Abstract: A mechanical voting machine can be easily adapted to operate in a selective primary. The selective primary mechanism includes at least two party selector spindles each having a bell crank with a lug which engages an associated ladder channel at the top and bottom of a small opening therein. Columns of voting spindles are interconnected in groups so that the ladder channels of each group are moved up and down in unison. Pull straps connect each group of columns to a primary election interlock so that movement of one of the straps in a direction corresponding with an unlocking movement of a group of ladder channels immobilizes the other straps in the primary election interlock.
Abstract: A compact, versatile voting machine is disclosed having adaptability for use with various vote registering devices such as tally counters and punch card apparatus. The voting machine includes a selector mechanism having a series of parallel columns housing voter operated key slides. A vertical interlock mechanism includes ball housing blocks which are alternately disposed between the key slides and house displaceable interlock balls in a tool line. The cam blocks are adjustable to limit the effective length of the tool line to establish groupings of candidates from which a single selection can be made. A magazine at the top of each column is adjustable to permit multiple selections from a grouping. Actuation of a key cams the interlock balls into the tool line, and when a predetermined number of voter selections have been made no additional keys can be actuated as they are blocked by the tool line.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 28, 1974
Date of Patent:
January 27, 1976
Assignee:
The Riverside Press, Inc.
Inventors:
Cothburn M. O'Neal, Alfred M. Mayo, George William Childs, deceased