Abstract: An apparatus for the input and processing of characters and/or graphic patterns for use with electronic data processing systems includes an input unit and a control unit which transmits the input characters and/or graphic patterns to an output unit, a graphics tablet having an input layer, a plurality of sensor elements disposed on the input layer for converting pressure signals into electrical signals which are adapted for transmission to the control unit, a keyboard which is movable relative to the input layer from a keyboard operating position adjacent to the input layer to expose the input layer to enable direct entry thereto, and an operating mode detector for detecting whether the keyboard is in the operating position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to avoid disturbing an inexperienced operator of a text station, such as a typewriter or other word processing device which is equipped with a one-line display device (6), when the text approaches the end of the display device and a word must be hyphenated. In a typical conventional text station having a one-line display device, the current typing position is marked on the display device by a cursor (9) which automatically advances toward the right margin (10) until a line feed is initiated, whereupon the cursor jumps to the left margin (11) on the display device and the previously displayed text is erased. If a word is divided, the first part of the divided word is then no longer visible at a conventional text station after the automatic line feed, and for inexperienced operators this disturbs the typing rhythm.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement for filling out a form by means of a processor-controlled typewriter or similar machine which includes a form memory. The text keyed in, which is to be printed in a text field on the form defined in the form memory, is stored in a text memory of the machine. The size of the area required for printout of the text, considering a given line and character spacing, is compared with the area available in the intended text field. If necessary, the line and/or character spacing is automatically changed before printout so as to adapt the text to the boundaries of the text field. With a suitable printing mechanism, it is also possible to change the size of the characters.