Abstract: Presented is an adaptor for use with a universal plotter pen that enables use of the universal plotter pen in many different X-Y plotter mechanisms. The interior configuration and dimensions of the adaptor, including elongated longitudinal ribs, are such as to snugly receive and frictionally retain the body of the plotter pen in a stable axial relationship with the adaptor body, which is tubular to receive the plotter pen body. A control boss is provided within the tubular body of the adaptor to limit the extent of insertion of the plotter pen, and slots are formed in the tubular body of the adaptor to give access to the exposed end of the plotter pen body that projects through the slots to facilitate digital imposition of an axially directed force on the end of the plotter pen to effect ejection of the plotter pen from the adaptor body.

Abstract: Presented in four different aspects is a plotter pen of the type utilized in an X-Y plotter mechanism controlled by computer to select a given plotter pen from a group of such pens and to mount the selected pen in the mechanism in position of use. In one aspect there is presented a universal cartridge for containing a marking fluid, which may be used with different marking "points" or "nibs", and which is expendable when the marking fluid in the cartridge is exhausted. In another aspect, there is presented a plotter pen that utilizes a disposable cartridge containing a marking fluid and which is equipped with a marking fluid flow control mechanism or system to control the flow of marking fluid from the plotter pen. In still another aspect, there is presented as an article of manufacture a marking fluid flow control mechanism for attachment to a disposable cartridge containing marking fluid to be controlled.

Abstract: Conductor coding apparatus operable at high speed to code a conductor with distinct identifying markings in one or more colors. The apparatus features simplicity, ease of adjustment and servicing, provision for separately collecting all excess coding fluid and for returning excess fluid to the respective supplies thereof, and simple provision for holding the fluid collecting shrouds detachably about each coding disc.