IMPROVEMENTS IN SELF ACTING WEIGHING AND MEASURING MACHINES, AND IN APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH
Year: 1879

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Henry Baxter, of Brixton Hill, in the County of
Surrey, for the Invention of IMPROVEMENTS IN SELF ACTING WEIGHING
AND MEASURING MACHINES, AND IN APPARATUS CONNECTED THEREWITH."
Sealed the 23rd January 1880, and dated the 9th August 1879.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Henry Baxter at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 9th August 1879.
"IMPROVE-
WILLIAM HENRY BAXTER, of Brixton Hill, in the County of Surrey.
MENTS IN SELF ACTING WEIGHING AND MEASURING MACHINES, AND IN APPARATUS
CONNECTED THEREWITH."
My Invention has for its object improvements in that class of weighing and
measuring machines for which Letters Patent were granted to me, dated July 14,
1873, No. 2421, and July 13, 1876, No. 2872, whereby I economise space and cost
of manufacture and diminish noise, and therefore reduce wear, and tear, and by
means of certain apparatuses attached thereto render the application of the machine
or machines to the assessment of malt duty more perfect and the indications better
understood.
My first improvement consists in dispensing with the small hopper and its
moveable bottom on the beam, as described in the Specification of my said Patent,
No. 2421, causing the latter to swing from centres on the neck of the main hopper,
and operating it by the direct action of the beam, whereby I economise considerable
space and abolish various moving parts on the beam.
My second improvement is a means for temporarily checking the rotation of the
drum at about one eighth of its revolution by a buffer or stop fixed on the frame of
the machine, thereby reducing noise and wear and tear.
My third improvement relates to means by which the stream of grain from the
hopper to the drum or other receptacle is gradually reduced by three separate
positions of the diminishing tray over the mouth of the hopper instead of two
positions only, as described in the Specification of my said Patent, No. 2872 of 1876,
whereby I procure greater certainty and accuracy.
My fourth improvement is in the construction and arrangement of parts prin-
cipally in connection with the supply hopper, so as to secure as far as possible an

page_text: even pressure of grain or other material running therefrom, whereby I attain great
speed and accuracy, although the supply to the main hopper may be irregular.
My fifth improvement is in the employment of a spectal index or counter, and of
other subsidiary apparatus to be attached to my machine when applied to the
assessment of the nialt duty on my system, whereby means are provided for any
irregularity which may occur in the mill over or under which it may be placed, for
exhibiting on the counter the amount of duty incurred in money, and for the
prevention of fraud.
My sixth improvement is an alternative method of operating the moveable bottom
above referred to, whereby I avoid the friction caused by the weight of the said
moveable bottom when the detent is knocked off.
My seventh improvement is a new description of drum or receptacle which may
be adapted to my herein described improvements, or one or more of them, in lieu
of that having four compartments, whereby I still more economise the space at
disposal when required.
My eighth improvement consists in modifying my measuring machine, as described
in the Specification of my said Patent No. 2872, so that the same may or may not
be driven by power simplifying its construction and controlling its action.
My ninth improvement is the application of the monetary index or counter to
this form of machine where the same is used for the assessment of the malt duty by
measure.
Having signified the various improvements which are the subject of my present
Invention, I will now describe the same.
I construct a frame preferably, of cast iron, carrying a beam capable of oscillation.
The said beam has two arms, and from these are suspended links. From the other
end of the beam hang the weight or weights; in the ends of the links revolve an
axis carrying the drum, which is formed of four divisions of equal capacity, and
having at one or both ends stops so placed that with certain catches on the links
the drum is detained in its proper position while weighing.
Under the drum at the requisite distance is fixed a piece of metal or wood, which
in a certain position of the beam prevents the rotation of the drum. On the frame
are open guides for the ends of the axis of the drum, which prevent its vibration
while discharging.
The hopper is placed over the drum, and is so formed as to lead the grain in a
zigzag direction. On its neck are suspended the diminishing tray, as described in
the Specification of my above mentioned Patent, No. 2421, and the moveable
bottom, which I now designate the cut off tray, both of which are lifted by the
beam or by pieces of metal attached thereto coming in contact with pins or projec
tions on the sides of the said trays. An arm projects from the cut off tray, and
loosely hanging near is the detent which detains it until the said detent is struck
by the descent of the beam. A trigger or knuckle jointed lever, as described in
the Specifications of my said Patents of 1873 and 1876, may be employed for the same
purpose as the detent. A weighted lever, pin jointed to the frame, falls on the
beam when released from a catch, and presses it down, thereby causing the catch or
catches which detain the drum to come into contact with a stop or stops on the
The first mentioned catch is actuated when the cut off tray falls by a pin
or projection thereon.
frame.
In some cases I dispense with the detent, knuckle jointed lever, or trigger by the
following arrangement:-
I make the pin on the cut off tray by which it is lifted rather larger than hereto-
fore described, and place it in such a position that the cut off tray follows the beam
in its whole descent without any or but very little friction. I cut holes in the face
of the diminishing tray to allow the small stream of grain to run through, as described
in the Specification of my said Patent No. 2421. As the beam descends the cut off
tray follows it, and in time completely cuts off the supply.
On the side of the said cut off tray I place a tumbler or weighted lever, with the
weight upwards, and pin jointed in such a manner that when the said tray has

page_text: sunk to a certain point the tumbler tips over and suddenly propels it still further,
at the same moment disengaging the discharging apparatus. The range of motion
of the tumbler is limited by pins or projections or in any other suitable manner,
and the cut off tray must be heavier than the tumbler.
A set screw in one of the pins or projections makes it easy to arrange the exact
moment during the descent of the tray at which the tumbler shall operate.
While using this modification I do not obtain so many definite diminutions as in
my previously described arrangements. This, my sixth improvement, may be used
in combination with my first, second, fourth, fifth, and seventh improvements, or
either of them. I will now describe the action when not employing this latter
modification. While the machine is in a state of rest the diminishing tray is fully
open, and that and the discharging apparatus, as well as the cut off tray, press on
the beam. During the process of filling the drum these severally fall upon their
respective catches or stops one after another, thus relieving the beam of their
pressure at three stages, at last leaving only a small stream of grain running
through. The actual weighing then commences, and when a perfect balance is
attained the beam or a projection from it strikes the detent, trigger, or knuckle
jointed lever which detains the cut off tray; the latter falls, completely closing the
supply to the drum, and at the same time setting the discharging apparatus at
liberty to depress the beam and release the drum or other receptacle in which the
grain is weighed. The above includes my first, second, third, and sixth improve-
ments. In applying this machine to the assessment of the malt or grain duty I
make the following modifications and additions:-
Instead of detaining the drum by catch or catches having angle pieces which
fit into recessed plates and retaining the same by tongues and springs, as
described in the Specification of my said Patent of 1876, I prefer to detain
the drum by a catch or catches which hook over pins on the sides of the
drum. I enclose the whole machine so modified in an iron case, accessible
only by locks and keys, and make the following additions:-Under the drum
I place another hopper, into which the drum discharges its contents; it has
a draw valve to regulate the discharge therefrom, and also a moveable flap
centred on a rod, so arranged that if the grain in said hopper does not immediately
flow through it the pressure of the accumulation raises an arm having a part so
bent as to prevent the rotation of the drum; the removal of the pressure causes the
arm to fall by its weight, and rotation is thereby permitted. On some part of
the frame, with the front of it visible from outside the iron case, I attach the said
specially constructed counter, which is worked by a rod connecting it with some
part of the beam. This counter is composed of two or more plates with arbors
carrying wheels and pinions gearing into each other, and with pointers fixed on the
arbors; some of the latter have also a lateral motion so that they may be moved
inwards, and thus thrown in and out of gear, springs keeping them in gear unless
desired to be otherwise. The driving wheel of the series is a ratchet wheel pro-
pelled in any suitable manner. The dial consists of three or more circles marked
decimally for the pounds, one circle divided into twenty for the shillings, and
another for the pence. In the type specifically described the quantity of grain
weighed at each tip (which is determined by the weight on the back of the beam)
incurs a duty of sixpence, and the wheels of said index are so arranged that every
two discharges record one shilling, and twenty of such shillings one pound, but it is
manifest that if the counter is attached to larger or smaller machines, so that the
quantity weighed is different to the one above described, the wheels and the dials
must be otherwise arranged, but that can be done in a manner well understood by
any skilled mechanic. All attempts to alter the indications, except at proper times
when they have been noted, and the pointers put back to zero, are prevented by
placing a cover of thick plate glass and locking the same.
The above com-
prehends my fifth improvement, the said counter being also applicable to my eighth
improvement.
Where it is required to weigh small quantities of grain rapidily, I employ the

page_text: "
following modification :-From some part of the frame I suspend a catch or stop
lever in such a position that when left to itself it will catch some part of the beam
in its ascent and prevent it rising high enough to lift the cut off tray. (in this
modification I do not employ a diminishing tray). In the hopper above I place a
flap hinged to the side, and free to move within certain limits, it carries a weighted
lever and is so connected with the stop lever mentioned above, that when a certain
quantity of grain has run into the hopper and therefore presses against the flap, the
stop lever is raised, the beam resumes its normal position, and the weighing
commences. Over this hopper may be placed another to feed the grain into another
spot. In this arrangement I usually make the outlets from the hopper to consist of
two or more round or square holes instead of one long narrow slit, and the cut
off to consist of two pendulous valves, one overlapping the other slightly; they are
raised in the way previously described for the cut off and diminishing trays. The
action is this, that if the supply of grain is not sufficient to keep the flap depressed,
the weighted lever falls and with it the stop lever, which arrests the ascent of the
beam after a weighing has been discharged, and until sufficient grain has again run
in to move the flap, the machine ceases to act. As the quantity necessary to do
this is the same each time, it follows that the "head
or pressure of grain is
identical at each weighing. Where one of these machines is fed by an elevator,
I sometimes dispense with the flap and its attendant mechanism, and cause the
elevator to supply rather more than the machine is capable of weighing, and from a
certain point in the said hopper I lead a tube or channel so that the surplus may
run back into the receptacle from which the grain is lifted. This arrangement will
also maintain the grain in the feeding hopper at a uniform height, which is the
object of this my fourth improvement.
In cases where there is not sufficient space
at disposal for a drum of four compartments, I adopt only one, which I form some-
what in the shape of a hopper having a moveable bottom swinging on its sides like
a pendulous valve; and I keep the same under the lower orifice of said hopper when
required by a catch capable of being lifted when the beam descends. Under this
weighing hopper I place another small hopper, whose exit orifice is considerably less
than that of the former; the small hopper is fixed to an arm or arms pin jointed to the
frame in such a manner that it is capable of a limited motion up or down, but it is
kept up by a weighted lever. On the arm or arms above mentioned, or on the
small hopper I attach another arm so placed that when the small hopper sinks by
the weight of grain temporarily deposited therein from the weighing hopper, such
arm comes in contact with a stop or pin on said moveable bottom and prevents the
latter from closing. At the sanie moment it allows a rod swinging from the frame
and having a pin or projection thereon, to fall in such a position that said pin then
prevents the ascent of the beam; this condition of parts continues until all the
grain has run out of the small hopper, when this has taken place the latter rises
allowing the moveable bottom to close, and afterwards the beam also to rise and
resume its position ready for the next operation. In the event of grain accumu-
lating under the small hopper so as to prevent the grain in it from running away,
the weighing is suspended until such accumulation has entirely run off. By this
arrangement the quantity weighed at each tip is increased fourfold, and the speed
may be made considerably greater; moreover there are no moveable parts on the
weighing hopper except the bottom and the catch, the small hopper and its
attendant parts exercising a controlling power over the action of the beam and the
weighing hopper from an independent position, not being attached to either. This
comprehends my seventh improvement and may be made to act in combination with
my first, fourth, and sixth improvements.
When I wish to apply my measuring machine as described in the specification of
my said patent No. 2872, to any purpose where power may be used, instead of
having three measures fixed to an axis, I place only two, bottom to bottom, or
nearly so, the divergence from an exact line being greater where no power is avail-
able, and less or not at all where power is available. In the latter case I fix on the
<said axis a wheel preferably with teeth, which will gear into a pinion placed at a

page_text: certain distance below the wheel on the frame and driven by power. When the
measure has received the regulated quantity of corn or other material, and is there-
fore depressed, the wheel work is thrown into gear, and the measure is turned over
until it discharges its contents, when the weight at the opposite end disengages the
teeth and the drum rises again ready to receive a fresh charge. In order to prevent
it rising before the proper time, I place an apron or shield over the mouth of the
measure so that the corn cannot escape until the proper moment, or else I place a
disc on the axis, having openings or recesses therein, and as the edge of the said
disc bears against a stop on the frame the drum can only rise when the openings or
recesses are opposite the said stop. This disc I also apply and claim as an improve-
ment to my automatic measuring machine as described by me in the specification of
my said patent, No. 2872, only in that case the openings or recesses will be three
instead of two. In the event or my measuring machine being used to assess the
malt duty by measure, I cause the vibrating lever which carries the series of
measures to work by a connecting rod, or in any other convenient manner the
monetary index above described, taking care that the capacity of each measure
bears the proper relation to the money indicated on the dial, and this can be easily
ascertained by adopting for the index such a unit as will divide the duty per
bushel or per quarter without a remainder, and dividing the actual bushel or
quarter by the quotient; the quantity of corn thus obtained will indicate the
size of the required measure. The above includes my eighth and ninth
improvements.

page_text: *SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said William Henry Baxter in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 9th
February 1880.
WILLIAM HENRY BAXTER, of Brixton Hill, in the County of Surrey. " IMPROVE-
MENTS IN SELF ACTING WEIGHING AND MEASURING MACHINES, AND IN APPARATUS 5
CONNECTED THEREWITH.”
My Invention has for its object improvements in that class of weighing and
measuring machines for which Letters Patent were granted to me, dated July 14,
1873, No. 2421 and July 13, 1876, No. 2872, whereby I economise space and cost
of manufacture, and diminish noise, and therefore reduce wear and tear; and by
means of certain apparatus attached thereto render the application of the machine
or machines to the assessment of the malt duty more perfect, and the indications
better understood.
My first improvement consists in dispensing with the small hopper and its
moveable bottom on the beam, as described in the Specification of my said Patent,
No. 2421, causing the latter to swing from centres on the neck of the main hopper
and operating it by the direct action of the beam, whereby I economise considerable
space and abolish various moving parts on the beam.
My second improvement is a means of temporarily checking the rotation of the
drum at about one eighth of its revolution by a buffer or stop fixed in the frame of
the machine, thereby reducing noise and wear and tear.
My third improvement relates to means by which the stream of grain from the
hopper to the drum or other receptacle is gradually reduced by three separate
positions of the diminishing tray over the mouth of the hopper instead of two
positions only, as described in the Specification of my said Patent, No. 2872, of
1876, whereby I procure greater certainty and accuracy.
My fourth improvement is in the construction and arrangement of parts
principally in connection with the supply hopper so as to secure as far as possible
an even pressure of grain or other material running therefrom, whereby I attain
great speed and accuracy although the supply to the main hopper may be
irregular.
My fifth improvement is in the employment of a special index or counter and of
other subsiding apparatus to be attached to my machine when applied to the
assessment of the malt duty on my system, whereby means are provided for any
irregularity which may occur in the mill, over or under which it may be placed,
for exhibiting on the counter the amount of duty incurred in money and for the
prevention of fraud.
My sixth improvement is an alternative method of operating the moveable
bottom above referred to, whereby I avoid the friction caused by the weight of the
said moveable bottom when the detent is knocked off.
My seventh improvement is a new description of drum or receptacle which may
be adapted to my herein described improvements, or one or more of them, in lieu of
that having four compartments, whereby I still more economise the space at
disposal when required.
My eighth improvement consists in modifying my measuring machine, as
described in the Specification of my said Patent, No. 2872, so that the same may
or may not be driven by power, simplifying its construction and controlling its
action.
My ninth improvement is the application of the monetary index or counter to
this form of machine where the same is used for the assessment of the malt duty
by measure.
Having signified the various improvements which are the subject of my present
Invention, I will now describe the same.
I construct a frame preferably of cast iron carrying a beam capable of oscillation;
the said beam has two arms and from these are suspended links; from the other

page_text: end of the beam hang the weight or weights; in the ends of the links revolve an
axis carrying the drum, which is formed of four divisions of equal capacity, and
having at one or both ends stops so placed that with certain catches on the links
the drum is detained in its proper position while weighing. Under the drum at
the requisite distance is fixed a piece of metal or wood which in a certain position
of the beam prevents the rotation of the drum.
On the frame are open guides for the ends of the axis of the drum which prevent
its vibration while discharging. The hopper is placed over the drum, and is so
formed as to lead the grain in a zigzag direction. On its neck are suspended the
diminishing tray, as described in the Specification of my above mentioned Patent,
No. 2421, and the moveable bottom which I now designate the cut off tray, both of
which are lifted by the beam, or by pieces of metal attached thereto, coming in
contact with pins or projections on the sides of the said trays. An arm projects
from the cut off tray, and loosely hanging near is the detent which detains it until
the said detent is struck by the descent of the beam. A trigger or knuckle jointed
lever, as described in the Specifications of my said Patents of 1873 and 1876, may
be employed for the same purpose as the detent. A weighted lever pin jointed to
the frame, falls on the bearer when released from a catch and presses it down,
thereby causing the catch or cathes which detain the drum to come into contact
with a stop or stops on the frame; the first mentioned catch is actuated when the
cut off tray falls by a pin or projection thereon.
In some cases I dispense with the detent knuckle jointed lever, or trigger by the
following arrangement :-I make the pin on the cut off tray by which it is lifted
rather larger than heretofore described, and place it in such a position that the cut
off tray follows the beam in its whole descent without any, or but very little,
friction. I cut holes in the face of the diminishing tray to allow the small stream
of grain to run through as described in the Specification of my said Patent No. 2421.
As the beam descends the cut off tray follows it, and in time completely cuts off
the supply. On the side of the said cut off tray I place a tumbler or weighted lever
with the weight upwards and pin jointed in such a manner that when the said
tray has sunk to a certain point, the tumbler tips over and suddenly propels
it still further, at the same moment disengaging the discharging apparatus.
The range of motion of the tumbler is limited by pins or projections, or in any
other suitable manner, and the cut off tray must be heavier than the tumbler.
set screw in one of the pins or projections makes it easy to arrange the exact
moment during the descent of the tray at which the tumbler shall operate.
A
While using this modification I do not obtain so many definite diminutions as
in my previously described arrangements. This my sixth improvement may be
used in combination with my 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th improvements, or
either of them. I will now describe the action when not employing this latter
modification. While the machine is in a state of rest the diminishing tray is fully
'open, and that and the discharging apparatus, as well as the cut off tray press on
the beam. During the process of filling the drum these severally fall upon their
'respective catches or stops one after another, thus relieving the beam of their
pressure at three stages, at last leaving only a small stream of grain running
through the actual weighing then commences, and when a perfect balance is
attained the beam or a projection from it strikes the detent, trigger, or knuckle
jointed lever which detains the cut off tray, the latter falls, completely closing the
supply to the drum, and at the same time setting the discharging apparatus at liberty
to depress the beam and release the drum or other receptacle in which the grain is
weighed. The above includes my first, second, third, and sixth improvements. In
applying this machine to the assessment of the malt or grain duty I make the
following modifications and additions :—
Instead of detaining the drum by catch or catches having angle pieces which fit
into recessed plates, and retaining the same by tongues and springs, as described
in the Specification of my said Patent of 1876, I prefer to detain the drum by a
catch or catches which hook over pins on the sides of the drum. I enclose the

page_text: whole machine so modified in an iron case, accessible only by locks and keys, and
make the following additions:-Under the drum I place another hopper, into which
the drum discharges its contents, it has a draw valve to regulate the discharge
therefrom, and also a moveable flap centred on a rod, and so arranged that if the
grain in said hopper does not immediately flow through it the pressure of the
accumulation raises an arm having a part so bent as to prevent the rotation of
the drum; the removal of the pressure causes the arm to fall by its weight, and
rotation is thereby permitted. On some part of the frame, with the front of it
visible from outside the iron case, I attach the said specially constructed counter,
which is worked by a rod connecting it with some part of the beam. This counter
is composed of two or more plates with arbors carrying wheels and pinions gearing
into each other, and with pointers fixed on the arbors; some of the latter have also
a lateral motion so that they may be moved inwards, and thus thrown in and out
of gear, springs keeping them in gear, unless desired to be otherwise.
The driving wheel of the series is a ratchet wheel propelled in any suitable
inanner. The dial consists of three or more circles, marked decimally for the
pounds, one circle divided into twenty for the shillings, and another for the
pence. In the type specially described the quantity of grain weighed at each tip
(which is determined by the weight on the back of the beam) incurs a duty of 6
pence, and the wheels of said index are so arranged that every two discharges
record 1 shilling, and 20 of such shillings 1 pound; but it is manifest that if the
counter is attached to larger or smaller machines, so that the quantity weighed is
different to the one above described, the wheels and the dials must be otherwise
arranged, but that can be done in a manner well understood by any skilled
mechanic. All attempts to alter the indications, except at proper times when they
have been noted and the pointers put back to zero, are prevented by placing a
cover of thick plate glass, and locking the same.
The above comprehends my fifth improvement, the said counter being also
applicable to my eighth improvement.
Where it is required to weigh small quantities of grain rapidly, I employ the
following modification :-From some part of the frame I suspend a catch or stop
lever, in such a position that when left to itself it will catch some part of the beam
on its ascent, and prevent it rising high enough to lift the cut off tray (in this
modification I do not employ a diminishing tray). In the hopper above I place a
flap hinged to the side and free to move within certain limits, it carries a weighted
lever, and is eo connected with the stop lever mentioned above that when a certain
quantity of grain has run into the hopper and therefore presses against the flap,
the stop lever is raised, the beam resumes its normal position, and the weighing
commences. Over this hopper may be placed another to feed the grain into one
spot. In this arrangement I usually make the outlets from the hopper to consist
of two or more round or square holes, instead of one long narrow slit, and the cut
off to consist of two pendulous valves, one overlapping the other slightly, they are
raised in the way previously described for the cut off and diminishing trays.
The action is this, that if the supply of grain is not sufficient to keep the flap
depressed the weighted lever falls, and with it the stop lever which arrests the
ascent of the beam after a weighing has been discharged, and until sufficient grain
has again run in to move the flap the machine ceases to act. As the quantity
necessary to do this is the same each time, it follows that the "head" or pressure
of grain is identical at each weighing. Where one of these machines is fed by an
elevator, I sometimes dispense with the flap and its attendant mechanism, and
cause the elevator to supply rather more than the machine is capable of weighing,
and from a certain point in the said hopper I lead a tube or channel, so that the
surplus may run back into the receptacle from which the grain is lifted. This
arrangement will also maintain the grain in the feeding hopper at a uniform height,
which is the object of this my fourth improvement.
In cases where there is not sufficient space at disposal for a drum of four com-
partments, I adopt only one, which I form somewhat in the shape of a hopper

page_text: having a moveable bottom swinging on its sides like a pendulous valve, and I
keep the same under the lower orifice of said hopper when required by a catch
capable of being lifted when the beam descends. Under this weighing hopper I
place another small hopper whose exit orifice is considerably less than that of the
former;
the small hopper is fixed to an arm or arms pin-jointed to the frame, in
such a manner that it is capable of a limited motion up or down, but it is kept up
by a weighted lever.
On the arm or arms above mentioned or on the small hopper I attach another
arm, so placed that when the small hopper sinks by the weight of grain temporarily
deposited therein from the weighing hopper, such arm comes in contact with a stop
or pin on said moveable bottom, and prevents the latter from closing. At the same
moment it allows a rod swinging from the frame, and having a pin or projection
thereon to fall in such a position that said pin then prevents the ascent of the
beam; this condition of parts continues until all the grain has run out of the small
hopper, when this has taken place the latter rises, allowing the moveable bottom to
close, and afterwards the beam also to rise and resume its position ready for the
next operation. In the event of grain accumulating under the small hopper so as
to prevent the grain in it from running away, the weighing is suspended until such
accumulation has entirely run off. By this arrangement the quantity weighed at
each tip is increased four fold, and the speed may be made considerably greater;
moreover there are no moveable parts on the weighing hopper, except the bottom
and the catch, the small hopper and its attendant parts exercising a controlling
power over the action of the beam and the weighing hopper from an independent
position not being attached to either. This comprehends my seventh improve-
ment, and may be made to act in combination with my first, fourth, and sixth
improvements.
When I wish to apply my measuring machine, as described in the Specification
of my said Patent, No. 2872, to any purpose where power may be used, instead of
having three measures fixed to an axis, I place only two bottom to bottom, or
nearly so, the divergence from an exact line being greater where no power is
available, and less or not at all where power is available. In the latter case I fix
on the said axis a wheel, preferably with teeth, which will gear into a pinion
placed at a certain distance below the wheel on the frame and driven by power.
When the measure has received the regulated quantity of corn or other material
and is therefore depressed, the wheel work is thrown into gear, and the measure is
turned over until it discharges its contents, when the weight at the opposite end
disengages the teeth, and the drum rises again ready to receive a fresh charge. In
order to prevent it rising before the proper time I place an apron or shield over
the mouth of the measure, so that the corn cannot escape until the proper moment,
or else I place a disc on the axis having openings or recesses therein, and as the
edge of said disc bears against a stop on the frame, the drum can only rise when
the openings or recesses are opposite the said stop. This disc I also apply and
claim as an improvement to my automatic measuring machine, as described by me
in the Specification of my said Patent, No. 2872, only in that case the openings or
recesses will be three instead of two. In the event of my measuring machine
being used to assess the malt duty by measure, I cause the vibrating lever which
carries the series of measures to work by a connecting rod or in any other con-
venient manner the monetary index above described, taking care that the capacity
of each measure bears the proper relation to the money indicated on the dial, and
this can be easily ascertained by adopting for the index such a unit as will divide
the duty per bushel or per quarter, without a remainder, and dividing the actual
bushel or quarter by the quotient; the quantity of corn thus obtained will indicate
the size of the required measure. The above includes my eighth and ninth
improvements.
And in order that my said Invention may be more clearly understood and readily
carried into effect, I will proceed, aided by the accompanying Drawings, more fully
to describe the same

page_text: DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.
Figures 1 and 2 are respectively a side and front view of my improved automatic
weighing machine, representing the parts in the position they would assume at the
moment of weighing, when arranged to assess the duty upon grain, portions of the
iron case being removed to show the construction more clearly. The same is
applicable to the purposes of ordinary weighing granular substances by the substitu-
tion of an ordinary counter (as described in the Specifications of my previous
Patents) for the fiscal counter (hereafter fully described and illustrated at Figures 12,
13, and 14), and of the ordinary weights of the country for the special weight S,
when also the parts A, J, K, K', may be dispensed with if not required.
Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6 are enlarged views of the parts which take up different
positions during the descent of the drum or weighing receptacle.
Figure 7 is a side view of an alternative method of operating the cut off tray,
instead of using the beam or a projection therefrom and the detent R for that
purpose.
Figures 8 and 9 are side views showing two arrangements by means of which the
head or pressure of grain in the upper hopper is regulated when necessary.
Figures 10 and 11 are respectively side and front views of the description of
receptacle and its attendant apparatus, which I substitute for the circular drum when
I require to weigh large quantities of granular substances at each weighing.
Figures 12, 13, and 14 represent in detail the fiscal counter I, n, shown applied
in Figures 1 and 2.
Figure 15 is a side view of a modification of my improved measuring machine to
be used where power is available or a controlling influence necessary, and Figure 16
represents an arrangement to be employed where power is not readily obtained.
The use of the fiscal counter in connection with these modifications is not shown,
but the size of the measures being fixed upon as above mentioned the fiscal counter
may be readily connected with the beam in any manner well known to an ordinary
skilled mechanic. The whole may be enclosed in an iron case similar to that
described for the weighing machine. Like parts are marked with similar letters of
reference in all the Figures.
A is the iron case in which the machine is enclosed when applied to the assess-
ment of the duty upon grain; B, the frame of the machine; C, the beam; D, the
cradle containing the drum E; F, the catch detaining the drum E by means of the
stops G, G, G, G; H, a stop or buffer on the frame B to check rotation of the drum
E; I, feeding hopper constructed so as to lead the grain into the neck L in a zig-zag
direction; J, the lower hopper; K, a valve having an arm K' so fixed thereto as to
detain the drum when any pressure is exerted on the valve K; L, neck of hopper I;
M, the diminishing tray, as described in the Specification of my former Patents
herein before referred to; N, cut off tray centred on neck of hopper L, and when
closed falling below the diminishing tray M; O, O, pins on diminishing tray M and
cut off tray N, by which the beam on ascending lifts these trays through the lifter
P; Q, an arm fixed on the cut off tray N capable of resting on the detent R, which
latter is struck by the lifter P, or by a pin fixed therein, when the beam has
descended to a certain point; S, the chief counterpoise; S', the special weight, as
hereafter explained; T, the discharging apparatus, partly shewn enlarged in Figures
3, 4, 5, and 6, consisting of a lever T hinged to the frame and weighted by T. On
the lever T is a pin a. U is an arm hanging freely from an axis b, and sustaining
the discharging apparatus T by a notch or catch catching the pin a. On the cut
off tray N is a projection or pin V which strikes the arm U, and thereby allows the
discharging apparatus T to fall on the beam C directly or by means of a pin or
projection; W, pin on frame which lifts the catch F on the descent of the weighing
receptacle; X, a catch to prevent retrograde motion of the drum E by means of pins
X, X, X, X¹ thereon; Y, connecting rod to give motion to the counter In; Z, draw
valve to regulate supply from J; Z2, Z3, part of frame B. The parts F, G, O, O, W,

page_text: and P may be duplicated in large machines. Figure 6 is an enlarged view of some
of the parts in the position in which those parts appear in Figures 1 and 2. Figures
3, 4, and 5 shew the different positions taken up by those parts as the filling of the
drum or compartment proceeds. Figure 7 is a side view of an alternative method
of operating the cut off tray N by means of a tumbler which I sometimes employ.
c is a rod centred at d on the cut off tray N, and having a weight e; ƒ and g are
two set screws which regulate the distance through which the tumbler is allowed
to fall.
In Figures 8 and 9 E is the drum with its axis revolving in the arms of the beam,
as described in the Specifications of my former Patents. I is the supply hopper; h,
Figure 8, is a subsidiary receptacle beneath the hopper I, having in it centred at i
the flap or valvej with its arm k; l is a catch or stop lever connected by a rod m
with the arm in such a manner that when the valve ; is depressed it pulls the
う
catch , but when the catch is raised it does not depress the valve j. The arm k
is weighted. n is a piece or projection on the arm o of the beam by which, when
the catch is in the position shown, the beam B cannot return to its proper position,
and therefore the valves M, N, remain closed. When a certain quantity of grain has
fallen into the receptacle h, so as to depress the valve or flap j, which quantity may
be regulated exactly by the weight on the arm k, the bean falls back into its proper
position, opens the valves M, N, and the filling commences. In Figure 9 p is a pipe
leading from the hopper I back into the reservoir from which the elevator E, l, lifts
the grain, and the latter being driven rather faster than the capacity of the machine,
there is a surplus which runs back through p, leaving the pressure in the hopper I
always about the same.
In Figures 10 and 11, Ho is the receptacle having a valve Va centred at q with
a catch duplicated on the other side, which keeps the valve Va shut by means of
pin u. On the catch ris a pin which coming in contact with a stop z (part of
the frame) on the descent of the beam is lifted, and the grain or other granular
substance falls out; v is a small hopper fastened to a frame x, x, which is centred
on the frame of the machine at x¹; u is a pin on the valve Va, and y, a pin on the
frame x, x;
t is a rod swinging from the frame, and C is prolonged to C³, having
thereon a stud or pin 8; t has a projection t¹; w is a lever weighted to keep up the
small hopper v.
In Figures 12, 13, and 14, which represent the fiscal counter (In, Figures 1
and 2) Figure 12 shews the dial divided in such a way that the lowest unit
represents a duty of sixpence. In such case the drum E or its compartment upper-
most should be of a size to contain the grain which will have to pay a duty of
sixpence, and the weight S¹ (Figure 1), should be the weight of such quantity.
The drum may however be larger, in which case each weighing might be greater,
the weight S¹ heavier, and the smallest divisions of the dial made to represent more
value in money. In order to explain the construction however, the above
dimensions which would be the prevailing sizes are assumed; A¹, Figures 13
and 14, is the back plate; B', the front plate; D, D', pillars joining the two plates;
n¹, n¹, n', three arbors running through both plates; m² and o¹ do not run through.
On o¹is a ratchet and driver, and there is a spring (not shewn) to prevent the back
motion; on o¹ is also a wheel with five teeth gearing into one on m¹ with 20
teeth; on m¹, a wheel of one tooth gearing into a wheel of 10 teeth, and the series
is then continued by tens; q, q, q², 92, 93, are the pointers; 71, 71, 72, are springs.
By pressing in q', q', q³, or either of them, the wheel attached to its arbor is thrown
out of gear, and the pointer is thus readily put backwards; 61, Figure 12, is a piece
of plate glass padlocked by c, c, but which is capable of being withdrawn when the
lock is taken off.
In Figure 15, gl is a cylinder of any required width, as described in the
Specification of my Patent No. 2872, of 1876, having the two measures j¹¹,
fixed therein of any required size.
h' is a wheel of steel with any suitable number of teeth, which on the descent of
the drum gears into the wheel c', which is always revolving at a slow rate, and

page_text: requires but little power; is a disc with two notches or excisions, and it is a pin
fixed on the frame to keep down the disc, and also the cylinder as the drum
rotates; the other parts are described in the Specification of my above mentioned
Patent, No. 2872, at Figures 23 and 24, and in connection with this form of my
measuring machine I sometimes employ the apparatus represented at Figure 22 in
the same Specification of the Patent.
In Figure 16 the measures j³, j³, are differently shaped and placed in the manner
shewn, and the apron q, q, may be employed; the pinion and the wheel h¹ are
dispensed with, but the other parts are the same as those just described and
referred to. When the measuring machine Figure 15 is used over a mill or rolls to
assess the duty on grain, the capacity of the measure or measures must be such
that each shall contain the quantity of grain, which by bulk will be liable to incur
the duty denoted on the dial; this is a matter of calculation and readily ascer-
tained by any skilled mechanic with the assistance of an excise officer.
Having thus described the nature of my said Invention and the mode in which
I carry the same into effect, I would have it understood that what I claim is,―
First. The cut off tray N, Figures 1,.2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9, centred on the neck L
of the hopper I, raised by the direct action of the beam and cutting off the stream
of grain when released from the detent R, or some similar detent by the descent of
the beam, substantially as herein shown and described.
Second. The buffer or stop H, Figures 1 and 2, for checking the rotating drum
at one eighth of the revolution, substantially as herein shewn and described.
Third. The reduction of the stream of grain flowing into the drum by three
separate positions of the tray M, shewn in Figures 4, 5, and 6, as the beam descends,
such positions being caused by the consecutive cessation of action on the beam of
the component parts T, M, N, or other similar parts of the machine, substantially
as herein shown and described.
Fourth. The means, substantially as described with respect to Figures 8 and 9,
whereby a uniform or nearly uniform head or pressure is maintained in the supply
hopper.
Fifth. The fiscal index or counter, substantially as described with respect to
Figures 12, 13, and 14, when attached to automatic weighing or measuring
machines for the assessment of the duty on grain in breweries or elsewhere, even if
the same varies as regards the marking of the dials or the number of teeth in
the wheels, so far as may be necessary to adapt it to a machine of greater or less
capacity, or to a rate of duty greater or less than that above illustrated.
Sixth. The tumbler on the tray N, substantially as shewn and for the purpose
described with respect to Figure 7.
Seventh. The hopper Ho, Figures 10 and 11, with its valve Va, catch r, pin u³,
pin u, bent lever x, x, stop 2, small hopper v, weighted lever w, and attendant parts,
substantially as shewn and described.
Eighth. The measures j¹, 7, placed substantially as shown in Figures 15 and 16
for the measurement of grain.
Ninth. The application of the fiscal counter, substantially as described with
respect to Figures 12, 13, 14, to the forms of machine represented in Figures 15 4
and 16.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Henry Baxter, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Ninth day of February, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and eighty.
WILLIAM HENRY BAXTER. (L.S.)