IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO WRITING INSTRUMENTS CARRYING THEIR OWN SUPPLY OF WRITING FLUID, PARTICULARLY TO THE CLASS TERMED STYLOGRAPHIC FOUNTAIN PENS."
Year: 1882

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Phillips Thompson, of the Agency for Foreign
Patent Solicitors, 6, Lord Street, Liverpool, in the County of Lancaster, and
of 323, High Holborn, in the County of Middlesex, Civil Engineer, for an
Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO WRITING INSTRUMENTS
CARRYING THEIR OWN SUPPLY OF WRITING FLUID, PARTICULARLY TO THE
CLASS TERMED STYLOGRAPHIC FOUNTAIN PENS."" A communication from
abroad by George Washington Carleton and Edmund Coffin, junior, both of
New York, and Alvah Sanford French, of Brooklyn, all in the State of New
York, United States of America.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Phillips Thompson
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 26th January 1882.
WILLIAM PHILLIPS THOMPSON of the Agency for Foreign Patent Solicitors
6 Lord Street Liverpool in the County of Lancaster and of 323 High Holborn
in the County of Middlesex Civil Engineer "IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING
TO WRITING INSTRUMENTS CARRYING THEIR OWN SUPPLY OF WRITING FLUID
PARTICULARLY TO THE CLASS TERMED 'STYLOGRAPHIC FOUNTAIN PENS."" A
communication from abroad by George Washington Carleton and Edmund Coffin
junior both of New York and Alvah Sanford French of Brooklyn all in the State
of New York United States America.
The Invention forming the subject matter of this application relates generally
to writing instruments carrying their own supply of writing fluid and particularly
to the class termed "stylographic fountain peus."
The Invention has for its object :-
1. The so construction of a pen barrell that it shall be better adapted for
carrying in the pocket without decreasing its ink-holding capacity.
2. So constructing and arranging certain portions of the pen body that increased
strength effectiveness and durability will result where now exists weakness and
unreliability.
3. So constructing the writing end or point of the pen that the protrusion of
the needle may be adjusted and regulated externally, without changing the position
of the needle which may remain stationary or opening the pen by separating the
sections thereof.
4. So constructing and arranging the air-supplying tube that much more space
for ink is provided within the pen than in the Mackinnon pen on which this
Invention is an improvement.

page_text: 5. So constructing the main parts of the pen the barrel and point section that
the pen may be filled without entirely separating these parts from their original
position as is now generally practiced.
6. So constructing the parts of the pen the barrel and point section whereby
the escape of air is permitted as the pen is being filled and
7. So arranging the valve mechanism that the same is by a provision provided
within the point-section prevented from falling down and obstructing the filling
opening when the pin is inserted for this purpose.
The Invention consists :-
1. In a peculiar novel construction of the ink cylinder or barrel of the pen the
same being a tube of somewhat greater but considerably shorter in length than
the barrels as heretofore made, one end of which is for a short distance reduced in
diameter, producing a shouldered smaller part of the same. The interior end of
this smaller portion of the barrel being screw threaded to receive the point
section.
2. In increasing the strength of the point portion of the point section-a point
where breakage occurs most frequently by increasing the diameter or material at
this point and making a regular taper from top to point of point-section instead of
reducing the size and making a shoulder as heretofore.
3. In so constructing the point-cover that it shall be of such length as to
entirely cover and protect the point section instead of only the point as heretofore,
whereby danger of breakage of the point of the point-section on removal of point
cover is avoided and the cover when put in position on top end of pen forms a
prolongation of the pen barrel thereby enabling the making of short barrels and
their use successful and practical.
4. In making the writing point of the point-section adjustable in relation to the
other part of the point-section whereby the proper relative protrusion of the
needle from the pen may be adjusted and regulated without opening the pen or
changing the position of the needle. New writing points can therefore because of
this provision be substituted for old ones without changing the entire-point
section.
5. In making the air tube somewhat shorter of larger diameter and providing
the air entrances thereto at the side or sides of the pen at or below the middle
thereof instead of having the air tube to extend from the extreme top of the pen
to at or near the bottom of the ink space as is done in the Mackinnon pen hercin-
before alluded to as also all others of this class of pens. Instead of the air tubo
being located in the cylinder of the pen it may be placed in the upper portion of
the tapering writing point or point-section as will hereinafter appear.
6. In providing an opening through the screw joint portion of the point section
of said pens for the purpose of charging the pen with writing fluid without
removing the point section as heretofore said opening being of sufficient size and
shape to admit the ready and proper insertion of the charging instrument and in
such position in the screw joint portion that a few, one or more threads of the
screw will remain both above and below the opening.
7. In providing or constructing the screw joint portion of the point-section of
fountain pens with a supplemental or additional opening to that made for the
introduction of the charging instrument for the purpose of furnishing an escape for
the air as the pen is being filled.
8. In the employment in connection with the perforated point section of a slotted
sleeve to form a stop to prevent the falling down of the valve (when this form of
device for controlling the flow of ink from the pen is employed) and obstructing
the opening through which the pen is filled.
9. In certain novel combinations and arrangements of the parts as and for the
purposes hereinafter more fully explained and shown and forming the subject
matter upon which the claims are based.
Heretofore the air tubes in this class of writing implements have usually been
made to extend from the extreme top of the pen to near the bottom of the ink

page_text: space. They were made quite small in order to give as great a space as possible
within the pen which also was made to prevent unwieldiness not much larger in its
external diameter or dimensions than an ordinary open holder or pencil.
The cost of manufacture and liability to stoppage and breakage of this long fine
tube is considerably greater than if it were larger in diameter and shorter in
length. To overcome these objections and at the same time to give additional room
for ink forms one of the objects of this Invention and as the desired result is
accomplished by making the air tube shorter and of larger diameter and providing
it with air entrances at the side or sides of the pen at or below the middle thereof.
The external opening or openings may if desired be covered by a perforated band
or slide which acts as a valve.
Heretofore also with fountain pens composed of a barrel or handle reservoir and
tapering writing point-section the filling or charging of the same with writing fluid
was performed by entirely unscrewing the point section and removing it from tho
barrel and then pouring or injecting the fluid down into the open mouth of the
barrel. Among the many objections to this plan may be mentioned that of the
hands and clothing becoming soiled by the accidental escape of ink from the pen
on separation of the parts, the entrance of dust to the pen and from the fact that
the point section containing the valve inechanism had to be laid away or placed
one side while the filling operation was being performed, the valve frequently
became displaced within and even lost from the point section. On unscrewing the
parts also the valve mechanism becoming displaced within the point section, upon
screwing the parts together again the needles have been frequently bent broken or
injured because of not being exactly in proper position.
All of these defects or objections are overcome or avoided by the present con-
struction and arrangement of the parts of the pen forming this branch of the
Invention. That is by providing the openings in the threaded part of the point-
section whereby the filling of the pen may be performed without entirely separating
these parts. The parts of the pen after being first put together always remaining
so therefore there being no removal of the parts the escape of ink is prevented as
also the displacement of the valve mechanism.
The following are the principal parts comprised in the improved pen.
The barrel the point-section the protector the air tube the writing point and the
needle for controlling the flow of ink from the pen. The barrel is made very much
shorter and of somewhat greater diameter than the barrel ordinarily mado-Ono
end of this barrel is for a short distance reduced in diameter forming a shoulder.
The interior of this end is screw-threaded to receive the point-section. Within tho
top end of the barrel is received a block which in case a long air-tube be used has
a central opening and receives the upper end of the air-tube--The top portion of
this block is screw threaded upon which is received a cap made of such size as to
just fit within the protector and hold the same in place when placed thereon.
The diameter of the end of the vessel and air cap are both the same and they
are adapted to receive the protector. In the old style of pen the protector only
protected a very small portion of the point and when removed therefrom and on
the top end of the pen was received upon a small projection on the top of the air
cap. In the present instance the protector envelopes the point-section is received
upon the barrel and not the point-section in one position and in the other is
received directly over the cap. Breakage of these parts is therefore by this means
avoided and a more pleasing outline given to the pen.
The point section instead of tapering nearly to the point and then terminating
in an abrupt shoulder is made to taper gradually from top to point, the point
being of an increased diameter and without shoulders-By thus forming the point-
section the weak portion is strengthened consequently the liability to break here is
removed. In the old style was not only caused by dropping or striking the pon
but the most frequent breakage was occasioned when endeavouring to remove the
point cover-A very slight lateral twist or wrench especially should the point-
cover stick-only being necessary to divide the parts at this place.

page_text: The writing point of the pen is composed of a metal tube with a head a portion
of which is made cylindrical and the front portion tapering to a point which is
dipped with a hard non-wearing material such as iridium.
A long finely screw threaded part form an upper extension of the head which
when in position enters corresponding screw threads in the point-section. By
unscrewing or screwing up this writing point the proper protrusion of the needle
from the pen point is regulated. A recess is formed at the end of point section
which receives the cylindrical part of the writing point. Said writing poing being
made to fix tightly within this recess whereby leakage is prevented.
When using this form of adjustable point the needle itself may have no means 1
for vertical adjustment at all. The adjustment of the needle can therefore
be regulated without opening the pen. At the commencement of the taper of the
metallic writing point at about the point is formed by squaring the sides of the
-point or otherwise a key head to receive a small key for adjustment.
Some of the numerous advantages of the herein before described construction may 1
be enumerated as follows:
By making the pen shorter greater convenience in carrying is obtained.
By making the point cover of the same size as barrel the required length of
handle for a writing instrument is secured.
The construction of the barrel and protector as shewn, the entire point section 2
is protected and all strain consequent liability of breakage of point of point-section
is removed.
By means of the adjustable writing point the trouble et-cetera of opening the pen
to adjust needle is avoided and a cheaper means provided for renewing worn or
injured writing points instead of renewing the entire point action as heretofore.
Instead of having the air tube extend entirely through from top to bottom as
heretofore it is proposed to proceed as follows:-
2
Through the reservoir at or near its lower portion is made a hole which may
extend through one or both sides. The air-tube is made very short and of such
size in relation to the internal diameter of the reservoir and point-section as to fit 3
close therein but having sufficient space to permit the free passage of ink. The
upper end of this air tubo may be curved and secured in the single open side of the
barrel or reservoir or the tube may be straight and enter a transversely placed tube
which has bearings on opposite sides of the pen Instead of the air-tube being
secured within the barrel it may be placed in the point-section and the air entrances
be made therein also.
This air-tube terminates at or near the lower end of the reservoir of the pen that
is it may end at or near the lower end of the reservoir at or near the lower part
of the point section.
In order to provide a means for hermetically closing the pen when this form of
air-tube is used it is proposed to adopt the following method.
A narrow circular band is provided with one or more openings-This band fits
within a groove of corresponding width formed around the pen immediately over
or in line with openings which are covered by the band. By turning the band in
one direction the opening is in the pen and by turning it in the other the non-
perforated part of the band comes over and closes these openings. By this means
air is admitted to the ink chamber or cut off therefrom as desired.
The advantages of having this form of short air tube as just above described is
that the air tube may be made larger and stouter thus the cost of manufacture and
liability of breakage is considerably lossened-Also the trouble of stoppage of end of
air tube by ink through capillary attraction. The space occupied by the air tube
heretofore is left for ink-thus a greater supply is maintained consequently the pen
may be used longer without replenishing.
The pen may be permanently closed at the top and the air valve band being
cheaper and casier of construction than the air cap the cost is reduced. The band
is also in a position that is more readily accessible by the fingers of the operator in
the act of writing.

page_text: Although having described the air tube as entering the pen about the centre
thereof and terminating at or near its lower end yet the air tube may be so
shortened that its points of entrance and exit may be directly at or near its lower
end, yet the air tube may be so shortened that its points of entrance and exit may
be directly at or near the extreme lower end of the pen-both nodes of construction
being considered equivalents.
The valve band may be dispensed with but it may be well to use this or some
similar arrangement to prevent entrance of dirt et cetera into the pen and
hermetically close the same to prevent evaporation of ink.
The main point relates not so much to the exact point where the air enters this
class of pens-in other words-the length of the air tube as it does to the point
where the air is delivered which must be as near the bottom of the column of ink
as possible. The length of air-tube will be governed by circumstances capillary
attraction must be overcome accidental breakage prevented breakage of the parts
and cheapness of manufacture will more or less affect the length size and position
of the air tube. The object of having the air tube extend down so far within the
pen is to have the air delivered at the lowest point of the ink coluinn and further
by taking the air tube down to near the lower part of the pen it may be made to
form the bearing and support for the needle or device for controlling the flow of
ink from the pen automatically in the act of writing. It must not be inferred
that any particular length of air-tube is claimed-the point being to locate the
entrance as near the lower end as possible consistent with practicability to obtain
as much room as possible within the pen for the occupation of ink.
The means for controlling or governing the flow of ink automatically in the act
of writing otherwise the needle stylus or needle valve as it is indifferently called
may be varied both in construction and in the mode of attachment to the pen.
Such for instance when the needle is nearly attached to outside end or projection
on air-tube such as when the needle stem plays within the air tube and receives its
bearing direct therefrom-Such as where a gravitating or whited valve is used
having no positive connection with the air tube but having the needle adjustably
secured to the head or weight-Or such as that where the needle is held in a case
which is secured to end of air tube and may thus be adjusted thereon by which
means also the protrusion of needle may be regulated and adjusted.
To prevent wear at the writing end of the pen it is tipped at this point with
iridium so also in the needle point thus tipped. The adjustment of these parts on
account of wear is therefore unnecessary after once been correctly set.
The air tube is in two sections united by screw or slip joint to facilitate
manufacture cleansing and when the ink controlling means is secured thereto may
form the means whereby the adjustment of the proper protrusion of the needle is
regulated. That is by lengthening or shortening the protrusion of the needle
from the pen point.
The top end of the barrel may be either left open with a screw cap in which
case if a short air-tube is used the pen may be filled from this point. Or tightly
closed and without screw cap in which case the pen is to be filled by one of two
ways 1. In the usual manner now employed vis. -by separating the barrel and
point section and pouring or injecting the ink down the inverted lower end along-
side the end of air-tube which projects slightly therefrom. 2. When the threaded
point of the point-section is provided with filling opening hereinafter described by
only slightly unscrewing or separating the barrel or reservoir and point-section
and injecting the writing fluid into the pen through this opening.
To provide means for filling the pen without entirely separating the parts-
the reservoir and point-section is proceeded about as follows:-
Through one side of the wall of the screw portion of the point-section at a point
just above the shoulder is formed an opening preferably of oblong shape and of
sufficient size to easily and readily admit the introduction of the charging instru-
ment. Opposite to this opening also in the threaded part is made another small
hole for the purpose of facilitating the escape of air should the filling instrument

page_text: occupy too much of the filling opening. Should this opening be made sufficiently
large the smaller opening may be found to be unnecessary.
It is proposed also to make the screw portion of the point-section somewhat
longer and to contain a greater number of threads than usual-to give ample room
for inaking the opening for filling and at the same time have sufficient length of
screw to securely unite the barrel and point-section when the parts are in order
for filling. But it is not proposed to limit the Invention to this feature for the
same end may be accomplished with the parts of the pen as now made.
Any form of valve or mechanism for controlling the flow of ink from the pen
may be used in connection with the perforated point-section-If the weighted
valve be used it is necessary that a stop be employed the office of which is to
prevent the displacement of the valve upon separating the section of the pen and
inverting the same for filling. This stop is of cylindrical form with flanges at the
top and slotted or open lower portion. When in position this stop fits down within
the mouth of the point-section. The flange preventing its too far insertion into
the point-section and forming a means for withdrawal of the same when desired to
clean or repair the pen. As will be seen the stop is of sufficient length so that
when in position and the pen be inverted for filling the spring in the top of the
valve will not reach the edge of the filling opening-the obstruction of this filling
opening is thereby prevented. The slot or opening being made or formed through
both sides of the stop and coming over the openings in the screw portion of the
point-section permits ready access to the interior of the pen for filling and the
escape of air while filling.
As before remarked the screw portion of the joint section may be somewhat
longer than usual and only one opening be formed for filling or two as found to
accomplish the desired result. But in case only one opening be formed it must be
of sufficient size to admit the mouth of tho filling instrument and also to permit
_the_ready_escape of air from the pen which occurs as the ink fills the pen otherwise
bubbling and splattering of ink at this opening will result.
In the operation of filling this class of pens to which the present several
improvements relate all that is necessary is to entirely unscrew the point section
the pen being partially inverted at the time and inject or pour the writing fluid
down into the open mouth of the reservoir or barrel or only unscrew the point
section sufficiently to permit the insertion in the proper direction of the filling
instrument through the opening in the joint into the interior of the pen. As the
ink flows into and occupies the barrel of the pen, the air escapes through one or
both of the openings where or opposite to where the filling is going on.
The point
section and barrel being still united by several screw threads no escape of ink is
permitted and the loss or displacement of tho parts prevented. The openings in
the threaded part are made sufficiently far from the shoulder of the point-section
as to ensure an effectual closing of the pen when the parts are screwed tight
together.
The perforated point section for filling the pen may as is evident be applied to
any form of barrel either the old or the new or any other construction of barrel.
So also may this perforated point-section for filling the pen be used without
reference to any special form of air-tube whether long or short or other shape or
construction.
The short air-tube may also be used without reference to any special construction
of the barrel and the barrel be used without reference to any special construction
of the air tube-The barrel may be of the old form with short air-tube or of the
new form with either short or long air-tube.
It is not proposed to confine the Invention to any special combination. or
arrangement of the several parts herein shewn and described and claimed as new.
The now parts may all be used together in ono implement or only certain parts
one or more of them be used in an old implement.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said William Phillips Thompson in the Great Seal Patent Office on the
24th July 1882.
William PhilliPS THOMPSON of the Agency for Foreign Patent Solicitors,
6 Lord Street, Liverpool in the County of Lancaster and of 323 High Holborn
in the County of Middlesex, Civil Engineer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING
TO WRITING INSTRUMENTS CARRYING THEIR OWN SUPPLY OF WRITING FLUID
PARTICULARLY TO THE CLASS TERMED 'STYLOGRAPHIC FOUNTAIN PEN.'" A
communication from abroad by George Washington Carleton and Edmund
Coffin junior, both of New York and Alvah Sanford French of Brooklyn all in
the State of New York, United States America.
The Invention forming the subject matter of this application, relates generally to
writing instruments carrying their own supply of writing fluid, and particularly to
the class termed "Stylographic Fountain Pena."
The Invention has for its object :-
1. The so construction of a pen barrel that it shall be better adapted for
carrying in the pocket without decreasing its ink holding capacity.
2. So constructing and arranging certain portions of the pen body that in-
creased strength effectiveness and durability will result where now exists weakness
and unreliability.
3. So constructing the writing end or point of the pen that the protusion of
the needle may be adjusted and regulated, externally, without changing the position
of the needle which may remain stationary, or opening the pen by separating the
sections thereof.
4 So constructing and arranging the air supplying tube that much more space
for ink is provided within the pen than in the Mackinnon pen on which this
Invention is an improvement.
5. So constructing the main parts of the pen, the barrel and point section, that
the pen may be filled without entirely separating these parts from their original
position as is now generally practised.
6. So constructing the parts of the pen, the barrel and point section whereby
the escape of air is permitted as the pen is being filled and
7. So arranging the valve mechanism that the same is by a provision provided
within the point section prevented from falling down and obstructing the filling
opening when the pen is inverted for this purpose.
The Invention consists:
1. In a peculiar novel construction of the ink cylinder or barrel of the pen, the
same being a tube of somewhat greater but considerably shorter in length, than the
barrels as heretofore made, one end of which is for a short distance reduced in
diameter producing a shouldered smaller part of the same.-The interior end of
this smaller portion of the barrel being screw threaded to receive the point-section.
2 In increasing the strength of the point portion of the point section, a point
where breakage occurs most frequently by increasing the diameter or material at
this point and making a regular taper from top to point of point section instead of
reducing the size and making a shoulder as heretoforo.
3. In so constructing the point cover that it shall be of such length as to entirely
cover and protect the point section instead of only the point as heretofore, whereby
danger of breakage of the point of the point section on removal of point cover is
avoided and the cover when put in position on top end of pen forms a prolongation

page_text: of the pen barrel, thereby enabling the making of short barrels and their use
successful and practical.
4. In making the writing point of the point section adjustable in relation to the
other part of the point section, whereby the proper relative protrusion of the
needle from the pen may be adjusted and regulated without opening the pen or
changing the position of the needle. New writing points can therefore, because of
this provision be substituted for old ones without changing the entire point-section.
5. In making the air tube somewhat shorter, of larger diameter and providing
the air entrances thereto at the side or sides of the pen at or below the middle
thereof, instead of having the air tube to extend from the extreme top of the pen
to at or near the bottom of the ink space, as is done in the Mackinnon pen
herein before alluded to, as also all others of this class of pens.
Instead of the air tube being located in the cylinder of the pen it may be placed
in the upper portion of the tapering writing point or point-section as will be
hereinafter appear.
6. In providing an opening through the screw joint portion of the point-section
of said pens for the purpose of charging the pen with writing fluid without
removing the point-section as heretofore. Said opening being of sufficient size and
shape to admit the ready and proper insertion of the charging instrument and in
such position in the screw joint portion, that a few, one or more, threads of the
screw will remain both above and below the opening.
7. In providing or constructing the screw joint portion of the point section of
fountain pens with a supplemental or additional opening to that made for the
introduction of the charging instrument, for the purpose of furnishing an escape for
the air as the pen is being filled.
8. In the employment in connection with the perforated point-section, of a
slotted sleeve to form a stop to prevent the falling down of the valve (when this
form of device for controlling-the-flow-of-ink from the pen is employed) and
obstructing the opening through which the pen is filled.
9. In certain novel combinations and arrangements of the parts as and for the
purposes hereinafter more fully explained and shown and forming the subject
matter upon which the claims are based.
Heretofore, the air tubes in this class of writing implements have usually been
made to extend from the extreme top of the pen to near the bottom of the ink
space. They were made quite small in order to give as great a spaco as possible
within the pen, which also was made, to prevent unwieldiness not much larger in
its external diameter or dimentions than an ordinary pen holder or pencil. The
cost of manufacture and liability to stoppage and breakage of this long, fine tube
is considerably greater than if it were larger in diameter and shorter in length.
To overcome these objections and at the same time to give additional room for ink
forms one of the objects of this Invention, and as herein before stated and will be
hereinafter more fully set forth and shown, the desired result is accomplished by
making the air tube shorter and of larger diameter, and providing it with air
entrances at the side or sides of the pen at or below the middle thereof. The
external opening or openings may if desired be covered by a perforated band or
slide which acts as a valve.
Heretofore, also with fountain pens composed of a barrel or handle reservoir
and tapering writing point-section, the filling or charging of the same with writing
fluid was performed by entirely unscrewing the point-section and removing it from
the barrel and then pouring or injecting the fluid down into the open mouth of the
barrel. Among the many objections to this plan may be mentioned that of the
hands and clothing becoming soiled by the accidental escape of ink from the pen
on separation of the parts, the entrance of dust to the pen, and from the fact that
the point-section, containing the valve mechanism, had to be laid away or placed
on one side while the filling operation was being performed, the valve frequently
became displaced within and even lost from the point-section. On unscrewing the
parts also, the valve mechanism becoming displaced within the point-section, upon

page_text: screwing the parts together again, the needles have been frequently bent, broken
or injured, because of not being exactly in proper position.
All of these defects or objections are as will be hereinafter seen, overcome or
avoided by the present construction and arrangement of the parts of the pen,-
forming this branch of the Invention—that is, by providing the openings in the
threaded part of the point-section whereby the filling of the pen may be
performed without entirely separating these parts. The parts of the pen after
being first put together always remaining so therefore, there being no removal of
the parts, the escape of ink is prevented, as also the displacement of the valve
mechanism.
Referring to the Drawings forming a part of this Specification:
Fig. 1. is a view of a long sized or desk pen upon which the present
Invention as illustrated in elevation in Fig. 2 is designed as an improvement.
Fig. 3. is a longitudinal, central, sectional view.
Fig. 4, a detached enlarged view of the writing point illustrating the mode of
adjustment thereof.
Fig. 5. a view showing the pen as closed and ready for carrying in the pocket.
Fig 6. an enlarged sectional view showing one form and Fig 7 another form of
the short air tube,
Fig. 8. illustrates the old long form of air tube.
Fig. 9. illustrates a central section through the point section, with the air tube as
applied therein.
Figs 10 and 11 views of a band and slide which may be used in connection
with the short air tube to close the external openings thereof and prevent evapo-
ration and entrance of dirt to the pen.
Figs. 12, 13, and 14 views of different forms of valves or means for automatically
controlling the flow of ink from the pen in the act of writing, adapted for use with
the pens described herein.
Fig. 15. a view representing the valve mechanism as arranged entirely within
the air tube of the pen.
Fig. 16. illustrates the old and usual method of filling this class of pens to
which the branch of the Invention illustrated in Fig. 17. (which represents the
proposed or new method and arrangement of the parts when filling) relates.
Fig. 18. a diametrical section through the point-section and lower portion of the
barrel, the parts being closed and ready for use, when constructed and arranged
according to this branch of the Invention.
Fig. 19. a detailed, enlarged view of the slotted stop for the valve, employed in
connection with the perforated point-section, to prevent the valve falling down
and obstructing the filling opening while the filling operation is being performed.
A is the barrel, B, the point-section, the protector, D the air tube, E the
writing point, and F the needle for controlling the flow of ink from the pen, G the
joint between the point-section and barrel or reservoir.
The barrel A is made very much shorter and of somewhat greater diameter than
the barrel, as ordinarily made, represented in Fig. 1. One end of this barrel at A'
is, for a short distance, reduced in diameter forming a shoulder A². The interior of
this end A' is screw threaded to receive the point-section B and a corresponding
shoulder A³, to that, A2, is formed at the interior end of the part A¹. Within the
top end of the barrel is received a block d, which in case a long air tube be used
as shown in Figs 3 and 8 has a central opening and receives the upper end of the
air tube. The top portion of this block & is screw threaded upon which is received
a cap e made of such size as to just fit within the protector and hold the same in
place when placed thereon. The diameter of the portion A' and air cap e, are both
the same and they as will be hereinafter seen are adapted to receive the protector.
In the old style of pen illustrated in Fig. 1, the protector only protected a very
small portion of the point and when removed therefrom and on the top end of the
pen was received upon a small projection on the top of the air cap. In the present
instance, the protector envelopes the entire point-section, is received upon the

page_text: barrel and not the point-section in one position, and in the other is received
directly over the cap. Breakago of these parts is therefore by this means, avoided
and a more pleasing outline given to the pen.
The point-section B, instead of tapering nearly to the point and then terminating
in an abrupt shoulder as shown at x, x, Fig. 1, is made to taper gradually from top
to point, the point E being of an increased diameter and without shoulders as
ata, Fig. 1-By thus forming the point-section the weak portion is strengthened,
consequently the liability to break here is removed. In the old style Fig. 1, the
breakage at the point was not only caused by dropping or striking the pen, but
the most frequent breakage was occasioned when endeavouring to remove the point 1
cover. A very slight lateral twist or wrench, especially should the point cover
stick, only being necessary to divide the parts at this point.
The writing point E of the pen is composed of a metal tube, formed as shown in
Fig. 4, with a head 1, a portion of which at 2, is. made cylindrical and the front
portion 4, tapering to a point which is tipped with a hard, non wearing material 1
such as iridium as in the enlarged view Fig. 4. A long finely screw-threaded
part 3, forms an upper extension of the head 1, which when in position enters
corresponding screw threads in the point-section. By unscrewing or screwing up
this writing point E, the proper protusion of the needle from the pen point is
regulated. A recess 5, is formed at the end of the point-section which receives the
cylindrical part 2 of the writing point. Said writing point being made to fit
tightly within this recess whereby leakage is prevented. When using this form of
adjustable point tho needle itself may have no means for vertical adjustment at all
such as shown in Figs. 9 and 13. The adjustment of the needle can therefore be
regulated without opening the pen. At the commencement of the taper of the 2
metallic writing point-at about the point 6, is formed by squaring the sides-of-the
point or otherwise, a key head, to receive a small key for adjustment.
Some of the numerous advantages of the herein before described construction
may be enumerated as follows:
By making the pen shorter, greater convenience in carrying is obtained.
By making the point cover of the same size as barrel, the required length of
handle for a writing instrument is secured.
By the construction of the barrel and protector as shown, the entire point section
is protected and all strain consequent liability of breakage of point of point section
is removed.
By means of the adjustable writing point, the trouble et cetera of opening the
pen to adjust needle is avoided and a cheaper means provided for renewing worn
or injured writing points instead of renewing the entire point-section as heretofore.
Instead of having the air tube extend entirely through from top to bottom as
heretofore, illustrated in Fig. 8 it is proposed to proceed as follows:-
3
Through the reservoir A at or near its lower portion is made a hole c, which
may extend through both sides as shown in Fig. 6 or only one sido as shown at
Fig. 7-The air tube D, is made very short and of such size in relation to the
internal diameter of the reservoir A and point-section B as to fit close therein but
having sufficient space to permit the free passage of ink. The upper end of this 4
air tube may be curved and secured in the single open side of the barrel or
reservoir, as shown in Fig. 7, or the tube may be straight and enter a transversely
placed tube f, Fig. 6-which has bearings on opposite sides of the pen as shown.
Instead of the air tube being secured within the barrel it may, as shown in Fig. 9,
be placed in the point section and the air entrances be made therein also. This 5
air-tube terminates at or near the lower end of the reservoir of the pen, that is it
may end at or near the lower end of the reservoir as shown in Fig. 6, or at or near
the lower part of the point-section as shown in Figs. 7 and 9.
In order to provide a means for hermetically closing the pen when this form of
air tube is used it is proposed to adopt the following method.
9, Fig. 10 is a narrow, circular band provided with one or more openings g¹.
This band fits within a groove of corresponding width formed around the pen'
5

page_text: immediately over or in line with the opening c, which are covered by the band.
By turning the band in one direction the openings gl come opposite the opening c
in the pen and by turning it in the other the non-perforated part of the band
comes over and closes these openings. By this means air is admitted to the ink
chamber or cut off therefrom as desired.
The advantages of having this form of short air tube as just above described are
that the air tube may be made longer and stouter, thus the cost of manufacture
and liability of breakage is considerably lessened. Also the trouble of stoppage of
end of air tube by ink through capillary attraction. The space occupied by
the air tube heretofore, is left for ink-thus a greater supply is maintained,
consequently tho pen may be used longer without replenishing.
The pen may be permanently closed at the top and the air valve band being
cheaper and easier of construction than the air cap, the cost is reduced. The band
is also in a position that is more readily accessible by the fingers of the operator in
the act of writing.
Although having described and shown the air tube as entering the pen about
the centre thereof and terminating at or near its lower end, yet the air tube
may be so shortened that its points of entrance and exit may be directly at or near
the extreme lower end of the pen-both modes of construction being considered
equivalents.
The valve band may be dispensed with but it may be well to use this or some
similar arrangement such for instance as that shown in Fig. 11, to prevent
entrance of dirt et cetera into the pen and hermetically close the same to prevent
evaporation of ink.
The main point re'ates not so much to the exact point where the air enters this
class of pens in other words-the length of the uir tube-as it does to the point
where the air is delivered, which must be as near the bottom of the column of ink
as possible. The length of air tube will be governed by circumstances, capillary
attraction inust be overcome, accidental breakage prevented, breakage of the parts
and cheapness of manufacture will more or less affect the length, size, and position
of the air tube. The object of having the air tubo extend down so far within tho
pen is to have the air delivered at the lowest point of the ink column and further
by taking the air tube down to near the lower part of the pen it may be made to
form the bearing and support for the needle or device for controlling the flow of ink
from the pen automatically in the act of writing. It must not be inferred that
any particular length of air tube is claimed, the point being to locate the entrance
as near the lower end as possible consistent with practicability to obtain as much
room as possible within the pen for the occupation of ink.
The micans for controlling or governing the flow of ink automatically in the act
of writing, otherwise the needle, stylus, or needle valve, as it is indifferently called
may be varied, both in construction and in the mole of attachment to the pen.
Such for instance the simple form shown in Fig. 9, where the needle is merely
attached to outside end or projection on air tube, such as shown in Fig. 15 where
the needle stem plays within the air tube and receives its bearing direct therefrom,
such as shown in Fig. 12 where a gravitating or weighted valve is used, having
no positive connection with the air tube, but having the needle adjustably secured
to the head or weight. Or such as that shown in Fig. 14 where the needle is
held in a case which is secured to end of air tube and may thus be adjusted
thereon by which means also the protrusion of needle may be regulated and
adjusted.
To prevent wear at the writing end of the pen it is tipped at this point
with iridium so also is the needle point thus tipped. The adjustment of these
parts on account of wear is therefore unnecessary after once having been
correctly set.
The air tube is as shown at L, made in two sections united by screw or slip
joint to facilitate manufacturo, cleansing and when the ink controlling means is

page_text: secured thereto, may form the means whereby the adjustment of the proper
protrusion of the needle is regulated. That is by lengthening or shortening the
sections of air tube one upon another thus lengthening or shortening the
protrusion of the needle from the pen point.
The top end of the barrel may be either left open as shown in Figs. 3 and 8
with a screw cap, in which case if a short air tube is used, the pen may be filled
from this point. Or tightly closed and without screw-cap as shown in Fig. 5 in
which case the pen is to be filled by one of two ways: 1. in the usual manner Fig. 16
now employed-viz: by separating the barrel and point-section and pouring or
injecting the ink down the inverted lower end, alongside the end of air tube
which projects slightly therefrom. 2, when the threaded joint of the point-
section is provided with filling opening hereinafter described, by only slightly
unscrewing or separating the barrel or reservoir and point-section and injecting
the writing fluid into the pen through this opening as shown in Fig. 17.
To provide means for filling the pen without entirely separating the parts, the
reservoir and point-section, we proceed about as follows:-Through one side of the
wall of the screw-portion B1 of the point-section at a point just above the
shoulder bis formed an opening y, Figs. 17 and 18, preferably of oblong shape,
as shown and of sufficient size to easily and readily admit the introduction of the
charging instrument. Opposite to this opening y, also in the threaded part B¹, is
made another small hole, for the purpose of facilitating the escape of air should
the filling instrument occupy too much of the filling opening y. Should this
opening y, be made sufficiently large, the opening may be found to be unnecessary,
but the arrangement shown is preferred.
It is proposed also to make the screw portion B₁ of the point-section somewhat
longer and to contain a greater number of threads than usual, to give ample room
for making the opening for filling and at the same time leave sufficient length of
screw to securely unite the barrel and point-section, when the parts are in order
for filling as shown in Fig. 17. But it is not proposed to limit the Invention to
this feature for the same end may be accomplished with the parts of the pen as
now made.
Any form of valve or mechanism for controlling the flow of ink from the pen
may be used in connection with the perforated point-section. If the weighted
valve be used as shown in Fig. 12, it is necessary that a stop S or provision similar
to that shown in Fig. 19, be employed, the office of which is to prevent the dis-
placement of the valve upon separating the section of the pen and inverting the
same for filling as shown in Fig. 17. This stop S, is of cylindrical form with
flanges s, at the top and slotted or open lower portions. When in position this
stop fits down within the mouth of the point-section as shown in Figs. 17 and 18.
The flange s preventing its too far insertion into the point-section and forming a
means for withdrawal of the same when desired to clean or repair the pen. As
will be seen the stop is of sufficient length so that when in position and the pen
be inverted for filling, the spring in the top of the valve will not reach the edge
of the filling opening, the obstruction of this filling opening is thereby prevented.
The slot or opening 8', being made or formed through both sides of the stop S and 4
coming over the openings yz, in the screw portion of the point-section, permits
ready access to the interior of the pen for filling and the escape of air while
filling.
As before remarked, the screw portion of the point-section may be somewhat
longer than usual and only one opening be formed for filling or two as found to b
accomplish the desired result. But in case only one opening be formed it must be
of sufficient size to admit the mouth of the filling instrument and also to permit
the ready escape of air from the pen, which occurs as the ink fills the pen, otherwise
bubbling and splattering of ink at this opening will result.
The operation of filling this class of pens to which the present several improve-
ments relate, will be apparent by reference to Figs. 16 and 17. All that is

page_text: necessary being to entirely unscrew the point-section, the pen being partially
inverted at the time, and in Fig. 16, inject or pour the writing fluid down into the
open mouth of the reservoir or barrel or only unscrew the point-section Fig. 17,
sufficiently to permit the insertion in the proper direction of the filling instrument
through the opening in the joint into the interior of the pen. As the ink flows
into and occupies the barrel of the pen-the air escapes through one or both
of the openings where, or opposite to where the filling is going on. The point-
section and barrel being still united by several screw threads no escape of ink
is permitted and the loss or displacement of the parts prevented. The openings
in the threaded part are made sufficiently far from the shoulder of the point-
section as to insure an effectual closing of the pen when the parts aro screwed
tight together.
The perforated point-section for filling the pens may, as is evident, be applied
to any form of barrel-either the old, represented in Figs. 1 and 16, or the new,
represented in Figs. 2 and 3 or any other construction of barrel. So also may this
perforated point-section for filling the pen be used without reference to any special
form of air tube, whether long or short, or other shape or construction.
The short air tube may also be used without reference to any special construction
of the barrel and the barrel be used without reference to any special construction
of the air tube. The barrel may be of the old form with short air tube or of tho
new form Fig. 2 with either short or long air tube.
It is not proposed to confine the Invention to any special combination or
arrangement of the several parts herein shown and described and claimed as new.
The new parts may all be used together in one implement or only certain parts,
one or inore of them be used in an old implement.-Claims being laid to these
special parts whether used alone, all combined or in combination with one or more
old elements.
Having now described the Invention as communicated to me, I wish it to bo
understood that what I desire to protect under the hereinbefore in part recited
Letters Patent is :-
1. The short thick barrel A, formed with a reduced shouldered portion A¹ A² A³,
which recoives the point-section and protector as herein before described.
2. In combination with the barrel A, with reduced shouldered portion A¹, A², A³,
the protector C, made of about equal length and diameter with the barrel and
adapted to fit on the part A', as and for the purposes herein before described.
3. The combination and arrangement in a fountain pen of a barrel made to
receive the point protector and point-section, a point-section united to barrel and a
protector fitting over the entire point-section and having its bearing on the barrel,
as and for the purposes herein before described.
4. In combination with a needle having no means for vertical adjustment, a
writing point adapted to be adjusted vertically for the purposes specified and
substantially as shown.
5. In combination with the point-section formed with recess a, the writing
point E, formed with tapering writing part 1, cylindrical part 2, fitting within the
recess 5, and screw shaft 3 as and for the purposes horeinbefore described.
6. The point-section B, made gradually tapering from top to point and without
abrupt shoulders near the point as hereinbefore described for the purposos
specified.
7. The writing point of a fountain pen made capable of vertical adjustment and
provided with a key head for adjusting same.
8. In a fountain pen an air supplying tube commencing at or near the centre of
the reservoir, extending directly downward and terminating at or near the lower
end of the same, combined with a perforated band or valve for closing the entrance
to the air tube as hereinbefore described and shown.
9. In a fountain pen an air supplying tube entering the pon at a point below the
top of the reservoir and terminating at the lower interior end of the point-section,

page_text: combined with a point-section having an opening through the screw-joint thereof
for filling the pen as herein before described and shown.
10. In a fountain pen in combination with the reservoir, the upper interior
portion of which is free and unobstructed for the occupation of ink, the air tube
entering the reservoir toward its lower portion and terminating at or near the
lower end of the pen, forming a stop for the valve, combined with said valve, as
herein before described.
11. The air tube of a fountain pen constructed with a vertically arranged portion
and a transverse borizontally placed portion, arranged either in the reservoir or
point-section of the pen combined with a sliding valve band for closing the entrances
to the same, as hereinbefore described and shown.
12. In a fountain pen, the perforated valve band or slide for closing the entrances
to the air tube, as herein before described and shown.
13. The combination in a fountain pen of cylinder, point-section with adjustable
writing point and air tube, entering below the top of the pen and terminating at
or near the lower end of the point-section, for the purposes specified and as shown.
14. The combination of short, thick barrel, short air tube and a needle having its
bearing on the air tube as herein before described and shown.
15. The combination with the short thick barrel, short air tube and needle
valve, of the iridium pointed writing tube and iridium tipped needle, as
described.
16. The combination and arrangement in a fountain pen of short, thick barrel
and point portion, short air tube and protector enclosing the entire point-section
and having its bearing on the barrel, as herein before described.
17. The point-section of a fountain pen formed with an opening through the
screw threaded or joint portion, of sufficient size to admit the mouth of the charging
instrument for filling the pen without separating the parts, as herein before set forth
and shown.
18. The point-section of a fountain pen formed in the screw threaded or joint
portion with an opening for filling and an opening for the escape of air, as herein-
before set forth and shown.
19. In a fountain pen, in combination with the point-section formed with
openings in the screw threaded or joint portion, the cylindrical slotted stop for
holding the valve mechanism in place as herein set forth and shown.
20. The combination and arrangement in a fountain pen of barrel or reservoir,
air tube extending through said reservoir and into the point-section, point-section
with perforated screw joint for filling the pen and valve having its bearing on air
tube, as hereinbefore set forth and shown.
21. The combination in a fountain pen of a plain barrel, an air tube extending
entirely through the same, a point-section with perforated joint for filling the pen,
a gravitating valve for regulating the flow of ink from the pen and a removable
stop to prevent the falling of the valvo when filling, substantially as hereinbefore
described and shown.
22. The combination in a fountain pen of a short, thick barrel with reduced
shouldered part A', air tube extending entirely through the same, a point-section
with openings in joint thereof for filling the pen and suitable valve mechanism or
means for controlling the flow of ink from the pen, substantially as hereinbefore
described and shown.
23. The combination in a fountain pen of a plain barrel, short air tube, point-
section with opening therein for filling the pen and suitable valve mechanism or
means for governing the flow of ink from the pen, substantially as herein before
described and shown.
24. The combination in a fountain pen of a short, thick barrel with reduced
part A, short air tube, a point section with or without opening therein for filling
and suitable valve mechanism or means for governing the flow of ink from the 5
pen, substantially as bereinbefore described and shown for the purposes specified.

page_text: 25. The combination and arrangement in a fountain pen of barrel or reservoir,
air tube terminating within the point-section, point-section with opening for filling
the pen, gravitating valve and stop to prevent said valve from obstructing the
filling opening when filling the pen, substantially as herein before described and
shown for the purposes specified.
In witness whereof I the said William Phillips Thompson have hereunto set
my hand and seal this Nineteenth day of July in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and eighty two.
W. P. THOMPSON. (L.S.)