matthewleechen/300YearsOfBritishPatents huggingface dataset:
A NEW OR IMPROVED FOLDING BEDSTEAD
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Francis Smith and Robert MoTaggart
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 11th March 1878.
FRANCIS SMITH, Cabinet Manufacturer, and ROBERT MOTAGGART, Designer, both
of Glasgow, in the County of Lanark, North Britain. "A NEW OR IMPROVED
FOLDING BEDSTEAD."
This Invention relates to the construction of folding bedsteads, which will be
more simple and convenient and less expensive than those heretofore in use.
And the nature and novelty of the Invention consist in the special construction
of the bedstead, which when folded up and closed will have the appearance and
partially or wholly serve the purposes of a chest of drawers, wardrobe, sideboard,
chiffonier, combined chiffonier and bookcase, or similar piece of furniture.
In constructing the bedstead in imitation of a chest of drawers, for example, the
front is formed in imitation of drawers but hinged at the bottom so as to fold down,
the knobs or handles being screwed into the wood in the ordinary way; and the
uppermost division or imitation drawer is hinged at its upper edge, so as to be
capable of swivelling or being drawn outwards by its handles to the horizontal
position, so that when the bed is to be folded down, this swivelling part forms the
rest or support for the foot of the bedstead or frame, keeping the knobs clear from
contact with the floor.
The top or lid of the bedstead or imitation chest of drawers is hinged at the back,
and is checked on its under surface round the ends and front, so as to slightly
overlap these when closed down, and thus firmly hold the front in its closed
position without the necessity of catches, bolts, or any other fastening. In this
way the bed or mattress is completely closed up inside the case during the day,
and when folding down the front for sleeping purposes the mattress or bed rolls
down into position from the interior, making a comfortable crib of sufficient length
for children: but when a longer or full-sized bed for adults is required the imitation
drawers' front is made double or of two layers of wood, the inner one sliding in side
grooves in the other, so as to be capable of being drawn out to the length desired;
and it is preferred to apply cross straps of girth web to either or both of the upper
bearing surfaces to give a more elastic or soft bed, instead of letting the bed or
mattress rest on the solid wood.

page_text: It will be obvious that the same general construction may be applied or carried
out for bedsteads in imitation of wardrobes, sideboards, chiffoniers, or the base or
lower part of bookcases, the construction of an imitation chest of drawers being
described as an example; and in this way great economy of floor space is secured
during the day, while the simple construction herein described renders the usual 5
tray or framing for holding the bed or mattress quite unnecessary, and the
swivelling rest before referred to obviates the necessity of specially affixing feet or
similar bearers each time the bed has to be folded down for use.
IMPROVEMENTS IN VELOCIPEDES AND OTHER SELF PROPELLING VEHICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by John Guy Wilson at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 2nd November 1878. A communication
from abroad by Max Felix Schmidtz, of Gorlitz, in the Empire of Germany,
Merchant.
JOHN GUY WILSON, of 71, Market Street, in the City of Manchester, and 8,
Quality Court, Chancery Lane, in the City of London, Mechanical Engineer and
Patent Agent.
"
IMPROVEMENTS IN VELOCIPEDES AND OTHER SELF PROPELLING VEHICLES." A
communication from abroad by Max Felix Schmidt, of Görlitz, in the Empire of
Germany, Merchant.
This Invention relates to an arrangement of mechanism mounted in a suitable
framework, whereby the operator can by using his own bodily weight actuate such
mechanism, and so propel himself along somewhat after the manner of riding
upon horse back, the improvements being equally applicable to propelling wheeled
vehicles running upon roads, to what may be termed railway velocipedes running
upon rails, and to self propelling boats.
In performing the Invention a saddle is affixed at the extremity of a lever
mounted in a suitable framework and conveniently disposed for the rider to place
bis feet upon a pair of brackets or stirrups affixed to the frame. The shorter arm
of this lever is connected by a connecting rod to another lever or arm branching
from a toothed segment, which gears in a pinion forming one piece with a ratchet
wheel mounted upon a shaft.
This same shaft carries a spur wheel gearing through a train of spur gearing
with the main axle of the velocipede or other vehicle, and has mounted upon one
of its sides a pawl taking into the teeth of the ratchet wheel hereinbefore men-
tioned. A strong volute spring is applied to the ratchet wheel to ensure its
returning to the first position, and so causing the saddle and lever arrangements to
rise as soon as the operator removes his pressure from the saddle by transferring
his weight to the stirrups.
.
The action of this mechanism may be described as follows :-The bodily weight
of the operator is utilised for propelling the vehicle by his being seated upon the

page_text: saddle, and as his feet are constantly resting upon the stirrups he can as soon as the
levers have descended the required distance transfer his weight momentarily to
the stirrups after the manner of-riding-upon-horse-back,and-thus-by-raising himself_
up and the mechanism following him (owing to the action of the volute spring), the
operator is placed in a position to take the next stroke and so the vehicle is
propelled along. A guiding rising from the front wheel of the vehicle serves to
steady the rider in position, and to enable him to steer with his hands with the
greatest nicety.
IMPROVEMENTS IN SELF-CLOSING DOORS AND GATES
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Martin, of 245, Oldham Road, Manchester, in
the County of Lancaster, Engineer, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN
SELF-CLOSING DOORS AND GATES."
Scaled the 8th October 1878, and dated the 9th April 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Martin at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 9th April 1878.
WILLIAM MARTIN, of 245, Oldham Road, Manchester, in the County of Lancaster,
Engincer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN SELF-CLOSING DOORS AND GATES."
This Invention consists of improvements in the construction of self-closing
doors and gates, and has for its object the construction of a door or gate with
cheap and durable self-closing arrangements, by which means all springs, cords,
rods, wires, or other appliances as at presont in uso are dispensed with.
To carry out my Invention I fix on the ground or floor a section of an incline
circle, and to the bottom of the door or gate a small wheel; on the door or gate being
opened, the wheel carrying the door or gate runs up the incline; and on the door
closing, the wheel runs down again, bringing the door or gate to its normal position,
and thus closes it.
The Invention is also applicable to double doors, where the same arrangement of
wheel and incline plane are made and fixed in a similar manner to that on the
single doors.
IMPROVEMENTS IN FIRE LIGHTERS AND IN THE METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Ashworth Pilling at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 1st October 1878.
"
ASHWORTH PILLING, of Antley, Accrington, in the County of Lancaster, Fire
Lighter Manufacturer. IMPROVEMENTS IN FIRE LIGHTERS AND IN THE METHOD
OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME."
This Invention consists in making fire lighters of a mixture of wood shavings,
paper, and resin, to which paraffin oil may be added if desired. The method of
manufacture is as follows:-
A sheet of paper (as long as can be conveniently managed) is spread on a flat
surface and a layer of wood shavings placed thereon. The paper and shavings are
then formed into a roll some inches in diameter, the outer edge of the paper being
brushed with melted resin or other adhesive material, so as to retain its shape.
Portions of any desired length are then cut off by means of a circular saw and the
outer edges dipped into a solution of resin, paraffin oil, or other inflammable matter.
Constructed as above the fire lighters are composed of shavings and paper in
alternate layers, but it is obvious that the proportion of the materials may be
varied, or if necessary that one of them may be dispensed with.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANU- FACTURE OF CLEANSING MATERIAL FOR WOOD, METAL, GLASS, TEXTILE FABRICS, AND OTHER MATERIALS AND ARTICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to John Henry Isitt, of 20, Bigg Market, Newcastle on
Tyne, Commission Agent, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANU-
FACTURE OF CLEANSING MATERIAL FOR WOOD, METAL, GLASS, TEXTILE
FABRICS, AND OTHER MATERIALS AND ARTICLES."
Sealed the 27th May 1879, and dated the 28th November 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said John Henry Isitt at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 28th November 1878.
JOHN HENRY ISITT, of 20, Bigg Market, Newcastle on Tyne, Commission Agent.
"IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANUFACTURE OF CLEANSING MATERIAL FOR WOOD,
METAL, GLASS, TEXTILE FABRICS, AND OTHER MATERIALS AND ARTICLES."
This Invention of improvements in the manufacture of cleansing material for
wood, metal, glass, textile fabrics, and other materials and articles consists in manu-
facturing the cleansing material and getting it into a convenient form for delivery
in commerce in the state of rock or powder, as required for the several purposes for
which it is to be used.
I take the ordinary soda ash of commerce as purchased from the manufacturers
and dissolve it in the proportion of about 1 lb. to a gallon of water. I then boil it
for about 4 hours, and in some cases I add during the boiling some fatty substance,
such as lard, tallow, or oil in the proportion to the soda ash of about one twenty
fifth part. I then pour the boiling liquid into shallow pans or vessels, say of an
inch or more in depth, and then immediately add more soda ash in powder till the
water in the pan is absorbed. It is then left to set or crystallize for about 12 hours,
at the end of which time it forms a solid mass, and can be turned out of the pan
in one piece. In this state it can be transported for sale, broken up into lumps, or
ground into powder.

page_text: The cleansing material thus made has very powerful detergent properties, and is
especially useful for cleansing brewers' casks and utensils of all descriptions. The
addition of the fatty matter makes it more suitable for metallic vessels, such as
pumps, publicans' taps, pipes, etc. It is also applicable to cleansing glass, paint,
textile fabrics, and generally all materials requiring cleansing where an alkali is
admissible.
5
IMPROVEMENTS IN COIN SORTERS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Frank Wirth at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 8th March 1878. A communication from
Wilhelm Drentwett, of München, in the Empire of Germany.
FRANK WIRTH, of the Firm of Wirth and Company, Patent Solicitors, at
Frankfort-on-the-Maine, in the Empire of Germany. " IMPROVEMENTS IN COIN
SORTERS." A communication from Wilhelm Drentwett, of München, in the Empire
of Germany.
This Invention relates to improvements in apparatus for automatically sorting
coins of different values and sizes.
In carrying the said Invention into practice I provide a series of plates or bowls,
which are constructed of tin or other suitable material pressed out of one picce, and
which have holes perforated in their bottoms of such size as to suit the sorting of
the various coins. At the centre of each of these plates or bowls is soldered a four-
cornered guide piece, through which passes a rod or bar in a vertical position. A
cover with a handle attached thereto is provided, both being removable together.
The aforesaid vertical rod or bar passes through the said cover, and into the stem of
the handle attached thereto; the said rod or bar is attached at its lower end to a
disc, which revolves in a horizontal plane. The said disc is attached to a piece
extending downward, which fits into a hollow space provided in a foot piece or
stand,, so as to slide therein telescopically in a vertical direction; within the said
hollow space there is a spiral.spring. The said downwardly extending piece is also
hollow at its lower end, and the said spiral spring extends into it.
A button is provided in the stand, which can be adjusted to prevent the down-
wardly projecting piece revolving when the plates or bowls revolvc.
In using the said apparatus the cover is removed, and the coins to be sorted are
placed in the top portion, when the cover is again placed in position'; then by means
of the handle the vertical rod is turned round, and with it the plates or bowls; the
said rod is also pressed down and rebounds, and the plates or bowls with it, and by
these operations the coins are caused to be shaken and thus to pass through the
apertures in the plates or bowls, as required, for sorting. The act of pressing down

page_text: the handle causes all the plates or bowls to descend, and then by releasing the
handle the aforesaid spiral spring causes them to rebound, and thus the coins are
shaken.
By repeating the said operations of turning and pressing down several times the
coins which were placed in the upper part all become sorted into their respective 5
plates or bowls, and the latter may then be removed and used as separate money
bowls.
IM- PROVEMENTS IN PLAYING CARDS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Patrick Francis Murphy at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 1st April 1878.
PATRICK FRANCIS MURPHY, of the City and County of Cork, Ireland. “IM-
PROVEMENTS IN PLAYING CARDS."
My Invention relates to improvements in playing cards, and has for its object to
enable the cards to be more readily shuffled and dealt, to render them more durable,
less liable to become soiled, capable of being washed or cleansed without injury, to
enhance their appearance, and enable the têtes or court cards to be more easily
distinguished.
According to my Invention the side edges of the cards are bevelled, so that
between all the cards of a pack there would be angular spaces at the edge, which
admit of the cards passing between one another more readily in the operation of
shuffling than when the cards have square edges, as at prosent.
The top and bottom edges of the cards are not bevelled, but are scolloped or cut
with indentations and projections, so that when held between the thumb and
finger as usual a portion of the pack can be more readily lifted and distributed
through the remainder of the pack than if the edges were smooth and even as
usual.
To render the card more durable, less liable to become soiled, I coat the surface
of both sides of the cards (after the same have been printed) with gelatine by any
of the known processes of gelatinizing, or with a varnish, thereby rendering the card
impervious to damp, and consequently capable of being washed without injury,
besides enhancing the appearance of the cards.
It is also found with most cards as at present printed that the têtes or court
cards are not sufficiently distinctive, and to render them more so, I substitute for
the ordinary tètes portraits of monarchs, eminent, celebrated, or other personages,
D017

page_text: thus improving the appearance of the cards and rendering them more attractive to
the [general player. The têtes are produced either by lithography, photography,
engraved plate, or block printing, or by stencilling, after which the printed sheet of
cardboard is gelatined as above mentioned on both sides, so as to completely cover
the entire surface and effectually prevent the cards from becoming readily soiled.
5
IMPROVED MEANS AND APPARATUS FOR PROTECTING BRICKS ON THE HACKS OR DRYING GROUND
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by George Featherby at the Office of
the Commissioners of Patents on the 3rd January 1878.
GEORGE FEATHERBY, of Herne Hill, in the County of Surrey. "IMPROVED
MEANS AND APPARATUS FOR PROTECTING BRICKS ON THE HACKS OR DRYING
GROUND."
Heretofore various permanent or removable covers of roofs have been employed
for protecting bricks on the hack or drying ground. Now the object of this
Invention is to provide a roof or covering of such a nature as to afford facility for
adjustment of the parts of the roof, so as to protect the bricks against the rain
when required, and to facilitate the action of the sun and wind or air. For this
purpose I make the two sides of the roof to hinge at the top and to connect by
means of one or more cords, chains, rods, or quadrants.
A convenient way of carrying this Invention into effect is as follows:-I make
the roof in separate short lengths or portions, and connect the two flaps of each by
a cord with a knot at each end, and passing through a hole in each, the cork being
on the upper side and the knots on the under side; by pulling one end of the cord
and raising the flap through which it passes, and fastening the cord end to this flap,
I place this latter in a raised position while the other flap is down, or both flaps
may simultaneously be raised into the vertical position.
According to the position of the sun and the direction of the wind, I may thus
expose one side or the other, or both, thus also facilitating the "skintling" operation.
By suitable rods, cords, or gearing, a row of such short roofs may be operated
simultaneously, thus effecting a great saving in time and labour.
One flap may extend over the opposite one, so as to keep the rain out more
perfectly.
The roofs may be made of wood, iron, or other suitable roofing material, and are
attached to posts.
By the above means thatching with straw is dispensed with.
BINDING OR TYING SHEAVES OF WHEAT OR OTHER CEREALS, BUNDLES, OR PARCELS WITH STRING OR OTHER BINDING MATERIAL, APPLICABLE TO HARVESTING MACHINES, OR CONSTITUTING IN ITSELF A SEPARATE IMPLEMENT, HAVING THE SAME MECHINISM
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Harry Simmons at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 31st August 1878.
HARRY SIMMONS, of Southsea, in the County of Hants, Engineer.
"BINDING
OR TYING SHEAVES OF WHEAT OR OTHER CEREALS, BUNDLES, OR PARCELS WITH
STRING OR OTHER BINDING MATERIAL, APPLICABLE TO HARVESTING MACHINES, OR
CONSTITUTING IN ITSELF A SEPARATE IMPLEMENT, HAVING THE SAME MECHINISM."
Firstly. An endless webbing or gatherer by means of which the cut stalks,
bundles, or parcels are drawn towards a compresser and suitably shaped springs.
Secondly. A compresser and suitably shaped spring between which the sheaf,
bundle, or parcel is held and pressed against the string or binding material left in
a vertical position across the path of the sheaf, bundle, or parcel by a suitably
arranged arm or needle bar, the string or binding material having been secured by
means of a cleat or pincer beneath a platform.
Thirdly. An arm or needle bar by means of which in its descent a loop is formed
in or upon that part of the string or binding material between the cleat or pincer
and the reel, from which reel the string or binding material is drawn.
Fourthly. Reciprocating fingers placed beneath a platform by means of which a
second loop is formed in or upon that part of the string or binding material between
the cleat and pincer and arm or needle bar, through which second loop the first is
passed.
Fifthly. A pair of reciprocating pincers by means of which the end of the string
or binding material is seized and passed through the first formed loop, retaining the
string or binding material whilst the arm or needle bar in its ascent draws the knot
tight, the reciprocating fingers and cleat having released the string or binding
material.
Sixthly. A suitable knife or cutter formed on one of the reciprocating fingers by
means of which the string or binding material is severed, the cleat or pincer having
secured fresh hold on the tightened string.
IN TRAMWAYS AND APPARATUS FOR CLEANING THE SAME'
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by James Rac at the Office of the Com-
missioners of Patents on the 26th October 1878.
JAMES RAE, of Sydenham, in the County of Kent, Engineer.
IN TRAMWAYS AND APPARATUS FOR CLEANING THE SAME'
"
"IMPROVEMENTS
This Invention relates, firstly, to an improved tram rail in which two grooves of
suitable shape are formed, one in the top and the other in the bottom of the rail, in
such a manner that the rail when worn may be reversed or turned upside down.
On the top of the longitudinal sleeper supporting the rails are formed tongues or
projections corresponding in shape to the grooves in the rails; or these tongues may
consist of seperate strips of wood or metal properly fixed upon the sleepers. In
this manner the rails are prevented from slipping sideways, and iron spikes or dogs
fasten them down to the sleepers. Iron plates are used at the butt joints of the
sleepers to ensure a fair seating for the rails, and transverse stays or sleepers keep
the lines of rails in their right position.
Another improvement relates to an apparatus for keeping the rails free from
stones or other inatter. At both ends of the tram cars metal rakes or scrapers are
fitted in line with the rails, and rise or fall according to the direction in which the
car travels. These scrapers are formed or fixed on the ends of iron bars placed in a
vertical or inclined position and free to slide in brackets or guides fixed to the car.
Upon the upper ends of the scraper bars racks are formed, and toothed sectors
acting thereon enable the driver to throw the scrapers into and out of action as
required, or in lieu of sectors worm wheels or other suitable means may be used.
Sometimes springs are fitted so that the scrapers may act efficiently notwithstanding
the rocking or jolting of the car.
Another plan consists of attaching the scrapers to longitudinal iron bars suspended
from the car wheel axles, springs being used to prevent breakage through undue
strain; suitable rods, levers, or other means are used for throwing the scrapers into
and out of action.
IMPROVEMENTS IN FURNACES FOR MELTING METALS AND METALLIC ALLOYS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by William Edward Everitt at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 26th July 1878.
WILLIAM EDWARD EVERITT, of Birmingham, in the County of Warwick, Manu-
facturer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN FURNACES FOR MELTING METALS AND METALLIC
ALLOYS,"
"
My said Invention has reference to furnaces of the kind commonly called
regenerative furnaces;" and my said Invention consists in arranging that portion
of the said furnaces and parts connected therewith in which the melting of the
metal or alloy is effected in the manner herein-after described.
Midway between the two parallel regenerators I form a row of equidistant small
heating or melting chambers, the said chambers being of a size suitable for the
reception of the largest crucible or melting pot to be used with the furnace. Each
of these chambers is provided with flues at opposite sides, which flues connect them
with the regenerators, and each flue is provided with a damper so that either of the
said melting chambers may be connected with either of the regenerators or discon-
nected therefrom at pleasure. Each of the melting chambers is provided with a
moveable cover, similar to the covers used in ordinary melting furnaces.
By the construction described each melting pot or crucible is heated independently.
of the others, and the inconvenience is thereby avoided which arises when a number
of melting pots or crucibles are beated in one large heating or melting chamber.
In removing one melting pot from the said large melting chamber the tem-
perature of some or all of the other melting pots is thereby more or less affected.
By effecting the heating or melting in a series of chambers, each holding one
melting pot, each melting pot is operated upon by the frame and heated air inde-
pendently of the others, and the removal of one melting pot from its chamber has
no effect on the other melting pots.
By means of the dampers described the workman is enabled to remove and
introduce casting or melting pots from and into their heating chambers without
discomfort, as the heating chamber during the introduction and removal of the
casting or melting pot can be completely shut off from the furnace, and the rush of
[Prine 1

page_text: flame and heated air from the heating chamber on the removal of its cover is
avoided.
In addition to the advantages already enumerated furnaces constructed according
to my Invention give to the workman a power of controlling and regulating the
heat of the several melting pots wholly unattainable in heating chambers of large
size and containing several melting pots.
My Invention is specially applicable to furnaces for melting copper and brass for
casting ingots or other articles, but may also be applied to the melting of other
metals and metallic alloys.
VERTICAL SIFTING MACHINE FOR FLOUR AND OTHER MATERIALS
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Carl Pieper at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 21st March 1878. A communication from
Adolph Wilhelm Schoenleben, of Bitterfeld, Prussia.
CARL PIEPER, of Dresden and Berlin.
"VERTICAL SIFTING MACHINE FOR FLOUR
AND OTHER MATERIALS." [A communication by Adolph Wilhelm Schoenleben,
of Bitterfeld, Prussia.]
This Invention substantially consists in arranging the sifting surface or the sifter
proper in the shape of an inverted cone, and in causing the same to rotate on its
vertical axis.
Within a casing, by preference of octagonal shape, a vertical shaft revolves in
suitable bearings. To the lower end of the said shaft a boss is keyed, having arms
which carry a short hollow cylinder. On this cylinder a wooden ring is fixed, into
which a number of wooden ledges are tenoned, radiating conically, and connected
at the top by another ring. To the conical or pyramidal framework thus formed
the gauze or other sifting material is attached. The said vertical shaft is driven by
suitable gearing.
On this shaft a fan revolves loosely inside of the conical sifter, the blades of the
fan being inclined so as to drive air through the gauze.
The material to be sifted is introduced into the machine by feeding apparatuses
provided with grooved rollers, and is equally distributed over the surface of the
sifter while it rotates.
To the outside of the said hollow cylinder, which carries the framework of the
sifter, a number of arms are fixed provided with inclined boards, which rake the
flour collecting on the bottom of the casing towards openings in this bottom.
The framework of the sifter may be made of iron, and, according to the special
purpose, silk, wire, or other gauze, or perforated sheet metal, may be applied.
AN IMPROVED COMBINATION LETTER FILE AND SELF BINDER
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Josiah Lewis Chapin at the Office of
the Commissioners of Patents on the 28th November 1878.
JOSIAH LEWIS CHAPIN, temporarily of 14, Southampton Buildings, in the County
of Middlesex, Gentleman. "AN IMPROVED COMBINATION LETTER FILE AND SELF
BINDER."
This Invention consists of an improved letter, bill, or paper file, which may also
be utilized as a permanent file or binder, and by the use of which letters or papers
may be readily referred to and removed, or may remain as at first filed ready
secured for being packed or stored away. To effect these results I prefer to use for
the file or binder metal pins, which may be made from wire of any desired size or
material in general form or shape not dissimilar to the "safety" or "nursery" pins
now in use, but with this essential modification, that the back or portion parallel
to the pin itself should for the purposes of this Invention be bent or corrugated
into one or more outward U or other shaped corrugations of sufficient depth to pass
through a slit or slits in the back of a pasteboard or other box or "backing," such
elit or slits being of sufficient length to permit the aforesaid bent or corrugated
portions of the file or binder only to pass through them, leaving a space for the
extremities of the back of the pin to brace or shoulder against the back of said box
or "backing." The entire file or binder is held in its position by passing oue or more
spring or split pins through or under the bent or corrugated portions of the back of
the pin as they protrude through the aforesaid box or "backing," which in length
should approximately equal or be slightly in excess of the length of the letters or
papers which it is intended to file, while the breadth should approximately equal
the length of the pin or file itself. It is also evident that an index, alphabetical
or otherwise, may be used in conjunction with this Invention if considered
desirable.

page_text: The letters, papers, or bills are filed on the straight portion of the pin, which
when full may be removed from the box or backing (by withdrawing the spring or
split pins as here-in before named), and fresh pins or files inserted therein without
disturbing the letters or papers filed thereon, the pins in this case forming a perma-
nent file or binder.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE HYDRAULIC MAINS, STAND PIPES, AND OTHER CONDUITS OR RECEPTACLES FOR GAS EMPLOYED IN THE MANUFACTURE THERE OF
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Charles Denton Abel at the Office of
the Commissioners of Patents on the 9th May 1878. A communication from
abroad by Aristide Edouard Servier, Dimitri Mounier, and Paul Rouget, trading
as La Societé Servier, Mounier, et Rouget, of Paris, France.
CHARLES DENTON ABEL, of Southampton Buildings. in the County of Middlesex.
"IMPROVEMENTS IN THE HYDRAULIC MAINS, STAND PIPES, AND OTHER CONDUITS OR
RECEPTACLES FOR GAS EMPLOYED IN THE MANUFACTURE THERE OF." [A communi-
cation from abroad by Aristide Edouard Servier, Dimitri Mounier, and Paul Rouget,
trading as La Societé Servier, Mounier, et Rouget, of Paris, France.]
This Invention has for its object to prevent the formation of pitch and of other
solid condensod deposits in the stand pipes and on the covers of gas retorts, the
hydraulic mains, and other conduits or receptacles for the gas. Such solid deposits
are formed by the tar which becomes condensed in the pipes flowing down to any
point where it can collect, whereupon, owing to the temperature of the gas passing
through the pipe being slightly higher than that of the tar thus collected, the latter
distils off, leaving a solid residue behind.
According to the present Invention this action is prevented by forming upon the
external surfaces of the pipes, covers, hydraulic mains, and other conduits and
receptacles, ribs or other projections, so as to offer considerable surface to the
cooling action of the external air. By this means the pipes are cooled with
sufficient rapidity to reduce the temperature of the gas passing through them to
that of the tar deposited; and thus the distilling of the latter is prevented.
IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR CONDENSERS OF CARDING ENGINES
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Squire Roberts, of Cleckheaton, in the County of York,
Card Manufacturer, and Stead Hirst, Engineer, of Golcar, near Huddersfield,
in the County of York, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS
FOR CONDENSERS OF CARDING ENGINES."
Sealed the 15th November 1878, and dated the 30th May 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Squire Roberts and Stead
Hirst at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 30th May 1878.
SQUIRE ROBERTS, of Cleckheaton, in the County of York, Card Manufacturer, and
STEAD HIRST, Engineer, of Golcar, near Huddersfield, in the County of York.
"IM-
PROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR CONDENSERS OF CARDING ENGINES."
This Invention relates to an apparatus applied to the condensers of carding
engines for dividing the thread when the thread overlaps and gets into the spaces
between the card strips of the doffer cylinder.
My arrangement is as follows:-I place a small roller under or at a convenient
angle to the doffer cylinder, the said roller having a series of single rows of card
teeth at such intervals around its periphery that each row cones in the space
between the card strips of the doffer.
The small roller is caused to rotate in an opposite direction to the doffer, and
thus divides or clears away whatever thread or fibre may overhang or lay between
the strips.
I also place a circular cleaner or brush under the small roller to clean or brush
away the bits of thread or fibre, &c.
IMPROVEMENTS IN COATING OR COVERING ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH WIRES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by William Abbott at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 15th May 1878.
WILLIAM ABBOTT, of the Firm of Anderson, Abbott, and Anderson, of Queen
Victoria Street, in the City of London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN COATING OR COVERING
ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH WIRES."
My Invention relates to an improved method of coating or covering electric
telegraph wires, and consists in the employment for that purpose of cotton or other
suitable yarn or fibre impregnated with the residuum from the distillation of
ozokerite in a liquid or heated condition, as described in the Specification to former
Letters Patent granted to me, dated the 17th March, 1877, No. 1087.
In carrying out my Invention I take the telegraph wire, and either first apply
thereto any ordinary or suitable insulating material or composition, and then by
means of a braiding machine or otherwise I plait or braid the wire over with cotton
or other suitable yarn or fibre impregnated, either previously to the braiding opera-
tion or subsequently, or both, with the said residuum from the distillation of ozoke-
rite in a liquid or heated condition, or I dispense with the layer of insulating
material or composition, and apply direct to the wire the braiding of cotton or other
suitable yarn or fibre impregnated with the said residuum from the distillation of
ozokerite, the same being in either case covered if necessary with a layer or covering
of any suitable material or composition.
If desired, two or more layers of braiding, impregnated as before mentioned, may
be employed, and with or without the interposition of intermediate layers of any
suitable composition.
IM- PROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND EXHAUST NOZZLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by James Marshall at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 13th April 1878.
JAMES MARSHALL, of Gainsborough, in the County of Lincoln, Engineer. "IM-
PROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND EXHAUST NOZZLES."
This Invention relates to a particular arrangement of blast nozzle applicable to
portable traction and locomotive engines, by the adoption of which the exhaust
steam is distributed over the whole area of the chimney, acting as an efficient spark
extinguisher.
The nozzle in question comprises a pipe with a trumpet or bevil-shaped end, into
which latter a cone of suitable form, having a central hole, is fitted; this cone is
adjustable, and the arrangement gives a volume of exhaust steam round the
trumpet or bevil-shaped mouth of the pipe as well as up the centre hole of the cone,
thus effectually filling the area of the chimney.
In cases where a steam jet is applied this may be introduced in the exhaust pipe
underneath the trumpet mouth, and thus secure a similar distribution of steam from
the boiler, as is effected by the exhaust steam when the engine is in work,
AN IMPROVED COMBINED APPARATUS FOR WRITING EITHER WITHI FLUID OR WITH SOLID INK
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Leopold Beral Bertram at the Office
of the Commissioners of Patents on the 20th March 1878.
LEOPOLD BERAL BERTRAM, of New Wandsworth, in the County of Surrey,
Gentleman. "AN IMPROVED COMBINED APPARATUS FOR WRITING EITHER WITHI
FLUID OR WITH SOLID INK."
This Invention relates to a peculiar arrangement of combined apparatus forming
a penholder or case adapted for receiving an ordinary nib for writing either with
common ink or with water (by the aid of what is commonly known as "solid ink")
as occasion may require.
In carrying out my said Invention I combine with the penholder a separate
holder situate inside the penholder and working independently of the usual slide
which carries the nib. This separate holder is shaped at its outer end somewhat
after the fashion of a crayon holder, and carries a piece of "solid ink" of any
desired color, which is capable of being propelled outwards towards the point of the
nib or withdrawn inwards into the interior of the penholder, according as the user
intends to write with solid or with fluid ink.
Any convenient or well-known mechanical device may be employed for propelling
and withdrawing the holders for the nib and the "solid ink" respectively, as, for
example, an ordinary slot and slide, or spiral grooves or screw threads, or racks and
pinion, as is well understood.
A reserve or magazine may be formed on the penholder for containing various
pieces of different colored inks, say red, blue, and black, so that by simply changing
the piece of ink writing of any desired colour may be produced with wator when
the "solid ink" has been propelled forward by the same pen that is employed for
ordinary ink when such is available.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MATERIAL FOR of Middlesex, for the Invention of LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S DRESSES
Year: 1878

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Henry Jacob Jordan, 90, Chancery Lane, in the County
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MATERIAL FOR
of Middlesex, for the Invention of
LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S DRESSES."
Sealed the 10th January 1879, and dated the 1st October 1878.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Henry Jacob Jordan at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 1st October 1878.
HENRY JACOB JORDAN, 90, Chancery Lane, in the County of Middlesex.
PROVEMENTS IN THE MATERIAL FOR LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S DRESSES."
"IM-
This Invention relates to the novel application of that class of fabric well known
as bunting to the manufacture of ladies' and children's clothing. Bunting has
hitherto been much used for making all kinds of flags, but is never used for clothing
for women or children.
The advantage of the employment of this material in the manner before mentioned
are that it is little affected by heat or rain, and that it is more durable and less expen-
sive than other fabrics, presenting an equally good appearance.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said Henry Jacob Jordan in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 31st
March 1879.
"
HENRY JACOB JORDAN, 90, Chancery Lane, in the County of Middlesex. IM-
PROVEMENTS IN THE MATERIAL FOR LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S DRESSES."
This Invention relates to the novel application of that class of fabric well known
as bunting to the manufacture of ladies' and children's clothing. Bunting has
hitherto been much used for making all kinds of flags, but is never used for clothing
for women and children.
The advantages of the employment of this material in the manner before men-
tioned are that it is little affected by heat or rain, and that it is more durable and less
expensive than other fabrics, presenting an equally good appearance.
Having now described the nature of my Invention and the manner in which the
same is to be used, I wish it to be understood that what I claim as my Invention is,
the application and adaptation of that class of fabric known as bunting to the
manufacture of or use for ladies' and children's clothing.
In witness whereof, I, the said Henry Jacob Jordan, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Thirty-first day of March, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and seventy-nine.
HENRY JACOB JORDAN. (L.S.)
A SYSTEM OF RAILWAYS, THE CARS RUNNING WITH ONE LINE OF WHEELS ON ONE RAIL AND KEPT IN BALANCE BY ANOTHER LINE OF WHEELS ON THE TOP OF THE CARS, WHICH WHEELS RUN IN ANOTHER RAIL
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Albert Oppenheimer at the Office of
the Commissioners of Patents on the 11th March 1878.
ALBERT OPPENHEIMER, living at 116, Adelaide Road, London, N.W. "A SYSTEM
OF RAILWAYS, THE CARS RUNNING WITH ONE LINE OF WHEELS ON ONE RAIL AND
KEPT IN BALANCE BY ANOTHER LINE OF WHEELS ON THE TOP OF THE CARS, WHICH
WHEELS RUN IN ANOTHER RAIL."
It is a new system of railways, constructed in a similar manner as the railways
now in use, but with the following important alterations:-
Instead of two lines of wheels there will only be one in the middle of the cars,
which therefore run on only one rail. Besides there will be a line of wheels on the
top of the cars, which wheels running in a second rail above the train, will keep it
in balance. This system of railway engines and cars, practicable as well for under-
ground as overground railways (see the two designs hereby), will be of public
utility.
It offers advantages of which, after the idea of the Inventor, the following under
No. 1 to 12 will be very important ones:-
1
1. Greater quickness, as there is less resistance on one rail (the upper wheels
serving essentially as balance).
2. Easy stoppage, as the stoppers will act in two directions, up and downwards.
3. The sharpest turnings can be passed without danger.
4. Easy mounting of hills by using the upper wheels to prevent the falling back
(in the kind as mountain railways use tooth wheels).
5. Cheaper and less havy construction of the cars, as there is no more danger
that the waggons might jump.
6. Less noise will be produced by one line of wheels, which besides is in a
position not to allow the noise to be very intensive.
7. Greater safety in case of the train beeing thrown out of the line, as the cars
will simply fall on the side and loose their movement.
8. Even in case of a "choc" with another train there might be less danger; the
cars having no space to mount on the top of each other, will escape by the side and
loose their activity.
9. Less danger for the public, as a person that falls in mounting in the car will

page_text: undergo no danger to be thrown under the wheels, these being under the middle of
the cars.
10. In case of a new system being adopted for overground railways, the
construction of these will be cheaper, as the masonry must be of the whole largeness
only at intervals where the iron column are to be erected, while between these
there is but a narrow wall necessary.
11. In case only new engines necessary, the cars can without doubt be arranged
for the new system.
12. Easy combination with the existing system, the third rail in the middle not
disturbing the two others. This is of importance, if the city trains were
constructed for one rail and the thoroughgoing trains ought to take the same line.
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE METHOD, MEANS, OR PROCESS OF MANUFACTURING TUBULAR OR OTHER FORMS OF CLEAR GLASS, UPON WHICH GRADATIONS, DIVISIONS, FIGURES, AND MARKINGS OF A PERMANENT CHARACTER ARE REQUIRED
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Edward John Michael Cetti at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 1st July 1878.
EDWARD JOHN MICHAEL CETTI, of 11, Brooke Street, Holborn, in the County of
Middlesex, Glass Blower and Thermometer Manufacturer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE
METHOD, MEANS, OR PROCESS OF MANUFACTURING TUBULAR OR OTHER FORMS OF
CLEAR GLASS, UPON WHICH GRADATIONS, DIVISIONS, FIGURES, AND MARKINGS OF A
PERMANENT CHARACTER ARE REQUIRED.”
My improvement relates to the manufacture of tubular or other forms of clear
glass employed in the production of thermometers and other scientific measures,
which require the gradations, divisions, figures, and markings made thereon to be of
equal durability with the instrument itself, and has for its object the simplifying
and consequent reduction of the cost or expense incurred in such manufacture, as.
well as of rendering such divisions and markings of a more permanent and durable
nature than hithorto attained.
Such tubular or other forms of clear glass then I manufacture at one process with
a partially or wholly colored or enamelled exterior surface, which surface may be of
a transparent or opaque character, or otherwise, and capable of being utilized for
the purpose of affixing all kinds of divisions, figures, and markings with equal if not
greater facility than is the case with ordinary clear glass tubes. The novelty of my
Invention is therefore the production of tubular and other forms of clear glass at
one process, with an enamelled or colored exterior surface of equal quality and
durability, as and for the purposes before described, but it will be seen that I do
not confine myself to the use of any particular color in effecting these my
improvements.
IMPROVEMENTS IN CORSETS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES
Year: 1878

page_text: PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by Austin Kelley at the Office of the
Commissioners of Patents on the 18th July 1878.
AUSTIN KELLEY, of the City and State of New York, United States of America,
now residing at 8, Southampton Buildings, London. "IMPROVEMENTS IN CORSETS
AND SIMILAR ARTICLES."
This Invention relates to an improved corset or other close or tight fitting
garment for ladies' use, and which possesses great advantages over any article for
a similar purpose heretofore employed.
A garment made according to this Invention fits very closely to the figure of the
person wearing it, and without wrinkles or unevenness of any kind; and not-
withstanding this advantage the pressure upon the body is of such a yielding
nature that no injury can be occasioned to the wearer, who is supported and braced-
up thereby with the greatest degree of comfort, and in such a manner as is not
possible by the use of any of the garments now employed for the purpose.
The said Invention consists in employing for the manufacture of the corset or
similar article knitted, fulled, and finished cloth, this being a fabric made with
wool, which is knitted and so formed that it is elastic in a very high degree,
yielding readily to slight pressure, and assuming immediately its original position
and density when that pressure is removed. It is also porous, and admits air
without any difficulty.
In making a corset or similar article according to this Invention I take the said
cloth and combine it in suitable relative position with suitable springs, or with
strips of whalebone, the latter forming the frame of the garment, these springs or
strips being covered with any suitable material as is usual.
The garment so constructed conforms exactly to the figure with a firm, gentle,
pressure without any unevenness, and the pressure being so slight and yielding no
injury to the health of the wearer can occur.