IMPROVEMENTS IN WEIGHING MACHINERY
Year: 1883

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Albert Hamilton Emery, of New York in the State of
New York, one of the United States of America for an Invention of
IMPROVEMENTS IN WEIGHING MACHINERY
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Albert Hamilton Emery at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 5th June 1883.
ALBERT HAMILTON EMERY, of New York in the State of New York one of the
United States of America IMPROVEMENTS IN WEIGHING MACHINERY
The invention relates to scales in which the pressure is transmitted from the
load platform or platforms to the weigh-beams through the medium of liquid
contained in suitable chambers and pipes.
The invention will be described in its application to railway track scales.
The liquid supports are arranged at proper intervals beneath the platform on
which latter a railway track may be mounted. The supports are preferably
constructed with columns each having a lower part fastened to the base and an
upper part fastened to the surrounding shell or casing by means of diaphragms
secured permanently to each so as to fix the columns against horizontal motion
while permitting the vertical motion necessary in weighing. A central screw is
inserted in the head to force the parts asunder when they are to be separated.
The column head is surmounted by a gun or other spring surrounded by a rigid
stay ring, and the spring by a bell shaped cap on which the platform rests, the cap
extending downward around the upper part of the shell to shelter the diaphragm
and ring, and keep water from the upper part of the case.
The shell is fastened
to the base by tap screws inserted in counter-sinks and sealed to make the joints
liquid tight.
From the supports the pressure is transmitted through liquid pressure pipes to
any necessary number of liquid pressure reducers separate from the weigh beam
and its frame and connections and from these reducers to paired liquid pressure
chambers acting directly upon the column of the weigh beam or on the column
of an intermediate reducer which transmits the pressure to the weigh beam
column.

page_text: In some cases the small chambers from the pressure supports act directly upon
the pressure column of the weigh beam or on a reducer connected directly with
the pressure column and weigh beam. By the term reducer is meant an apparatus
consisting of one or more pressure columns mounted through the medium of
flexible plates in a suitable casting and receiving at one end the pressure from the
platform supports through the medium of one or more small liquid chambers
which pressure is transmitted from the pressure column or columns through the
medium of a liquid chamber or chambers of larger area or suitably arranged levers
so as to reduce it in any desired degree or proportion. In the primary reducers
small multiple pressure chambers are secured to the base of the reducer by screws,
and are each provided with a small pressure chamber column resting on a
diaphragm held at its periphery by a casing-ring and surrounded and fastened to
the base by a thin sealing ring.
The separate chamber pieces are removable from the reducer frame through a
central opening in the base thereof, through which opening the pressure pipes pass
to each small chamber.
The reducer column is limited in its descent by stop screws which may be
employed for fixing it in position for adjustment in filling the main liquid chamber
in the head of the reducer and for shipping. The main chamber is filled through
a duct closed by a transverse screw plug. The secondary reducers are constructed
with equal paired chambers, the two chambers of each pair receiving liquid from
branches of the same conducting pipe and being so placed as to balance the
pressure on opposite sides of the axis of the column against which they act so that
the column will not tip. The tops of the small chambers are formed with
diaphragms either annular or continuous held at their peripheries by clamping
casing-rings one for each chamber all of which rings are held down by a single
plate, through openings in which the small pressure columns act on the main
column. The said plate extends over the entire base of the reducer and is secured
thereto by screws or bolts. The bottom of each small pressure chamber consists of
an annular plate soldered to the upper diaphragm and a central stem to which the
inner edge of the annular plate is fixed and which receives the nozzle of the
conducting pipe.
The base stems of the small pressure chambers are secured to the main base by
fixing tubes or rings through which the conducting pipes pass.
The pressure column of the weigh beam is constructed in annular form con-
taining a central stem with an enlarged head resting on the annular column and
receiving the beam connections. The beam is constructed with an enlarged head
made hollow for the reception of balancing material.
The main beam connects at its end with a secondary beam or indicator rod
having much greater angular motion. The weights are of three kinds, to wit;
1, Sliding weights on the main beam and indicator rod and on the weight rods
attached to the former for balancing and for fractional weighing. 2, Suspension
weights arranged at different points in the length of the beam in sets supported
on frames adapted by their vertical motion to apply and remove the weights in
succession. 3, One or more weights suspended from either end of the beam by
suitable rods through the medium of conical seated attaching nuts and applied or
removed by the vertical motion of a platform on which they are supported. The
sectional weight frames which require considerable range of vertical movement to
apply or remove the whole set of weights, are operated by compound levers to
which are connected rods working in adjustable guides through friction boxes in
the frame to hold the levers in any position in which they are set.
These fixing
rods carry indicators attached thereto by suitable stocks and in connection with
graduated indicator plates show the number or value of the weights applied to the
beam. To counter-balance the weight supporting frame and the weights resting
thereon a weight is employed attached to an arm connected with the weight frame
through an eccentric pulley and strap so as to produce a variable effect
corresponding approximately with the weight to be counter balanced.

page_text: The vertical movement of the beam is limited by adjustable stop screws applied
either to the said beam or to the case or frame thereof.
The sliding weights are operated by sliding rods supported by studs on the scale
frame and furnished with fingers for catching the weights. The indicator rod is
made in two parts with a screw connection so that its free end may be made thin
and light. It is counterbalanced by an adjustable weight. Its extremity is
furnished with a needle point attached by a screw coupling or clamp. It is
guided by a vertical standard secured to the weigh beam or scale frame by an
adjustable holder by which the said standard is set up or down to adapt it to limit
the vertical motion of the indicator rod as desired. The position of the indicator
rod is shown by a graduated plate secured adjustably to the weigh beam or frame
by an attaching plate.
The entire beam frame with the beams, weights and connections is enclosed
within a double case, the outer case being opened to give access to the operating
levers and to expose to view the weights and indicator through the glazed inner
case which contains and protects the working parts.
The platform used in connection with the scale may be of any suitable
construction but it is preferred to use the improved platform hereinafter described.
This platform is removeable and rests upon an independent load frame fixed
against horizontal motion by flexible stays permitting its vertical play. The load
frame is bolted to rigid knee plates interposed between it and the pressure
supports, the same bolts connecting it to flexible stay plates. The latter are
attached to rigid brackets, projecting from the stationary bed-sills of the foundation,
by means of straining nuts which permit the horizontal adjustment of the
platform either longitudinally or transversely. The removeable platform is
constructed in sections resting on the intermediate load frame by metallic shoes
and steps. The sections of the platform may be removed independently without
disturbing the load frame or supports.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said Albert Hamilton Emery in the Great Seal Patent Office on the
4th December 1883.
ALBERT HAMILTON EMERY of New York in the State of New York one of the
United States of America "IMPROVEMENTS IN WEIGHING-MACHINERY
"
The invention relates to scales in which the pressure is transmitted from the
load-platform or platforms to the weigh beams through the medium of liquid
contained in suitable chambers and pipes.
The invention will be described in its application to railway track scales.
The liquid supports are arranged at proper intervals beneath the platform on
which latter a railway track may be mounted. The supports are preferably
constructed with columns each having a lower part fastened to the base and an
upper part fastened to the surrounding shell or casing by means of diaphragms
secured permanently to each so as to fix the columns against horizontal motion
while permitting the vertical motion necessary in weighing. A central screw is
inserted in the head to force the parts asunder when they are to be separated.
The column-head is surmounted by a gum or other spring surrounded by a rigid
stay ring and the spring by a bell-shaped cap on which the platform rests, the cap
extending downward around the upper part of the shell to shelter the diaphragm
and ring and keep water from the upper part of the case. The shell is fastened to
the base by tap screws inserted in countersinks and sealed to make the joints
liquid-tight.
From the supports the pressure is transmitted through liquid pressure pipes to
any necessary number of liquid pressure reducers separate from the weigh beam
and its frame and connections and from these reducers to paired liquid pressure
chambers acting directly upon the column of the weigh beam or on the column of
an intermediate reducer which transmits the pressure to the weigh beam column.
In some cases the small chambers from the pressure supports act directly upon
the pressure-column of the weigh beam or on a reducer connected directly with
the pressure column and weigh beam. By the term reducer is meant an apparatus
consisting of one or more pressure-columns mounted through the medium of flexible
plates in a suitable casing and receiving at one end the pressure from the platformn
supports through the medium of one or more small liquid chambers which pressure
is transmitted from the pressure column or columns through the medium of a
liquid-chamber or chambers of larger area or suitably arranged levers so as to
reduce it in any desired degree or proportion. In the primary reducers small
multiple pressure chambers are secured to the base of the reducer by screws and
are each provided with a small pressure chamber column resting on a diaphragm
held at its periphery by a casing-ring and surrounded and fastened to the base by
a thin sealing ring. The separate chamber pieces are removable from the reducer
frame through a central opening in the base thereof through which opening the
pressure pipes pass to each small chamber.
.
The reducer column is limited in its descent by stop screws which may be
employed for fixing it in position for adjustment in filling the main liquid chamber
in the head of the reducer and for shipping. The main chamber is filled through a
duct closed by a transverse screw plug. The secondary reducers are constructed
with equal paired chambers the two chambers of each pair receiving liquid from
branches of the same conducting pipe and being so placed as to balance the
pressure on opposite sides of the axis of the column against which they act so that
the column will not tip. The tops of the small chambers are formed with

page_text: diaphragms either annular or continuous, held at their peripheries by clamping
casing rings one for each chamber all of which rings are held down by a single
plate through openings in which the small pressure columns act on the main
column. The said plate extends over the entire base of the reducer and is secured
thereto by screws or bolts. The bottom of each small pressure chamber consists of
an annular plate soldered to the upper diaphragm and a central stem to which the
inner edge of the annular plate is fixed and which receives the nozzle of the
conducting pipe. The base stens of the small pressure chambers are secured to
the main base by fixing tubes or rings through which the conducting pipes pass.
The pressure column of the weigh-beam is constructed in annular form containing
a central stem with an enlarged head resting on the annular column and receiving
the beam connections. The beam is constructed with an enlarged head made
hollow for the reception of balancing material. The main beam connects at its
end with a secondary beam or indicator-rod having much greater angular motion.
The weights are of three kinds, to wit, 1. Sliding weights on the main beam and
indicator rod and on the weight-rods attached to the former for balancing and for
fractional weighing. 2-Suspension weights arranged at different points in the
length of the beam in sets supported on frames adapted by their vertical motion to
apply and remove the weights in succession. 3. One or more weights suspended
from either end of the beam by suitable rods through the medium of conical-seated
attaching nuts and applied or removed by the vertical motion of the platform on
which they are supported. The sectional weight-frames which require considerable
range of vertical movement to apply or remove the whole set of weights, are
operated by compound levers to which are connected rods working in adjustable
guides through friction boxes in the frame to hold the levers in any position in
which they are set. These fixing rods carry indicators attached thereto by suitable
stocks and in connection with graduated indicator plates show the number or
value of the weights applied to the beam. To counterbalance the weight supporting
frame and the weights resting thereon a weight is employed attached to an arm
connected with the weight frame through an eccentric pulley and strap so as to
produce a variable effect corresponding approximately with the weight to be
counterbalanced.
The vertical movement of the beam is limited by adjustable stop screws
applied either to the said beam or to the case or frame thereof. The sliding
weights are operated by sliding rods supported by studs on the scale frame and
furnished with fingers for catching the weights. The indicator rod is made in
two parts with a screw connection so that its free end may be made thin and light.
It is counterbalanced by an adjustable weight. Its extremity is furnished. with a
needle point attached by a screw coupling or clamp. It is guided by a vertical
standard secured to the weigh beam or scale frame by an adjustable holder by
which the said standard is set up or down to adapt it to limit the vertical motion
of the indicator-rod as desired. The position of the indicator rod is shown by a
graduated plate secured adjustably to the weigh beam or frame by an attaching plate.
The entire beam frame with the beams, weights and connections is enclosed
within a double case, the outer case being opened to give access to the operating
levers and to expose to view the weights and indicator through the glazed inner
case which contains and protects the working parts.
The platform used in connection with the scale may be of any suitable
construction but it is preferred to use the improved platform hereinafter described.
This platform is removable and rests upon an independent load frame fixed against
horizontal motion by flexible stays permitting its vertical play. The load frame is
bolted to rigid knee-plates interposed between it and the pressure supports, the
same bolts connecting it to flexible stay plates. The latter are attached to rigid
brackets projecting from the stationary bed-sills of the foundation by means of
straining nuts which permit the horizontal adjustment of the platform either
longitudinally or transversely. The removable platform is constructed in sections
resting on the intermediate load-frame by metallic shoes and steps. The sections

page_text: of the platform may be removed independently without disturbing the load-frame
or supports.
And in order that the 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.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompanying drawings the invention is represented in fifty views
numbered Figures 59 to 108 inclusive being part of a series of drawings
consecutively numbered and representing connected or allied inventions some of
which are described in other applications of mine of even date herewith.
Figure 59 is a plan diagram of a portion of a railway track scale with the
platform omitted showing the rails and the positions of the platform supports,
connecting pressure pipes and intermediate reducers.
Figure 60 is a vertical section of a secondary reducer adapted to receive pressure
from a number of intermediate or primary reducers and transmit reduced pressure
to the beam column.
Figure 61 is a plan of the base of the said secondary reducer showing the small
pressure-columns and one-half of the fixing plate which encircles them and secures
their casing rings and diaphragms as hereinafter described.
Figure 62 is a vertical section of a primary reducer.
Figure 63 is a partial plan of the base of the primary reducer showing some of
the small pressure chambers and columns in position and a portion of the annular
main pressure column and other parts.
Figure 64 is a vertical section of the base of the beam supporting pillar and
pressure column with a liquid pressure chamber and its attachments.
Figure 65 is a vertical section of the same under a modified form showing the
combination of a reducer with a weighing scale pillar base or gauge.
Figure 66 is a horizontal section on the line 66 Figure 64.
Figures 67 and 68 are vertical sections of reducers under modified construction.
Figure 69 is a plan of the same.
Figures 70 and 71 are elevations of the two ends of the scale frame and beam.
Figure 72 is a vertical transverse section on the line 72 Figure 70.
Figure 73 is a rear end view of the scale frame, beam and indicator attachments.
Figure 74 is a horizontal section of a portion of the frame on the line 74
Figures 70 and 80.
Figure 75 is a plan view of the scale frame and beam attachments without the
beam.
Figure 76 is a plan of the beam.
Figure 77 is an elevation of the end weight with the supporting platform thereof
and a portion of the operating lever.
Figure 78 is a vertical section of the attaching nut of said weight on a larger
scale showing the lower end of the suspension rod in elevation.
Figure 79 is a front elevation of the weigh beam case and its contained parts
with portions of the casing broken away to show the weight operating levers.
Figure 80 is a vertical transverse section of the same on the line 80 Figure 79.
Figure 81 is a horizontal section thereof on the line 81 Figure 79 showing the
beam and frame in plan.
Figure 82 is an elevation of parts of two of the sectional weights, the bars of the
supporting frame and the suspending beam-rod on a larger scale.
Figure 83 is an elevation of the weight indicator-plate and indicators, also on a
larger scale.
Figure 84 is a rear end view of the frame beam and attachments in modified
form.
Figure 85 is a front elevation of the said rear portion thereof.

page_text: Figure 86 is a front elevation of the forward end of the frame beam and
attachments also in modified form.
Figure 87 is a plan of said forward end thereof.
Figure 88 is a front elevation of the indicator rod, its guide, indicator plate and
attachments on a larger scale.
Figure 89 is a plan thereof showing the guide rod in horizontal section on the
line 89 Figure 88.
Figure 90 is an elevation partly in section of one of the friction boxes of the
weight supporting frames.
Figure 91 is a plan of a portion thereof.
Figure 92 is a vertical section of a platform pressure-support.
Figure 98 is a plan of one-half thereof.
Figure 94 is a longitudinal section of a portion of a railway-track scale-platform
and its supports and bracing devices on the line 94 Figure 97.
Figure 95 is a plan of one end of the same, parts of the rails and planking of the
platform being omitted.
Figure 96 is a plan of another portion thereof with the rails and planking
omitted, showing the end of one section of the removable platform.
Figure 97 is a transverse section on the line 97 Figure 94.
Figure 98 is a transverse section on a larger scale of a portion of the platform
and intermediate stay or load-frame on the line 98 Figure 99, showing a hydraulic
pressure support in elevation.
Figure 99 is a side elevation of the same parts with the front supports removed.
Figure 100 is a side elevation of an intermediate portion of the platform beams
with its bearing-plates or shoes which rest on the load-frame
Figure 101 is a plan view of the same parts.
Figure 102 is an edge view of a step for supporting the ends of platform beams.
Figure 103 is a plan of the same.
Figure 104 is a front edge view of a shoe applied to the end of the beam.
Figure 105 is a plan of a pair of such shoes.
Figures 106, 107 and 108 illustrate a simpler form of load frame and platform
constructed in one.
Figure 106 is a longitudinal section on the line 106 Figure 107.
Figure 107 is a transverse section on the line 107 Figure 106.
Figure 108 is a plan of the same parts.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
431 (Figure 59) may represent rails which in practice rest on a platform of
suitable construction. The platform is omitted in Figure 59 in order to expose the
subjacent parts. 432 are liquid pressure-supports preferably constructed as shown
in Figures 92 and 93 in which 433 represents a stationary base and 434 a shell or
casing secured thereto by tap-screws 435 occupying countersinks in the base and
passing into apertures which do not extend through the flange of the casing. After
the insertion of the screws the cavities left beneath their heads are filled with a
suitable cement or sealing material to make an air-tight and liquid-tight joint.
The sealing material is also passed around in the joint between the base 433
and casing or shell 434. These screws clamp the shell or casing upon the outer
periphery of an annular diaphragm 436 which is formed with bent edges and
connected by soldering or metallic packing or any suitable means to the base 433
and to the pressure-support-column 437 which column and the annular diaphragm
constitute together the top of the liquid-chamber which is formed in the base 433
and communicates through the plug 438 and pipe 439 with a pressure reducer as
hereinafter described. The bearing portion of the column shown at 437a, consti-
tutes a removable head connected permanently by an annular flexible fixing
plate 440 with the casing 434. A central screw 441 in the removable head 437a,
affords facility for forcing it off from the other portion of the column when the

page_text: parts are to be separated. The column is surmounted by a spring 442 of rubber or
other material surrounded by a stay-ring 443. On this spring rests a bell-shaped
cap 444 the downwardly projecting flange of which covers and protects the
working pärts, and excludes water from the upper part of the casing. An aperture
is made in the fixing plate 440 to allow free passage of air under changes of
temperature. The platform in any necessary number of sections rests on the
caps 444 of the supports 432.
The pipes 439 have no connection with each other but are carried separately
from any suitable number of pressure-supports each to its own small pressure-
chamber in a reducer 445 preferably constructed as shown in Figures 62 and 63
and consisting of an annular base 446, a shell or casing 447, a head or cap 448,
screw-bolts 449 connecting these parts, a two-part pressure-column 450, 450a, and
small pressure-chamber-pieces 451, equal in number with the supports connected
with the reducer. Each of the said pressure-chamber-pieces is secured to the base
by a screw 452 and is surmounted by a small pressure column 453 connected by
an annular diaphragm 454 with the chamber-base piece 451, the outer edge of the
diaphragm being clamped by a casing-ring 455 and the joint protected by an
encircling sealing-ring 456. The main pressure-column 450 rests on all of the
small columns 453. The annular form of the base 446 affords facility for intro-
ducing and removing the chamber-pieces with their attached diaphragms without
uncoupling the pieces 439 which are permanently connected to the chamber-pieces
by hollow plugs 457. The opening in the annular base is closed by a plate 405
secured by screws 466. 449a, represents a gauge-screw, any necessary number of
which are employed to fix the column in position when required, for filling the
upper liquid-chamber, or for transportation, or when the small liquid-chambers are
to be introduced or removed.
The screws are so constructed that when screwed in till their heads strike the
base 446 their ends form a gauge against which the base of the column may
rest, leaving the diaphragms in normal position. The liquid-chamber at top is
then filled under pressure. When the apparatus is set up for use the screws are
retracted sufficiently to leave the column free. The top 450a, of the pressure-
column is permanently connected by a diaphragm 458 with the chamber-cap 448
and with this cap forms the liquid chamber from which reduced pressure is
communicated through a pipe 459 attached by a hollow plug 460. This chamber
is filled through a duct 461 closed by a sealing-plug 462. The pipe 459 from
each primary reducer 445 is branched through a coupling 463 (Figure 60) of any
suitable construction so as to communicate with paired chambers in the secondary
reducer indicated in dotted lines at 464 in Figure 59 and shown on a larger scale in
Figures 60 and 61. The base 407 of this reducer is provided with vertical openings
having shoulders 468 to receive the stems 469 which are held down by fixing tubes
or rings 470 bearing upward against the said shoulders. These stems receive the
fixing plugs 471 of branches 472 of the connecting pipes 459. The stems 469 form
each a part of the base of a small pressure-chamber 473, annular plates 473a,
being attached to said stems by their inner edges and to the chambered base of the
reducer 467 by their outer edges. The tops of the chambers are formed by
annular diaphragms 474 a, connected to the small pressure-columns 474 and held
down by casing-rings 475 on which rests a plate 476 having openings for the
passage of the small pressure-columns 474 and held permanently to the reducer-
base by screws 477. "The main pressure-column 478 of this reducer rests on the
Binall pressure-column as before described, and at its top is formed a common
liquid-pressure-chamber 479 which may be constructed in a manner similar to that
already described in connection with the primary reducer or as here shown with
two connected plates 1380, 1264, constituting a removable chamber to which is
soldered a coupling-plug 1381 having a duct which communicates with the sealing-
plug 1382. 4496 is a fixing-screw for use in shipment. From the chamber 479
the liquid is conducted with reduced pressure by a sealing-plug 1382 and pipe 480
either to a chamber 481 at the base of the beam-column 482 as illustrated in

page_text: Figure 64 or to another reducer 489 as illustrated in Figure 65 if it is required to
further reduce the pressure before communicating it to the beam-column 482.
Figures 67, 68 and 69 illustrate other modifications in the construction of the
supplemental reducer in which it is not attached to the base of the scale-frame as
illustrated in Figure 65 but made separately therefrom. The modifications shown
in Figures 65, 67, 68 and 69 are more frequently used as a gauge for measuring
liquid pressure than for weights. In Figure 67 the chamber 484 of the reducer is
covered by a plate 485 of compressible and flexible material instead of metal as
in the other illustrations. 486 represents the column of this supplemental reducer
and 487 the reduced liquid-pressure-pipe for conducting the pressure to the chamber
beneath the beam column. 488 is the cap-plate of the supplemental reducer when
made separately from the base of the beam attachments. When the normal
pressure of the platform is insufficient to produce the proper initial pressure in the
chambers, and keep the parts in close contact, the reducers are reversed from the
position shown in the detailed views, Figures 60 to 68 inclusive, taking the
multiple pressure-pipes 472 at top and delivering through single reduced pressure-
pipes 480 at bottom, as illustrated in Figure 79. In this position the gravity of
the main columns and that of the small pressure-columns act in conjunction with
the pressure of the liquid to keep the bearings in close contact.
In Figures 64 and 65 489 represents parts of the stationary scale-frame to which
the base 490 is connected by bolts 491. This scale-frame is preferably constructed
with two horizontal flanges 492, 493, connected by a web 494 as illustrated in
Figures 70 to.75 inclusive. From the upper flange rises a standard 495 (Figures 70
and 79) forming the fulcrum support of the beam 496 which is connected thereto
by a thin flexible plate 497 and by a thin flexible plate 498 and clamp-plate 499
with the enlarged head 500 of the central stem 501 of the beam-pressure-
column 492. The stem 501 is rigidly secured within the column by a base-
plate 502 constituting a nut between which and the lower end of the annular
column 482 is clamped a flexible fixing plate 503. The beam 496 is formed with
an enlarged head 496a which is made hollow, as illustrated in Figure 86, for the
reception of molten metal or other material to form a counterbalance. From the
rear end of the scale-frame rises a standard 504 (Figures 71, 73 and 79) from
which by thin flexible plates and clamp-plates, shown collectively at 505, is
suspended the fulcrum block 506 of an indicator rod 507 said fulcrum-block being
attached by flexible plates and the clamp-plates 508 with the beam 496 near its
rear or weight-end. The details of these attachments are described elsewhere as
as are also the horizontally and vertically adjustable sensitive weight and its
standard 509, the sliding tare or balance weights 510, 511, 512, weight-rod 513,
one or more, and other accessories. 514, 515, Figure 79 represent a pair of stop
Bcrews adjustable in the beam 496 and coming in contact with the flange 493 and
shoulder 516 respectively, so as to limit the vertical motion of the beam. These
screws may if preferred be screwed adjustably into the flange and shoulder or
other stationary parts so that the beam will come in contact with their heads
with the same effect. At the rear extremity of the beam 496 is attached by
flexible plates 517, a suspension-rod 518 formed with a conical extremity 518a,
as shown in Figure 78, on which rests a nut 520 for the attachment of a weight 519.
Figures 77, 79. Figure 86 shows a similar weight suspended from the load end of
the beam so as to be removed to balance a load on the platform. The space shown
at 521 in Figure 86 between the top of the weight within the nut and the lower
end of the rod 518 allows the necessary vertical play for the removal and application
of the weights.
The weight is removed and applied by the vertical motion of a platform 522
working in a guide 523 and operated through a link 524 by a lever 525 which is
fulcrumed on a bar 526 threaded at its upper end and provided with a pair of
nuts 527, 528 (Figure 77) for clamping it adjustably to the lower flange 492 of
the frame.
In the present illustration the large weight 519 is supposed to represent a value

page_text: of one million pounds. It is applied at the ordinary weight end of the beam as
illustrated in Figure 79 or at the load end as illustrated in Figure 86 being
operated by a platform 522 and lever 525 in either case. When used at the
weight end of the beam its weight is applied to the beam by the lowering of its
platform to balance a load. When it is applied to the load end the same effect is
produced by lifting the weight from the beam, the scale having been previously
balanced with the weight on.
An indicator-rod, 530 Figures 79-83 and 86 shows by its pointer 530° and tho
Figures on the indicator plate 529 when the million pound weight is counteracting
a load on the platform by its application to or removal from the beam, as the case
may be, 532, 533, 534 represent weight rods suspended from the beam at different
points, and provided with flanges or collars 535 for receiving each one of a vertical
series of weights 536, 537, 538 which when not applied to the beam are supported
by conical collars 539 on vertically moving weight frames 540, 541. 542, operated
by compound levers 543, 544 545, connected at one end by links 546 with the said
weight frames 540. 541, 542, and at the other end by links 547 with fixing
rods 548. 549. 551.—552 represent a pair of rods suspended from the load end of
the beam by a thin plate connection 553, as shown in Figures 79 and 80 con-
structed with conical collars 554 each supporting one of a series of weights 555
which in their normal position are thus suspended from the head of the beam while
the scale is balanced without a load to be weighed. To remove any necessary
number of the weights 555 corresponding with the load to be weighed a vertically
moving central rod 556, Figure 80 is employed, said rod being provided with
collars 557 at such distances asunder, that the said rod will by a vertical movement
lift the weights 555 in succession from the suspending beam frame 552 in the same
way and with the same effect as a downward movement of the weight frames at
the weight end of the beam causes a successive deposit of their weights on the
suspension rods. The weight supporting rod 556 is connected by a link 558 with
a compound operating lever 559, 560 Figure 79 and this by a link 547, with
the fixing rod 550. 543 544 545 559° represent the fulcrum brackets of the
respective levers 543. 544, 545, 559. The lever 560 is fulcrummed in the lower end
of the bracket 543. All these fulcrums are connected adjustably to the frame.
The weight supporting rods 540. 541 & may be guided in plates 542° (Figures 84
and 85) secured adjustably to the flanges 492, 493, of the frame by screws 541ª so
that the weights may be adjusted concentrically to the suspension rods from the
beam.
The links connecting the operating levers and weight frames may be applied
singly as illustrated in Figures 79 and 80 but are preferably paired as illustrated
at 546 in Figures 84 and 85. The links 546 are connected with the weight
frame 542 by a pin 624 of such length, that when the washers 625 are pressed
firmly against the ends thereof by screws 626 the links will be held firmly in
position but will not be clamped. The lower ends of the links are secured by a
similar pin 624, screws 626 and washer 625.-This pin 624 is set in a pin 627 of
larger diameter forming shoulders to prevent the links bearing against the lever.
The pin 627 has an adjustment in the lever 545 and is fixed in position by a set
screw 628 in order to set the lever in proper position relatively to the links so as to
avoid lateral strain on the links and thus avoid lateral strain on the weight-frame.
The ten thousand pound weights 555 may if preferred, be transferred to the
other side of the beam fulcrum in the space 555ª (Figure 79) to the right of the
second set of weights.
Hand levers 561. 562. 563. 564. 565 Figures 79. 80 and 81 are connected by
links 566 with the respective fixing rods 548, 549. 550, 551, 530 of the weight
lever above described so as to enable the operator to work the levers and lift the
said weights with ease. Pointers 548* 549 550 551ª and 530° attached to the
respective fixing rods indicate by Figures on the plate 529 the value of the weights
hanging upon or removed from the beam, as the case may be as illustrated in
Figure 83. In order to hold the fixing rods securely in any position in which they

page_text: may be set while supporting the weight frames and any necessary number of
weights through the medium of the operating levers, friction boxes 567 are
employed preferably constructed and applied as illustrated in Figures 90. 91. 86
and 87. The box is made in two parts 567, 568 screwed one within the other and
each having a flange so as to embrace the flange 492 or 493 of the frame. Slots or
large holes 569 are provided in the flanges of the boxes 567 for the reception of
screws 569 by which the boxes are clamped adjustably to the flanges 492. 493.
Radial holes 570 are provided in the flange of the outer member 568 of the box for
the reception of an instrument by which the lower part of the box is screwed
within the other. The upper member is formed with a groove or recess 571 to
receive a fillet of leather or other suitable packing material which by screwing the
part 568 into the part 567 is pressed in contact with the rod with the required
force to prevent it from being moved by the gravity of the weights frames and
levers.
As a further means of holding the weights in position the levers which operate
the heaviest of the multiple weights or if necessary every set of said weights
are connected with a counterbalance weight 531 Figures 84 and 85, which is
constructed hollow as shown, so that it may be made of the proper gravity and
is connected by hanging links 572 with an arm 573 projecting from an eccentric
drum 574 to which is attached a flexible metallic band 575 connected at its lower
end with the weight lever 545, for example. This drum turns on an axis 623,
having its bearings in a bracket 526 which is connected permanently to the frame
and projects downward on each side of the lever 545 receiving guide screws 577
which when the lever is adjusted in its proper working position are turned up
sufficiently to bear lightly on the said lever in order to guide it in its vertical
motion without undue friction. It will be apparent that from the eccentricity
of the drum 574 as well as the motion of the arm 573 the outer end of the lever
573, 574 to which the weight 531 is applied increases in length while the load end
to which the weight lever 545 is connected decreases in length as the said lever 545
rises and the weight 531 descends. This gives the counterbalance increasing force
as the weights are lifted in succession so that the power of the counterbalance may.
correspond with the gravity of the parts to be balanced.
The compound levers may be dispensed with and all the weight-frames operated
directly by single levers. Compound levers are adopted in the present illustration
to bring their indicators together in connection with a single indicator plate and
to bring all their handles within convenient reach of the operator in his position
in front of the said indicator-plate.
The pointers 548 &c are preferably attached to the indicator rods through the
medium of separate holding rods 578 as shown in Figure 86, screwed into the
upper ends of the fixing rods so as to be readily adjustable vertically to regulate
the height of the pointer. The pointer then consists of a needle passed transversely
through the holder 578 near its extremity and held by a set-screw 579.
The construction of the multiple weights and their suspension rods and
supporting frames is illustrated in detail in Figure 82, where 538", 538°
represent parts of two adjacent weights, 534 being the suspension weight-rod
attached to the beam and 5+2 the two vertical bars of the weight supporting
frame. These weights are each made in two parts to admit of applying them
to their supporting frames and suspension rods as shown. The two parts are
connected together by screw-dowels 6031 (Figures 84 and 85) and by screws 6041
of common construction. The holes for the dowel screws 6031 being first made
and the dowels inserted, the holes for the screws 6041 are then finished and
tapped so that the two parts of the weight are held accurately in their proper
relative position to receive the screws 6041 which secure them firmly together.
After this the recesses and shoulders are made to receive the weight frames and
suspension rods.
The indicator rod 507 is preferably constructed in two parts, the free end 507°
being made small and light as shown in Figure 88 (where it is greatly shortened

page_text: for convenience of representation) and attached to the stock or butt 507 of the
rod by a coupling piece 580. The indicator rod is provided with a needle point 581
secured in its extremity as shown. This improved counterbalanced and needle-
pointed indicator-rod is applicable to pressure gauges and dynamometers as well
as to weighing scales.
582 in Figures 88 and 89 represents a guide piece fixed to the indicator rod
by a screw 583 and working over a guide rod 584 which is screwed into a guide
holder 585. The holder 585 is screwed in a plate 586 which is attached adjustably
to the beam 496, or to the stationary frame if preferred by screws 587 occupying
openings of larger diameter in said plate 586 as indicated by dotted lines iu
Figures 88 and 89 so that the parts may be accurately adjusted as required. The
upper stop 588 of the indicator is set up or down by screwing the guide rod 584
within its holder 585. The lower stop which is formed by the head 589 of
said holder is adjusted vertically by screwing the holder up or down in the
plate. The graduated indicator plate 590 is screwed to the plate 586 as shown.
591 and 592 Figures 79. 80 and 81 are graduated weight bars attached to the
beam 496 carrying weights 593 and 594 the larger being employed in the present
illustration for indicating hundreds of pounds up to ten thousand and the smaller
for single pounds up to one hundred. For operating these weights sliding rods
595, 596 are employed provided with fingers 597. These rods pass through the
case 599, 600 and preferably have their bearings in standards 598 erected from the
flange 493 of the scale frame as shown in the example of the rod 595 instead of
in the case as shown at 596 in Figure 79.
599 is an inner casing enclosing the beams and their supporting parts and
accessories with the weights and the devices for operating the same with the
exception of the handles of the hand levers which project out in front as shown in
Figures 80 and 81. This inner case is provided with a glass front at 601 to expose
the scale beams and weights to view. It will appear that the means described for
operating the weights by hand levers and sliding rods obviates all necessity for
The outer case 600 is
opening the inner case in the ordinary use of the scale.
employed to completely enclose the glass front and the operating levers and rods,
small shutters 602 being provided in said outer case to allow the sliding of the
rods 595, 596, when in use and to cover their ends when the scale is closed for
security. The scale frame may rest on beams 629 as shown in Figure 80 but it is
preferred to construct the frame as shown in figure 86, the flanges 492, 493, being
connected at their extremities and bolted in supporting recesses in the side posts of
the case 600.
The construction of the platform is shown in Figures 94 to 108 inclusive.
603 represent sectional string pieces supporting transverse planking 604 on which
the rails 431 are fixed. The stringers 603 rest on transverse beams 606 through
the medium of cast iron shoes 607 secured to the ends of the string pieces 603 by
bolts 608 (Figure 99) as may be necessary. These shoes may be variously
constructed according to the position in which they are placed and according to the
capacity of the scale or the severity of the wear and tear to which it is subjected.
The string pieces or longitudinal beams 603 are made in sections of any convenient
length. Figure 94 shows a section extending across two spaces between the
supports hereinafter described. The shoes 607 when applied to the ends of the
beam-sections are preferably constructed as shown in Figures 99, 104 and 105 each
shoe baving the form of an angle piece secured by horizontal and vertical bolts 608
as indicated by dotted lines in Figure 94. The said shoes are made in pairs as
represented in Figure 105, each with two or more toes projecting into the spaces
between those of the other so that both may transmit their loads to the centre of
the support.
The shoes rest on cast iron steps 609 bolted to the transverse beams 606 which,
through the medium of plates 617 hereinafter described, rest on the liquid-pressure
supports 432 communicating through the pipes 439 with the reducers hereinafter
described. The supports rest on sills or sleepers 611 which may be supported by

page_text: masonry 612. To stay the platform against horizontal motion and to prevent the
tipping of the cross-beams 606 by the bending of the main load-beam 603,
longitudinal beams 613 are secured to the transverse beams 606 of the platform by
bolts 614 which also fix thereto the stay plates 615, 616, and bracket or knee
piece 617. These parts are constructed and applied as follows. The knee-piece 617
consists of a rigid casting secured by bolts 618 to the beam 606 where it rests
upon the support 432 extending downward in the shape of a rigid knee beneath
the stay-beam 613 into the underside of which it is notched and there secured by
the bolts 614 as before stated. The longitudinal flexible plate 615 which is held at
its centre by the same bolt 614 is secured at its extremities by nuts 619 to the
ends of rigid brackets 620 which are fastened by bolts 621 to the bed-sill 611.
The transverse flexible plates 616 figures 97 and 98 are likewise held by the
bolt 614 and at their inner ends are fixed by nuts 622 to brackets 623 secured to
the bed-sill 611 by bolts 630.
The longitudinal beams 603 of the platform are secured to the load frame against
longitudinal motion by rods 631 Figures 94 and 99 fixed to the knee pieces 617 by
nuts 632 and to brackets 633 on the beams by nuts 634. The lateral motion of
the platform sections on the intermediate load-frame, is checked at the ends of the
beams 603 by lugs 635 figure 102 projecting upward from the steps 609 and acting
against flanges on the shoes 607. At the intermediate supports the longitudinal
beams have shoes 610 constructed with lugs 637 near each end extending into
recesses in the beam to fix them against lateral motion on the beams. These shoes
rest on steps 638 flanged at each end to hold the shoes and beams against lateral
motion.
By the flexible plate connections 615, 616, to the intermediate frame 613 the
platform is secured against horizontal motion and enabled to resist traction and
longitudinal shocks and strains from locomotives and trains while its free vertical
motion for weighing purposes is not restrained. The longitudinal beam 613 and
transverse beams 606 with their connections will be seen to constitute an
independent load-frame interposed between the platform 603, 604 and its
supports 432.
By constructing the platform in sections with their ends resting on the
transverse supporting-beans 606, as above described, and as particularly illustrated
in Figure 99, a platform consisting of the longitudinal beam 603 and the
planking 604 and rails 431 secured thereto may readily be removed in sections,
as required, without disturbing the intermediate load frame, its connections
and supports.
The supports 432 are arranged opposite each other in pairs, as illustrated in
figures 59, 95, 96 and 108 one pair being placed beneath each transverse beam 606.
The pressure pipes 439 from the respective supports of each pair are conducted to
chambers arranged opposite each other in the reducer 445 as shown in figure 59.
The removable platform sections may be made only long enough to span the space
between one pair of supports and the next, or they may be adapted to stretch
across two spaces, as illustrated in Figure 94, or more than two spaces if desired.
For platform scales of small capacity, or where the wear and tear are not so severe,
the transverse beams 606 may be permanently bolted to the longitudinal string
pieces 603 and rest directly on the tops of the pressure-supports or on interposed
Hat plates bolted thereto. By straining the plates, 615 in either direction by means
of the nuts 619 the entire platform may be adjusted or moved longitudinally, or
by straining the plates 616 by means of the nuts 622 it may be adjusted laterally
as required.
The weigh-frame and attachments will be seen to constitute an effective and
superior standard gauge for measuring liquid pressure. Liquid being employed to
transmit the pressure, it is immaterial whether the pressure represents units of
weight or units of pressure area. Where the pressure is large an intermediate
reducer, such as shown in figure 68 may be interposed, or where the pressure is
very large a reducer such as shown in Figure 67.

page_text: Having thus described the nature of the said Invention and the mode in which
the same may be carried into effect I would have it understood that what I
claim is
1st In a hydraulic pressure-support, a pressure column secured to its base by
means of an annular diaphragm substantially as herein set forth.
2nd In a hydraulic pressure-support, a pressure column centered within a
surrounding shell or casing by means of annular diaphragms or flexible fixing
plate.
3rd In a hydraulic pressure support, a pressure column made in two parts, one
secured to the base and the other to the surrounding shell or casing.
4th In a hydraulic pressure-support, a pressure-column made in two parts with a
screw 441, for separating them as set forth.
5th In a hydraulic pressure-support the combination of the base, 433, casing 434,
countersunk tap-screw 435, and the tappet socket extending only partially through
the flange of the casing so as to admit of forming a tightly sealed joint as set
forth.
6th The combination of the removable-cap, 444, with a bydraulic pressure-support
substantially as described.
7th In combination with a hydraulic pressure-support, the bell shaped cap of
cast iron or other suitable material, constructed substantially as described, to
adapt it to exclude water from the upper part of the case and protect the moving
parts.
8th In a hydraulic pressure-support, the combined-cap 444, rubber 442, and
pressure-column 437 substantially as and for the purposes set forth.
9th In a hydraulic pressure-support, the combination of the cap 444, rubber 442
and retaining ring 443, with the pressure column 437 substantially as set forth.
10th In combination with one or more simple or compound pressure-supports one
or more reducers through which pressure from the support is transmitted to the
weigh-beam substantially as described.
11th The reducer constructed substantially as herein described with a base 446,
one or more small pressure-chambers, main pressure column 450, case 447 and
chambered caps 448, suitably connected by screws or bolts 449.
12th The combination of the sealing-ring 456, with the chambered piece, 451,
diaphragm 454, ring 455, and small pressure-column 453 as and for the purposes
set forth.
13th In combination with the main receiving chamber-base 446, the small
chambered pieces 451, each secured in position by a screw, 452, substantially as
set forth.
14th The combination with the base 446, and pressure-column 450, of one or
more gauge bolts, 449* substantially as and for the purposes set forth.
15th The combination with the base of a pressure-column or reducer of one or
more small pressure chambers separable therefrom, substantially as explained.
16th The base 446 or 1764 adapted to permit the removal of the small pressure-
chambers as described.
17th The combination in the chambered-cap 448, of the feeding aperture 461,
sealing plug 462, and pipe-screw 400 as and for the purposes set forth.
18th The combination with the pressure-column 478, of a scale or reducer of the
small pressure-columns 474, and chambers 473, arranged in pairs with a single
pipe connecting with both chambers of each pair for the purpose of equalizing the
pressure as set forth.
19th In combination with the base 467, the annular diaphragms 474* the small
pressure columns, 474, and the rings 475, the plate 476, secured to the base by
screws 477, or otherwise, to hold the said rings in position substantially as set
forth.
20th The combination with the base 467, of a reducer and the pressure chamber-
atam 160 of the finindot AZO
Sonnet forth

page_text: 21st A diaphragm or fixing-plate for a sealed pressure-chamber or a pressure-
column, with a bent edge or edges, secured within a dovetail groove or grooves
by tamping or packing metal or other material into said groove or grooves as set
forth.
22 The combination of the annular pressure-column 482, the central stem 501,
constructed with an enlarged head, 500, for the attachment of the beam-connection
and the base-plate 502, securing the annular column and the stem together and
clamping the flexible fixing-plate 503.
23rd A scale-beam 496, constructed with an enlarged head 496, made hollow for
the reception of balancing material as set forth.
24th The construction and combination of the weight 519, with conical seated
attaching-nut 520, and the flanged suspension-rod 518, 518 substantially as set
forth.
25th The combination of the elevating platform 522, with the weight 519, and
suspension rod 518, 518ª constructed and operating as set forth.
26th In a weighing machine the combination of a weight-elevating-bar, frame or
platform, and primary and secondary levers with suitable connections for operating
the same, substantially as set forth.
27th The combination with a weight-supporting bar or frame, and a lever or
levers for operating the same, of a fixing-rod attached independently to the lever
or levers as set forth.
28th The combination of the index 530, with the fixing-rod 530, with or without
the intermediate holder 578.
29th A guiding and sustaining friction-box in combination with a bar attached
to a weight-operating lever as set forth.
30th The combination with a flanged weigh-beam frame of friction boxes 507-
568, and a bar or rod connected directly or indirectly with the weight operating
levers substantially as and for the purposes set forth.
31 The adjustable guide-plates 542° in combination with the flanges 492, 493,
and weight-supporting-frames 540, substantially as and for the purposes set forth.
32nd The combination with the weight-supporting frame or its lever of the
variable counter-balancing weight, 531, substantially as set forth.
33rd The combination of the drum 574, band 575 arm 573 and suspended weight
with the weight-frame 542, substantially as and for the purpose set forth.
34th In a weighing-scale or pressure gauge, the indicator-rod 507, 507ª constructed
in two parts with the coupling-piece, 580, substantially as set forth.
35th In a weighing-scale pressure-gauge or dynamometer, a counter-balanced
indicator-rod provided with a needle point as set forth.
36th The combination of the adjustable guide-holder 589, the guide-rod 584 and
the guide piece 582 as described.
37th The adjustable attaching-plate 586, in combination with the indicator-
plate 590, and guide-holder, 589, as set forth.
38th The weight adjusting rods 595, 596, or either of them, in combination with
the holding-studs, 598, and flange 493, of the frame as set forth.
39th The double-weigh-beam-case 599 and 600, constructed substantially as and
for the purposes set forth.
40th In a platform-scale, an independent load-frame fixed against horizontal
motion placed under the load-platform, and resting on the weighing-levers or
supports, substantially as set forth.
41st The construction of the intermediate load-frame as herein described, with
longitudinal stringers, 613, and transverse-ties, 606, held against longitudinal
motion by stay-plates or rods. 615, as and for the purposes set forth.
42nd The connecting-knees, 617, in combination with the string pieces 613,
cross-ties. 606, and stay plates 615, 616, as and for the purposes set forth.
43rd The combination with one or more hydraulic pressure-supports of the inter-
mediate load-frame fixed against horizontal motion and the separate load platform,
as and for the purposes set forth.

page_text: 44th A flexible plate or rod with suitable straining devices combined with the
load-frame or platform and the frame or bed of a platform scale for the purpose of
adjusting and fixing said load-frame or platform against horizontal movement
substantially as set forth.
45th The combination with a load-frame or platform of the longitudinal flexible
fixing-plate or rod, 615, nuts 619, bracket 620, and bed or sill 611, as and for the
purposes set forth.
46th The combination of the load-frame or platform, transverse flexible fixing
plate or rod 616, nuts 622, and bed frame 611, 623, as and for the purposes set
forth,
47th The combination of the steps 609, knee-pieces 617, stringers 613, and
transverse-beams 606, as set forth.
48th The shoes 607, applied to the ends of the platform-beams 603, and employed
in combination with the steps 609, substantially as explained.
49th In a railway-track-scale, a load-platform made in sections resting by their
ends independently on the platform-supports as set forth.
In witness whereof I the said Albert Hamilton Emery have hereunto set my
hand and seal this eighth day of November in the year of our Lord One thousand
eight hundred and eighty three.
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