US3722793A - Voting system - Google Patents

Abstract

A voting system embodying a registration machine operable by the voter through a voter''s identification card and controllable by the precinct officer for voters use; upon registration said registration machine electrically releases a voter''s selection panel for voting; a multiplicity of voting panels are electrically coupled to a single totalizer which sequentially totalizes the vote from each panel for every voting choice on respective specialized counters from which a single card record is instantly obtainable that is suitable for quick totalization of vote from a given area; an electrically interconnected recorder automatically records the exact vote of each anonymous voter.

Description

United States Patent 1 [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,011,588 8/1935 Morris ..235/54 3,162,362 12/1964 Jazbutis.. ..235/54 3,214,091 10/1965 Clark ..235/54 X 3,226,018 12/1965 Railsback et a1. .....235/54 X 3,227,364 1/1966 Clark ..235/54 X VOTE SELECTOR BOOTH SELECTO Appl. No.: 834,283

US. Cl ..235/50 A, 235/54 F Int. Cl. ..G07c 13/00 Field of Search.....235/54, 54 F, 55, 50 A, 54 A,

REGISTRATION Aronoff 1 Mar. 27, 1973 [54] VOTING SYSTEM [76] Inventor: Samuel Aron'off, 1729 s. Wooster 'f Street LOS g Assistant Examiner-Stanley Wal [22] Filed: June 18, 1969 [57] ABSTRACT A voting system embodying a registration machine operable by the voter through a voters identification card and controllable by the precinct officer for voters use; upon registration said registration machine electrically releases a voters selection panel for voting; a multiplicity of voting panels are electrically coupled to a single totalizer which sequentially totalizes the vote from each panel for every voting choice on respective specialized counters from which a single card record is instantly obtainable that is suitable for quick totalization of vote from a given area; an electrically interconnected recorder automatically records the exact vote of each anonymous voter.

3 Claims, 53 Draiving Figures VOTING BOTTON RECORD. CARD RECORDER FICATION TOTALIZING AND COUNTER PATENTEUmzmrs $722,793

SHEET 01 0F 13 IDENTIFICATION CARD RESIDENT-CHIZEN VOTER smmw JOHN DOE UNITED STATES OF VISIBLE MARKS "if," DEPT. OF JUSTICE MESSAGE XXX XX XXXX SOCIAL SECURITY NO.

FIG. I FIG. IA

I 1| u u L STATE oF Q JOHN DOE Q COUNTY OF ADDRESS PRECINT NO.

JOHN DOE UN ITE8FSTAT ES 3 PHOTO AMERICA "23" DEPT. OF JUSTICE E S A xxx xx xxxx L] SOCIAL SECURITY N0. (6/) OFFICER FIG. 2A

FIG. 2

PATEf-HEUHARZ? I375 sum 02 0F 13 FIG. 3

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PATENHiUmznm 3,722,793

FIG9

VOTING BOTTON RECORD CARD VOTE SELECTOR RECORDER BOOTH SELE IFICATION REGISTRATION TOTALIZI NG FIG. I0 AND COUNTER PATENTFUKARZHSTEK 3,722,793

WEE] UBUF 13 FIG. II

SELECTOR SHORT PANEL,FIG.4 PANEL,

LIGHT FIGJ? TO ONE BUTTON, BOOTH F|G.l6 V H) TOTALIZER E Z L l L BATTERIES w TO A, 1m JP LJ ONE OPR C/A' 15s BOOTH L .TTsz lO6 r we IT? We |54 L|||||||+ I55 (j BOOTH CONTACT 2s, M BATTERIES HQ 3 I I I 1- CONTACT 30,FIG.3 t

REGISTRATION I68 I70 DRUM,F\G.|8 2H TO RECORDER 20? Jun 3 a To DIED DIED RECORDER AND TOTAL l l VOTE COUNTER FIG. I2

PATENTEDmzmza 3,722,793

SHEET 08 [1F 13 53 I l I I53 I63 |54A POWER TO SELECTED CONTACTS I54 '56 ///1|l I59 |53A Ibis-ii To RESET SOLENOID ON SELECTOR LI -1 -To PARALLEL CONTACT ON RESET TO DRUM :COMM I I I64 :SELECTOR: I66

POSITION TOTALIZER TO VOTE FIG, SELECTOR BATTERIES TO VOTE BUTTON I I I I TO COUNTERS WI '72 I TIO 9UT4TER5 AND/0R RECORDERS I70 FIG. I7 we FI6.I8 I80 .T| Tlj T2 T0 SEILECTJRB 3 3 Lllflglll |nnuu| unnn mm mm FIG. I9

VOTING SYSTEM This invention relates to a system for voting in national, state or local elections for election of officers or on any pertinent issue. The system is equally applicable to periodic polling of public opinion by any private or public agency on matters of public concern.

The system embodies the complete voting process beginning with the registration and identification of the eligible voter thru the ultimate count of the complete vote. As such, it embodies and envisions new and novel techniques and procedures in which the combination of a number of new and novel devices and mechanisms are utilized.

A number of voting systems currently in use attempt I to apply certain improvements or partial mechanization to a certain phase of the voting process, as for example, the actual registration of the vote. Some attempt to use centralized computing machines which require that the recorded vote be conveyed to a computing center for a count of the vote. This involves the use of specialized record cards that require special registration apparatus, the cards being adequately designed to be accepted by the computing equipment. Other systems resort to the use of various types of voting sheets, various ways of using specialized computers, various forms of voting panel design, etc.

None of these existing systems have attacked the complete voting process. None have resolved the problems of cost, speed, accuracy, security, voter identification and registration. In spite of the various minor compromise remedies a tally of the vote is still a long, drawn-out process; costs are still unreasonably high that include service personnel in booths, cost of records, cost of transfer to centers for computation, costs of computation, costs of identification. Potentiality of error, and of potential fraud in identification, or the problem of write-in votes is still a major factor.

The average precinct voting station still requires four to five attendants whose duties are, to obtain the signature of the voter, to check the name with the available record for the precinct registration, to check off the name on the total registration sheet, issue voting ballot, receive the ballot after voting, tear off number and deposit ballot in voting box, and guide the voter in proper manner for voting. In general, the average urban precinct voting station maintains four or five voting booths. The vote count proceeds after closing hours of the voting precinct, and may continue into the long hours of the following day to completion.

Accordingly, the objectivesof this invention are to provide for: 1

I. Quick, authorized, and registered means for voter personal identification that will simultaneously exclude the possibility of fraudulent voter representation.

2. Quick and automatic registration of voter in the polling booth that will also prevent the possibility of repeat registration.

3. Automatic permission to vote following adequate voter registration.

4. Automatic permission to vote in only one specified precinct in which the voter is registered.

5. Complete secrecy and security of voter with automatic non-correlation of voter with his actual vote.

6. Means for write-in votes where permissible and integration of this vote to other candidates in the same category.

7. Automatically governing voter selection of his vote so that he will not exceed the number of choices permissible for eligible vote.

8. A minimum number of service personnel (only one envisioned instead of the current four or five persons.)

9. Automatic servicing (or use) of maximum number of voting booths. (The present limit of four or five booths may be extended to 12 to 20 booths, thus accommodating several precincts in one voting station.)

10. Automatic instantaneous, continuous and accurate count of vote for entire voting station for all booths.

l 1. Ability to instantly obtain record of voting count at any time period by automatic means.

12. Ability to instantly obtain a record of total vote for each candidate and issue at close of voting time.

13. Automatic untamperable accuracy of total vote count.

14. Elimination of need to transfer records of individual votes to central point for count or computer processing.

15. Absolute elimination of massive records and reduce necessary records to absolute minimum and in simple form.

16. Possibility when desired for recount of vote with absolute minimum of paper (no need for individual cards or computers), at high speed at absolute accuracy.

17. Possibility of using the same equipment for opinion polling of specific surveys with adequate means for obtaining the requisite data in such surveys, this use will likewise result in reduced costs of such surveys, greater representative numbers to obtain better indicative results, high speed of results, high accuracy, and quick analysis of results.

18. Simplicity in voter use, simplicity in system use, and general reliability of system.

19. Reduction in the number of records to be summarized in final count by a factor equal to the number of voters divided by the number of voting stations; this factor may have an envisioned range of 1,000 to 5,000.

The manner in which the outlined objectives are achieved, the functioning of the system in this invention, and the individual major components that implement and are embodied in this invention and the functions thereof are further delineated in the following specifications.

The new and novel features which are believed to be characteristic of this invention, both as to organization and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof will be better understood from the following descriptions considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which a presently prefered embodiment of the invention and its components is illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention including any and all of its components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a front view of a resident citizens identification card used in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a rear view of the card of FIG. I;

FIG. 2 is a front view of a voters identification and registration card embodying the card of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is a rear view of the arrangement of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a voters registration module used in conjunction with the card of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a layout of a representative voting panel module, shown in the vertical plane;

FIG. 5 is an external perspective view of a totalizing module in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 6 is a representative front view layout of the re: gistering face components embodied in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a paper chart recorder module registering individual voter selections;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a form of polling attendants control module;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a composite arrangement embodying the voting module of FIG. 4 and the voter registration module of FIG. 3;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one example of the disposition and interconnection between a number of modules shown in FIG. 9 and the control module of FIG. 8 as well as voters totalizing module of FIG. 5 and individual voter recording module of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a voting booth containing the voting arrangement of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a schematic wiring diagram indicating the electrical interconnection between various modules and their principal components;

FIG. 13 is an arrangement of vote selecting button mechanisms v in combination with the write-in mechanism;

FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of the voting buttons of FIG. 13, illustrating the manner in which all voting buttons are simultaneously released on completion of totalization of votes;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the voting buttons wherein the voter may select more than one candidate but less than the total number of candidates;

FIG. 14A is a plan view of the hold and release mechanism of the voting buttons of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15 is a diagram of the mechanism for selection by the voter of either a Yes or No" vote for an issue or proposition;

FIG. 15A is a cross-section of the voting panel module of FIG. 15;

FIG. 16 is a diagram of the-mechanism of the vote button;

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of the interconnection of the vote holding relays in preparation for the totalizer;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the totalizing drum;

FIG. 18A is a plan view of the drum of FIG. 18;

FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the disposition of the voting counters in the totalizing module and their rela tive interconnections;

FIG. 20 is a further detail of FIGS. 5 and 6 indicating I FIG. 23 is a diagram of a combination voting button incorporating an indicating light on the voting panel module of the corresponding selection of the voter;

FIG. 24A is a schematic front view of the voters selection panel indicating the voters selection buttons, number of candidates selected, light indicator and final voting button;

FIG. 24B is a fragmentary schematic view of the metering mechanism permitting only the maximum allowable candidate selection;

FIG. 24C is a fragmentary schematic view of the holding and release mechanisms;

FIG. 24D is a detailed view of the voting button;

FIG. 24B is a detailed view of the final vote button when selection is completed;

FIG. 24Fis a detailed view of the mechanism showing the number of candidates selected;

FIG. 24 G is a fragmentary schematic view of the blocking plate for preventing selection of candidates above the allowable number;

FIG. 25 is a front view of a light indicating panel in connection with FIGS. 24A-24G showing the exact candidates selected from the large number of candidates;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the detail of the selector mechanism of FIGS. 24A-24G;

FIG. 26A is a schematic view of the upper detail of FIG. 26 showing the mechanism for the selection pin;

FIG. 27 is a diagram of the electrical balancing circuit that exactly positions the candidate pin of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a representation of a relay panel for the condition of FIGS. 24A-24G that finally activates the corresponding counters in the corresponding totalizer module;

FIG. 29 is a simplified schematic and diagrammatic representation of a counter assembly for the condition of FIGS. 24A-24G;

FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing interconnecting wiring correlating FIGS. 24A-24G, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view ofa module for use by a voter combining FIGS. 24A-30 inclusive;

FIG. 32A is a perspective view illustrating the numerals and binary code indices embossed on the individual drums of a typical counter in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 32B is a layout of the pattern on a drum of FIG. 32A;

FIG. 33A is a perspective view of another form of numeral and code representation on a typical counter drum;

FIG. 33B is a layout of the pattern on the drum of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 34 is a layout of a sub-card on which the totalized figure is obtained from the totalizer;

FIG. 34A is a further layout of FIG. 34 showing the name of the candidate or issue for additional identification;

FIG. 35 is a diagram of a total registration card embodying the subcards of FIGS. 34 or 34A; and

FIG. 36 is a representation of a normally available adding computer machine which totalizes the vote of all corresponding sub-cards from the various areas.

The present invention consists of an electrically interconnected system embodying the various major elements cited above, and described hereinafter, which allows a voter to adequately identify himself and then proceed to exercise his vote, the results of this vote being automatically totalized and/or recorded to instantly obtain the status of the total vote.

FIGS. 1 and 1A show a U. S. citizen identification card as currently obtainable by all US. citizens. This identification card is a certification by the respective agencies of the United States Government that the bearer is in fact a citizen of the United States. Whenever it may be found desirable that the form or specific content of this identification may be modified, this will in no way affect the basic principle of its use as an original element for certification of citizenship and eligibility to vote.

FIGS. 2 and 2A represent a composite voters Identification Card which is provided by the subordinate political entity (state, county, etc.) to the .voter at the time of registration. This card is intended to replace the present voter's registration certificate. This Voter Identification Card utilizes the original U. S. Citizen identification card, 1, and is enclosed and sealed in a suitable transparent, preferably plastic, frame 2, which also contains additional information 3 relating to the State, County and Precinct Number in which the voter resides as well as the voters name and address, and his registration number. The latter data, 3, may be on a separate card or made as part of Card 1 and inserted into the frame 2; alternatively this data 3 may be made inscribed on the frame 2 proper. The name, address and registration number of the voter must be provided in such manner, preferably but not exclusively by raised letters on the plastic so that printing thereof may be possible.

Besides the written reference material, the frame 2 is provided with indexed mounting holes 4, and suitable notches 5 around its periphery; the matrix combination of mounting holes and notches being made to identify a specific precinct in which the voter resides and where the voter will exercise his vote. In the form shown the approximate overall dimensions of the frame are made to be suitable for wallet use, but are not exclusive to these. The indicated notches and mounting holes are shown as examples and may vary as to location, number, and character to suit given conditions.

For convenience and further quick identification of the state in which the voter is registered, the card or portion of the card or frame on which the state information is supplied, may be made in various colors or combination of colors.

Thus, the Voter's Identification Card FIG. 2 is a complete identification as to citizenship use of photo,

- residence, voter registration, and precinct in which the voter resides and may vote. The voter uses this card when he appears to vote.

The nature of this Identification Card is such that the voter can be identified easily and, hence, the possibility of fraudulent representation is reduced to a minimum.

It may be noted that in certain introductory stages compromises may be devised as to content and form of the Voter Identification Card. This, however, in no way contravenes or departs from the basic concept of the use of an adequate identification card for the voter.

When a voter presents himself at the voting poll, he identifies himself to the poll attendant by presenting his Voter Identification Card FIG. 2. At this point only one poll attendant is required (instead of the current use of four or five attendants). Thus, an immediate economy is affected.

The poll attendant who has a list of the voters in this precinct provided to him by the voter registrar office simply checks off as a convenience the voters name and directs the voter to a specific booth. The attendant presses a button on his Booth Selector FIG. 8 (the details of which will be described hereinafter) which allows the voter to enter the booth, register, and vote.

Upon entry into the voting booth, the voter places his Voter Identification Card (FIG. 2) on the Voter Registration Machine shown FIG. 3 in a manner described thereinafter. A particular form of the Voter Registration Machine is shown in FIG. 3. Various other forms and designs may be made to fulfill the requisite and described functions. These variations, however, in no way contravene or depart from the basic concept of the invention.

The Voter Registration Machine FIG. 3 is equipped with suitable pins 6 and 6A whose disposition form a pattern that corresponds to the pattern of indexing in FIG. 2; the particular pattern of pins being made exclusive for a specific precinct.

The Voter Identification Card FIG. 2 is placed on the Voter Registration Machine FIG. 3 over the pins 6 and 6A. In doing so, the acceptance of the card FIG. 2 by the machine is an additional confirmation of the voter's right to vote in the specific precinct. In the given position, the portion of the card FIG. 2 that contains the voters name and address (and possibly voter's number) automatically locates itself in the window 7 beneath which is located a paper 8 that is released from roll 9, at a programmed point, by means of motor 10; the paper is taken up onto roll 11.

When the poll attendant depresses the selector button on the booth selector machine (the selector button being represented by the switch 12 in FIG. 3) the electromagnet l3 FIG. 3 is energized which activates armature l4 and causes pawl 15 to disengage from armature 16. Armature 14 is integral with pawl 15 and operates about pivot 17. Engagement between pawl 15 and armature 16 is maintained by spring 18.

Armature 16 is integral with platten 19 which is provided with a suitable handle as part of 19. A suitable pad 20 is affixed to platen 19. The platen assembly pivots about a shaft 21.

As the voter places the Voter Identification Card (FIG. 2) on the Voter Registration Machine (FIG. 3) as described above, and when the armature 16 is released from pawl 15, the voter depresses the platen assembly by means of the platen handle 19 to the operating position as shown in dotted form.

In the operating position platen 19 is engaged behind pawl 22 and is held in place. In this position the pad 20 depresses the Voter Identification Card (FIG. 2) at the area of the voters name, address and serial number,

and imprints this data on the paper 8. Simultaneously,

the platen depresses plunger 27 operating against spring 28 and guided in slot 29. The depression of plunger 27 closes the contact 30 and 30 A.

As will be shown hereinafter in the composite circuit diagram, FIG. 12, contact 30 permits the voter to register his vote upon selection of his voting choice.

Thus, registration of the voter is automatically assured by the voters proper registration of identification and a record of identification is secured. This record is completely independent of the voters selection of his vote, and no interrelation between the vote and identification of voter exists. This assures security and secrecy of voters choice of ballot.

At this point the final and complete functioning of the Voters Identification Machine FIG. 3 can be detailed while deferring a description of its programmed interconnected function in the system in connection with the outline of the composite circuit diagram FIG. 12.

v Simultaneously with contact 30, contact 30A is also closed; the latter provides a signal to the poll attendant that the booth is in operation and occupied.

Upon completion of the vote by the voter, and its antomatic registration, as will be subsequently described, the circuit programming is such that the totalizing machine FIG. 18 which is detailed hereinafter energizes the electromagnet 25 through closing of the contact 26; this activates the armature 23 which is integral with the pawl 22 and pivoted about the shaft 24, the pawl-armature assembly being normally held in locked-in position against the platen 19 by means of spring 31. Activation of the armature 23 releases the platen 19 from engagement with the pawl 22 and platen 19 returns to its original position by means ofspring 32 or optionallyit may be returned by hand until it is re-engaged with pawl 15. As the platen is released from engagement with pawl 22, the contact 30 is broken thus, no further registration can be made and motor carries through the paper 8 so that the imprinted voters name'and address is removed from the open window and a new clear paper area is prepared for the next voter.

The paper 8 has perforated holes 33, on either or both sides, by means of which a sprocket wheel 34 is driven which in turn moves an electrical wiper 35 around a circular contact 36. The wiper 35 and sprocket wheel 34 are coaxially and rigidly mounted on a shaft 37. The function of the sprocket-contact assembly is to meter the amount of paper to be moved for the following registration. The length of paper can be ascertained by the movement of the arm 35 for (360-X) degrees the X quantity being a dead" or disconnected area.

The movement of the paper is reasonably controlled by a clutch-brake device 38 mounted on the motor frame coaxially with the motor shaft. Thus, when the motor 10' and clutch-solenoid 38 are activated by contact 39 the latter closing when armature assembly 22-23 is activated and further held activated by contact 35-36 the clutch engages the driving shaft 40 and continues to drive the paper.

When, however, the contact 39 is broken and subsequently contact at 35-36 is also broken, the clutchbrake is released from the motor and instantly provides a brake on the shaft to thus holding it in place and allowing the motor 10 to coast to a standstill.

The voter then removes his Voter Identification Card and departs.

FIG. 8 represents the attendants booth selector device. In its simplest form it comprises a suitable box 41 onto which is mounted a panel 42, the latter carrying a series of buttons 43 each of which activates a contact I2 (this contact also shown in FIG. 3). Corresponding to each button-switch assembly is a signal light 44 that indicates occupancy of a booth when contact 30A is closed as described above for FIG. 3.- The number of buttons-switch-Iight combinations on each panel corresponds to the number of booths available at each polling place.

Thus, the poll attendant can control the assignment of a booth, the use of the booth, and the prevention of illicit repeat voting.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a Voting Panel. The actual disposition, number of voting conditions, and proportions of the panel may vary under different circumstances without circumventing or departing from the basic concepts of this invention. ,1

In its general form the voting panel provides for;

a. the selection of candidates for office where two candidates are automatically elected representing 'a certain political party. For example, president and vice several open offices for which a greater number of candidates compete than there are open offices; -.for example city supervisors, certain commissions, etc. The selections for these offices are exemplified by positions 21 to 27 to n (any number) on the panel (FIG. 4). I d. the approval or disapproval of presented issues on which the voter may express his will by voting Yes or No. Such issues may be of national, state, or local importance. These may include for example, certain bond issues, issues relating to salaries of officials school, hospital or general maintenance issues, etc. These are represented by positions 51-52 n, 62-63 n, 71-73 n on voting panel (FIG. 4). v

e. the approval of a single presented candidate fora single office where no other candidates are available and hence no choice presented to a voter. This frequently occurs in the case of judgeships or similar offices. These offices are represented in positions 31 to 34 to n (any number of offices), where each position is for an independent and singular office and only one candidate shown for this office.

The above presentations are presented as examples of possible categories and are not exclusive thereto. Various categories for voting may be presented to the voter in various ways, and the panel arrangementmay be made in any convenient form to specific desired conditions without circumvening or departing from the scope and the intent of invention. The specific advantageous features relating to the voting panel are discussed hereinafter.

Position 3 on the Voting Panel (FIG. 4) represents a means for optional write-in vote for candidates. A form of this device and method is detailed hereinafter in FIG. 13.

Item 45 (shown in FIG. 4) indicates a form of voteselector device which is placed opposite each candidate, and which the voter uses for his vote for any candidate he selects. In its simplest form, but not exclusively, the vote-selector device is a typical electrical push button contact in combination with (or in separate form) a signal light indicating the voters selection. Item 45 is made typical for any number of such positions as may be found necessary in a given situation. The vote-selector device is further detailed in FIG. 23, and described hereinafter.

Item 46, (Shown in FIG. 4), indicates a form ofvote-selector device which is placed opposite each issue, and by means of which the voter exercises his selection as to a YES or NO vote on the specific issue. In its simplest form, but not exclusively, the vote-selector device (Item 46) is a typical electrical two-position switch in combination with (or in separate form) a signal light indicating the voter choice. Item 46 is made typical for any number of such positions of issues as may be found necessary in a given situation. This vote-selector" device is further detailed in FIG. and described hereinafter.

Item .47 (schematically shown in FIG. 4) is the final vote device that the voter uses to register his vote. In essence item 42 is a form of electrical selfresetting contact whose details are described hereinafter in FIG. 16, and whose position in the system is indicated in the composite schematic wiring diagram FIG. 12.

Item 48 (schematically shown in FIG. 4) represents an interconnect between positions 1, 2, and 3 the interconnecting mechanism intended to be behind the panel and not available to the voter's view. A form of such basic mechanism is shown in FIG. 13 and description thereof included hereinafter. The intent of this interlocking mechanism is to prevent invalidation of the voters vote. In the given case the voter is given only one choice, out of, say, three, i.e., either of the two (as indicated) political parties or a "write-in vote. Should the voter, for example, press the button for position 1, and then, either thru error or intent, press button for position 2 then the button 1 will disconnect to original position and its signal light will extinguish. Similarly, should the voter, for example, press the button for position 2 and then open the cover.in position 3 for' a write-in" (in accordance with the manner hereinafter described) then the button 2 will disconnect and retain the original position and its signal light will extinguish.

Item 50 (schematically shown in FIG. 4) represents an interlocking device which permits the voter to select one candidate out of a larger group of competing candidates and where a write-in" mechanism may or may not be provided. As in the previous case, the intent is to permit the voter to make his singular choice while at the same time preventing the invalidation of his vote. This device is similar to that shown in FIG. 13.

Item 49 (schematically shown in FIG. 4) represents an interlocking device which permits the voter to make a selection of two (or more) candidates as stipulated from a larger number of available candidates. A form of such basic mechanism is shown in FIG. 14 and pertinent description thereof included accordingly. Assuming, for example, that in the given category three candidates are to be selected out of a group of seven contending candidates. When the voter selects three or less candidates his vote is valid and'he can proceed with his vote. If, however, the voter selects three candidates i.e., he depresses three buttons, and then, either by accident or design, he depresses a fourth button, the last action will then automatically reject the first three buttons to the original position extinguishing simultaneously the corresponding signal lights, and the voter can then resume making his voting selection. The voter is also presented with the option of being able to withdraw any one of his previously set group of buttons if he finds that such setting may be an error of judgement or the preference for another candidate.

Thus, it is evident, that in each of the above cases the voter is given ample freedom to properly make his selection, to correct any error he may have made, to correct for any preference he may have, and to see and examine precisely the complete ballot" that satisfies his wish, without invalidating his vote, before he presses the vote" button item 47. The actual vote is completely secret, and the panel settings are completely automatically cleared before the voter accepts his card.

The voting procedure thus established for the voter in this invention is simple, devoid of unnecessary paper, fool proof as regards to accuracy, devoid of possibility of an invalid vote, it is quick, and the voter is completely unaware of the automatic mechanisms that are used for totaling and/or recording of the vote, or the sequences that clear the voting mechanisms for the following voter. A clear analysis of the voting procedure will accompany the detail for FIG. 9, discussed later.

Forms of implementation of the various positions that have been schematically indicated in FIG. 4 are presented in the following. It must be indicated that these forms are pertinent in the functions they perform in the system they may vary however in the detail of final mechanical formulation. Thus, they are presented as examples in an overall functioning system.

FIG. 13 is a detail of a functioning device represented schematically as items 45 and 48 in FIG. 4.

. This device shows the vote selector units in combination with an interlocking mechanism and a write-in system. The interlocking mechanism is such that it permits only one voting choice out of several possibilities; in the example shown two direct presented possibilities and one write-in possibility; only one of the three being acceptable for a vote.

In FIG. 13, item 45 is the voting selector button typical for the various positions and is the same as represented in FIG. 4. Item 52 is the typical signal lamp for each voting position which is covered by a suitable lens 53. Positions 1, 2, and 3 in FIG. 13 correspond to positions 1, 2, and 3 shown in FIG. 4. The voting buttons 45, the lamps 52 and lenses 53 as well as the associated mechanisms are all supported on the voting panel 54 (also shown in FIG. 4).

Each button 45 is affixed to one end ofa stem 55, the other extreme of which is attached to a tapered tip 56. The button assembly is retained to a fixed outer position by means of a collar 57 and spring 58. In this position the lamp 52 is extinguished.

When one, for example, of the button assemblies is first depressed at the voters option the tapered portion 56 enters a hole of a split plate 59-60 (shown in greater detail in FIG. 13A). One half of the split plate 59 is held rigidly in the housing 61 and serves the purpose of a back-up guide for the entering tapers; block 61 is also supported on the panel 54. The other half of the split plate 60 is free to move linearly in grooves 62 in the housing 61. The movement of plate 60 is restrained by means of a spring 63. Thus, when the first button assembly is fully depressed plate 60 is moved linearly to allow the taper 56 to pass thru fully, and when passed the spring 63 causes the plate 60 to return to the original position thus holding the button in the depressed position by means of interference on the back of the taper. In this depressed position the tip of 56 causes the electrical contacts 64 and 65 to close (normally these contacts are open). In the depressed position of the button assembly contact 64 energizes the corresponding signal lamp 52, while contact 65 closes a necessary circuit on the vote totalizing and/or recording circuit as will be more evident in connection with the wiring diagram shown in FIG. 12.

If, however, either by design or accident the voter depresses a second button (say position 2) the latter will fully perform as in the first instance; however, in doing so it opens the split hole on the first button disengaging plate 60 from the first button assembly and causing spring 58 on the first button assembly to return it to the open position.

Thus, only one of the several indicated positions can be made valid and effective in the selected vote.

In the schematic representation item 48 FIG. 4 is shown as being interconnected with position 3 FIG. 4, the latter being described as a provision for a writein" position. Position 3 in FIG. 13 describes a form of this write-in implementation.

As the button assembly of position 3 FIG. 13 is depressed it performs all the functions, and subject to the same response, as the button assemblies of positions 1 and 2. In addition, however, button assembly in position 3 is mechanically engaged with the write-in mechanism as follows.

As the voter button assembly in position 3 is depressed it additionally moves a link 64A which'is attached to a pin 65A that is guided in a suitable hole 66 in a fixed block. The link 64A is advanced by means of the collar 57 on the button assembly in position 3. When the button assembly is in the fully. depressed position (i.e., vote position) pin 65A is disengaged from pin 67, the latter being rigidly attached to the shaft 68 which is rigidly locked to a door 69. Door 69 covers an opening 70 in panel 54 and the door 69 is held in the cover position by means of spring 71.

In the normal non-voting position the button assembly is in the outer position and hence pin 65A is locked behind pin 67 thus disallowing door 69 to open. However, in the depressed button assembly position the engagement between the pins 65A and 67 is removed thus allowing the door 69 to open making the opening 70 open to the voter thru which he can writein" his choice on the paper 72, one or both sides of which are perforated 73 to drive a suitable sprocket metering wheel 74 which determines the length of paper to be moved so as to clear the recorded vote from the opening and make the clear paper available to the next voter. During the write-in period the voter holds the door 69 open by hand; as he completes his write-in he releases the door and the door closes.

The drive mechanism for the paper is similar to that described in connection with FIG. 3. The paper passes unidirectionally between two drums 81 and 82 one of which is a supply roll while the other is a take up roll.

' Drum 82 is coupled coaxially on shaft 80 to clutchbrake 78 and motor 79 and is driven by them.

The metering sprocket wheel 74 is coupled to an electrical wiper 76 thru shaft 75; the wiper 76 traverses in electrical contact over a sector 77 which is arranged to cover an angle of (360-x) the segment at constituting an electrically disconnected area. The motor, clutch-brake, and circular contact are electrically interconnected thru a switch 83 to the power source. When the switch 83 is temporarily closed the clutch and motor are energized and drive the paper as well as the sprocket wheel. At some point the contact 76-77 takes over as the switch 83 is released the motor thus continuing to advance the paper until the wiper 76 comes into the dead area of contact 77 thus power on the motor and clutch are interrupted the clutch release then acts as a brake on the drum 82 stopping the advance of the paper instantly while allowing the motor to coast to a halt.

The location of switch 83 is also shown in FIG. 13A and its function is therefore tied to completion of the totalizing process of the vote as will be seen in the wiring diagram FIG. 12.

Attached to the plate 60 is the core 84 of a solenoid consisting of shell 88 and coil 87. When the coil is energized the core 84 lifts the plate 60 thus releasing all buttons. Simultaneously core 84 exerts a force on the contacts 83 and 86 thru the medium of stem 85. Under this action contact 83 is closed and contact 86 closes one side and opens the other. The function of contact 83 is described above while that of 86 is interconnected in the system as shown in the wiring diagram FIG. 12 and serves as an element in the totalizing process. As the coil 87 is energized the solenoid opens plate 60 and thus the vote and totalization thereof is completed and the button assemblies are restored to the original position.

The schematic interconnection shown in FIG. 4 as item 50 indicates an interlock between positions 4 thru 12 to n positions. In this case it is intended to secure the selection of a single candidate out of potential multiple candidates where write-in" is not presupposed. Essentially this may be achieved with the same mechanism as shown in FIG. 13 the mechanism being provided for the available number of candidates without the use however of the write-in mechanism. Various modifications and arrangements of the mechanism may be made or substituted without departing from the essence of the invention that provides for a suitable interlock that will prevent invalidating a vote.

The schematic interconnection 49 shown in FIG. 4

indicates an interlock for positions 21 to 27 to N where two or more individual candidates are to be selected for a given post. Let us assume the total number of candidates for the given positions to be N from which n number (2 or more) are to be selected in the vote. Correspondingly these are N number of button assemblies.

Claims (3)

1. An integrated voting system machine comprising: a voter''s registration machine module having means for sensing a voter''s identification card, and means including a recording tape for imprinting the voter''s identification, the said registration tape being retained; means for concealing the mode of registration with respect to the actual voter; a voting apparatus module embodying the setting of all candidacies, candidate and issue areas, and including mechanisms for selecting the vote, selection indication means, and individual write-in modules for each candidacy; totalizing module means coupled to said voting apparatus module to receive total votes therefrom, said voting apparatus module further including vote switch means to transfer the total vote to the totalizing module means; control console means coupled to control the use of the registration machine and vote selection panel; said totalizing module means further including means generating a total registration record for total vote, and recorder means for the individual unidentified vote to serve as a simple record and for possible recount.

2. An integrated machine as a voting system having interrelated and interconnected modules comprising: at least one voter''s registration machine module, operable in conjunction with a voter''s identification card, electrically interconnected with a remote control console and a voting selection panel; at least one voter''s identification card for voter''s registration of identification into and as a link permitting propeR operation of the voter''s registration machine; single control module means coupled for remote electrical control of each voter''s registration machine module by an authorized officer, whose release of said voter''s registration machine enables the voter to proceed with the vote; at least voting panel apparatus module for the voter''s selection of his vote from the entire slate, said module being electrically interconnected with the voter''s registration module and totalizing and recording modules; at least one range extending module, which extends the range of listings of the number of available candidates for a specific office beyond that provided in the specific candidate section of the vote selection module, is appended and electrically interconnected with the specific candidacy section of the vote selection module, thus allowing the voter to make his voting choice from all available registered candidates for the particular office; a single vote totalizing machine module that is electrically interconnected with the plurality of voting panels in one or plurality of voting stations, and that sequentially and simultaneously totalizes the sum vote selection from each voting panel for each vote selection on respective specialized counters, from which counters a single card record of the totalized vote from all coupled voting panels is instantly obtainable at any time, said totalizing module being further electrically interconnected with the voter''s registration machine for the latters restoration to open position when the vote is totalized; a single record card of the totalized vote obtainable instantly at will from the totalizing machine module, said card being usable for automatic totalization of the vote for each and every candidate and proposition from a major voting area; and a recorder machine module that is electrically interconnected with the totalizer machine module, which said recorder module records the complete selected vote of each anonymous voter on the chart.

3. The method in an integrated voting system comprising the use by the voter of a unique voter identification card that certifies the voter''s eligibility to vote in a given area, the recording and imprinting on tape of such identification card by means of a registration module suitable to accept such voter identification card, such recording of the identification card to serve as a means of registration of voter, accepting, tabulating and totalizing the votes from a number of voting stations wherein voters have registered their respective individual vote selection, each voter having an aforesaid unique voter identification card and having recorded same in aforesaid registration module, the voting method comprising the steps of releasing a voting station for use by voter, selecting the vote choice and retaining the selection made by the individual voter until complete, scanning the selections voted when complete, totalizing the scanned selections and simultaneously recording the individual voter''s selection, finally locking the voting registration station against further voting until further release, and obtaining an instantaneous record of the totalized vote of a plurality of voting stations at a given location, the record being suitable for machine totalization for a larger area of votes.

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