Abstract: A manually operated dot printer designed for use in a pocket-sized calculator or a small-sized electronic device includes a printing head which is manually driven across the dot printer paper in one direction to store energy in springs. The springs return the printing head in steps intermittently while the printing head effects printing on the printing paper. The springs also feed the printing paper. While the printing head is manually moved, the printing elements are maintained out of contact with the printing paper. During return movement of the printing head, the printing elements are in contact with, or nearly in contact with, the printing paper for printing operations. The actual printing operations of the printing head are performed with electrical control using elements of low power consumption.

Abstract: A serial printer includes two character rings having raised characters disposed therearound. Both rings rotate on a common axis for selection of characters for printing. One character ring is laterally fixed relative to the common axis; the other character ring translates laterally along the common axis in a carriage driven by a pulley and wire, and biased for quick return. A solenoid actuated claw selects characters for printing as the character rings rotate. A single motor operating in a forward direction causes the character rings to rotate while character selections are made, sequentially causes a single hammer to strike both character rings simultaneously for printing on paper, and translates the carriage one position for serially printing the next digit in a number. Reversal of the motor, after a line of characters is printed, causes release and return of the carriage and advancement of the paper.

Abstract: A miniature printer especially suitable for use in a small calculator or the like, utilizes the energy released from a spring storage means to power the printing, paper feeding, and inking operations. The energy is stored by the spring from either manual operation or motor power.