Coleman Sellers Biography 1827–1907 Page 3

The Sellers Double Cone Shaft Coupling

All of his work was characterised by originality, correct mechanical design, and unusual elegance of outline. His originality is amply attested by the long list of patents which bear his name, alone or associated with others. Among his best known early inventions may be mentioned the double-cone coupling for shafts [see above illustration], which was probably the first successful substitute for the flange, or plate, coupling, previously in exclusive use. The flange coupling must be pressed on the end of the shaft, which, in turn, must be carefully finished to the proper size. The Sellers coupling will compensate for considerable variations in size, and will grasp the two shafts with equal force and maintain correct alignment even where there is an appreciable difference in the diameter of the coupled shafts. The invention of this coupling made a radical change in the manufacture of shafting, cheapening the cost of production and greatly facilitating the expense of installation and repair. It also stimulated a number of inventors to produce other devices for the same purpose. In 1873 Dr. Sellers was admitted to partnership in the firm of William Sellers & Co.

INVENTIONS AND INTEREST IN PHOTOGRAPHY

While actively engaged in the arduous duties which fell to his share as chief engineer of a large and growing concern, Dr. Sellers still found time for a great deal of work of a scientific character, much of which was suggested by questions that arose in his business. In 1858 it occurred to him that the new art of photography, then beginning to supplant the ambrotypes and daguerreotypes, might be applied to illustrate machinery for advertising purposes, and portrait photographers were employed to make the necessary negatives. Their efforts were very unsatisfactory, and Dr. Sellers, concluding to learn the process, took lessons from a peripatetic operator, and soon acquired considerable skill. [continue]