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Message started by butlersrangers on Sep 21st, 2018 at 8:02am

Title: Re: Cummings 1903 U.S. Patent - Happy 115th Birthday!
Post by butlersrangers on Sep 22nd, 2018 at 6:27pm
FWIW: I read the 12 pages (double column) of H.H. Cumming's 1903 patent application, without cutting on myself. Only a strange person would do this; it is sheer torture, especially on a computer.

What I learned:

The illustrated version of the device was battery powered, with a switch activated by the trigger, (K8 & K9).

An electromagnetic pulled the sub-target holder & sub-target instantly into the point of the needle, when the circuit was completed. As it cycled, springs instantly returned the sub-target & frame to the rest position.

Two Dry Batteries, (K1), were held in the tube (Head) that contained or supported the sub-target, holder, electromagnet, and free to move needle-rod mechanism.

Only Standing, Kneeling and Prone shooting positions are mentioned as being accommodated by the machine.

There is no mention of cable operation of the mechanism and the requisite linkages, which was to become the prevalent format in the U.S.

The off-set 'target device', shown on the right-side of the main pillar in the drawings, is difficult to understand. As I understand the feature, it is a mirror and reflected target image, (with provision for an electric light). It is visible to the Operator, but, I don't understand exactly "Why"? (Maybe it was for 'coaching', but, this is not stated).

Perhaps it proved to be redundant or useless. It seems to have been quickly eliminated from the STRM, as manufactured.

(p.s. I bet School Janitors loved these things, when they came to the Secondary Schools of N.Y.C. and Military Schools around the world).


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