Improvements in Type-writing Machines.
Year: 1898

page_text: Date of Application, 23rd Aug., 1898-Accepted, 15th Oct., 1898
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in Type-writing Machines.
I, BURNHAM Coos STICKNEY, of No. 151, Jefferson Avenue, in the City of
Elizabeth, County of Union and State of New Jersey, in the United States of
America, Inventor, 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:-
My invention relates to the ribbon movements of type-writing and other
machines employing an ink-ribbon, such as cash registers, date stamps, etc., and
it relates also to the method of propelling the paper-carriage and operating the
carriage alarm of type-writing machines; and has for its object to provide
practicable devices whereby the ribbon may be moved lengthwise and automati-
cally switched or reversed at the end of its lengthwise movement, without
requiring special adjustment by the operator with reference to the switching
mechanism, and whereby ribbons of various lengths may be used indiscriminately
in connection with the switching mechanism; to provide detachable, transpos-
able and endwise reversible ribbon-spools, the construction and arrangement being
such that the ribbon and spools may be detached bodily from the machine without
disconnecting the ribbon from either spool, and the spools transposed in position,
or the ribbon and spools turned bodily over to expose the other surface of the
ribbon to the impact of the types and prolong the life of the ribbon, the longi-
tudinal feed and automatic reversal of the ribbon duly taking place in whichever
position the ribbon and spools may be placed, and the ribbon together with
the spools being detached and replaced by simple operations, without reference to
the switching mechanism; to provide improved means for securing uniform wear of
the ribbon widthwise, the widthwise motion being secured by means arranged
independently of the winding and switching mechanism; the combination and
arrangement being such that the operator needs only to attach the ribbon to the
spools in the usual way, without fastening projections on the ribbon or other.
manipulation or special adjustment, whereupon the ribbon will feed lengthwise
and widthwise and automatically reverse its lengthwise motion, and such that
the ribbon, together with the spools, may be bodily detached, and the spools and
ribbon transposed or turned over, or another pair of spools slipped on the machine,
bearing a ribbon of different color or length, without interrupting the lengthwise,
widthwise or reverse, movements. The invention further consists in improved
means for adjusting the carriage alarm to signify the approach of the end of the
line of writing; and it further consists in the various features of construction
and combinations of devices hereinafter more fully described and particularly
pointed out in the appended claims.
In the accompanying drawings,
Fig. 1 is a sectional front elevation of so much of a type-writing machine as
is necessary to illustrate my improvements;

page_text: the ribbon being entirely unwound from one spool, and the automatic switching
action being about to take place;
Fig. 3 is a like view to Fig. 2, but showing the position of the various parts
when the automatic switching or reversing action is about half finished;
Fig. 4 is a view illustrating the method of arranging the spools after turning.
the spools and ribbon over to expose the other surface of the ribbon to the types;
the empty spool having been if necessary manually brought to its winding
position, and the ribbon beginning to wind thereon;
Fig. 5. is a view similar to Figs. 2 and 3, but showing the automatic reversal
as having been completed and the ribbon beginning to wind upon the empty
spool;
Fig. 6 is an elevation of the rear portion of the right-hand side of the machine;
Fig. 7 is a sectional view taken about centrally of the machine and showing
an elevation of the left-hand side of the machine;"
Fig. 8 is a plan of the ribbon motion, the pawls and springs having been
omitted for the sake of clearness; this view shows the mechanism as it would
appear if the top plate of the machine were removed;
Fig. 9 is a plan of the rear portion of the top of the machine, showing a
portion of the paper-carriage;
Figs. 9, 98 and 9° illustrate a method of connecting the ribbon-pulleys so
they will reciprocate in unison;
Fig. 10 shows details of the carriage-tension adjusting mechanism;
Fig. 11 shows detail views of the carriage-alarm adjusting mechanism;
Fig. 12 is a plan showing the rear portion of the base of the machine, including
the carriage-driving shaft;
Fig. 13 shows details of the ribbon spool;
Fig. 14 shows details of the ribbon-spool supporting and detaching mechanism;
Fig. 15 shows a sectional view of the spool, with its holding and detaching
mechanism, assembled;
Fig. 16 illustrates the method of detaching the spool;
Fig. 17 shows details of one of the reciprocating ribbon-pulleys;
Fig. 18 shows a sectional plan of the pulley when in its extreme forward
position.
In the several views the same numeral of reference will be found to designate
the same part.
1 represents the side wall of the base of the machine, 2 the top plate or type-
bar ring, to which is secured the usual circularly arranged system of type-bars,
only one of which is shown; 3 the usual posts extending up from the base to
support the top plate, and 4 the rear wall of the base.
CARRIAGE-DRIVING MECILANISM.
The carriage-driving shaft is arranged transversely in the base of the machine,
one end of the shaft being supported in the side wall, and the other support
therefor consisting of an arm projecting inwardly from the rear wall. As shown
clearly in Figs. 7 and 12, the forwardly projecting horizontal arm 5 is cast integ-
rally with the rear wall 4, and is formed at its forward end with a boss G. In
this boss is revolubly mounted the usual carriage-tension adjusting ratchet-
wheel 8, by means of its hollow hub 7. This hub or bushing passes through the
boss 6 and projects at the other side, and to this projecting portion one end of
the carriage propelling spring is attached. Arranged in engagement with the
ratchet-wheel 8 is the usual adjusting pallet 9. The driving-shaft 10 is mounted
at the left-hand end at 11 in the side wall of the base, and, extending across
the machine, passes through the hollow hub 7, which constitutes a second sup-
port for the shaft. The shaft is provided with a sheave 12, formed with a hub 13,
and attached to the sheave is a cord 14, which extends up to a pulley- 15 secured
to the top plate, and passes thence horizontally to a suitable connection with the
carriage-rack 16. The carriage propelling spring 17 is wound around the shaft
for the major portion of the shaft's length, one end of the spring being secured

page_text: at 18 to the hub 13 of sheave 12, which is rigidly attached to the shaft, and
the other end being attached to a screw 19 set into the hub 7 of the ratchet-wheel,
which is provided with several handles 20. Any desired tension of the spring
may be secured by the usual manipulation of the ratchet-wheel and pallet.
TO FEED THE RIBBON LENGTHWISE.
Each ribbon-spool is provided with a ratchet-wheel and driving-pawl, the
pawls being of peculiar formation and action. Each pawl is actuated by the
carriage-driving shaft, and extends vertically therefrom to its associated ratchet-
wheel. At its lower end the pawl is provided with a series of cogs or teeth
to engage a pinion fixed on the shaft, so that as the shaft rotates in one direction
or the other, the pawl is moved lengthwise up or down. The pawl is also pro-
vided at its upper end with a series of ratchet-teeth, and as it moves down it
will engage and rotate the ratchet-wheel and spool, and as it moves up it will
slip idly over the teeth of the ratchet-wheel. A spring is arranged to press the
upper end of the pawl into engagement with the ratchet-wheel. As usual, the
spools are arranged one on each side of the type-bar system, and disposed edge
to edge, that is, with their flanges lying in transverse vertical planes.
The hub 13 of sheave 12 is provided with pinion 21 which may be of any
desired formation, but which preferably is composed of a circular series of pins
confined between the hub 13 and flange 22. The vertical pawl 23 gears with the
pinion at its lower end, and with the ratchet-wheel 24 at its upper end, and
when the carriage is moving in letter-space direction the pawl moves downwardly
under the rotation of shaft 10, and rotates the ratchet-wheel 24 and spool 25.
Spring 26 presses the upper end of the pawl into engagement with the ratchet-
wheel. A holding-pawl 27, acting by gravity and having only two or three
teeth, engages with the ratchet-wheel 24 and prevents reverse movement thereof.
Similar rotating mechanism is provided for the other ribbon-spool, the shaft 10
being provided at the opposite side of the machine with a like pinion 28, having a
like flange 29, and with this pinion engages a like pawl 30, for rotating ratchet-
wheel 31, which is provided with a like holding-pawl 32. At Fig. 2 the two
pawls just mentioned are shown as disengaged from the ratchet-wheel 31 during
the unwinding movement of associated spool 41.
Projecting inwardly from the side walls of the base are horizontal pins 33, 34,
which prevent accidental rearward displacement of the rack-pawls, 23, 30, which
are also secured against sidewise displacement by the hubs and flanges before
mentioned.
Spring 17 being wound around the shaft 10 for a considerable distance, a
substantially uniform power is exerted upon the carriage during its entire travel,
the pressure exerted by the spring at the end of the line of writing being so
nearly the same as that exerted at the beginning of the line that the difference
is of no practical moment. By mounting one end of the shaft in the side wall,
as at 11, and having the other support consist of the tension-adjusting wheel 8,
mounted in an inwardly-projecting arm, I am enabled to confine the shaft, spring,
sheave and adjusting means in the base of the machine, where they are incon-
spicuous and at the same time within convenient reach for manipulation and
repairs. By mounting the shaft transversely, I am enabled to arrange means at
each end of the shaft for rotating the ribbon spools thereabove; and by placing
the transverse shaft below the ratchet-wheels I am enabled to employ pinions
fixed on the shaft and meshing with vertically-arranged rack-pawls, whereby the
power exerted by the carriage-spring is transmitted directly to the ribbon-spool
ratchets, without intervening cams, shafts and levers. By prolonging the shaft
beyond one of its supports, I am enabled to place an adjustable cap for operating
the carriage-alarm, on the end of the shaft, and to arrange the cap to protrude
slightly through the side wall of the base, where it can be easily perceived and
manipulated. This also permits the arrangement of the bell and hammer
within the base, where they are inconspicuous and easily accessible,

page_text: SWITCH FOR AUTOMATICALLY REVERSING LONGITUDINAL FEED OF KIBBON.
In Fig. 2 the spool 25, upon which the body of the ribbon has been wound in
the manner above described, is shown in an elevated position, while the empty
spool 41 is shown in a depressed position. The rack-pawl is still in engagement
with the full spool 25, but owing to the fact that the empty spool can pay out 5
no more ribbon, the full spool is prevented from further rotation. The switching
mechanism is inactive during the unwinding movement of either spool, but is
brought into action by the stoppage of such spool, as will now be explained.
The full spool being held against winding any further, the further downward
progress of the rack-pawl operates to swing downwardly both the ratchet-wheel 1
and spool, while at the same time the empty spool is swung upwardly, as it
is connected to the full spool to swing therewith. This motion of the spools is
a lateral motion, as distinguished from the endwise spool-motion usual in type-
writing machines. During the depression of the full spool and elevation of the
empty spool the heretofore active rack-pawl is switched out of engagement with
its associated ratchet-wheel, and the heretofore inactive pawl is switched or let
into engagement with its associated ratchet-wheel, and operates thereafter to wind
the ribbon upon the empty spool. As soon as that becomes full the switching
operation is repeated, so that the ribbon continues to wind back and forth with-
out attention from the operator.
Arranged at each side of the machine is a pivoted frame, which vibrates in a
vertical plane transversely of the machine, i.e., in the same vertical plane in
which the ribbon-spools rotate. These frames are pivoted in brackets that extend
downwardly from the top plate, and they are provided with suitable bearings
for the shafts of the ribbon-spools. They are connected by a horizontally
arranged link and vibrate simultaneously, one spool swinging up as the other
swings down, during which operation the ribbon is carried bodily along for a
distance equal to the extent of the vibration. Either spool may be elevated or
depressed manually if desired, or either driving pawl will swing its associated
frame downward and the other upward whenever the ribbon becomes so taut
as to prevent the elevated spool from winding freely.
Referring now to Fig. 8, the ribbon-spool 25 is supported upon the front end
of a shaft, which is revolubly mounted in the pivoted frame 36. The details
of the spools and shafts are shown at Figs. 13 to 16, and will be hereinafter
described. The frame 36 is provided with two inwardly extending arms 37, 38,
which embrace the lower end of the bracket 39, fixed to the top plate 2. The
frame 36 is pivoted at 40 to the bracket, the pin being passed through the arm 38,
the bracket, and the arm 37. The opposite ribbon-spool 41 is likewise mounted
upon a shaft 42, which is mounted in a similar pivoted frame 43, provided with
like arms 44, 45 (Fig. 14), by which it is pivotally mounted in like manner at 46
to the bracket 47. These frames 36 and 43 are connected by a transverse link
or bar 48, the same being pivoted at each end to arms depending from the
respective frames at 49 to arm 45 of frame 43, and at 50 to arm 38 of frame 36
(Fig. 2). The link extends across the machine beneath the type-bars, and so
connects the spools that when either is depressed the other is elevated.
To retain the pivoted frames in position at either end of their vibratory move-
ment, a double-acting spring 51 is provided, it being pivotally mounted at 52
upon the bracket 39, and at 53 being pivotally connected to an arm 54 extending
upwardly from the vibratory frame 36. The spring is arranged to bear upon
either side of the pivot 40, so as to hold the frame 36 either elevated or depressed,
and thereby through the link 48 hold the other vibratory frame in its correspond-
ing position. A suitable stop for limiting the vibration of the frames will
presently be described. A double-acting weight would serve in place of the
spring, though I preferably employ a spring as being lighter and less bulky.
The link 48 serves also as a switch to disengage and engage the driving-pawls
and holding-pawls with their respective ratchet-wheels, and for this purpose is
provided at its ends with rearwardly extending fingers 55, 56. At Fig. 2 the

page_text: finger 55 stands idle, while finger 56 is withholding the rack-pawl 30 and detent
pawl 32 from engagement with ratchet-wheel 31. At Fig. 3 both fingers are
idle, the spools being shown as having reached a midway position in the switching
operation, and all four of the pawls being for the moment in engagement with
the ratchet-wheels, as will be hereinafter explained; and at Fig. 5 the link 48
is shown as having arrived at the opposite extreme of its horizontal movement,
in which position the finger 56 is idle, while the finger 55 has withdrawn the
pawls 23 and 27 from ratchet-wheel 24. The holding-pawls 27 and 32 are pro-
vided at their lower ends with enlargements 57, wherewith the fingers contact
when swinging the pawls out of engagement. The pawls 27 and 32, besides
preventing reverse rotation of the ratchet-wheels, serve also to prevent reverse
vertical movement of the pivoted frames, should it happen at any time that the
automatic switching operation be only partially completed when the paper-
carriage is retracted to begin a new line and the driving-pawls are consequently
carried upward and for this purpose each holding pawl is provided with a
short series of teeth, so that it can perform this function during any portion of
the downward movement of the frame and prior to its disengagement from the
frame.
During the winding of the ribbon on spool 25, the rack-pawl 30 is held by the
finger 56 in a slightly inclined position so that it cannot engage the teeth of the
ratchet-wheel 31, as shown at Fig. 2, so that the ribbon-spool is free to rotate
in a reverse direction as the ribbon unwinds therefrom, although the pawl 30
moves up and down in unison with the other rack-pawl, as the shaft 10 rotates
back and forth.
During the winding movement of spool 25, the ribbon is delivered from
spool 41, and passes up and over the pulley 58, thence across over the type-bars
and beneath the platen, to pulley 59, and thence downwardly to spool 25.
I will now explain more fully why the switching mechanism. is called into
action by the cessation of the unwinding movement of either spool. Referring
now to Fig. 2, it will be observed that during the actuation of the ratchet-wheel 24
the driving-pawl exerts a downward pressure not only upon the ratchet-wheel
itself, but equally well upon the pivoted frame in which the wheel is mounted.
For this reason there is a constant tendency of the pivoted frame to vibrate
downwardly, but this tendency is constantly resisted by the double-acting
spring 51, which is made of such strength as to just withstand this downward
dragging of the rack-pawl. That is, as long as no obstruction exists to the free
passage of the ribbon from spool to spool, it is easier for the ratchet-wheel to
rotate under the stress of the rack-pawl than it is for the frame to vibrate under
that stress. Consequently the frame maintains its elevated position and the spool
rotates until the other spool ceases to unwind, when of course the full spool can
wind no more, and offers considerable extra resistance to being rotated by the
rack-pawl. The rack-pawl, therefore, under the action of the carriage-spring,
begins to press or drag with extra force upon the ratchet-wheel, but before this
pressure has increased to any considerable degree, the spring 51 yields, permitting
the rack-pawl to swing the ratchet-wheel, spool and frame bodily downward.
During such movement the other spool, ratchet-wheel and frame are carried
bodily upward, and the portion of the ribbon between the spools and extending
across the machine is carried bodily along in the same direction in which it has
been feeding: i.e., the longitudinal feed of the ribbon is prolonged to an extent
equal to the distance through which the spools vibrate.
In the operation just described, the extra work thrown upon the descending
rack-pawl is very slight, since the entire weight of the ribbon is upon the descend-
ing spool, so that gravity assists materially in the reversing operation. Further-
more, as the keys are operated and the paper-carriage is fed across the machine,
the entire machine jars and vibrates to a considerable degree, and this jarring
acts upon the heavy spool to shake it down or cause it to settle. For these
reasons only an imperceptible amount of power from the carriage spring is

page_text: required to effect the switching operation, so that the prompt motions of the
paper-carriage are not interfered with.
As soon as the double-acting spring 51 passes over the dead center, its pressure
is exerted on the opposite side of the pivot of the vibrating frame, and therefore
assists in the downward motion thereof, its leverage becoming greater as the
frame continues to swing, until the latter portion of the downward movement
of the frame is effected entirely by the action of the spring.
The switching mechanism is therefore called into action by the cessation
of the paying off of the ribbon from the delivery spool; nevertheless the ribbon
continues to move longitudinally past the printing point during the entire
switching operation, owing to the described lateral movement of the spools.
During the lateral motion of the spools, the bar or link 48 is actuated to
engage the idle pawls and disengage the operative pawls. As the frame 36 turns.
on its pivot it forces the bar 48 towards the opposite side of the machine, thereby
causing the frame 43 to vibrate and carry the empty spool 41 upward. During
the early portion of the traverse of the bar 48, the idle rack-pawl 30 and holding-
pawl 32 are let into re-engagement with the ratchet-wheel 31, the former being
actuated by the spring 26, and the latter by gravity, as shown at Fig. 3; and
during the latter part of the traverse of the bar 48 the finger 55 at the other
end thereof contacts with the rack-pawl 23 and holding-pawl 27 and swings
them to an inoperative position. The ribbon will now, by the further descent of
the pawls, begin to wind upon the empty spool. It will be observed that when
the ribbon becomes taut by reason of the cessation of the unwinding movement
of the delivery spool, the active pawl 23 calls the switching mechanism into
operation, and that the switching operation is completed independently of the
pawl 30 and rotary driver 31 associated with the empty spool, that is to say,
the members 30 and 31 do not hinder, block or delay the switching operation;
and it will be further observed that the re-winding of the ribbon upon the
empty spool begins at once.
An important feature of this switching mechanism lies in the fact that the
disengagement of the active pawl from its ratchet-wheels is arranged to take
place after the double-acting spring has passed over the dead center and when
there is no further active opposition to the longitudinal movement of the ribbon
and it is therefore relieved from longitudinal strain or tension, since at this
moment there is practically no resistance to the further downward progress of
the rack-pawl and consequently no perceptible pressure of the pawl-teeth upon the
teeth of the ratchet-wheel, so that there is no frictional opposition to the with-
drawal of the rack-pawl from the ratchet-wheel. Furthermore, the pawl is per-
mitted to remain in engagement with the ratchet-wheel until the double-acting
spring has acquired sufficient leverage to force the ratchet-wheel down in advance
of the downward movement of the pawl, while at the same time the finger 55
contacts with the pawl and moves it laterally inward, so that there is in fact
no rubbing contact between the pawl teeth and the ratchet-wheel teeth during
the separation of one from the other. While the ribbon is still in longitudinal
motion past the printing point, the driving-pawl, with its associated holding-pawl,
is disengaged from the ratchet-wheel without obstruction or friction. The dis-
engagement of the driving-pawl requires so little power that the double-acting
spring need be only sufficiently strong to resist the before mentioned downward
drag of the pawl during the winding of the ribbon on the spool.
An easily operating switching mechanism is essential in this class of machines,
since should it happen that the tension on the ribbon be greatly increased at
the switching moment, the spool would turn inside the ribbon; it would be easier
for the spool to turn inside the ribbon, and wind the coils of ribbon more tightly,
than it would for the switching mechanism to operate, should it's operation in-
volve the placing of any great longitudinal strain upon the ribbon. The ribbon
would remain quite stationary at the printing point, the ink would be rapidly
exhausted from the ribbon at that spot, and a hole would soon be worn, rendering

page_text: the automatic switching mechanism quite unsuitable for practical use. Further-
more, so much extra demand would be made upon the carriage-propelling spring
to overcome such obstruction, that insufficient force would remain in the spring
to move the carriage promptly, so that the types would strike improperly, or
print one on top of another, which of course would further render the switching.
mechanism impracticable.
The switching mechanism will be called into action whenever the ribbon
ceases to unwind from either spool, so that after being placed in the machine it
will wind back and forth without attention from the operator, until worn out.
Referring again to Fig. 3, it will be observed that the switching operation
is half finished. The spools, pivoted frames, link 48 and double-acting spring
are all in a midway position. From this point the weight of the full spool,
assisted materially by the jarring of the machine in operation, will be found in
practice sufficient to complete the reversing operation: but to insure the proper
completion of the switching movement, the driving-pawl 23 is arranged to remain
still longer in active co-operation with its associated ratchet-wheel and pivoted
frame, so that in its further descent it carries down the spool and swings the
frame until the double-acting spring 51 has acquired such leverage as to com-
pletely control the entire apparatus and force it to the limit of its switching
motion, during which the finger 55 contacts with pawls 23 and 27 and carries
them to the inoperative position shown at Fig. 5.
It will be observed at Fig. 3 that both driving-pawls stand in operative relation
to their associated ratchet-wheels, and appear to be pulling the ribbon in opposite
directions but in practice no harm results, since, in the first place, the empty
spool can be rotated through a short distance before it really begins to wind;
in the second place the premature winding of the empty spool may cause the
full spool to pay off a scarcely perceptible length of ribbon during its descending
motion, without doing any harm, the coils of course winding a little closer.
thereon; in the third place the superior weight of the full spool will in practice
cause it to descend in advance of its actuating pawl, i.e., the reversing action
will tend to take place independently of the downward movement of the pawls;
and in the fourth place the contrariwise action of the. pawls upon the ribbon
exists for only a short time, too short indeed to permit any harmful result. If
desired, means may be provided for permitting the empty spool to rotate inde-
pendently of the ribbon during the switching operation, which means will now
be described.
METHOD OF ATTACHING RIBBON TO SPOOLS.
The ribbon is not secured directly to the core of the spool in the usual manner,
but is attached instead to a spring, which surrounds the core so as to be capable
of rotating thereon, but which is normally held against such independent rotation.
When the ribbon is unwound from the spool and the tension thereon is increased,
the spring will be released so that the spool may rotate without rotating the
spring; but when during the switching operation the longitudinal strain on the
ribbon is relieved, as described, the spring re-engages the core of the spool so as
to be rotated thereby to wind the ribbon thereon. Referring to Figs. 1, 6, 8
and 13, each spool core 60 is provided with a circumferential series of perfora-
tions 61. Embracing the core is a C-shaped spring 62, having a projection 63,
normally entering one of the perforations 61. The spring is also provided with
a loop or eye 64, to which the ribbon is attached in any suitable manner, as, for
instance, it may be passed through the loop, folded back and pinned to the body
of the ribbon, as shown at Fig. 6; or a short piece of tape may be secured to
the spring and the ribbon then pinned to the tape in the usual manner.
When the ribbon is all paid off the spool, the continued actuation of the full
spool increases the longitudinal strain on the ribbon, whereby the spring 62 is
flexed sufficiently to withdraw the projection 63 from the perforation 61, as shown
clearly at Fig. 1. Such a merely yielding connection between the ribbon and the

page_text: spool will be found sufficient in practice to prevent undue strain on the ribbon
during the temporary premature winding of the empty spool; but to insure
against all possibilities of harm, it will be seen from an inspection of Fig. 1 that
when the projection 63 has been withdrawn from the perforation, the spool may be
rotated to an unlimited extent without winding the ribbon thereon or increasing
the tension on the ribbon or in any way retarding the action of the switching"
mechanism. When, however, the strain on the ribbon is relieved, as described,
the spring will resume its normal shape, the projection 63 re-engaging one of
the perforations, either immediately or as soon as the spool is rotated to bring
the perforation beneath the projection; and the spring will then rotate with the
spool, winding the ribbon thereon.
CO-OPERATING MEANS TO PREVENT WEARING A HOLE IN THE RIBBON.
To reduce the liability of the full spool to continue winding independently
of the ribbon after the other spool becomes empty, thereby winding the ribbon
more tightly on the full spool and causing a hole to be worn in the ribbon, as
above explained, I have provided means for winding the coils of ribbon tightly
on the winding spool, particularly the first or inner coils, where the ribbon is
most likely to yield when subjected to additional tension. As will be perceived,
the smaller the diameter of the core 60, the greater is the liability of the ribbon
to vield in this way.
Each of the vibrating frames is provided with a stop to limit the extent of its
downward motion, and each ribbon-spool shaft is provided with a collar, so
situated that at the descent of the frame the collar comes into contact with the
said stop, and is held against the stop by the action of the above mentioned
double-acting spring 51. By this means a frictional opposition to the unwinding
of the spool is set up, whereby extra force is required to wind the ribbon upon
the other spool, so that the coils will wind with a moderate degree of tightness
thereon. Referring to Figs. 2 and 8, I have attached to bracket 47, at point 65,
an elbow-like projecting piece 66, provided with an outwardly and downwardly
projecting horn 67. Attached to ratchet-wheel 31 is a large boss or hub 68, the
periphery whereof is in frictional contact with the horn 67. More friction, if
desired, may be secured by enlarging the diameter of the boss. The pressure
of the double-acting spring 51 is transmitted through frame 36, link 48 and
frame 43, and serves to press the boss 68 against the horn-stop 67, thereby
causing the ribbon to wind with the desired tension or tightness on the spool 25.
The amount of friction on the boss 68, consequently the degrees of tightness
with which the ribbon winds upon the spool 25, depends upon the strength of
double-acting spring 51. It will be borne in mind that the obstruction or resis-
tance offered by this spring must be overcome at the beginning of the switching
operation, without subjecting the ribbon to sufficient tension to cause the spool
to turn inside of the ribbon; and it will readily be understood that as the
spring 51 is strengthened or weakened, requiring either more or less ribbon-
tension to overcome its resistance, so will the frictional -resistance be correspond-
ingly more or less and the ribbon be caused to wind more tightly or loosely on
the winding spool. In other words, the spring cannot be strengthened and the
amount of its resistance increased, without corresponding increase in the degree
of tightness with which the ribbon is wound on the spool, so that there is no
increase of liability of the spool to turn inside of the ribbon at the critical
moment.
When the ribbon begins winding on the empty spool, the weight of the body
of the ribbon, which is on the depressed spool, co-acts with the spring 51 in
producing frictional resistance. The friction lessens as the ribbon gradually
accumulates on the winding spool, where it acts in opposition to the spring 51.
Thus the first coils are wound the tightest, which is an advantage, as these
would be most likely to yield when undue tension is put upon the ribbon.
As the spool fills, each rotation thereof winds up more ribbon, so that each

page_text: revolution of the spool makes a greater demand upon the carriage-propelling
spring. At the same time the friction is diminished with each revolution, so
that on the whole the demand made upon the carriage-spring is practically uni-
form during the entire operation of winding and reversing or switching the
ribbon.
As already indicated, the weight of the ribbon on the full spool is almost
sufficient to offset the resistance of the double-acting spring 51, so that the switch-
ing mechanism operates by an inappreciably slight extra tension on the ribbon.
The frictional resistance to the longitudinal movement of the ribbon is entirely
eliminated at the cessation of the unwinding of the delivery spool. During the
switching operation the ribbon moves along without artificial obstruction, as will
be seen by reference to Figs. 2, 3 and 5, by which it will be seen that the stop 67
offers frictional resistance to the rotation only but not to the ascent of the spool..
as contact between boss 68 and horn 67 ceases when such ascent begins. During
the winding operation, a demand is made upon the carriage-propelling spring to
overcome the artificial resistance to the unwinding of the delivery spool; at the
cessation of the unwinding movement this demand ceases, and instead thereof a
demand is made upon the spring for power to operate the switching mechanism.
The demand upon the spring is made thus practically uniform throughout the
two operations of winding and switching, so that when the tension of the spring
is adjusted to feed the carriage promptly during the winding of the ribbon, it
will be found to move the carriage promptly during the reversal also.
Bracket 39 is provided with a like stop 69, which acts in like manner upon its
associated boss to frictionally oppose the winding of the ribbon on spool 41, as
will be observed by reference to Fig. 5. The boss or collar associated with the
winding spool is always out of contact with its associated friction stop, so there
is no artificial opposition applied to either spool when winding, which would be
undesirable and consume power unnecessarily.
Brackets 66 and 69 also serve as guides for rack-pawls 30 and 23.
A peculiar and specially valuable feature of my invention lies in the fact that,
notwithstanding the switching mechanism is called into action by the cessation
or failure of the empty spool to deliver any more ribbon to the winding spool,
yet after the stoppage of the empty spool, and during the actuation of the switch,
the longitudinal feed of the ribbon past the printing point is prolonged, whereby
fresh portions of the ribbon are exposed to the wear of the types.
By the contrivance of laterally swinging ribbon-spools I am not only enabled to
secure the prolonged longitudinal feed of the ribbon just referred to, but am also
enabled to adopt the expedient of employing the spool-rotating pawls or devices
for the additional purpose of operating the switching mechanism direct, imme-
diately the unwinding movement ceases. I am also thereby enabled to provide
the described means for frictionally retarding the passage of the ribbon to the
winding spool, for the purpose set forth, without artificially opposing the rotation
of the winding spool also, and to relieve the ribbon of frictional opposition during
the switching operation. By the use of laterally swinging spools I am also
enabled to gain the signal advantage of winding the ribbon upon the elevated
spool so that its weight will assist in the switching operation in the manner set
forth.
to.
Additional advantages possessed by this mechanism will be hereinafter referred
Various constructions may be employed for mechanically imparting a lateral
movement to the spool to call the switch into action. I prefer to move the spools
simultaneously, but this is not essential, so long as either spool is moved laterally.
If other means than those shown are employed to actuate the spool-winding
wheel, the same means may be utilized to impart lateral movement to the spools.
So long as the spools are enabled to move laterally in vertical planes, it is imma-
terial whether they be mounted upon a pair of swinging frames, or otherwise.
I prefer the elastic connection of the ribbon to the spool, but this is not essential.

page_text: The ribbon may be temporarily released from the spool by other means, or not
released at all, although I prefer to employ a releasing device. A variety of
means may be employed for frictionally opposing the movement of the delivery
spool.
SPOOL AND RIBBON DETACHMENT.
Referring now more particularly to Figs. 13-16, each spool is provided at
its forward end with a centrally arranged yielding projection or plunger 70, 76,
pressure upon which will release the spool so that it may be slipped off from
the machine. The spool-shaft 42 (Fig. 14) is slotted at its forward portion for
nearly half its length, at 71. About midway of this slot a pin 72 is driven
transversely through the shaft, and upon this pin is pivotally mounted a
detent 73, which is provided with a short angularly arranged arm 74. The
ribbon-spool core 60 is provided at each end with a circularly disposed series of
longitudinal slots 75 (Fig. 13), and the detent 73 is adapted to enter or project
into any of said slots, thereby securely holding it against withdrawal and also
compelling the spool to rotate with the shaft. The means for operating the
detent to release the spool will now be described:
The spool is not mounted directly upon the shaft, but the core thereof is bored
to fit over a sleeve 76, which thus constitutes the support of the spool. The sleeve
in turn fits over the forward end of the shaft and is supported thereon so as to be
capable of sliding but preferably incapable of turning on the shaft. The sleeve
is considerably prolonged beyond the front end of the shaft, and at its forward
or free end is capped or provided with a head, as 70, which protrudes from the
forward end of the spool, where it is readily perceived and manipulated. An
open space exists between the forward end of the shaft and the bottom of the hole
in the sleeve, wherein is placed a compression-spring 77, the office of which is
to hold the sleeve 76. in its normal forward position. The sleeve is provided at
its rear end with a short longitudinal slot 78, to permit the passage of the arm 73
of the detent, and is also provided with another slot 79, at a point directly for-
ward of 78. The short arm 74 of the detent plays in the slot 79 of the sleeve.
As the spring 77 presses the sleeve forward, the point 80 of the sleeve bears
against the short arm 74 of the detent and thereby holds the rear end of the
pawl up in the ribbon-spool slot 75 as far as it will go, thereby preventing the
accidental withdrawal of sleeve 76 from the shaft, as well as locking the ribbon-
spool to the shaft. When it is desired to remove the spool, the cap 70 is pressed
back, as shown at Fig. 16, whereupon the point 81 of the sleeve bears against
the detent and forces it to vibrate inwardly towards the axis of shaft 42,
until, as the detent reaches the position shown at Fig. 16, the spool becomes
unlocked and may be slipped off. In practice, the operator may grasp the spool
as shown at Fig. 16, placing his thumb on the cap 70 and his fingers on the
rear flange of the spool, whereupon without appreciable effort the spool will come
off in his hand. The remaining parts will then resume the position shown at
Fig. 15. To replace the spool, it is only necessary to slip it onto the sleeve 76,
and press it back as far as it will go. During such operation the flange of the
spool will bear upon the detent and cause it to vibrate inwardly as before, whereby
the sleeve 76 will be forced back a trifle and the spring 77 compressed; and
when, as the shaft is turned by the winding mechanism, the detent arrives oppo-
site one of the slots 75 in the core of the spool, it will under the pressure of the
spring 77 enter the slot and lock the spool to the shaft. The circularly disposed
slots 57 are arranged at preferably frequent intervals, so that the shaft cannot
turn much without enabling the detent to engage one of the slots. In practice,
after slipping the spool upon the shaft, the operator rotates the spool to take up
the slack ribbon, whereby opportunity is given the detent to enter one of the
slots. The sleeve is perforated at 82, to permit the ready insertion of pin 72
in assembling the parts. The spools may be readily slipped off without discon-
necting the ribbon from either spool, and together with the ribbon removed

page_text: bodily from the machine, and another pair substituted, bearing a fresh ribbon,
or one of different color, without regard to its length. The ends of the spool
are similar, so that each spool is reversible and may be slipped onto either sleeve
either end first, thus permitting the ribbon and spools to be bodily withdrawn,
without disconnecting the ribbon from either spool, and then swung end for end
and replaced, or turned bodily over and replaced. As indicated at Fig. 9, the
paper-carriage has the usual hinge construction, so that it may be lifted to permit
ready access to the ribbon and removal thereof.
TO TURN THE RIBBON OVER.
Excessive curling of the ribbon when in use may be avoided by turning it
bodily over and exposing the other surface to the wear of the types. This may
be done by simply withdrawing the spools and ribbon, turning them bodily over,
and replacing them. This should be done only when one spool is empty, and it
should then if necessary be manually swung to its feeding position, as shown
by the diagram at Fig. 4. The ribbon will thereafter wind back and forth as
before, without further attention.
MEANS FOR SECURING EVEN WEAR OF THE RIBBON.
As shown at Fig. 9, I preferably employ a shifting" carriage, each type-bar
being provided with a lower-case and capital type. The ribbon is arranged
centrally of the machine, so that the lower-case types will strike on the front
portion of the ribbon. The capital types will strike on the rear portion, but will
not perceptibly wear the same, as but few capital letters are generally used.
When the front portion of the ribbon has been sufficiently worn, the same may
be turned bodily over, as just explained, or it may be taken from the machine
and swung around end for end without turning it over, and replaced upon the
machine with the spools transposed; in either case the worn portion of the ribbon
will be in the rear, and the comparatively unworn portion will be in front, and
therefore exposed to the impact of the lower-case types. I preferably employ a
ribbon three-fourths of an inch in width, and in this way a very substantial
amount of use can in practice be derived from the ribbon.
As a co-operative device for securing even wear of the ribbon, I provide means.
for causing the pulleys 58 and 59 to have a slight reciprocating motion endwise
as they rotate during the passage of the ribbon over them. The ribbon is thus
made to move sinuously as it traverses the pulleys, so that during repeated wind-
ing movements of the ribbon the types wear a wider path than would be worn
if the ribbon were to travel in a direct manner. Referring now more particu-
larly to Figs. 17 and 18, it will be observed that each pulley is shaped like a
short piece of tube, within which are secured at the ends thereof two diagonal
discs 92, each disc having a central hole 93, whereby the pulley is enabled to
both rotate and slide upon the stationary supporting pin 94, which is fastened in
the ears 95 of a bracket 96 secured to the top plate of the machine. Projecting
inwardly from said ears are two short pins or guides 97, rounded at their free
ends. The function of these projections is to contact with the diagonal discs 92,
and thereby so guide the pulley that it will reciprocate endwise as it is rotated,
such endwise motion being due to the slanting positions of the discs. A sectional
plan of a pulley and bracket is shown at Fig. 18, the pulley having been forced
to the extreme forward limit of its movement, in the described manner.
ribbon clings to the pulley and is itself carried backward and forward with the
pulleys. The pulleys are not connected, and if one should happen to move
forwardly while the other is moving rearwardly, the spot where the types strike
would move in neither direction. The operator may, if he choose, manually
regulate the position of the pulleys so they will move in unison. Should he
neglect to do so, no harm would result in practice, as little things are constantly
occurring to cause the pulleys to change their relative positions, such as being
accidentally touched by the hand of the operator, or accidentally moved during
The

page_text: the inspection or cleaning of the types, or by the removal and replacement of
the spools, so that the motion of the ribbon will be fitful and irregular; but
during repeated winding movements of the ribbon it will wear with substantial
evenness a wider path than if the pulleys were incapable of reciprocal movement.
In practice I reciprocate the pulleys one-eighth of an inch. If desired, only
one pulley need be reciprocatory, or one may be larger than the other or have
differently inclined discs or differently arranged cam, thus increasing the irregu-
larity of the ribbon movement widthwise. Or the pulleys may be readily con-
nected so that they will move in unison, one method of such connection being
illustrated at Figs. 9, 9" and 9º, whereat it will be observed that a rocker-shaft Z
is mounted transversely in the base of the machine below the pulleys. Secured
thereto are vertical arms Y, provided at their upper ends with forks X, each of
which embraces pulley-shaft 94, which may be prolonged to a suitable extent,
and mounted loosely in the arms of pulley-bracket 96. As the pulley 59 reci-
procates endwise, it rocks the shaft Z, by means of the shaft 94 (made fast to
the pulley), fork ✗ and arm Y; and through the other arm Y and fork X a
similar movement is communicated to the pulley 58, which need not be provided
with a cam.
It is the usual practice to change or deflect the course of the ribbon during
its passage from spool to spool, generally by arranging a deflector or turning-
support above each spool; the ribbon being passed up from one spool, and over
the deflector, thence across to the other deflector, thence down to the other spool.
Usually an edge of the top plate serves the purpose of a deflector. It has here-
tofore been suggested that a pulley be used as a deflector, to permit freer
longitudinal movement of the ribbon. It will be observed that I have taken
advantage of the fact that a ribbon clings to the surface of the support by which
its course is deflected, in providing means for moving the support or deflector
constantly endwise, so that the ribbon, as it passes over and clings or adheres
to the deflector, is in consequence constantly moved in widthwise direction. It
is obviously immaterial whether the deflector be in the form of a pulley, or
any other suitable or usual form, so long as it moves endwise in such a manner
as to keep the ribbon constantly moving widthwise by reason of its clinging to
the surface of the deflector.
TO WIND THE RIBBON MANUALLY.
For this purpose a horizontally arranged crown-wheel 83 (Figs. 6 and 8) is
provided, the same being attached to the lower end of vertical shaft 84, mounted
in the top plate, and provided at its upper end with a crank 85 (Fig. 9). When-
ever the ratchet-wheel 31 is in its elevated position, it meshes with the crown-
wheel 83, and by turning the crank the ratchet-wheel and ribbon-spool will be
rotated. If it is desired to manually wind the ribbon on the other spool, the
spools must first be transposed in position.
RIBBON GATES.
The top plate is slotted or cut away over the spools, as at 86 (Fig. 9), to form
a passage-way for the ribbon. This passage-way may if desired be left open,
but I preferably provide a gate 87, pivoted at 88 to the top plate, normally stand-
ing closed, but which may be swung open to permit the ready withdrawal of the
ribbon and spools from the machine, without disconnecting the ribbon from either
spool. On the opposite side of the machine the top plate is likewise slotted
at 89 and preferably provided with a similar gate 90, here shown in its closed
position. Each gate has a downwardly projecting flange 91 (Fig. 6), which
conforms to the general formation of the top plate.
BELL-STRIKING MECHANISM.
This mechanism is located in the base of the machine and is operated by the
carriage-driving shaft, to the end of which is secured a revolubly adiustabla con

page_text: for manipulation by the operator to set the alarm. Referring now to Figs. 1, 11
and 12, the right-hand end of the carriage-driving shaft 10 projects through the
hollow hub 7 of the tension-adjusting wheel 8, and extends nearly to the right-
hand side of the machine base. An annular groove is cut in the shaft near its
end, into which projects the end of a screw 99 that is set into the cap 98, per-
mitting the rotation of the cap on the shaft but preventing its withdrawal there-
from. A friction-spring 100 is inserted between the end of the shaft and the
inner termination of the hole in the cap, as a result of which it becomes necessary
to use considerable force to rotate the cap on the shaft. The cap is provided
with a flange 101, from which project wings, which protrude beyond the wall
of the base, so as to be readily perceived and grasped by the operator. The
bell 102 is secured to the base of the machine, and above it is arranged a gravity
hammer 103, pivoted to the base at 104, and provided with a depressible arm 105,
wherewith engages a gravity trip 106, pivoted at 107 to the adjustable cap 98.
At the rotation of the shaft, the nose 108 of the trip bears down the arm 105,
elevating the hammer, and at a predetermined moment the end of the nose, which
at this time is moving downwardly and forwardly, will slip off the arm and
release the hammer, which falls and strikes the bell. The bell-trip partially
surrounds the body of the cap 98, and its hook shape secures it against undue
vibration in either direction. Upon the reverse rotation of the shaft, the nose 108
of the trip will yield and vibrate so as to pass the arm 105 without vibrating it;
then the weight of the trip will cause it to resume its normal position above the
arm 105. The hammer 103 is provided with a tail-piece 109, which bears against '
the pin-stop 110 to limit the downward vibration of the hammer. To adjust the
alarm, the paper-carriage should be set to the position where it is desired to have
the bell strike, then the wings of the cap should be grasped by the operator
and turned until the bell strikes. The bell will thereafter always strike when
the carriage reaches the same point in its travel. The friction produced by the
pressure of spring 100 is sufficient to prevent the cap from slipping on the shaft
when the obstruction of the bell-hammer is met.
The details of construction and arrangement may be widely varied without
discarding the essence of the invention or sacrificing the advantages secured
thereby. It will be observed that portions of the invention may be used without
others.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said
invention, and in what manner the same is to be performed, declare that what
I claim is:-
1. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a ribbon-spool of a ratchet-
wheel, a pawl, and a pinion connected to the carriage-driving mechanism and
constructed to actuate. the pawl, the pawl being provided with teeth to engage
the ratchet-wheel, and also with teeth to engage the pinion, substantially as set
forth.
2. The combination with a ribbon-spool of a ratchet-wheel, a pawl, a pinion
for actuating the pawl, the pawl being provided with teeth to engage the ratchet-
wheel and also with teeth to engage the pinion, and a spring for pressing the
pawl into engagement with the ratchet-wheel, substantially as set forth.
3. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a pair of ribbon-spools
and a pair of ratchet-wheels of a transverse carriage-driving shaft, a pair of
pinions thereon, and a pair of pawls adapted to be actuated by said pinions
and in turn to actuate said ratchet-wheels and spools, substantially as set forth.
4. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a pair of ribbon-spools,
one located at each side of the machine, and a pair of ratchet-wheels, of a carriage-
driving shaft mounted transversely at the base of the machine below the ratchet-
wheels and provided with a pair of pinions, and a pair of pawls geared to the
pinions and extending up to the ratchet-wheels, substantially as set forth.
5. In a type-writing machine, the combination of a pair of pivoted ribbon-

page_text: spool supports, one pivoted at each side of the machine, and a transverse link
pivoted at each end to one of the supports and serving to transmit the movement
of one support to the other, substantially as set forth.
6. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of reciprocatory spools, each being
adapted to receive and wind the ribbon while at one end of its reciprocal move-
ment and to pay out the ribbon while at the other end of such movement; and
means, including a double-acting spring, for mechanically moving either spool
to its winding position and simultaneously moving the other spool to its deliver-
ing position; substantially as set forth.
7. In a type-writing machine the combination with a pair of spools arranged
at the sides of the machine and a ribbon arranged across the machine and
extending down to the spools, of means, including a double-acting spring, for
mechanically elevating either spool and simultaneously depressing the other spool,
substantially as set forth.
8. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of reciprocatory spools, each being
adapted to receive and wind the ribbon while at one end of its reciprocal move-
ment and to pay out the ribbon while at the other end of such movement; means
for mechanically moving either spoci to its winding position and simultaneously
moving the other spool to its delivering position; and means for holding them
there substantially as set forth.
9. The combination of a ribbon; a spool; a ratchet-wheel; a driving-pawl;
and a pivoted support for the ratchet-wheel and spool; the support being pro-
vided with switching means, such as 55, for forcing the pawl away from the
ratchet-wheel; substantially as set forth.
10. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of reciprocatory ribbon-spools;
a pair of reciprocatory supports therefor; means for connecting the supports so
that they will move simultaneously; and a double-acting spring arranged to act
upon both supports to hold them at either end of their reciprocal movement;
substantially as set forth.
11. The combination with a ribbon of a spool; a ratchet-wheel; a pivoted
support for the spool and ratchet-wheel; a driving-pawl for actuating both said
ratchet-wheel and said support; switching means; and a double-acting spring;
substantially as set forth.
12. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of spools; a pair of ratchet-wheels;
a pair of driving pawls directly engaging said ratchet-wheels; means for reci-
procating the pawls; a pair of vibratory supports for the ratchet-wheels and
spools and a bar, such as 48, connecting the supports and adapted to move the
pawls alternately out of engagement with the ratchet-wheels, substantially as set
forth.
13. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of spools; a reciprocatory switch;
means for actuating either spool (1) to wind the ribbon thereon, (2) to move
the other spool laterally at the cessation of the unwinding movement thereof
and thereby prolong the longitudinal movement of the ribbon past the printing-
point, and (3) to operate the switch during such prolonged movement of the
ribbon; and means for holding the switch at either end of its reciprocal move-
ment; substantially as set forth.
14. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a pair of spools located
at the sides of the machine, the spools being connected for a simultaneous lateral
movement, and a ribbon arranged across the machine and extending down to the
spools; of downwardly driving means for winding the ribbon upon either. spool
and forcing such spool downward and the other spool upward when the body
of the ribbon becomes wound upon the said winding spool; substantially as set
forth.
'
15. The combination with a ribbon and a reciprocatory spool and ratchet-wheel,
of a pawl adapted to rotate the ratchet-wheel and spool and also to move them
laterally, and means, such as a double-acting spring, for holding them at either
end of their reciprocal movement; substantially as set forth.

page_text: 16. In a type-writing machine, the combination with spools provided with
ratchet-wheels and located at the opposite sides of the machine, the spools being
connected' for a simultaneous lateral movement, and a ribbon arranged across
the machine and extending down to the spools, of a pair of downwardly driving
pawls, each arranged to rotate its associated ratchet-wheel and spool to wind the
ribbon thereon; and to "also force such spool downward and the other spool
upward.at the cessation of the winding movement of the spool; substantially as
set forth.
17. In an automatic ribbon-winding and reversing mechanism, the combination
with a pair of spools of means for applying frictional opposition to the rotation
of either spool only during the unwinding of the ribbon therefrom, substantially
as set forth.
18. In an automatic ribbon-winding and reversing mechanism, the combination
of a laterally reciprocating spool and a stop arranged to both limit the lateral
movement of the spool in one direction and frictionally oppose the unwinding of
the ribbon therefrom; substantially as set forth.
19. In an automatic ribbon-winding and reversing mechanism, the combination
of a laterally reciprocating spool, a friction stop, and a spring for the spool
arranged to augment the frictional opposition of the stop to the unwinding
movement of the spool, substantially as set forth.
20. In an automatic ribbon-winding and reversing mechanism, the combina-
tion of a laterally movable spool provided with a boss or collar, and a friction stop
at said boss or collar, substantially as set forth.
21. The combination of a ribbon, a pair of spools, a switch, and means whereby
the spools are alternately actuated (1) to wind the ribbon thereon, (2) to move
the ribbon widthwise, and (3) to operate the switch at the cessation of the
unwinding movement of the delivery spool, substantially as set forth.
22. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a paper-carriage, a pro-
pelling spring, a ribbon, a pair of spools, and a ribbon-switch, of a pawl-and-
ratchet-mechanism actuated by said spring and serving to move the ribbon
lengthwise and widthwise and to operate the switch, substantially as set forth.
23. The combination with a shaft. of a sleeve arranged to slide thereon and
adapted to bear a ribbon-spool, the sleeve being prolonged beyond the end of the
shaft; a spring arranged within the sleeve and adapted to bear in one direction
against said end of the shaft and in the other direction against the sleeve; and
a spool-detent controlled by the movement of the sleeve, substantially as
forth.
set
24. The combination of a shaft, a spring detent, a spool, and an axially mov-
able plunger arranged at one end of the shaft for operating the detent to release
the spool, substantially as set forth.
25. The combination of a ribbon-spool, a shaft, a detent mounted on the shaft,
a sleeve arranged on the shaft and provided with an opening, a projection on
the detent arranged within said opening and adapted to lock the spool, and a
spring, substantially as set forth.
26. The combination with a pair of spools of a ribbon attached to each spool
by a yielding connection, adapted to yield when the spool is empty and the ribbon
is drawn taut; means for winding the ribbon upon either spool; and a switching
mechanism arranged to he called into operation by the cessation of the delivery
of ribbon from either. spool, substantially as set forth.
27. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of spools, means for winding the
ribbon upon either spool, a switching mechanism called into action at the cessa-
tion of the unwinding movement of either spool and arranged to engage such
spool with its winding means prior to the disengagement of the other spool from
its winding ineans, and means operating to release the ribbon from the winding
action of the empty spool during such premature engagement with its winding
means, substantially as set forth.
28. The combination with a spool having a series of openings of a spring

page_text: arranged upon the spool and provided with a projection for entering any of the
openings, and a ribbon attached to the spring and adapted to withdraw the pro-
jection and permit the spool to rotate independently of the spring and ribbon,
substantially as set forth.
29. The combination with a ribbon of an endwise reciprocating pulley, the
construction and arrangement being such that the pulley is reciprocated endwise
when set in motion by the passage of the ribbon thereover, substantially as set
forth.
30. The combination with a ribbon and a pair of spools of a rotating pulley
arranged between the spools, a cam arranged to co-operate with the pulley, and
means for engaging the cam to cause the pulley to reciprocate endwise by reason
of its rotation, substantially as set forth.
31. The combination with a ribbon of a pulley, a diagonally arranged disc,
and means for engaging the disc to cause the pulley to move endwise when
rotated, substantially as set forth.
32. The combination of a pulley provided with a pair of diagonal discs and a
pair of projections for engaging the discs to reciprocate the pulley endwise when
rotated, substantially as set forth.
33. The combination of a pulley, a pair of diagonally arranged discs, a bracket,
and a pair of guiding pins.
;
34. In a type-writing machine, the combination with the paper-carriage of a
carriage-driving shaft arranged transversely in the base of the machine, and an
arm arranged within the base for supporting the shaft at one end, the shaft
being prolonged within the base beyond said arm and bearing upon its end an
adjustable sleeve or cap for setting the carriage alarm, and said cap extending
without the base of the machine; a sheave arranged at or near the other end of
the shaft; a spring arranged upon the shaft between said arm and said sheave;
and spring-adjusting means arranged at said arm; substantially as set forth.
35. In a type-writing machine, the combination of a pair or ribbon-spools
located at opposite sides of the machine; a ratchet-wheel for each spool; a paper-
carriage; a shaft arranged transversely within the base of the machine below
the ratchet-wheels; the shaft being provided within the base with a sheave, a
spring, and adjustable carriage-alarm mechanism; ratchet-wheel rotating devices
extending directly from the shaft to the ratchet-wheels; and a cord attached
at one end to the sheave and at the other end to the paper-carriage; substantially
as set forth.
36. The combination of means for mechanically reversing the longitudinal
travel of the ribbon; means for mechanically moving the ribbon widthwise to
expose different portions thereof to the action of the types; spool-winding means;
a ribbon, and a pair of spools secured thereto; the ribbon with its attached spools
being detachably connected to the reversing, widthwise-moving and winding
means, whereby ribbon and spools may be bodily removed from the machine
without disconnecting the ribbon from either spool; substantially as set forth.
37. The combination of means for mechanically reversing the longitudinal
travel of the ribbon; means for mechanically moving the ribbon widthwise to
expose different portions thereof to the action of the types; spool-winding means;
a ribbon, and a pair of transposable spools secured thereto; the ribbon with its
attached spools being detachably connected to the reversing, widthwise-moving
and winding means, whereby the ribbon and its attached spools may be removed,
turned end for end and replaced, without disconnecting the ribbon from either
spool; substantially as set forth.
38. The combination of means for mechanically reversing the longitudinal
travel of the ribbon; means for mechanically moving the ribbon widthwise to
expose different portions thereof to the action of the types; spool-winding means:
a ribbon, and a pair of endwise reversible spools secured thereto; the ribbon with
its attached spools being detachably connected to the reversing, widthwise-moving
and winding means, whereby the ribbon with its attached spools may be removed

page_text: turned bodily over and replaced, without disconnecting the ribbon from either
spool, substantially as set forth.
39. The combination of a switching mechanism adapted to be operated through
the longitudinal movements of the ribbon; means for mechanically moving the
ribbon widthwise to expose different portions thereof to the action of the types;
spool-winding means; a ribbon, and a pair of spools secured thereto; the ribbon
with its attached spools being detachably connected to the switching mechanism
and to the widthwise-moving and winding means, whereby ribbon and spools may
be bodily removed from the machine, without disconnecting the ribbon from.
either spool; substantially as set forth.
40. The combination of a switching mechanism arranged to operate at the
cessation of the unwinding movement of either spool; means for mechanically
moving the ribbon widthwise to expose different portions thereof to the action
of the types; a ribbon, and a pair of spools secured thereto; the ribbon with its
attached spools being detachably connected to the. switching mechanism and to
the widthwise-moving and winding means, whereby ribbon and spools may be
bodily removed from the machine without disconnecting the ribbon from either
spool, substantially as set forth.
41. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a ribbon, a pair of spools,
a pair of ratchet-wheels and switching means, of a transverse carriage-driving
shaft provided at or near its ends with a pair of pawls, which are alternately
actuated by the shaft to operate the ratchet-wheels and the switching means,
substantially as set forth.
42. The combination of a pair of deflectors, over which the ribbon passes and
to which it clings: means for reciprocating the deflectors endwise, whereby the
ribbon is constantly actuated in widthwise direction; a ribbon, and a pair of
endwise inactive spools secured thereto; the ribbon with its attached spools being
detachably connected to the deflectors and the winding means, so that the ribbon
and spools may be bodily removed from the machine, without disconnecting the
ribbon from either spool; substantially as set forth.
43. The combination of a spool-shaft supported at one end; a spool arranged
to be slipped onto the free end of the shaft; a detent to hold the spool on the
shaft and a device arranged on the free end of the shaft outside of the spool
and adapted to be moved in the direction of the spool axis to release the spool
from the shaft; substantially as set forth.
44. In a type-writing machine, the combination of a carriage-propelling
spring; ribbon-spool winding means adapted to be actuated thereby; means for
mechanically reversing the longitudinal movement of the ribbon also adapted to
be operated by said spring; a ribbon, and a pair of spool's secured thereto, the
ribbon with its attached spools being detachably connected to said spring:
operated spool-winding and reversing means, whereby ribbon and spools may be
bodily withdrawn from the machine without disconnecting the ribbon from either
spool; substantially as set forth.
45. In a type-writing machine, the combination of a carriage-propelling spring;
ribbon-spool winding, means adapted to be actuated thereby; means for mechani-
cally reversing the longitudinal movement of the ribbon also adapted to be
operated by said spring for imparting widthwise movement to the ribbon, so as
to expose different portions thereof to the action of the types; a ribbon, and a
pair of spools secured thereto, the ribbon with its attached spools being detachably
connected to said spring-operated spool-winding, reversing, and widthwise-moving
means, whereby ribbon and spools may be bodily withdrawn from the machine
without disconnecting the ribbon from either spool, substantially as set forth.
46. The combination with a ribbon and winding means therefor of a self-
reciprocating pulley, partly around which the ribbon passes, and by which the
ribbon is moved widthwise; substantially as set forth.
47. The combination with a ribbon of a pair of spools, and a laterally movable
ratchet-wheel connected to each spool and provided with a driving-pawl which is

page_text: actuated by the carriage-driving spring; each pawl being provided with a series
of teeth for engaging its associated ratchet-wheel both to rotate it and to move
it in lateral direction; substantially as set forth.
48. In a type-writing machine having a circular series of type-bars mounted
in a top plate, and both a paper-carriage and a ribbon arranged to travel trans-
versely over the type-bars, the combination with the spool-winding mechanism
of (1) a pair of detachable ribbon-spools, one at each side of the type-bar system,
the ribbon being passed up from one spool, across and over the type-bars and
down to the other spool, and the construction being such that the spools may be
slipped off and together with the ribbon lifted bodily from the machine, without
disconnecting the ribbon from either spool, and (2) a pair of endwise reciprocating
deflectors, one on each side of the type-bar system, around which the ribbon
passes and to which it consequently clings, whereby movement is constantly
imparted to the ribbon in widthwise direction, substantially as set forth.
49. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a ribbon of a pair of
spools, one located at each side of the machine, and each provided with a rotary
driver, such as a ratchet-wheel, and an actuator therefor, such as a pawl; a spring
arranged to both propel the paper-carriage and also operate the said actuators;
and a switching mechanism called into operation by either actuator when the
ribbon becomes taut by reason of the cessation of the unwinding movement of
the delivery spool, and adapted to effect the disengagement of said actuator from
its associated rotary driver and to also effect the re-engagement of the other
actuator with its associated rotary driver; the construction and arrangement
being such that at such cessation of the unwinding movement of the delivery
spool the switching mechanism is positively actuated independently of the rotary
driver and actuator associated with the empty spool, and such that the re-winding
of the ribbon upon the empty spool begins simultaneously with the cessation of
the longitudinal movement of the ribbon past the printing-point in either
direction; substantially as set forth.
50. The combination of a ribbon; a pair of spools; means for winding the
ribbon alternately upon the spools; a switching mechanism connected to the
winding means and adapted to be operated by the ribbon through the terminal
longitudinal movement thereof in either direction; and means for applying fric-
tional opposition to the longitudinal movements of the ribbon only during the
interval between switching operations; substantially as set forth.
51. In an automatic ribbon-winding and switching mechanism in which the
actuation of the switching mechanism necessitates a longitudinal strain upon the
ribbon, in consequence of which there is liability of the coils of ribbon drawing
more tightly upon the winding spool, thus delaying the consummation of the
switching operation-the combination with the spools, the winding means and
the switching mechanism of means for applying frictional opposition to the spools
alternately during the unwinding of the ribbon therefrom, whereby the coils
of ribbon are drawn tightly upon the winding spool during the winding of the
ribbon thereon and prior to the actuation of the switching mechanism; substan-
tially as set forth.
52. In a type-writing machine; the combination of a ribbon-spool, a horizon-
tally arranged shaft, and a movable support or bracket, the shaft being rotably
supported at its rear end in the bracket, and the spool being detachably mounted
upon the forward end of the shaft; means for winding the spool; and means
connected to the movable support or bracket and adapted to be actuated thereby
for automatically rendering the winding means inoperative; substantially as set
forth.
53. In a type-writing machine, the combination with a ribbon of a spool, a
ratchet-wheel provided with an actuating pawl, a shaft, and a pivoted
support or bracket for the shaft, the shaft bearing the ratchet-wheel
at one end and the spool at the other end, and being supported by
the bracket between the ratchet-wheel and spool; and means connected to the

page_text: pivoted support or bracket and adapted to be actuated thereby for effecting a
disconnection between the ratchet-wheel and the actuating pawl, substantially
as set forth.
00 3 1
1000
FELL & JAMES,
Agents for the Applicant.