IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS EMPLOYED IN SETTING UP AND DISTRIBUTING TYPE
Year: 1882

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to John Clayton Mewburn of 169 Fleet Street in the
City of London Patent Agent and Consulting Engineer for an invention of
IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS EMPLOYED IN SETTING UP AND DISTRIBUTING
TYPE Communicated to him from abroad by A. Augustus Low and Louis
Kossuth Johnson both of Brooklyn in the United States of America
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said John Clayton Mewburn at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 7th September 1882.
.
"
JOHN CLAYTON MEWBURN of 169 Fleet Street in the City of London Patent
Agent and Consulting Engineer, IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS EMPLOYED IN
SETTING UP AND DISTRIBUTING TYPE [Communicated to him from abroad by
A. Augustus Low and Louis Kossuth Johnson both of Brooklyn in the United
States of America]
The invention relates in the first place to that class of type holders in which the
different denominations of type are respectively arranged in prescribed positions in
containing channels from the bottom of which they are removed by hand.
The first feature consists primarily in a containing channel, capable of oscillating,
formed at its lower end to receive or move over a stationary shoulder or abutment
before which the lowest type in the column rests when the channel is in its normal
position and by which the said lowest type is held stationary while the lower end
of the channel is pushed back in order to grasp the type; and, secondly in the
special construction of the parts hereinafter described for supporting a column of
type in the channel controlling operation of the latter and gauging the number of
types to be removed at one time.
The containing channel is provided near its upper end with a hook or other
suitable device for suspending it upon a rod or cross bar of the frame or support.
This suspending device may be made adjustable upon its channel for the
purpose of regulating its position vertically with relation to a stationary shoulder
or abutment.

page_text: This stationary shoulder or abutment occupies a position at the extreme lower
end of the containing channel and acts as a holder to retain the lowest type in the
column in its position while the channel and its contents are pressed backward,
thus leaving the said lowest type exposed so as to be easily grasped by the thumb
and finger. The lower end of the containing channel may be either slotted to
receive and pass over the type holder, or it may be made plain and open without
any type supporting shoulder in which case the type is supported independently
of its containing channel upon the projection or supporting shoulder of the type
holder.
Where it is desirable to have a type supporting shoulder on the containing
channel itself and at the same time provide for the insertion or removal of the
type from that end of the channel in a longitudinal direction, I employ a swinging
type support pivoted to the back of the channel, and capable of being turned so as
to close the end of the channel in which position it is held by a spring catch or
other suitable latching device which enables it to sustain the weight of the column
of type. This swinging type support is countersunk to receive the head of a pivot
and the body of the catch (which latter also enters a corresponding depression in
the side of the containing channel) so as to present a uniform even surface for
the passage of a slide which is held in place upon the channel preferably by friction
alone.
This slide performs the 3 functions of, first, a gauge to prevent the withdrawal
or displacement of more than a single type at a time; secondly, of an interchange-
able denomination mark that may be transferred from one channel to another;
and thirdly, as a key or finger rest by which the lower end of the channel may be
conveniently pressed backward leaving the front end of the lowest type in the
column immediately underneath the finger ready to be grasped between it and the
thumb underneath.
In order to return the containing channel to its normal position after it has been
pressed back as described I provide a spring retractor, and to counteract the force
of the retractor and prevent undue jar and at the same time limit the forward
movement of the channel, on the opposite side of the point of suspension I provide
an elastic buffer or rest.
The second feature of the improvements relates to both setting and re-distributing
the type without transferring or disturbing the type containing channels; and it-
consists, first, in combining and arranging substantially as hereinafter designated a
bank or series of the oscillating setter channels herein before described, with a
corresponding bank or series of distributors, channels receivers &c adapted to
receive and forward the types in a prescribed manner; Secondly, in constructing
and arranging the oscillating channels and connections of the type setting portion
of the apparatus in such manner that any one of the series of setter channels may
be depressed independently to secure a particular type or the whole series or bank
may be depressed simultaneously thus exposing at one time a single type of each
and all the denominations represented in the bank ready to be immediately grasped
and withdrawn by the compositor. This latter operation is adapted to be performed
by the foot thus economizing time since the channel may be depressed while the
right hand of the compositor is engaged in arranging the types already taken in
the stick, and it also relieves his hand of all labor except that involved in simply
grasping and withdrawing the exposed type; thirdly, in arranging the lower ends
of the oscillating setter channels in such manner that they occupy positions
alternately in advance of and above each other by which means the said channels
can be placed side by side, without any intervening spaces, so that their indepen-
dence of movement and accessibility will not be interfered with, while a whole
bank or series of channels sufficient to contain all the denominations of type
required may be made to occupy a comparatively small horizontal space, and thus
be within convenient distance of the compositor. Fourthly, in so mounting the
reciprocating pusher bar and the driving shaft of the type distributing portion of
the apparatus that they may be readily removed or swung out of the way so as to

page_text: give access to, and permit of the removal or insertion of the transfer or distributor
type containing channels from the rear of the apparatus.
In carrying out this part of the Invention I employ a bank or series of receivers
and conduits adapted to hand distribution. The receiving or transfer channels are
mounted upon a table or frame so as to coincide with and constitute continuations
of the receiver conduits. At their front ends the side walls of these receiving
channels are continued forward over and beyond the points of conjunction with the
oscillating setter channels so as to form a continuous guide and lateral support for
the type while it is being slid from the one to the other.
The reciprocating pusher bar (which is of ordinary comb form) for raising and
forwarding the types as they descend from the conduits, simply rests upon open
ways or slides, so that when eccentric rods are disconnected, it may be withdrawn
bodily.
The forward ends of the eccentric rods are slotted or hooked so as to drop over
pins or shoulders upon the ends of the pusher, so that while they are held in
position during use by gravity, they may be quickly swung back and away from
the pusher or as quickly reconnected with it.
The shaft upon which the eccentrics and driving pulley are mounted also rests
upon open seats or pillow blocks, in order that it may be readily raised therefrom
after unshipping the driving belt, which passes over the driving pulley from below so
that, in use it will tend to retain the journals of the driving shaft in their proper
positions upon the open pillow blocks.
By thus mounting and connecting the pusher bar and the driving shaft they
may be quickly removed to give access to the receiving channels froin the rear of
the apparatus.
The principal object in thus providing for the removal and insertion of the
distributor receiving channels from the rear, is to allow an empty, channel to be
substituted in place of a full one in case the type of a particular denomination
should happen to be deposited in the distributing end faster than they were
removed from the setting end of the apparatus without interfering with the use or
operation of the setter channels.
The setter channels are similar in general construction and operation to those
hereinbefore described.
Each channel is pivoted at its inner extremity so that the upper surface of its
floor will correspond to and unite with that of the floor of the distributor receiving
or transfer channel which is placed to coincide with it.
A combined gauge plate and finger pieco is permanently attached to the top of the
oscillating channel although it may be made adjustable if preferred. Its office is to
control the number of type to be withdrawn from the channel and also to
furnish a bearing or rest for the finger by which the channels may be depressed
independently. An opening or space is provided for the reception of the type
shoulder or abutment at the lower rear portion of each oscillating setter channel.
This shoulder or abutment sustains the lowest type in a column when the channel
is depressed causing the upper portion of the said lowest type to project beyond
the top of the guage plate and finger piece sufficiently to be grasped between the
thumb and finger and withdrawn. The outer front ends of the channels may be
formed with tongues or projections which are engaged by arms or levers projecting
from a rock shaft mounted upon the front of the apparatus. The rock shaft is
sustained with its arms or levers in the highest position by one or more main
springs. The latter are situated upon treadle rods and act between shoulders upon
the latter and fixed supports upon the frame;-being limited in their expansion by
stops upon the treadle rods which stops are provided with buffers to prevent jar.
It is obvious that springs may be otherwise placed or analogous devices may be
used to tend constantly to sustain the levers or depressors in their highest position
without departing from the principle of this Invention which is to construct a
depressor capable of depressing all the channels simultaneously but which in its
normal position will allow all the setter channels to assume either their highest or

page_text: normal positions or to be depressed independently. The extent of the downward
motion of the parts is determined either by the bottom of the setter channels
coming in contact with cushioned seats or stops in front of the stationary
abutments or type shoulders or by other suitable stops arranged to limit the motion
of the parts.
To return the setter channels to their normal positions when relieved from
downward pressure secondary retractible springs are employed which may be
attached to the undersides of the depressor levers and bear upon the under sides of
the channel tongues or projections. It is obvious that these springs also may be
varied in position the only requisite being that their elasticity shall be so employed
as to tend constantly to sustain the channels in their highest position.
For the purpose of enabling the setter channels to be placed as close together as
possible and thereby bring the requisite number of channels within convenient
distance of the compositor, the alternate channels may be made of shorter length
than the others, and the positions of their front ends are also elevated a distance
equal to the extent of motion common to all, so that the types from these channels
are presented and withdrawn from a plane above and in the rear of those in the
lower channels sufficiently removed to obviate all danger of interference or
inconvenience. Instead of varying the lengths of the setter channels the samo
result may be attained if desired by elevating the alternate channels of both the
setter and distributor a sufficient distance above those next adjacent thus presenting
the type for removal in the same vertical plane, but a sufficient distance apart to
admit of convenient handling.
It will of course be understood that the alternate stationary type shoulders or
abutments, the seats or stops, and the depressing arms or levers are correspondingly
elevated above those adjacent to make the extent of motion uniform throughout
the entire bank.
The operation is as follows:-
=
The types are distributed into the receivers and descend through the conduits to
the distributor or transfer channels in which they are raised and forwarded by the
reciprocating pusher against the resistance of slugs. As occasion requires they are
slid down into the oscillating setter channels, the slugs removed and replaced
before the pusher, and a following slug placed upon the rear and top of the column.
When a single type is desired the compositor places his finger upon the top of the
guage or finger piece of the proper channel and depresses the latter against the
resistance of its secondary spring, thus bringing the desired type between the thumb
and finger. In withdrawing the type the channel is allowed to conform to the
action of a secondary spring which returns it to its normal position. These
secondary springs as compared with those operating the rock shaft are of slight
elastic power, being only strong enough to raise a single channel filled with type,
so that the main springs effectually resist any tendency of the rock shaft to follow
the downward motion of the single channel.
When more than one type is required, or even when one is required and speed is
essential the operator presses his foot upon the treadle forcing down the rock shaft
or depressor, against the resistance of the main springs, thus depressing the front
ends of all the setter channels and exposing a type of each denomination in position
to be immediately grasped and withdrawn.
When the compositor removes the pressure from the treadle, the main springs
and secondary springs ensure the return of all the parts to their former positions.
Since the compositor can again in a like manner depress all of the channels with
his foot while engaged with his hands in placing and arranging the types already
taken in the stick, it is obvious that he can work more rapidiy than where each
channel has to be depressed independently by hand.
The third feature of the Invention relates to devices for holding a page or column
of type that has been used and presenting the same to the operator for redistribution
by hand.
Heretofore these devices have consisted of a simple galley or box inclined at a

page_text: suitable angle and furnishing support for a column of type placed therein in such
manner that the type could only be removed from the top of the said column.
The mode of grasping and removing the types was thus rendered inconvenient
and difficult since as the face of the uppermost line of type occupied the same
plane as that of the rest of the column, the types required had to be drawn forward
by pressure applied above by one or more fingers before they could be grasped
between the fingers and thumb. This operation was retarded and rendered still
more difficult from the fact that all type that has been used is more or less
"gummed" or stuck together even after being subjected to the ordinary process of
washing, thus necessitating the application of considerable force in order to separate
a portion of the upper line from the rest and from the line underneath. For the
same reason, the portion of the line removed had always to be "broken' ΟΙ
separated by and between the thumb and fingers before the individual types could
be dropped into their respective compartments or receivers. It is the object of the
Invention to avoid these objections and to facilitate hand distribution by presenting
each line of type as required in a convenient position to be grasped at once between
the thumb and fingers, and with the line thoroughly "broken" or loosened so that
its component parts may be readily disposed of.
"
This branch of the improvements thus includes, first, a galley or type holding
compartment formed at the bottom with a type column supporting shoulder or
floor of sufficient width to project in front of the position of the column of type
the requisite distance to support a line of type independently and having its rear
and side walls slotted or otherwise formed immediately above the said shoulder or
floor to receive and allow the advance and retraction of a separator or "breaker"
pivoted at one extremity in such relation to the type holder, that in its forward
movement it will impinge against the individual types composing the lowest line
of the column, separately and consecutively so that they will be detached or
loosened from each other by the time the line has been pushed forward into
position to be grasped by hand; secondly making the separator blade, so pivoted,
and the transverse receiving slot in the lower side walls of the holder, of less width
than the width of the narrowest type to be used, so that the lowest line in a column
will always be held against any tendency to lateral displacement thereby aiding
and ensuring the action of the separator blade in "breaking" the line during the
operation of cutting it off from its column; thirdly, an adjustable side wall or
partition for sustaining columns of type of variable width in the holder against
lateral displacement ending above the type supporting shoulder or floor a distance
equal to the thickness of the type blade of the separator and less than the width of
the smallest type to be used so as to allow the separator to pass freely underneath
while at the same time it may be made to bear against that side of the lowest line
of type.
The type holder or galley is pivoted upon a bracket or support in such manner
that it may be turned back and secured in a horizontal position for greater
convenience in filling and adjusting.
This bracket is preferably mounted upon the distributor in a position most
convenient and natural for the compositor. When arranged for use it is preferably
made to assume an inclined position at least sufficient to cause the type to rest
steadily in the holder by its own gravity. The holder is sustained in this position
by inclined rests or stops projecting from the supporting bracket or by other
suitable means.
The column of type is supported within the holder upon the floor or supporting
shoulder. This latter projects forward beyond the front edges of the holder a
sufficient distance to furnish a support or rest for a line of type beyond and in front
of the base of the column of type contained in the holder. This projection (which
forms the lower lip of the line holder) is equal say to about five eighths or
seven eighths of "type high" so as to leave the front of the line of type, when in
position exposed sufficiently to be readily grasped between the thumb and fingers.
In order to sever the lowest line of the column of type and bring it into its
.

page_text: independent position between the lips of the line holder I pivot one end of a
separator and line breaker (which is simply a straight edge or blade) to the floor or
supporting shoulder in such manner that when it is at the end of its forward stroke.
its front edge will coincide with the face of the column of type contained in the
holder.
As the separator recedes during its back stroke the column of type descends by
its own gravity so as to bring its lowest line against the floor or supporting
shoulder into position to be in turn pushed forward into the line holder by the next
forward stroke of the separator In order to detach the types in the line one from
the other or technically to "break" the line I pivot the breaker or separator at a
point in advance of the rear line of the position of the column of type in the holder
so that in its forward movement the front edge of the separator will first encounter
and start forward the first type on the extremity of the line next the pivot, and
then the next type, and so on in succession until all have been started and pushed
forward into the line holder when they again come into line with relation to
each other.
By thus bringing the edge of the breaker into contact with each type
independently and successively any adhesive tendency between the types arising
from "gumming" or imperfect cleaning is overcome and this is accomplished
without any additional labor or loss of time by and during the simple act of
separating the line from the column.
In order to facilitate this result and render the independent movement or start of
each type certain the extremities of the lowest line are confined between the
vertical shoulder so that all tendency to lateral displacement is counteracted and
the types are compelled to preserve their alignment in moving forward. It is thus
obvious that each type must necessarily be started forward by the pusher before the
latter can come in contact with the next succeeding type.
This lateral support for the lowest line is accomplished by making the pusher
and the corresponding transverse slots in the walls of the bolder of less width than
that of the smallest type to be used. By making the slot in the rear wall of the
holder of also the same width, the said last line is supported against displacement in
that direction. The breaker and separator may be formed with a handle and
operated by hand, or it may be provided with a retractile spring and operated by a
treadle if desired.
The line holder consists of a projection of the supporting floor forming the lower
lip and of an upper lip or flange which holds the line against vertical displacement.
A guiding and retaining plate is secured to the front of the holder immediately
above the line holder and projects upwards a sufficient distance to retain the lower
portion of the column and guide it accurately to position upon the supporting
shoulder.
In order to compensate for variations in the width of the pages or columns of
type to be distributed a movable side wall or partition is provided which may be
adjusted to just touch the side of the column of type and sustain the latter in
position, without binding it or retarding its descent. The distance between the
lower extremity of this movable side wall and the upper surface of the type
supporting floor is just sufficient to allow the passage of the separator underneath
and is less than the width of the smallest type to be used for the reasons before
stated.
For the purpose of ensuring the even descent of the upper portion of the column,
a follower is employed of sufficient weight to carry the last line unbroken into
position upon the supporting floor.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed
by the said John Clayton Mewburn in the Great Seal Patent Office on
the 17th January 1883.
:
JOHN CLAYTON MEWBURN of 169 Fleet Street in the City of London, Patent
Agent and Consulting Engineer "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS EMPLOYED IN
SETTING UP AND DISTRIBUTING TYPE" (A communication to me from abroad by
A. Augustus Low and Louis Kossuth Johnson both of Brooklyn in the United
States of America)
The improvements relate in the first place to that class of type holders in which
the different denominations of type are respectively arranged in prescribed
positions in containing channels from the bottom of which they are removed by
hand.
The first feature consists primarily in a containing channel capable of oscillating,
formed at its lower end to receive or move over a stationary shoulder or abutment
before which the lowest type in the column rests when the channel is in its normal
position and by which the said lowest type is held stationary while the lower end
of the channel is pushed back in order to grasp the type; and secondly in the
special construction of the parts hereinafter described for supporting a column of
type in the channel controlling operation of the latter and gauging the number of
types to be removed at one time.
Figure 1 of the annexed drawings is a sectional elevation of my arrangement
showing the lower end of the channel depressed or pushed backward and illus-
trating the method of grasping the type thus exposed. Figure 2 a sectional
elevation of the same parts in their normal position. Figure 3 a front view of an
oscillating channel. Figure 4 a plan on line x x Figure 2. Figure 5 a top view
of the adjustable gauge plate and finger piece. Figure 6 is a side elevation of the
lower end of the channel provided with a permanent bottom or type supporting
shoulder. Figure 7 is a sectional elevation showing the stationary type holder or
shoulder adapted to support the column of type independent of its containing
channel. The containing channel A is provided near its upper end with a hook or
other suitable device for suspending it upon a rod or cross bar 6 of the frame or
support B. This suspending device may be made adjustable upon its channel as
shown in Figure 2, for the purpose of regulating its position vertically with relation
to the stationary shoulder or abutment C.
This stationary shoulder or abutment C occupies a position at the extreme lower
end of the containing channel, and acts as a holder to retain the lowest type in the
column in its position while the channel and its contents are pressed backward,
thus leaving the said lowest type exposed so as to be easily grasped by the thumb
and finger, as indicated in Figure 1. The lower end of the containing channel may
be either slotted, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 4 and 6 to receive and pass over the
type holder C or it may be made plain and open without any type supporting
shoulder as indicated in Figure 7 in which case the type is supported independently
of its containing channel upon the projection or supporting shoulder c of the type
holder C.
Where it is desirable to have a type supporting shoulder on the containing
channel itself and at the same time provide for the insertion or removal of the
type from that end of the channel in a longitudinal direction, I employ the
swinging type support a¹ pivoted to the back of the channel and capable of being
turned so as to close the end of the channel in which position it is held by a spring
catch a² or other suitable latching device which enables it to sustain the weight of

page_text: the column of type. This swinging type support a¹ is countersunk to receive the
head of the pivot a³ and the body of the catch a² (which latter also enters a
corresponding depression in the side of the containing channel) so as to present a
uniform even surface for the passage of the slide D, which is held in place upon the
channel preferably by friction alone.
4
This slide D performs the three functions of, first, a gauge to prevent the with-
drawal or displacement of more than a single type at a time; secondly, of an
interchangeable denomination mark that may be transferred from one channel to
another; and thirdly as a key or finger rest by which the lower end of the channel
may be conveniently pressed backward leaving the front end of the lowest type in
the column immediately underneath the finger ready to be grasped between it and
the thumb underneath.
In order to return the containing channel to its normal position after it has been
pressed back as described I provide a spring retractor E, and to counteract the
force of the retractor and prevent undue jar and at the same time limit the
forward movement of the channel on the opposite side of the point of suspension b,
I provide an elastic buffer or rest F.
The second feature of the improvements relates to both setting and redistributing
the type without transferring or disturbing the type containing channels; and it
consists, first, in combining and arranging substantially as hereinafter designated
a bank or series of the oscillating setter channels hereinbefore described with a
corresponding bank or series of distributors, channels, receivers &c adapted to
receive and forward the types in a prescribed manner; secondly in constructing
and arranging the oscillating channels and connections of the type setting portion
of the apparatus in such manner that any one of the series of the setter channels may
be depressed independently to secure a particular type or the whole series or bank
may be depressed simultaneously thus exposing at one time a single type of each
and all the denominations represented in the bank ready to be immediately
grasped and withdrawn by the compositor. This latter operation is adapted to be
performed by the foot thus economizing time since the channel may be depressed
while the right hand of the compositor is engaged in arranging the types already
taken in the stick and it also relieves his hand of all labor except that involved in
simply grasping and withdrawing the exposed type. Thirdly, in arranging the
lower ends of the oscillating setter channels in such manner that they occupy
positions alternately in advance of and above each other by which means the said
channels can be placed side by side, without any intervening spaces so that
their independence of movement and accessibility will not be interfered with,
while a whole bank or series of channels sufficient to contain all the denominations
of type required may be made to occupy a comparatively small horizontal space,
and thus be within convenient distance of the compositor. Fourthly, in so mounting
the reciprocating pusher bar and the driving shaft of the type distributing portion
of the apparatus that they may be readily removed or swung out of the way so as
to give access to, and permit of the removal or insertion of the transfer or distributor
type containing channels from the rear of the apparatus.
Figure 8 is a plan of the improved apparatus with the central portion broken
away. Figure 9 is a front elevation of the portion of the apparatus shown in
Figure 8. Figure 10 is a rear elevation of the upper portions of the apparatus
shown in Figures 8 and 9 the portion on the right being shown with the recipro-
cating pusher bar and driving shaft removed from position to admit of the insertion
or removal of the transfer or distributor channels. Figure 11 is a horizontal
section on plane of line w w¹ Figure 10 immediately underneath the bank of
receivers giving a top view of the parts shown in the latter Figure. Figure 12 is a
vertical longitudinal section through one of the combined type channels on plane of
line xx Figure 8 the rest of the apparatus being shown in elevation. Figure 13
a similar view of the front or setter portion of the apparatus showing the first
oscillating channel depressed independently. Figure 14 a similar view illustrating
the method of depressing all the setter channels together. A represents a bank or

page_text: series of receivers and conduits adapted to hand distribution. The receiving or
transfer channels b are mounted upon the table or frame B so as to coincide with
and constitute continuations of the receiver conduits a. At their front ends the
side walls of these receiving channels are continued forward over and beyond the
point of conjunction with the oscillating setter channels C so as to form a
continuous guide and lateral support for the type while it is being slid from the
one to the other.
The reciprocating pusher bar D (which is of ordinary comb form) for raising
and forwarding the types as they descend from the conduits a simply rests upon
open ways or slides d d so that when eccentric rods e e are disconnected, it may
be withdrawn bodily. The forward ends of the eccentric rods are slotted or hooked
so as to drop over pins or shoulders d'd upon the ends of the pusher D, so that
while they are held in position during use by gravity they may be quickly swung
back and away from the pusher, or as quickly reconnected with it. The shaft F
upon which the eccentrics E E, and driving pulley P, are mounted also seats upon
open seats or pillow blocks ff in order that it may be readily raised therefrom
after unshipping the driving belt, which passes over the driving pulley from below
so that in use it will tend to retain the journals of the driving shaft in their proper
positions upon the open pillow blocks. By thus mounting and connecting the
pusher bar and the driving shaft they may be quickly removed to give access to
the receiving channels b from the rear of the apparatus.
The principal object in thus providing for the removal and insertion of the
distributor receiving channels from the rear is to allow an empty channel to be
substituted in place of a full one in case the type of a particular denomination
should happen to be deposited in the distributing end faster than they were
removed from the setting end of the apparatus without interfering with the use or
operation of the setter channels.
The setter channels C are similar in general construction and operation to those
hereinbefore described. Each channel is pivoted at its inner extremity so that the
upper surface of its floor will correspond to and unite with that of the floor of the
distributor receiving or transfer channel b which is placed to coincide with it.
As shown in the drawings the combined gauge plate and finger piece c is per-
manently attached to the top of the oscillating channel although it may be inade
adjustable if preferred. Its office is to control the number of type to be withdrawn
from the channel and also to furnish a bearing or rest for the finger by which the
channels may be depressed independently. An opening or space c¹ is provided for.
the reception of the type shoulder or abutinent c² at the lower rear portion of each
oscillating setter channel. This shoulder or abutment c² sustains the lowest type
in a column when the channel is depressed, causing the upper portion of the said
lowest type to project beyond the top of the gauge plate and finger piece c
sufficiently to be grasped between the thumb and finger and withdrawn. In the
present case the outer front ends of the channels are formed with tongues or pro-
jections c which are engaged by arins or levers h projecting from a rock shaft H
mounted upon the front of the apparatus. The rock shaft is sustained with its
arms or levers in the highest position by one or more main springs i. The latter
are situated upon treadle rods t and act between shoulders t¹ upon the latter and
fixed supports u upon the frame; being limited in their expansion by stops u³ upon
the rods t which stops are provided with buffers vv to prevent jar. It is obvious
that springs may be otherwise placed, or analogous devices may be used to tend
constantly to sustain the levers or depressors in their highest position without
departing from the principle of the invention, which is to construct a depressor
capable of depressing all the channels simultaneously but which in its normal
position will allow all the setter channels to assume either their highest or normal
positions, or to be depressed independently. The extent of the downward motion
of the parts is determined either by the bottom of the setter channels coming in
contact with cushioned seats or stops k k in front of the stationary abutments or

page_text: type shoulders c² as shown or by other suitable stops arranged to limit the motion
of the parts.
To return the setter channels to their normal positions when relieved from
downward pressure I employ secondary, retractile springs which are shown as
attached to the undersides of the depressor levers h h and bearing upon the under
sides of the channel tongues or projections c³ ³. It is obvious that these springs
also may be varied in position the only requisite being that their elasticity shall
be so employed as to tend constantly to sustain the channels in their highest
position.
For the purpose of enabling the setter channels to be placed as close together as
possible and thereby bringing the requisite number of channels within convenient
distance of the compositor I make the alternate channels of shorter length than the
others, and also elevate the positions of their front ends a distance equal to the
extent of motion common to all, so that the types from these channels are presented
and withdrawn from a plane above and in the rear of those in the lower channels
sufficiently removed to obviate all danger of interference or inconvenience.
Instead of varying the lengths of the setter channels the same result may be
attained if desired by elevating the alternate channels of both the setter and
distributor a sufficient distance above those next adjacent, thus presenting the type
for removal in the same vertical plane but a sufficient distance apart to admit of
convenient handling.
It will of course be understood that the alternate stationary type shoulders or
abutments c² ², the seats or stops and the depressing arms or levers h h are
correspondingly elevated above those adjacent to make the extent of motion uniform
throughout the entire bank.
The operation is as follows:-The types are distributed into the receivers A and
descend through the conduits a to the distributor or tranfer channels b in which
they are raised and forwarded by the reciprocating pusher D against the resistance
of the slugs 8.
As occasion requires they are slid down into the oscillating setter
channels, the slugs s removed and replaced before the pusher, and a following slug s¹
placed upon the rear and top of the column. When a single type is desired the
compositor places his finger upon the top of the gauge or finger piece of the proper
channel and depresses the latter against the resistance of its secondary spring
thus bringing the required type between the thumb and finger. In withdrawing
the type the channel is allowed to conform to the action of the secondary spring,
which returns it to its normal position. The secondary springs as compared with
those operating the rock shaft H are of slight elastic power, being only strong
enough to raise a single channel filled with type, so that the main springs i i
effectually resist any tendency of the rock shaft to follow the downward motion of
the single channel. When more than one type is required or even when one is
required and. speed is essential, the operator presses his foot upon the treadle
forcing down the rock shaft or depressor H against the resistance of the main
springs thus depressing the front ends of all the setter channels and exposing a
type of each denomination in position to be immediately grasped and withdrawn.
When the compositor removes the pressure from the treadle, the main springs i i
and secondary springs ensure the return of all the parts to their former positions.
Since the compositor can again in a like manner depress all the channels with
his foot while engaged with his hands in placing and arranging the types already
taken in the stick it is obvious that he can work more rapidly than where each
channel has to be depressed independently by hand.
The third feature of the invention relates to devices for holding a page or
column of type that has been used and presenting the same to the operator for
redistribution by hand.
Heretofore these devices have consisted of a simple galley or box inclined at a
suitable angle, and furnishing support for a column of type placed therein in such
.manner that the types could only be removed from the top of the said column.

page_text: The mode of grasping and removing the types was thus rendered inconvenient and
difficult since as the face of the uppermost line of type occupied the same plane as
that of the rest of the column, the types required had to be drawn forward by
pressure applied above by one or more fingers before they could be grasped between
the fingers and thumb. This operation was retarded and rendered still more difficult
from the fact that all type that has been used is more or less "gummed" or stuck
tegether even after being subjected to the ordinary process of washing, thus
necessitating the application of considerable force in order to separate a portion of
the upper line from the rest and from the line underneath. For the same reason
the portion of the line removed had always to be "broken" or separated by and
between the thumb and fingers before the individual types could be dropped into
their respective compartments or receivers. It is the object of this part of the
invention to avoid these objections, and to facilitate hand distribution by presenting
each line of type as required in a convenient position to be grasped at once
between the thumb and fingers, and with the line thoroughly broken or
loosened so that its component parts may be readily disposed of. This part of the
invention thus includes, first, a galley or type holding compartment formed at the
bottom with a type column supporting shoulder or floor of sufficient width to
project in front of the position of the column of type the requisite distance to
support a line of type independently and having its rear and side walls slotted or
otherwise formed immediately above the said shoulder or floor to receive, and allow
the advance and retraction of a separator or "breaker "pivoted at one extremity in
such relation to the type holder that in its forward movement it will impinge"
against the individual types composing the lowest line of the column, separately and
consecutively so that they will be detached or loosened from each other by the
time the line has been pushed forward into position to be grasped by hand ;
secondly, making the separator blade, so pivoted, and the transverse receiving slot
in the lower side walls of the holder of less width, than the width of the narrowest
type to be used, so that the lowest line in a column will always be held against
any tendency to lateral displacement, thereby aiding and ensuring the action of the
separator blade in breaking the line, during the operation of cutting it off from
its column; thirdly, an adjustable side wall or partition for sustaining columns of
type of variable width in the holder against lateral displacement ending above the
type supporting shoulder or floor a distance equal to the thickness of the type
blade of the separator and less than the width of the smallest type to be used so as
to allow the separator to pass freely underneath, while at the same time it may be
made to bear against that side of the lowest line of type.
Figure 15 is a front elevation of the improved device; Figure 16 a side
elevation; Figure 17 a plan; Figure 18 a side elevation showing the galley secured
in a horizontal position; Figure 19 a sectional plan on line x x Figure 15; and
Figure 20 a section through the type supporting floor or shoulder and the lower
side walls of the galley, on line y y Figure 19.
The type holder or galley A. is pivoted upon a bracket or support a in such
manner that it may be turned back and secured in a horizontal position as indicated
in Figure 18 for greater convenience in filling and adjusting.
This bracket a is preferably mounted upon the distributor as indicated in
Figure 8, in a position most convenient ånd natural for the compositor.
When arranged for use it is preferably made to assume an inclined position
as shown in Figure 16 at least sufficient to cause the type to rest steadily in the
holder by its own gravity. The holder is sustained in this position by inclined
rests or stops a¹ projecting from the supporting bracket a or by other suitable
means.
The column of type T is supported within the holder A upon the floor or
supporting shoulder A'. This latter projects forward beyond the front edges of the
holder A a sufficient distance to furnish a support or rest for a line of type beyond
and in front of the base of the column of type contained in the holder. The
projection (which forms the lower lip of the line holder. B) is equal say to

page_text: about five-eighths or seven-eighths of "type high" so as to leave the front of the
line of type t when in position exposed sufficiently to be readily grasped between
the thumb and fingers.
In order to sever the lowest line of the column of type and bring it into its
independent position between the lips of the line holder B I pivot one end of a
separator and line breaker C (which is simply a straight edge or blade) to the floor
or supporting shoulder A¹ in such manner that when it is at the end of its forward
stroke its front edge will coincide with the face of the column of type contained
in the holder as indicated in Figures 15, 16, 17 and 19.
As the separator C recedes during its back stroke the column of type descends
by its own gravity so as to bring its lowest line against the floor or supporting
shoulder A' into position to be in turn pushed forward into the line holder B by
the next forward stroke of the separator. In order to detach the types in the line
one from the other, or technically to break the line I pivot the breaker or
separator C at a point in advance of the rear line of the position of the column of
type in the holder, as indicated in Figures 17 and 19, so that in its forward move-
ment the front edge of the separator will first encounter and start forward the first
type on the extremity of the line next the pivot and then the next type and so
on in succession until all have been started and pushed forward into the line
holder B when they again come into line with relation to each other.
By thus bringing the edge of the breaker C into contact with each type inde-
pendently and successively any adhesive tendency between the types arising from
"gumming" or imperfect cleaning is overcome and this is accomplished without
any additional labor or loss of time by and during the simple act of separating the
line from the column.
In order to facilitate this result and render the independent movement or start
of each type certain, I confine the extremities of the lowest line between the vertical
shoulders c c (as illustrated in Figure 20) so that all tendency to lateral displace-
ment is counteracted and the types are compelled to preserve their alignment in
moving forward. It is thus obvious that each type must necessarily be started
forward by the pusher C before the latter can come in contact with the next
succeeding type.
I accomplish this lateral support for the lowest line by making the pusher C
and the corresponding transverse slots, in the walls of the holder of less width
than that of the smallest type to be used as indicated in Figures 16 and 20. By
making the slot in the rear wall of the holder A of also the same width, the said
last line is supported against displacement in that direction. The breaker and
separator C may be formed with a handle as shown and operated by hand, or it
may be provided with a retractile spring and operated by a treadle if desired.
The line holder B consists of a projection b, of the supporting floor A¹ forming
the lower lip, and of an upper lip or Hange b' which holds the line against vertical
displacement.
A guiding and retaining plate G is secured to the front of the holder imme-
diately above the line holder B and projects upwards a sufficient distance to retain
the lower portion of the column and guide it accurately to position upon the
supporting shoulder A¹.
In order to compensate for variations in the width of the pages or columns of
type to be distributed I provide a movable side wall or partition D which may
be adjusted to just touch the side of the column of type and sustain the latter in
position, without binding it or retarding its descent. The distance between the
lower extremity of this movable side wall and the upper surface of the type sup-
porting floor A' is just sufficient to allow the passage of the separator C underneath,
and is less than the width of the smallest type to be used, for the reasons before
stated.
For the purpose of ensuring the even descent of the upper portion of the column
I employ a follower F of sufficient weight to carry the last line unbroken into
nosition upon the supporting floor.

page_text: Having now described the nature of the said Invention and in what manner the
same is to be performed as communicated to me I declare that I claim :-
First The stationary type holder C Figures 1 to 7 in combination with the
oscillating type containing channel adapted to receive or move over it substantially
in the manner and for the purpose described.
Secondly-In combination with the oscillating containing channel A and
stationary type holding shoulder C, the combined gauge plate, interchangeable
denomination mark and finger rest D Figures 1 to 7 arranged and operating
substantially in the manner and for the purpose herein set forth.
Thirdly-In combination with an oscillating type containing channel sub-
stantially such as described, the stationary type holding abutment C Figures 1
to 7 formed with the type supporting shoulder c, substantially in the manner and
for the purpose described.
Fourthly-In combination with the oscillating channel A and stationary type
holder C Figures 1 to 7, a retractor E for restoring the type containing channel to
its normal position when relieved from pressure substantially in the manner and
for the purpose described.
:-
.
Fifthly In combination with the oscillating channel A, stationary type
holder C and retractor E, Figures 1 to 7 the elastic buffer or stop F, arranged
and operating substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
Sixthly In combination with the oscillating containing channel and stationary
type holder C Figures 1 to 7 an adjustable device for suspending the said channel
arranged and operating substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
Seventhly In combination with a reciprocating pusher and a driving shaft
connected together substantially as set forth, the open ways and pillow blocks d d;
ff Figures 8 to 14 for the purpose of allowing the said pusher, driving shaft, and
connections to be quickly removed from position to give access to the rear of the
distributor channels substantially in the manner and for the purpose described.
Eighthly The combination with a type distributing apparatus substantially
such as designated of a series of oscillating type setter channels from the lower
ends of which the types are projected by stationary shoulders when the setter
channels are depressed, the said oscillating channels coinciding with, and being
pivoted so as to form continuations of the distributor receiver channels substantially
in the manner and for the purpose described and represented in Figures 8 to 14.
Ninthly In a combined type setter and distributor, substantially such as herein
set forth, the distributor or transfer channels having their side walls extending
forward over and beyond the point of junction with the oscillating setter channels
in combination with the latter having their upper rear side walls formed to
correspond with and form continuations of the said walls of the distributor
channels substantially in the manner and for the purpose described and represented
in Figures 8 to 14.
:
Tenthly In combination with a series of oscillating type setter channels from
the lower ends of which the types are projected by stationary shoulders when the
setter channels are depressed, substantially as set forth, a depressor adapted to
depress all the channels simultaneously, while at the same time in its normal
position it permits the channels to be depressed individually and independently,
substantially in the manner and for the purpose described and represented in
Figures 8 to 14.
Eleventhly-In combination with a series of oscillating type setter channels
from the lower ends of which the types are projected by stationary shoulders when
the setter channels are depressed, a depressor adapted to depress all the channels
simultaneously, provided with a treadle and retractile springs for the purpose of
operating it, substantially in the manner set forth and represented in Figures 8
to 14.
Twelfthly-In combination with a series of oscillating type setter channels
from the lower ends of which the types are projected by stationary shoulders
when the setter channels are depressed, and a depressor adapted to depress all the

page_text: channels simultaneously substantially as herein designated, a series of secondary
retractile springs attached to the said depressor and adapted to return the channels
individually to their normal positions after depression substantially in the manner
and for the purpose described and represented in Figures 8 to 14.
Thirteenthly-In combination with a type column holder formed with a type
supporting shoulder substantially in the manner and for the purpose described
a combined line separator and line breaker pivotted to the device at a point in
advance of the rear line of the position of the type column in such manner as to
impinge against and start forward cach type in the lowest line of the column
independently and successively during its forward stroke, substantially in the
manner and for the purpose described and represented in Figures 15 to 20.
Fourteenthly-A type column holder formed with a type supporting
shoulder, substantially in the manner and for the purpose described, having
transverse slots formed in its side walls of a width only sufficient to admit
a pivoted line separator of a thickness less than the width of the narrowest type
to be used in combination with such pivoted line separator, substantially in the
manner and for the purpose described and represented in Figures 15 to 20.
Fifteenthly. In combination with a type column supporting case and pivoted line
separator and breaker substantially such as designated, a movable side wall or
partition for the purpose of adjusting the holder to variations in the widths of the
columns of types, the lower extremity of said adjustable side wall ending a
distance above the type supporting floor or shoulder less than the width of the
narrowest type to be used, substantially in the manner and for the purpose described
and represented in Figures 15 to 20
In witness whereof I the said John Clayton Mewburn have hereunto set my
hand and seal this seventeenth day of January One thousand eight
hundred and eighty three.
J. C. MEWBURN (L.S.)