Improvements in or relating to Automatic Pianos, or that Class of Instruments Adapted for either Manual or Automatic Operation.
Year: 1896

page_text: Date of Application, 19th May, 1896
Complete Specification Left, 29th June, 1896-Accepted, 22nd Aug., 1896
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in or relating to Automatic Pianos, or that Class of
Instruments Adapted for either Manual or Automatic Operation.
A communication by EDWARD HOLLINGSWORTH WHITE, of Meriden, in the
County of New Haven and State of Connecticut, United States of America,
Manufacturer of Organs, Pianos, etc.
I, WILLIAM PHILLIPS THOMPSON, F.C.S., M.I.M.E., of The Agency for
Foreign Patent Solicitors, 6 Lord Street, Liverpool and 6 Bank Street,
Manchester, both. in the County of Lancaster, 118 New Street, Birmingham,
in the County of Warwick, and 322 High Holborn in the County of Middlesex,
Civil Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as follows:-
This invention relates to automatic combination pianos, or that class of
instruments adapted for either manual or automatic operation.
One object of the invention is to provide a piano with a system of automatic
operators disposed within the piano case adjacent to the front of the piano-action,
with automatic keys engaging the rockers or tilting parts that carry the hammer-
throwing jacks, in a manner for playing the hammers independent of the manual
keys, and disconnected so as not to interfere with the use of the manual for
playing.
Another object is to provide 3 piano with an automatic action above the
manual and in front of the piano action, a pneumatic actuating mechanisin at
the back of the piano, and means for transmitting motion across the piano frame
from said pneumatic actuating mechanism to the action in front.
Another object is to provide a locking device for preventing movement of the
manual keys while the automatic action is operating. Also, for retaining the
latter, and freeing the manual keys, when the automatic action is not in use; also,
to provide means for automatically operating the key-locking device.
Another object is the arrangement of the pneumatic playing mechanism, music-
carrying and wind-inducing appliances, in a manner of convenient assemblage and
portability for ready attachment to pianos of separate manufacture, as well as to
those specially made therefor.
Another object is to provide finger-keys at the front of the manual or key-table,
whereby the expression mechanism can be conveniently controlled by finger
movement while the blow-pedals and automatic action are in use.
In this improved combination-piano, the piano-action; the manual keys; the
metal frame; sound-board; strings; and body casing can be of any suitable or
well known construction, and arranged for operation as usually employed in
upright pianos.
Within a frame adapted for attachment to the back of the piano body and
having a top portion that surmounts the top of the piano, there is arranged the
tracker and appliances for supporting and carrying forward a perforated music-
sheet. A wind-chest or pneumatic chamber containing series of controlling and
operating pneumatics, a motor or air engine which generates power and motion for
operating the music-winding rolls; also, a regulator therefor.
In the lower portion of the frame there is a wind-inducing mechanism consisting
of bellows and exhausting feeders which are worked by swinging pedals located at

page_text: the front of the piano case, and connected with said exhausters by hinged sector-
levers and connecting rods, for operating in a manner to exhaust air from the
wind-chest through suitable passages communicating therewith.
The devices for carrying the music-sheet consists of a winding drum in rear of
the tracker, and suitable bearings for the music-spool in front of the tracker.
Said winding-drum is provided with a gear that is operated by a pinion fixed on a
shaft supported in bearings in the upper part of the frame. Said shaft is provided
with a pulley from which a belt of coiled wire extends to a small pulley on the
spool bearing for re-winding the music-sheet.
The pneumatic mechanism consists of a series of pneumatics arranged in two
alternating rows, in connection with an inlet air leader having a series of passages
or wind-ways that extend into the respective pneumatics, and have valve-seat
passages that open upward into the interior of the leader and downward into the
exhaust-space within the wind-chest.
Said passages are controlled by poppet-valves comprising two disks supported on
a spindle at such distance apart that when elevated the lower passage will be
closed and the passage into the leader opened, and rice versa.
Below this leader is arranged a hed containing a series of primary controlling
pneumatics respectively located beneath the poppet spindles. When any one of
the respective pneumatics is inflated the valve above it will open the passage to
the corresponding operating-pneumatic from the interior of the inlet air leader, and
close the passage to the exhaust chamber; and when said controlling pneumatic is
collapsed, the valve-poppet will drop closing the passage from the leader and
opening the passage into the exhaust space.
The tracker contains a series of ducts or orifices over which the perforated
music-sheet is advanced to act as a valve therefor, in well known manner, and a
series of passages connect the respective tracker-ducts with the controlling-
pneumatics, so that each orifice of the tracker controls one of said pneumatics and
its valve-poppet that regulates the action of the corresponding main operating
pneumatic.
The operating pneumatics are fixed in supporters upon which are journaled a
series of wire levers corresponding with the several pneumatics. One eud of the
lever is bent to rest against the movable plate of the pneumatic, while the other
end is extended borizontally, and laterally offset, so that its end will rise and fall
with the inflation and collapse of the pneumatic for actuating lifters or puppets
that work the playing mechanism. Said poppets pass through the top of the chest
and are each fitted with a head at both ends that serve to stop the opening when
the lifter is elevated or depressed.
An air-trunk or conductor leads from the pneumatic chest to the wind-chest and
thence by suitable passages into the bellows by which the air in the chamber
surrounding the pneumatics is exhausted. The passage into said air-trunk is
provided with a valve opened by a suitable spring and closed by a lever connected
with the mechanism which shifts the music-operating appliances into and out of
gear for winding and re-winding the sheet; so that said valve is thereby closed to
prevent exhaustion of air within the pneumatic-chest while re-winding the music-
sheet, and again permitted to open when the winding gear is thrown into
engagement.
There is an opening into the leader having an inwardly opening valve connected
with a yielding spring pressed lever that tends to close the valve in opposition to
the inflowing air. By varying the resistance of the lever on the valve the air in
the leader is given greater or less tension for filling the pneumatic, causing said
pneumatics to act with greater or less force and promptness, thus moving the action
to strike a harder or softer blow upon the piano strings.
A feature of this invention is the automatic playing-action arranged at the front
of the piano-action within the space between said piano-action and the desk or
front casing above the manual keys, aud the manner of combining the same with
the pneumatic operating mechanism. A support or frame with suitable longitudinal

page_text: guide-bars is secured in the piano-case. Upon said frame there are carriol a series
of automatic keys or levers arranged to respectively engage beneath the rockers or
tilting members that carry the hammer-actuating jacks of the piano-action.
Standing upon or engaging with said automatic keys there are a series of upright
rods or operators respectively supported to have free entwise movement for
depressing the front ends of the automatic keys, and thereby throwing up their
rear ends to lift the rockers or tilt-blocks and thus operate the hammers in the
piano action. For imparting motion to said rods and automatic keys, a series of
cranked wires or levers are arranged across the top of the piano, and supported or
fulcrumed to rock freely in bearings upon the top of the piano frame, or in an
auxiliary frame arranged thereon.
In practice the number of automatic keys corresponds in series with the number
of manual keys and hammers in the piano-action, or such portion thereof as may
be included in the automatic or combined action; each of said automatic keys
being provided with a similar individual set of operating devices and pneumatics;
each set being independently operative and respectively connected for control with
the air-inlet ducts of the tracker, as will be readily understood by persons conversant
with automatic musical instruments.
The automatic keys may be weighted to give preponderance at the rear en l; or
springs may be used for imparting a backward tilt thereto.
The guide-frame is removably attached within the piano case so that said frame,
together with the operator-rods, automatic-keys and other mechanism attached
thereto can be readily removed at any time for giving access to the piano-action;
said frame being retained by suitable detachable fastenings.
In any instance, if preferred, in lien of extending the rocker-wires to rest directly
upon the heads of rods that stand upon the automatic keys, auxiliary rockers and
shorter operator rods may be employed therewith. The operation or action in
this instance is substantially the same as though the lever acted directly on
the rod.
The automatic action is entirely independent of the manual-keys, the engagement
being made with the hammer-throwing mechanism, so there is no interference with
the free playing of the piano manually, nor any movement of the automatic devices
by the manual keys.
Between the automatic keys and manual keys a key-lock device is arranged.
When in elevated position the lock-bar supports the automatic keys in elevated
alignment, leaving the manual keys free for action, and when the lock-bar is
depressed it holds the manual keys immovable leaving the automatic keys free for
operation. A suitable spring is combined with this key-locking bar for elevating
and normally maintaining it in position beneath the automatic keys; and a
pneumatic motor device for automatically depressing the lock bar upon the
manual keys and retaining said bar depressed so long as the pneumatic chamber
is exhausted.
At the front of the key-table finger-keys are provided for controlling the
expression mechanism. Said finger-keys are preferably made as cranked rods or
levers having projecting front ends properly shaped to be advantageously
manipulated with the fingers, while the rear ends connect with the parts to be
operated thereby. One of said finger-keys, through its rod, actuates the hammer-
rest-rail. A second one of said finger-keys, through its rod, works the retracting
devices of string-dampers at the base end of the piano-action; while another
finger-key has its rod combined in similar manner with dampers at the treble end
of the piano-action. Another of said finger-keys controls the air-inlet to the leader
for flushing the operating pneumatics.
The finger-keys preferably have combined therewith a ledge or plate fixed on
the piano front upon which to rest the thumb and gain support to assist the fingers
in manipulating the keys.
A motor or air-engine of any suitable or well known construction, pneumatically
operative for imparting rotary motion to the motor-shaft is provided for operating

page_text: the music-winding mechanism. Also, a quick running balance-wheel for steadying
the motor-action, in well known manner.
The wind-chest upon which the motor is supported, is divided by a partition into
two separate chambers; one of which communicates direct with the bellows, while
the other communicates with a regulator pneumatic and thence to the bellows.
The exit chamber of the motor has au air passage into the chamber leading to
the regulator, and a somewhat larger passage into the chamber which communicates
direct with the bellows, and both of said passages are controlled by a single slide
or valve connected with a knob or handle for conveniently moving the valve as
desired. The regulator comprises a collapsible pneumatic through which the air
passes, and a valve automatically moved by said pneumatic, and arranged to open
and close the air-passage between the pneumatic motor and the bellows. When
the automatic action is playing the air from the motor passes through the small
opening, thence through the regulator which controls and renders uniform the
speed of the motor, and thence to the bellows. The size of the opening can
be varied by closing the valve more or less, thus giving greater or less speed.
When the operation is to re-wind the music-sheet, the valve can be shifted so as
to open the larger passage, utilizing the full exhaustive action of the bellows, so
as to re-wind the music upon its spool with dispatch.
The horizontal frame or base, to which the blow-pedals are hinged, is arranged
to slide under the bottom of the piano, to be moved in and out like a drawer, the
pedal taking an upright position at the front of the case when the base is moved
back. The upper end of the pedal is connected by a link to the forward end of a
sector or lever which is formed with a forwardly projecting end carrying a pivoting
stud for the link.
If it is desired that the blow-pedals should be near together, the construction
can be modified; the link being formed with a hook and connected to the sector or
its stud, so that it can be detached therefrom, the pedal let down upon the base,
and both the base and pedal then slid backward beneath the piano body.
Dated this 18th day of May 1896.
Improvements in or relating to Automatic Pianos, or that Class of
Instruments Adapted for either Manual or Automatic Operation.
A communication by EDWARD HOLLINGSWORTH WHITE, of Meriden, in the
County of New Haven and State of Connecticut, United States of America,
Manufacturer of Organs, Pianos, etc.
I, WILLIAM PHILLIPS THOMPSON, F.C.S., M.I.M.E., of The Agency for
Foreign Patent Solicitors 6, Lord Street, Liverpool and 6, Bank Street,
Manchester both in the County of Lancaster, 118, New Street, Birmingham in
the County of Warwick and 322, High Holborn in the County of Middlesex,
Civil Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in what
manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained
in and by the following statement :-
This invention relates to automatic combination pianos, or that class of instru-
ments adapted for either manual or automatic operation.
One object of the invention is to provide a piano with a system of automatic
operators disposed within the piano case adjacent to the front of the piano-action,
with automatic keys engaging the rockers or tilting parts that carry the hammer-

page_text: throwing jacks, in a manner for playing the hammers independent of the manual
keys, and disconnected so as not to interfere with the use of the manual for
playing.
Another object is to provide a piano with an automatic action above the manual
and in front of the piano action, a pneumatic actuating mechanism at the back of
the piano, and means for transmitting motion across the piano frame from said
pneumatic actuating mechanism to the action in front.
Another object is to provide a locking device for preventing movement of the
manual keys while the automatic action is operating. Also, for retaining the
latter, and freeing the manual keys, when the automatic action is not in use; also,
to provide means for automatically operating the key-locking device.
Another object is the arrangement of the pneumatic playing mechanism, music-
carrying and wind-inducing appliances, in a manner of convenient assemblage and
portability for ready attachment to pianos of separate manufacture, as well as to
those specially made therefor.
Another object is to provide finger-keys at the front of the manual or key-table,
whereby the expression mechanism can be conveniently controlled by finger
movement while the blow-pedals and automatic action are in use.
Minor objects and features of this invention will be understood from the
following detailed description; the particular subject matter claimed being herein-
after definitely specified.
In the drawings,
Fig. 1 is a front view of the piano with the desk-front removed showing the
action.
Fig. 2 is a horizontal section below the top-board of the piano-case.
Fig. 3 is a plan view with a portion of the attachment top broken away to show
the music-carrying mechanism.
Fig. 4 is a vertical section on somewhat larger scale, showing the piano-action,
automatic action and operating mechanism.
Fig. 5 is a vertical section through the full height of the instrument.
Fig. 6 is a section showing the exit valve and air trunk from the pneumatic
chamber.
Fig. 7 shows the form of wires or levers for transmitting motion to the automatic
key-operators.
Fig. 8 shows a plan and side elevation of the automatic-key.
Fig. 9 is a front view of the attachable frame and appliances for working the
automatic action shown separate from the piano, portions of the front being broken
away to reveal the parts beneath.
Fig. 10 is a longitudinal vertical section illustrating the improved motor-
controlling valve and regulator.
Fig. 11 is a horizontal section showing the various operating connections, and
the finger-keys for controlling expression.
Fig. 12 is a side view of the connections for controlling the re-winding
mechanism.
Fig. 13 is a vertical section showing the pneumatic and connections for operating
the key-lock.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the key-board, showing
the finger-keys for controlling the expression mechanism.
Fig. 15 is a similar view showing a modification in the construction of such
finger-keys.
Fig. 16 is a sectional view showing details of the resistance lever and inlet-valve
for the pneumatic chest.
Fig. 17 is a front view of the connections for controlling said inlet-valve.
Fig. 18 is a vertical section illustrating the construction and operation of the
pneumatics.
Figs. 19 and 20 are front and section views showing a modification in the blow-
pedals.

page_text: Fig. 21 is a vertical section through the pneumatic chest, on somewhat larger
scale.
Fig. 22 represents front and section views showing the form of the body-block
for the operating pneumatics; and
Fig. 23 is a series of horizontal views or partial sections, at different levels of
the pneumatic chest, showing the details of the preferred construction of the
pneumatic actuating devices.
In this improved combination-piano, the piano-action A; the manual keys; the
metal frame; sound-board; strings; and body casing can be of any suitable or
well known construction, and arranged for operation as usually employed in
upright pianos.
"
The term "piano-action ' as used in this specification and the claims is intended
to include the group of operating parts above the manual key for producing the
stroke upon the string, and effecting recoil of the hammer; comprising the
hammer, its throwing jack, rocker, back-catch, springs, trip-device, martingale,
and lift-bar, and the connecting-joints for such parts; the same being usually
employed in upright pianos, are thus referred to in a group for abrilgoment of
description.
D denotes a frame adapted for attachment to the back of the piano body and
having a top portion that surmounts the top of the piano. Within this top portion,
preferably at a central position, there is arranged the tracker B and appliances for
supporting and carrying forward a perforated music-sheet S, which parts rest upon
a horizontal channel-board B. A wind-chest or pneumatic chamber C containing
series of controlling and operating pneumatics is disposed within the frame D.
Below said wind-chest is arranged a motor or air engine M which generates power
and motion for operating the music-winding rolls; also, a regulator R therefor.
The motor and regulator are best supported by a shelf d' that extends across the
frame and also supports a wind-chest m that communicates with the motor and
other parts, as more fully hereinafter described.
In the lower portion of the frame D there is a wind-inducing mechanism
consisting of the bellows D¹ and its exhausting feeders D2, which are worked by
swinging pedals E located at the front of the piano case, and connected with the
lower edge of said exhausters by hinged sector-levers e and connecting rods e', as
indicated. The bellows-board d extends across and is rigidly fixed in the frame D,
while the movable part of the bellows and exhausters are arranged thereon for
operating in a manner to exhaust air from the chest C and m through suitable
passages communicating therewith.
The devices for carrying the music-sheet S¹ consist of a winding drum Q in rear
of the tracker, and suitable bearings for introduction of the music-spool S in front
of the tracker. Said winding-drum is provided with a gear that is operated by a
pinion t fixed on a shaft T supported in bearings in the upper part of the frame D.
Said shaft is provided with a pulley T¹ from which a belt 2 of coiled wire extends
to a small pulley on the spool bearing S for re-winding the music sheet when the
gear and pinion t are thrown out of engagement. A pulley T2 is fixed on the
shaft for the driving belt. A hinged cover is provided for the recess in which
the music-sheet is arranged, as shown at D³.
The pneumatic mechanism within the chest C is preferably constructed as
illustrated in detail, and consists of a series of upright pneumatics F arranged in
two alternating rows, their lower ends supported in connection with an inlet air
leader having a series of passages or wind-ways f that extend into the
respective pneumatics, and have valve-seat passages that open upward into the
interior of the leader and downward into the exhaust-space within the wind-
chest.
Said passages or openings are controlled by poppet-valves G comprising two
disks supported on a spindle at such distance apart that when the valve-poppet is
elevated the lower passage will be closed and the passage into the leader opened,
and vice versa.

page_text: The series of valve-spindles are guided and the valves maintained central with
the openings by means of perforated plates g above and below the valves through
which the valve-spindles pass.
Below this leader F is arranged a bed H containing a series of primary con-
trolling pneumatics / respectively located beneath the poppet spindles. When any
one of the respective pneumatics h is inflated the valve G above it will open the
passage to the corresponding operating-pneumatic F from the interior of the
inlet air leader, and close the passage to the exhaust chamber; and when said
controlling pneumatic his collapsed, the valve-poppet will drop closing the passage
from the leader and opening the passage into the exhaust space.
The tracker B contains a series of ducts or orifices over which the perforated
music-sheet is advanced to act as a valve therefor, in well known manner, and
through the board B and side of the wind-chest there is a series of passages or
wind-ways b which connect the respective tracker-ducts with the passages b¹ in the
pneumatic-bed leading into the controlling-pneumatics so that each orifice of the
tracker controls one of said pneumatics and its valve-poppet G that regulates
the action of the corresponding main operating pneumatic.
At their upper ends the operating pneumatics F are fixed in supporters F³, upon
which are journaled a series of wire levers I corresponding with the several
pneumatics; (see Figs. 21, and 23.) One end of the lever I extends downward
and is bent to rest against the movable plate of the pneumatic, while the other end
is extended horizontally, and laterally offset, above the fulcrum supporting bar, so
that its end i will rise and fall with the inflation and collapse of the pneumatic F
for actuating the lifters that work the playing mechanism. The pneumatics Fare
best disposed in two rows alternating as shown, and the wire levers of the different
rows are directed forward or backward as required to bring their offset ends all
into line with each other. The lifters preferably consist of vertically moving
poppets or studs J arranged in a single row above the ends i of the levers. Said
poppets pass through the top of the chest C, and are each fitted with a head at both
ends that serve to stop the opening when the lifter is elevated or depressed.
The operating pneumatics are best inade in oval form with a body-block (Fig. 22)
having a depression with a channel F7 surrounding a central raised portion F³, so
that the air for inflating the pneumatic can enter beneath the movable diaphragm
without hindrance; thereby working the diaphragm, levers and lifters with quick
and powerful action. The controlling pneumatics are best of oval form, and
disposed in their bed alternately as illustrated. Pin-hole vents V are provided for
collapsing said pneumatics in the usual manner when the tracker-orifices are closed
by the music-sheet.
The pneumatics F and h within the chest C operate by light control and strong
operative action. The controlling pneumatics raise or drop the valves G
accordingly as the air ducts leading thereto from the tracker are opened or closed
by the music-sheet, thereby permitting inflow of air from the inlet leader Fi to
inflate, or stopping the inflow and opening the exhaust to collapse the operating
pneumatics F, which, by means of their angle-levers 1, raise or drop the respective
poppet studs J. The operation or inflation of the respective pneumatics F is effected
to throw up a poppet J whenever an opening in the music-sheet passes over a
corresponding duct in the tracker; and to collapse and drop the poppet when such
tracker-duct is closed by the music-sheet. The ducts 6 from the tracker radiate
within the horizontal channel-board B₁ and then pass downward within the
back-board of the chest C to the bed H and into the respective controlling
pneumatics .
An air-trunk or conductor C' leads from the pneumatic chest C to the wind-
chest m and thence by suitable passages into the bellows (see Figs. 6 and 9) by
which the air in the chamber surrounding the pneumatics is exhausted. The passage
into said air-trunk is provided with a valve G', opened by a suitable spring and
closed by a lever G2 connected with the mechanism which shifts the music-operating
appliances into and out of gear for winding and re-winding the sheet; so that said

page_text: valve G is thereby closed to prevent exhaustion of air within the pacunatic-chest
while re-winding the music-sheet, and again permitted to open when the winding
gear is thrown into engagement.
At the end of the chest C there is an opening into the leader F having in
inwardly opening valve F3 connected with a yielding spring pressed lever F (see
Fig. 16) that tends to close the valve in opposition to the inflowing air. By varying
the resistance of the lever on the valve the air in the leader is given greater or less
tension for filling the pneumatic F, causing said pneumatics to act with greater or
less force and promptness, thus moving the action to strike a harder or softer blow
upon the piano strings. When the resistance of the lever or spring is increased
less air is supplied to the pneumatics which then act with less vigor and a lighter
stroke of the hammers is effected upon the strings than when the inlet valve F³ is
permitted to open with its normal degree of resistance.
A feature of this invention is the automatic playing-action arranged at the front
of the piano-action A, within the space between said piano-action and the desk or
front casing a¹, above the manual keys K, and the manner of combining the same
with the pneumatic operating mechanism at the back of the piano. This automatic
action is preferably constructed as follows: A support or frame L, with suitable
longitudinal guide-bars, is secured in the piano rase. Upon said frame there are
carried a series of automatic keys or levers 5 (see Fig. 8) pivoted or fulcramed in a
manner to swing with an upward and downward movement, and arranged to respec-
tively engage, at their rear ends, beneath the front ends of the rockers 6 or tilting
members that carry the hammer-actuating jacks of the piano-action, (see Figs. 4
and 5), but operatively disconnected from said rockers except when in action.
Standing upon or engaging with the front ends of said automatic keys there are a
series of upright rods or operators 8 respectively supported in guides L¹ on the
frame L, to have free end wise movement for depressing the front ends of the
automatic keys, and thereby throwing up their ends to lift the rockers or tilt-blocks 6
and thus operate the hammers in the piano action. For imparting motion to said
rods 8 and automatic keys, from the pneumatically actuated poppets J, a series of
cranked wires or levers N are arranged across the top of the piano above the metal
frame and below the cover board, (see Figs. 2, 4, 5, and 7), the cranked wires or
levers being supported or fulcrumed to rock freely in bearings upon the top of the
piano frame, or in an auxiliary frame 12 arranged thereon.
The rods 8 are preferably provided with adjusting buttons 9 for regulating the
exact length as required. The crank-ends n of the levers N respectively rest, one
upon the button of the rod 8 and the other upon the button at the top of the
poppet J; the arrangement being such that elevation of the poppet J will depress
rod 8, or vice versa. In practice the number of automatic keys 5 corresponds in
series with the number of manual keys and hammers in the piano-action; or such
portion thereof as may be included in the automatic or combined action; each of
said automatic keys being provided with a similar individual set of operating
devices comprising the rod 8, lever N, poppet-stud J, angle-wire I, and pneu-
matics F and h, each set being independently operative and respectively connected
for control with the air-inlet ducts of the tracker B, as will be readily understood
by persous conversant with automatic musical instruments.
The keys 5 may be weighted with lead 7, as indicated in Fig. 8, to give pre-
ponderance at the rear end; or if desired springs may be used in combination with
said keys for imparting a backward tilt thereto.
The frame L is removably attached within the piano case, so that said frame,
together with the operator-rods, automatic-keys and other mechanism attached
thereto can be readily removed at any time for giving access to the piano-action;
said frame being retained by suitable detachable fastenings. The frame 12 is
preferably removable, together with levers N, or so as to draw out at the front,
for removing the entire series of levers to facilitate tuning the piano.
In any instances, if preferred, in lieu of extending the rocker-wires N to rest
directly upon the heads of rods that stand upon the automatic keys, auxiliary

page_text: rockers, as N', and shorter operator rods 88 may be employed, as indicated in
Fig. 5; the auxiliary rods and rockers being supported upon a bar or guide-
frame hinged to the frame L and removable therewith. The operation or
action in this instance is substantially the same as though the lever N acted
directly on the rod 8. This latter modification permits the convenient tuning of
the piano strings simply by removing the frame L and parts carried thereby
without withdrawing the frame 12 and levers N.
By arranging the automatic action in front of the piano-action, above the manual
and in rear of the removable desk or front of the case, the automatic mechanism is
rendered conveniently accessible; can be attached to a piano with facility; its
parts easily adjusted at any time as desired, and its frame being detachably secured
in the piano-case the automatic action can be readily removed to afford access to
the piano-action and strings and as readily replaced when desired. Also, by
disposing the pneumatic chest at the rear of the piano and arranging the con-
necting levers or rockers that transmit motion from the pneumatic poppets to the
automatic key-operating rods across the head of the piano above the metal frame,
the mechanisin can be applied to a piano with practical facility and without
cutting into the sound-board or frame to accommodate the rockers or connecting
levers; while the pneumatic chest is away from interference with the sounding
strings and conveniently in position for direct communication with the overhead
tracker and the wind-inducing mechanism.
As a feature of this invention, it will be observed that the automatic action is
entirely independent of the manual-keys, the engagement being made with the
hammer-throwing mechanism, so that such manual keys do not move when the
automatic mechanism is in operation. Also, that the automatic action is operatively
unconnected with the piano-action when idle, so that there is no interference with
the free playing of the piano manually, nor any movement of the automatic devices
by the manual keys.
Between the automatic keys 5 and manual keys K a key-lock device is arranged.
This consists of a bar or frame 15 bung by suitable links or guides 10 so as to rise
and fall. When in elevated position the top edge of the lock bar supports the
automatic keys 5 in elevated alignment, leaving the manual keys free for action,
and when the lock bar is depressed its lower edge rests upon and holds the manual
keys immovable leaving the automatic keys free for operation. A suitable
spring 11 is combined with this key-locking bar for elevating and normally
maintaining it in position beneath the automatic keys, as shown in Fig. 1. This
locking bar is provided with an operating rocker 17 joined by suitable con-
nections 16 and 18 with a pneumatic motor device O, the interior of which
communicates, as at O', with the chamber C in which the pneumatics F are
arranged; so that when the air in said chamber is exhausted, by the influence or
action of the bellows, the pneumatic O closes and forces forward the connections 16
and 18, turning down the rocker 17, thereby automatically depressing the lock-bar
upon the manual keys by said pneumatic O, and retaining said bar depressed so
long as the pneumatic chamber is exhausted; that is, while the automatic action
of the instrument is in operation. As soon as the exhaustion of air in the
pneumatic chamber C ceases, the pneumatic C collapses, releasing the connection 16,
and allowing the lock-bar to be raised by its spring to rest in normal position
beneath the automatic keys 5. The arrangement in a combination piano of means
for automatically locking the keys is an important feature of invention.
The pneumatic for automatically controlling the key-locking devices is relieved
from the bellows influence when the valve is closed for re-winding the music-sheet,
consequently the key-locking bar assumes its normal position against the automatic
keys 5, and releases the manual keys during the re-winding operations.
At the front of the key-table a finger-keys P are provided for controlling the
expression mechanism. Said finger-keys are preferably made as cranked rods or
levers, fulcrumed beneath the key-table a, and having projecting front ends
properly shaped for use as keys to be advantageously manipulated with the fingers,
B

page_text: while the rear ends of such key-rods connect with the parts to be operated thereby.
One of said finger-keys, through its rod P', actuates a lever 21 for lifting the pedal-
pitman 22 whereby the hammer rest-rail 23 is raised; one end of the lever 21 being
depressed by the cranked end of rod P¹ and its other end engaging a collar fixed
on the pedal pitman. A second one of said finger-keys, through its rod P3,
actuates a lever 24 that is fulcrumed on the bed a with its opposite end engaging a
collar fixed on the pitman 25 that works the retracting devices of string-dampers 26
at the bass-end of the piano-action; while another finger-key has its rod P
combined in similar manner with a lever 27 that operates the pitman 28 and
dampers at the treble end of the piano-action. Another of said finger-keys has its
cranked rod P connected by a bar 29, cranked-shaft 30, and lifter 31, with a cranked
rocker 32 that engages the lever F of the resistance valve F which controls the
air-inlet to the leader F' for flushing the operating pneumatics F, (see Figs. 16
and 17) so that by pressing the finger upon said finger-key the rocker 32 is caused
to press inward the lower end of the lever F causing the spring 34 to act with
greater force against the upper hinged part of the lever; giving greater tension
thereon for closing the inlet-valve, thereby partially reducing the supply of air so
that the pneumatics F inflate with a weaker or less prompt action.
The finger-keys P preferably have combined therewith a ledge or plater fixed
on the piano front upon which to rest the thumb and gain support to assist the
fingers in manipulating the keys. If in any instance desired these finger-expression
keys P can be arranged with their ends standing upward through or near the
key-board margin, in front of the manual keys (see Fig. 15) at convenient
position to be pressed with the finger for working the lever disposed beneath the
key-bed.
The means for throwing the music-winding mechanism into and out of operation
is illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12, and comprises a rod 36 having a pull-knob at the
front of the instrument, and an incline or connection at its rear end that works a
rocker 38, and lifter 39, which engages beneath the upright bar V to which are
connected the cranked rod G2 that closes the cut-off valve G¹, and a cranked
rocker 40 that engages a swinging arm 42, the slotted end of which embraces a
flange fixed on the drive-shaft T in a manner to give end wise movement of said
shaft for shifting the pinion t into and out of mesh with the gear on the winding-
drum Q, accordingly as the pull-rod 36 is moved backward or forward.
The motor or air-engine M may be of any suitable or well known construction,
pneumatically operative for imparting rotary motion to the shaft M¹. For instance,
a series of inflatable and collapsible pneumatics combined with valve chambers and
a wind-chest, and respectively connected by rods with the cranks on shaft M¹, as
shown, for rotating said shaft as the motor pneumatics expand and collapse in
response to the exhaust influence of the bellows regulated by the controlling valves
worked by cams on the motor shaft, as heretofore employed. The motor-shaft is
provided with a suitable pulley u from which the driving-belt T3 runs to the
pulley T upon the shaft T for operating the music-winding mechanism.
Y indicates a quick running balance-wheel operated by a belt from a pulley on
the motor-shaft for steadying the motor action, in well known manner.
The wind-chest upon which the motor is supported, is divided by a partition w
into two separate chambers m and m', (see Fig. 10) one of which communicates
direct with the bellows, while the other communicates with the regulator
pneumatic R and thence to the hellows. The exit chamber of the motor has an
air passage into the chamber leading to the regulator, and a somewhat larger
passage a into the chamber m which communicates direct with the bellows D', and
both of said passages and are controlled by a single slide or valve 43,
arranged as shown in Figs. 10 and 11; this valve having an opening through it
for uncovering the passage. Said valve is connected by a rod with a swing-
lever 45, a link 44 and angle-lever 46 with a pull-rod 47 that extends to the front
of the instrument, (see Fig. 11), and is furnished with a knob or handle for
conveniently moving the valve as desired. The regulator comprises a collapsible

page_text: pneumatic through which the air passes, and a valve 49 automatically moved by
said pneumatic, and arranged to open and close the air-passage between the
pneumatic motor and the bellows, as shown in Fig. 11. When the automatic
action is playing the air from the motor passes through the small opening a, thence
through the regulator R which controls and renders uniform the speed of the
motor, and thence to the bellows. The size of the opening a can be variel by
closing the valve 43 more or less, thus giving greater or less speed.
When the operation is to re-wind the music-sheet, the valve 43 can be shifted
so as to open the larger passager giving direct communication with chamber m
and utilizing the full exhaustive action of the bellows, so that the motor will
operate with its greatest degree of speed, accelerating the movement of the shaft T
so as to re-wind the music upon its spool with dispatch.
The horizontal frame or base E¹, to which the blow-pedals are hingel, is
arranged to slide under the bottom of the piano, supported by grooved cleats or
guideways E2 so as to be moved in and out like a drawer, the pedal taking an
upright position at the front of the case when the base is moved back, as indicated
by dotted lines in Fig. 5. The upper end of the pedal is connected by a link e²
to the forward end of the sector or lever e, which is formed with a forwardly
projecting end carrying a pivoting stud for the liuk.
In some instances, if it is desired that the blow-pedals should be near together,
the construction can be modified, as indicated in Figs. 19 and 20; the link being
formed with a hook at its end and connected to the sector or its stud, so that it
can be detached therefrom and the pedal let down upon the base, as indicated in
dotted lines Fig. 20, and both the base and pedal then slid backward beneath the
piano body, as indicated in full lines Fig. 20.
The operation of this automatic piano is as follows:-The spool containing the
perforated music-sheet is adjusted in its bearings, and the loop at its end hooked
to the stud of the winding roll in well known manner. The blow-pedals are
drawn out from beneath the piano and the instrument is then in condition for
action. The music-operating pinion t is thrown into engagement, and the valve G¹
opened, by pressing back the pull-bar 36. The motor-valve 43 is then opened to
the position shown in Fig. 10, by means of the pulley 47, then by operating the
bellows with the feet upon the blow-pedals air from the motor exhausts through
the regulator E and the motor engine turns the shaft M' and music-winding
roll Q, thereby advancing the perforated music-sheet over the tracker-ducts. The
bellows action also exhausts the air in the pneumatic chamber so that as the
tracker ducts are opened the controlling pneumatics move the valves G in accordance
with the perforations, letting air from the inlet leader F into the operating
pneumatics F, inflating said pneumatics and thereby moving the levers I and
poppets J; lifting the rear ends of the cranked wires or levers N, the front ends
of which depress the rods 8 upon the automatic keys 5, which in turn throw up
the rockers and jacks, causing the hammers to strike against the strings; the
respective notes being sounded according to the location and extension of the
perforations in the music-sheet. As the playing proceeds the expression is
controlled, as desired, by actuating the respective keys P, at the front of the key-
table, with the fingers; which can be easily accomplished, the hand being
supported by resting the thumb upon the ledge r. Immediately as exhaustion
commences in the chest C the pneumatic O is collapsed causing the key-lock 15
to release the automatic-keys 5, and to secure the manual keys K as described.
To re-wind the music-sheet the pull 36 is pressed back, closing the valve G¹
and disengaging the pinion t¹ from the winding-roll gear by endwise movement
of the shaft T. The motor valve 43 is then shifted for opening the larger
passage into the wind-chest m and bellows D', causing the motor to be rapidly
operated with full force of the bellows, and thus quickly rewinding the sheet. The
pneumatic C during such re-winding is relieved from exhaustion and thus allows
the key-lock to take its normal position beneath the automatic-keys 5 holding
them immovable while the re-winding is effected.

page_text: Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the said inven-
tion and in what manner the same is to be performed, as communicated to me
by my foreign correspondent, I declare that what I claim is :-
1. In a piano, the combination with the piano-action, of automatic action-
mechanism for operating said piano-action, comprising a series of operators or
devices for individually actuating the piano-hammers, carried upon a suitable
support disposed within the piano-case above the manual-keys, in rear of the desk
or front casing and in front of the piano-action, said automatic-action-mechanism
engaging with the hammer-throwing devices of the piano-action, and independent
of the manual-keys, substantially as set forth.
2. In a piano, in combination with the piano-action, an automatic action-
mechanism disposed in front of the piano-action, and engaging with said piano-
action above the manual keys, and a removable supporting frame carrying said
automatic-action, detachably secured within the piano case in rear of the front
casing, substantially as set forth.
3. In combination with the piano-action having the hammers, and swinging
rockers that carry the hammer-throwing jacks; an automatic-action provided
with a supporting frame at the front of the piano-action, and having fulcrumed
thereon, adjacent to said rockers, a series of centrally pivotel keys or lovers that
act against said rockers for throwing up the hammers, reciprocating rods engaging
with said pivoted keys, connections for moving said rods, and a pneumatic-operating
and controlling mechanism, substantially as set forth.
4. The combination with the piano-action, of the automatic-action disposed in
front of the piano-action, and having the upwardly extending operator-rods, a
series of cranked rocking-wires or levers arranged above and extending over the
piano-head frame engaging said rods, and a pneumatic mechanism disposed at the
back of the piano for imparting motion automatically to said levers for operating
the piano-action, substantially as set forth.
5. The combination with the piano-action, of the removable supporting frame
having suitable supporting-bars, the series of automatic-keys fulcrumed on said
frame, their rear ends adapted for engaging beneath the hammer-jack-rockers of
the piano-action; the series of endwise movable rods arranged in said supporting-
bars, with their lower ends standing upon said automatic-keys, said rods provided
with adjusting buttons, the series of cranked levers at the piano-head, their front
ends acting upon the rods, the pneumatic actuating mechanism engaging the rear
ends of said levers, a music-winding mechanism and a perforated music sheet for
controlling the pneumatic actuating-mechanism, substantially as set forth.
6. In an automatic piano, the combination with an automatic-action at the
front, the operating mechanism at the rear of the piano-frame; and a series of
levers or rocker-shafts for transmitting motion across the top of the piano, of a
removable bearing-frame supporting said transmitting levers, whereby the entire
series of said levers is adapted for the simultaneous removal or replacement, for
the purpose set forth.
7. In a combination-piano having manual-keys, and a series of automatic-keys
or devices adapted for independently playing the piano-action, the combination,
with said manual and automatic keys, of a key-lock or means for the alternate
engagement of said manual keys, or the automatic keys, whereby one series of said
keys is retained immovable while the other series is in use.
8. The combination, with the piano-action, the manual keys and the automatic
action having keys or devices that operate said piano-action independent of said
manual-keys, of a key-locking device normally sustained in conjunction with said
automatic-keys, suitable connections for shifting said key-locking-device to and
from the manual-keys, and a pneumatic operator therefor collapsible and inflatable
by air pressure under influence of or induced by the bellows action, substantially
as set forth.
9. The combination, of the piano-action, the manual-keys, the automatic-keys

page_text: independently engaging the piano-action, the pneumatic-chest having the operating
pneumatics and controlling pneumatics therein, suitable connections for moving
said automatic-keys from said operating pneumatics, the key-locking-bar movably
suspended between the lines of manual and automatic keys, a rocker-shaft and
connections adapted for shifting or depressing said key-locking bar, a pneumatic
operator therefor having its chamber communicating with the interior of the chest
containing the action-operating pneumatics, the bellows mechanism and connections
for exhausting air from said wind-chest, substantially as set forth.
10. In an automatic or combination piano, the finger-keys P arranged at or
beneath the front of the key-table, in combination with the expression mechanism
of the piano, and suitable connections for transmitting motion from such finger-
keys to said expression mechanism, substantially as set forth, for controlling the
expression by the fingers while the blow-pedals and automatic action are in use.
11. The combination of the wind-chest containing the primary and operating
pneumatics, the valve for controlling the air-inlet opening thereinto, the yielding
resistance-lever connected with said valve, a rocker or angle-lever acting against
the arm of said resistance-lever, suitable connecting devices for imparting motion
to said rocker, and an actuating rod or lever for operating said parts, having a
finger-key at or beneath the front of the key-table, substantially as set forth.
12. The combination with the finger-keys disposed beneath the key-table at the
front of the manual-key-board for working expression mechanism in an automatic
piano-action, of a stationary ledge or thumb-rest adjacent to said finger-keys, for
the purpose set forth.
13. In an automatic piano, in combination with the music-sheet winding and
re-winding mechanism, the pneumatic motor-engine with connections for operating
the same, the air-exhausting bellows, a motor-exhaust wind-chest having separated
chambers therein, a larger and a smaller exit passage from the motor into said
respective wind-chest chambers, the slide or controlling valve having a passway
therethrough, said valve adapted to open one or both of said exit passages, and
suitable valve-operating connections provided with a hand-piece or pull at the
front of the piano, for the purpose set forth.
14. In an automatic piano, in combination, the pneumatic-motor-engine, the air-
exhausting bellows, an intermediate chest or wind-way having two separated air
chambers, one connected direct with the bellows, the other unconnected therewith,
a pneumatic regulator provided with a wind-way from said latter chamber, and a
wind-way into the bellows, exit air passages from the motor-engine into the
respective chambers, the slide or valve adapted for controlling both said passages,
and the valve-operating connections having a handle at the front of the instrument,
for the purpose set forth.
15. The combination, substantially as described, of the music-winding rolls, the
operating-shaft T therefor, the shifting-arm 42, the pneumatic chest C, its cut-off
valve, the upright-rod V, the cranked rockers 40, and Gs both connected with said
rod and respectively acting on said shifting arm and cut-off valve, the lifter 39, its
rocker 38 and pull-rod 36 having the incline, for the purpose set forth.
16. In a combined or automatic piano, in combination with the piano-body,
bellows, bellows exhauster and the operating connection; the swinging sector-lever
having the forwardly projecting end provided with a stud or button, and the blow-
pedal hinged to its supporting bed and having at its upper end a pivoted link
adapted to hook onto said stud and detachably connect said pedal with the sector-
lever, and the pedal-supporting-base adapted to slide beneath the piano-body,
substantially as and for the purpose set forth.
Dated this 26th day of June 1896.
WM. P. THOMPSON & Co.,
Agents.