt liquors where the malt and water are
in the mash tun and a certain temperature is maintained in the tun, the diastase
of the malt acting on the starch of the grain converts it into dextrine and sugar,
intermediate products being at the same time formed, but which it is unnecessary
to take into account in describing my present Invention.
The wort formed in the process above referred to is subsequently boiled (with
hops), the diastase is thereby destroyed owing to the raised temperature to which
the wort is subjected.
According to this Invention the wort is evaporated at a temperature sufficiently
low (say under 170 degrees Fahrenheit), so that the diastase is not injured, and is
converted into a sirup containing the diastase previously existing in the grain in an
active form. In practice it is found advantageous that the vessel holding the sirup
[Dmine 931

page_text: during evaporation should not be subjected to a heat above 169 degrees Fahrenheit.
If by means of a bath or equivalent means higher heat be applied externally to the
vessel containing the sirup a portion of the diastase will be thereby destroyed.
The action of the diastased sirup is very rapid; for instance, when it is mixed with
arrowroot as usually prepared, and at the usual temperature at which it is taken
for purposes of food, the mixture will become quite thin in a few minutes, and when
left for less than half an hour it will be found to contain no starch.
It is not necessary to use all malt in the preparation of the diastased sirup, as
part malt and part of other grain or meal containing starch, with or without
diastase or germinated grain may be used; but I prefer to use all malt as containing
more diastase than it would have by admixture with other grain.
Foods and sweets of various kinds have heretofore been prepared with malt, but
none of these contain diastase, because owing to the modes of preparation employed
the diastase will be found to have been destroyed by the high temperature at which
the foods and sweets were prepared.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MODE OF CON- STRUCTING INDEXES AND APPLYING THE SAME TO ACCOUNT BOOKS AND OTHER Books
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Frederic Henry Stiff at the Office of
the Commissioners of Patents on the 24th September 1878.
FREDERIC HENRY STIFF, of 7, Warwick Court, Gray's Inn, in the County of
Middlesex, Accountant and Auditor. "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MODE OF CON-
STRUCTING INDEXES AND APPLYING THE SAME TO ACCOUNT BOOKS AND OTHER
Books."
'
'
My Invention has for its object the application to account books and other books
of an index or means of reference to the contents of the same, constructed so as to
afford increased facility in subdividing the initial letter of names and words, and
thereby embracing a greater number thereof within the scope of the index.
And my Invention consists in the mode or modes herein-after stated of subdi-
viding each letter of the alphabet by means of the first consonant in the name or
word to be found, and making a further subdivision of the first vowel thereof, and
cutting the outer edges of the requisite number of leaves of the book in such a
manner as to display the said subdivisions, and thereby facilitate a reference to the
pages on which the respective subdivisions are to be found.
When an index is to be arranged for a smaller number of names it will
sufficient to cut the outer edges of the respective leaves so as to display for each
leaf the initial letter and the first consonant of the name to be found.
When an index for a larger number is to be constructed the edges of the respective
leaves must be cut so as to display on the first leaf the initial letter of the name to
be found, and on the following leaves the successive consonants of the alphabet,
each of such consonants indicating the first consonant of the name to be found
having displayed with it the vowels arranged to form subdivisions as required. And
when a still larger number of names is to be provided for the same arrangement is
to be made of an initial letter and a column of the successive consonants each with
a still further subdivision through the vowels.
In each of the cases above referred to it is intended to make on the front page of
the first leaf an index to common names through their respective first consonants
only, that is to say without subdivision by the aid of vowels.

page_text: By this arrangement the index on the outer edges of the leaves is freed from any
complication that might arise from the necessity of leaving large spaces for lists of
common names after the subdivisions belonging to each consonant.
If required the back of each leaf of the outer edge index can be strengthened by
means of parchment or other suitable material at the parts which have to be a
handled in working the index.
IMPROVE- MENTS IN APPARATUS FOR ASCERTAINING AND REGISTERING THE DISTANCE WHICH VEHICLES HAVE TRAVELLED
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Thomas Metcalf at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 9th April 1878.
THOMAS METCALF, of Birmingham, in the County of Warwick.
"IMPROVE-
MENTS IN APPARATUS FOR ASCERTAINING AND REGISTERING THE DISTANCE WHICH
VEHICLES HAVE TRAVELLED."
This my Invention has for its object providing simple and efficient means of
measuring and indicating the distance travelled over by public conveyances, so as
to enable the driver, conductor, or proprietor to ascertain the total amount or fare
to be paid according to the mileage.
I will describe my Invention thus:-Upon the outer side of the vehicle I arrange
a lever vertically, or approaching thereto, centrally. From this and through the
body of the said vehicle I carry an arm, and immediately beneath the seat of the
passenger, held in its position by spiral or other springs at the apex of the lever
above described, is a wedge-shaped arm working upon a pin, and fed into a toothed
or ratchet wheel divisioned to the mileage, and indicated upon a dial arranged
upon its surface; upon or attached to the inner part of the wheel of the vehicle is
an eccentric, so that by every revolution of the wheel of the said vehicle this
eccentric strikes the lower part of the above described vertical lever, and this
actuates the toothed or ratchet wheel, indicating the distance travelled upon the
dial, as above described. Immediately the passenger takes his seat he compresses
the arm to the lever, and the lever to the eccentric, and the vehicle then by moving
the registration commences; by vacating the seat the registration stops, although
the vehicle may travel.
AN IMPROVED COMPOUND FOR CURING AND PREVENTING THE DISEASE IN SHEEP CALLED FOOT ROT
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Frederick William Dallimore at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 31st May 1878.
FREDERICK WILLIAM DALLIMORE, of Twenty-six, Budge Row, Cannon Street,
in the City of London, Australian Squatter. "AN IMPROVED COMPOUND FOR
CURING AND PREVENTING THE DISEASE IN SHEEP CALLED FOOT ROT."
My Invention relates to an improved mode of treating the disease in sheep called
foot rot, whereby the said disease can not only be rapidly cured but can be entirely
prevented, to effect which I apply and employ perchloride of mercury or bichloride
of mercury, arsenious acid, sulphate of copper, chloride of sodium, protoxide of
sodium, which I use separately or together, in combination with water.
I place said compound in a trough of any length suitable, which I closely fence
in on each side, and through which trough I pass the sheep to be operated on; or
I apply said compound in any other suitable manner to the sheep to be operated on.
IMPROVEMENTS IN POCKET WATCH KEYS, RAILWAY KEYS, BUTTON HOOKS, CORKSCREWS, AND OTHER ARTICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Patrick O'Grady at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 28th September 1878: A communication
from abroad by Daniel Hutchinson, of Elgin, Cane County, and State of
Illinois, United States of America.
PATRICK O'GRADY, of Pentonville, in the County of Middlesex. "IMPROVEMENTS
IN POCKET WATCH KEYS, RAILWAY KEYS, BUTTON HOOKS, CORKSCREWS, AND OTHER
ARTICLES." [A communication from abroad by Daniel Hutchinson, of Elgin, Cane
County, and State of Illinois, United States of America.]
This Invention relates to improvements in watch keys, railway keys, and other
articles to be carried in the pocket, such as pencils and button hooks, the Invention
being also applicable to corkscrews, cheese tasters, and such-like articles. Two of
the above such-like devices may be combined in a single instrument in such manner
that the one device does not interfere with the action of the other when in use, and
so that the cost of manufacture of the combined instrument does not materially
exceed that of a single one.
According to this Invention the handle of the instrument consists of a strip of pre-
ferably steel wire doubled into bow form, and carrying between its ends the shank of
the key, which is pivoted thereto so as to be turned up into the bow when not in use.
The shank of the key or other device is made of square or round section, and the
ends of the handle of corresponding form, so that the device owing to the spring of
the handle will be retained in either of the positions in which it is set. The shank.
of the key may if desired carry at its other end a button hook, pencil, &c., or
any other suitable devices may be combined in a single instrument, as above
mentioned.
The present Invention further relates to an improvement which is applicable to
all keys having a hollow pipe or barrel, and has for object to prevent the accumula-

page_text: tion of dirt in the barrel, which often interferes with the action of such keys, and
to this end it consists in providing the barrel with openings which pass clear
through from side to side so that any foreign matter that may find its way into the
barrel will fall out, or may be readily displaced by passing a pin or other convenient
article through the openings.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE UTILIZA- TION OF PEAT FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES APPLICABLE TO BUILDING AND OTHER PURPOSES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Gerard Wenzeslaus von Nawrocki at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 21st January 1878. (A
communication from Georg Gercke, of Hamburg, Germany.)
GERARD WENZESLAUS VON NAWROCKI, of the Firm of J. Brandt and G. W. v.
Nawrocki, of 2, Koch Strasse, Berlin, Germany. "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE UTILIZA-
TION OF PEAT FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES APPLICABLE TO BUILDING
AND OTHER PURPOSES." (A communication from Georg Gercke, of Hamburg,
Germany.)
The upper parts or layers of peat moors consist generally of a light and fibrous
sort of peat which, because of its low caloric value, is not very suitable as a fuel,
and has heretofore been of little or no commercial value.
According to this Invention this substance is by a peculiar mode of treatment
(which however is modified and varied according to circumstances and requirements)
rendered suitable for or formed into a material applicable for many purposes to
which heretofore wood, stone, clay, earth, and other materials have been used; thus,
for instance, this peat may be formed into boards or pieces suitable for roofing,
pannelling, flooring, and numberless building and other purposes requiring the
application of a firm, durable, and more or less non-hygroscopic material, which
shall also, if desired, be suitable for being planed, sawn, turned, embossed, and
otherwise treated with tools, and which may also be polished, lacquered, or
painted.
The aforesaid light peat possesses great plasticity, and may under heavy pressure
receive the finest impressions or ornamentation, so as to render it suitable for trays,
cups, and other such objects, with relief or other ornamentation.
The peat is first dried, either in the air or by any artificial drying appliances, and
is then cut in the required pieces or bricks, exposed to a great pressure in a press. or
by rollers.
In order to render the material more or less non-hygroscopic it is by impregna-
tions or otherwise treated with tar, asphalt, oils, lacquers water, glass, fat, tallow,

page_text: sulphur, india-rubber, rosin, wax, wood, cement, or other suitable material or
mixture.
.
When a great strength or cohesion is desired, bast, oakum, tow, and rope waste,
pieces of wood or metal, felt, cement, long peat fibres, reeds, heather, or other suitable
objects may be placed between two or more such layers or plates of peat, and be
joined therewith by a suitable cement. By this means the material is rendered
more particularly suitable for building purposes, say, in the shape of boards.
The plasticity of the material may be increased by treatment with steam.
AN APPARATUS FOR THE HEATING AND LIGHTING OF ROOMS, ALSO APPLICABLE TO GAS STOVES AND OTHER ANALOGOUS PURPOSES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by John Farley at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 20th December 1878.
JOHN FARLEY, of Birmingham, in the County of Warwick. "AN APPARATUS
FOR THE HEATING AND LIGHTING OF ROOMS, ALSO APPLICABLE TO GAS STOVES AND
OTHER ANALOGOUS PURPOSES."
"
This Invention has for its object the employment of the "Bunsen or atmo-
spheric air and gas burner, so that the quantity of air admitted to the burner shall
be better proportioned to the quantity of gas consumed than is usually the case,
and in combination with the said burner employed for heating rooms, an arrange-
ment for lighting with one or more jets of gas as may be required continuously
with the said burner or otherwise.
The atmospheric burner is constructed with a body and cylindrical tube carrying
at its apex another body, the upper edge of which is serrated, and a cap or plate is
fitted thereon (the lower body is for the admission of air, while the upper is for the
emission of gas or heat); to the base of the first named or lower body is connected
a pillar, the upper part of which carries an ordinary jet entering and supplying the
said body and burner with gas, while to the lower parts of the said pillar is
arranged the gas cock for regulating the pressure of gas; immediately between the
lower body of the atmospheric burner and the gas-cock, and upon the pillar is
arranged one or more branches with jets, and this for the purpose of lighting the
room, the plug in the gas cock constructed hitherto with one gas-way; but in this
I
to effect the purpose I arrange one or more gas ways accordingly as may require
to supply the atmospheric burner and one or more lights; by turning the plug of
gas-cock one degree I can supply the atmospheric burner alone one degree farther,

page_text: and one branch with jet can be lighted farther still, and two may be lighted, and
so on, but by reversing the action of the plug, both atmospheric burner and
branches will be extinguished; by this arrangement private rooms and public
places can be both lighted and heated together or separately as may be required, it
can be applied with facility to the ordinary gas bracket.
IMPROVEMENTS IN STOPPERS FOR BOTTLES
Year: 1878

page_text: "
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by John Worthington at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 16th September 1878.
JOHN WORTHINGTON, of Blackpool, in the County of Lancaster, Plumber,
IMPROVEMENTS IN STOPPERS FOR BOTTLES."
This Invention relates to improvements in stoppers for bottles, and consists in
making the aperture or opening for the ingress and egress of the liquid at the side
of the bottle neck instead of at the end. Outside the bottle neck, and so as to
cover the side opening, a hoop of india-rubber or other elastic material is fitted.
The elastic hoop is also provided with an opening, and by moving the hoop with
the finger and thumb round the bottle neck the operation of opening and closing
may be effected, according to the relative positions of the openings in the bottle
and in the hoop. The elastic hoop is kept in position between rings or collars
formed upon the neck of the bottle, or the bottle may be recessed to receive the
hoop. The hoop is provided on its upper and lower edges with projections or lips,
which answer by coming in contact with corresponding projections on the bottle
neck as stops for preventing the hoop from being moved further round than is
necessary for the purposes of opening and closing.
AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF SELF-ACTING MULES AND TWINERS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Daniel Marsland and James Wilson
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 21st March 1878.
DANIEL MARSLAND and JAMES WILSON, both of Oldham, in the County of Lan-
caster. "AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF SELF-ACTING MULES AND
TWINERS."
This Invention relates to the solf-acting mules and twiners employed for spinning
and twisting cotton, silk, wool, and other fibrous materials, and has reference more
particularly to that part of such mules and twiners which is called the "copping
motion," and which regulates the building up of the "cop" upon the spindle. This
is ordinarily effected by means of a small bowl or wheel mounted on the end of a
lever, and running upon the upper surface of the copping rail, which as the spindle
carriage runs in to the rollers acts upon the faller wire, and regulates the form of the
cop.
It is found in practice that this bowl, or the pin in which it works (or both) in
process of time is liable to become inore or less excentric, or otherwise out of truth,
and hence the form of the cop bottom is defective, the yarn becomes loose, and a
waste of material ensues.
Our Invention consists in remedying this defect by dispensing with the revolving
bowl, and substituting for it a fixed block, which slides upon the copping rail. It
is found that this fixed block will keep true for a much greater length of time than
the bowl, and a much better and more regular form of cop will thereby be produced.
The same effect may be produced to a limited extent by fixing the ordinary bowl
fast upon its pin, so as to convert it virtually into a block; but for various reasons
we prefer a fixed block, as it is more steady and certain in its action.
IMPROVEMENTS IN SAWS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Herbert John Haddan at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 21st March 1878. A communication
from abroad by William Firstbrook, of Toronto, in the Dominion of Canada.
HERBERT JOHN HADDAN, of the Firin of Herbert and Company, Patent Agents,
of 67, Strand, in the City of Westminster, Civil Engineer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN
SAWS." A communication from abroad by William Firstbrook, of Toronto, in the
Dominion of Canada.
The object of the Invention is to produce a ripping saw which will cut in
both the upward and downward stroke, and it consists in reversing the cutting
point of each alternate tooth.
The Invention is to be so performed that each alternate tooth is reversed, so
that the bevelled backs of the teeth come opposite to each other, as do likewise
their cutting points. This arrangement has the effect of making each alternate
tooth act as a clearing tooth for the one preceding it, and every tooth in the saw
serves the double purpose of a cutting and clearing tooth, that is to say, the saw
cuts not only on the downward and upward stroke, but the teeth which cut on the
downward act as clearing teeth on the upward, and vice versa.
IMPROVEMENTS IN ELE-
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Peter Grabinger at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 16th April 1878.
PETER GRABINGER, at Athens, Kingdom of Greece.
MENTS OR PARTS OF GALVANIC BATTERIES."
"IMPROVEMENTS IN ELE-
These improvements relate to elements composed of a vessel of any form of
glass, porcelain, or pottery, which can be easily closed by a cork, and the diameter
or smallest width of which is in proportion to its height about as 1 to 3. A band
of carbon corresponding to the size of the vessel, and a like band of amalgamated
zinc, are introduced into the said vessel and maintained at their upper part at a
suitable distance from and parallel to each other in the closing cork, so that the
said bands do not touch the bottom when the said vessel is closed by the cork.
The connection of the carbon with the conducting wire is effected by means of a
small plate of platina, and the parts of the connection have washers of hardened
rubber which will not admit moisture. The whole is overlaid by a good asphalt
varnish to prevent incrustation of the salts on the end of the carbon extending
over the cork; these salts would attract moisture from the atmosphere, and would
corrugate the parts of the connection. This connection consists of a brass pin
surrounded by a thin platina plate, or by a metal band covered by the platina
plate; the first arrangement is more suitable for large elements with a strong
current; the latter for smaller ones.
The elements are filled with a mixture of pulverized manganese and pulverized
sulphate of ammonia, mixed with as much water as to form a somewhat thick paste.
Instead of the sulphate of ammonia sal-ammoniac may be used; the action will not
be so strong, but of a longer duration. The vessels must be narrow, the manga-
nese being insoluble, and the more distant parts of it not being wholly utilized. A
battery composed of my elements would last five to ten years for electric bells and
other purposes without requiring any attention or repair.
IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR STARTING TRAM CARS AND OTHER CONVEYANCES."
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Adolphus Eugene Walton at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 26th March 1878.
ADOLPHUS EUGENE WALTON, of Exchange Chambers, Birmingham, Civil
Engineer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR STARTING TRAM CARS AND OTHER
CONVEYANCES."
My Invention is an improved arrangement of that class of devices for starting
tramway cars from a state of rest in which the initial pull of the horses is applied
direct to a ratchet wheel fixed on or in the car axle. Its use is a great relief to the
horses inasmuch as by it the labor of starting the load is greatly lessened, and it
is simple in structure and durable. It can be fixed at either end of a tramway.
A ratchet wheel is firmly fixed on or to the axle, outside or inside of either of the
wheels of the car nearest the draught.
A dog or pawl is pivoted at its middle to one end of a lever, the opposite end of
which is pivoted to the end of a draw bar so that the pawl will be directly above
the ratchet wheel. The pawl is made with teeth on its rear end, and an enlarge-
ment on its forward end, and it is pivoted at its middle to the rear end of a lever,
the forward end of which is attached by a rivet to the rear end of a draw bar. Tho
forward end of the lever passes between two guides, and has a downward projecting
lug at its extremity, against the front face of which the end of a flat spring presses
so that the rear end of the lever is pressed upwards against the bottom of the car,
and is retained there until it is necessary to use it.
The draw bar extends forward underneath the car floor to a point under
the platform near the end of the car, being supported and guided at suitable points
by loops.
I secure a casting to the under side of the front beam of the platform, which has
a downward projecting arm, on one side of which is a stud or pin. A lever passes
up through the platforms, its lower end having a circular recess which clasps the
pin, while its upper end above the platform is attached to the rear end of a bar.
The forward end of the drawn bar has a pin on one side which enters a hole in the
middle of the lever, so that when the upper end of the lever is drawn forward the
draw bar is also drawn forward.

page_text: A small piece of iron is bolted to the front end of the platform over which the
whiffletree moves, being attached so that it can move the length of the slot, and the
forward end of the bar is attached to the middle of the whiffletree by a bolt passing
down through the whiffletree and through the slot, thus connecting the whiffletree
with the draw bar.
The above description is intended for a one-horse car; but by a simple method
of disconnecting and clearing the main platform of obstructions it can be used
equally as well on a two-horse tram car. It can be used with or without a pole.
The tram car does not start with a jerk when this Invention is used, but moves
slowly at first, which will be a relief to passengers and avoid many accidents.
IMPROVEMENTS IN WIRE FENCING
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Adam Wright at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 2nd May 1878.
ADAM WRIGHT, of the Firm of George Bell Smith and Company, of Glasgow, in
the County of Lanark, North Britain, Fence Manufacturers. "IMPROVEMENTS IN
WIRE FENCING."
This Invention consists in making wire fencing with improved parts for con-
necting and regulating the sets of wires at intermediate points between the
straining posts or standards. For this purpose "droppers," or vertical bars, or
strips of light wrought iron are used, each bar having rounded or other suitable
indentations formed across it at the points where the several wires are to be. Ver-
tical slots are formed through the middles of the indented parts, and each wire
being placed in its proper indentation a wedge or taper key is in each case passed
down through the slot between the front of the wire and the back of the bar or
strip, and firmly secures the bar in its place on the wires.
A NEW OR IMPROVED CHEMICAL COMPOUND OR MIXTURE TO BE USED FOR PREVENTING THE CORROSION OF METALLIC SURFACES, THE SAME BEING ALSO APPLICABLE FOR COATING WOOD, STONE, AND OTHER SURFACES AFTER THE MANNER OF A PAINT
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by James Ballantyne Hannay at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 12th December 1878.
JAMES BALLANTYNE HANNAY, of Glasgow, in the County of Lanark, North
Britain. "A NEW OR IMPROVED CHEMICAL COMPOUND OR MIXTURE TO BE USED
FOR PREVENTING THE CORROSION OF METALLIC SURFACES, THE SAME BEING ALSO
APPLICABLE FOR COATING WOOD, STONE, AND OTHER SURFACES AFTER THE MANNER
OF A PAINT."
This Invention which relates to a new or improved chemical compound or
mixture to be used for preventing the corrosion of iron and other metallic surfaces,
as well as for preserving surfaces of wood, stone, and other materials, consists of a
portion of caoutchouc solution (that is to say, hydrocarbon spirit with caoutchouc
dissolved therein), rosin, gum, commonly called gallipot, and with or without boiled
vegetable oil, for example linseed oil.
Proportions of these substances which are found to rive good results ons
In treating iron or other metallic surfaces with the liquid so formed they may be
either painted therewith, or the iron articles may be dipped into a bath thereof.
And in the case of protecting surfaces of wood, stone, or other material, the
compound or mixture is applied as a paint; or in the case of stones used in the
erection of buildings such stones may be dipped into the compound or mixture.

page_text: The compound or mixture may be made of any desired colour by mixing
colouring matter thereinto, such as the aniline dyes or pulverised colouring matter
may be commingled therewith.
The proportions of the compound or mixture hereinbefore described may be
varied.
IMPROVEMENTS IN ROLLER OR ANTIFRICTION BUSHES FOR THE SHEAVES OR PULLEYS OF SHIPS' AND OTHER BLOCKS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by James Bond at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 28th May 1878.
JAMES BOND, of Chipping, in the County of Lancaster, Iron and Brass Founder.
"IMPROVEMENTS IN ROLLER OR ANTIFRICTION BUSHES FOR THE SHEAVES OR
PULLEYS OF SHIPS' AND OTHER BLOCKS."
This Invention has for its object improvements in roller or antifriction bushes
for the sheaves or pulleys of ships' and other blocks, and relates to antifriction
bushes of the kind wherein rollers surround and revolve around the axes on which
the sheaves or pulleys rotate.
I mount the antifriction rollers in separate compartments in a frame free to rotato
within the ordinary box or case, so as to prevent contact between the rollers when
at work.
The frame may be cast in one piece, the two sides being in the form of circular
rings, which fit into holes or bearings in the two sides of the box or case, and are
free to rotate therein.
The two rings are connected by ribs standing radially in the direction of their
width, and placed at regular intervals; thus separate divisions or compartments are
formed, within each of which an antifriction roller is contained.
The rings and ribs of the rotating frame are of less width radially than the
diameter of the rollers, so that when the rollers are in position they will project
beyond the outer and inner edges of the rings.
By constructing the frame as described the rollers mounted therein are prevented
from dropping out when worn, should the pin or axis be withdrawn, and are more-
over always in position for running in a direction square or parallel to the axis of

page_text: the bush, and will not become what is commonly termed "
frequently the case with other constructions of roller bushes.
cross bound," as is
The ends of the rollers may be formed with short pins or pivots, cavities or slots
being sunk or cut partially through the peripheries of the rings, within which pivots
are free to rotate, and also to move in a radial direction.