Abstract: The invention relates to a pattern information reading apparatus in which pattern information such as characters or figures is read and stored in a memory and, thereafter, the stored pattern information is converted into tactile information and output as necessary. The apparatus has means for adjusting a moving speed of the pattern information which is output as tactile information. The apparatus is fitted to the reading capability of the user by such an adjustment. The apparatus also has means for comparing to see if the information which has been read at a preceding time point coincides with the information which was read at the present time point or not with respect to the pattern information such as characters or figures. By updating the different read information, the amount of storage data can be reduced.

Abstract: A pattern reading apparatus includes a conversion device for reading optical pattern information and converting it into electrical signals. A display device is provided for displaying pattern information by vibration of plural vibrating pins, the displayed pattern information corresponding to the pattern information read by the conversion device. A reading period determining device is provided for variably setting the reading period of the pattern information read by the conversion device, and a control circuit causes the electrical signals output from the conversion device to be displayed by the display device according to the reading period set by the reading period determining device.

Abstract: Selecting switches are provided near a converter for converting an optical image into an electric signal, thereby enabling the electric signal before or after it was stored to be effectively selected. A plurality of convertors are provided and when an electric signal is not output from one of the convertors, the other convertors can be used. The analog electric signal output from the converter is binarized by a reference level signal before it fluctuates. An electric power consumption when the apparatus is not used is prevented by a power controller arranged near a sensing display.

Abstract: A data processing apparatus for training hearing and/or speech impaired children or for teaching different subjects has a main control section, keyboards for inputting data, a ROM for storing a control program, and a RAM for storing the input data, a CRT display for displaying the input data, and a printer for printing out the data. The apparatus allow simultaneous data input by an instructor and students and can print out the input data in accordance with the sequence it is inputted.