[3] In 1903, Smith invention a mechanized fish-butchering machine which he named the Iron Chink, which gutted and cleaned salmon for canning at a rate of 55 times faster than human butchers.

[5][6] Other patented inventions of Smith's included a weight testing machine and composite pile.

[8][9] However, some historians have held that Smith named the machine due to his regard for Chinese butcher crews.

However, Smith's invention increased cannery profits and led to the growth of the seafood industry.

An exhibit about Smith, including his "Iron Chink" invention, is displayed at the Museum of History & Industry.