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- RPO Catcher Arm patent model
RPO Catcher Arm patent model
Object Details
- Description
- Numerous patents were filed covering 'new and useful' improvements for non-stop pick-up and delivery of mail by a Railway Post Office (RPO). This is an example of the type of models that accompanied 1870s and earlier patent applications. Models illustrated the features depicted in a drawing and demonstrated the operation described in the application narrative.
- The model shown is missing several components--the mail pouch and trackside apparatus carrier. Details about the missing parts can be found in the patent application. However, the pouch to be dispatched from a RPO train is secured to a tractor arm in the doorway. It was intercepted by a trackside apparatus that also suspended the incoming pouch for receipt by the RPO. Thus, there was a simultaneous pick-up and delivery.
- Data Source
- National Postal Museum
- Date
- 1875
- Object number
- 0.234863.111
- Type
- Transportation Equipment & Models
- Medium
- metal (brass); wood
- Dimensions
- 5.5 x 6 x 12 in. (13.97 x 15.24 x 30.48 cm)
- Place
- United States of America
- See more items in
- National Postal Museum Collection
- Topic
- Transportation
- Record ID
- npm_0.234863.111
- Usage
- CC0
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