Abstract: An automatic pencil apparatus for an automated drafting system comprises a gripping means for holding and lifting a lead. The lead is pressed by means of a pressing means. The gripping means is actuated, by a driving means including an electromagnet, in the longitudinal direction. A change-over means supplys compressed air into the pressing means in response to up or down movement of the gripping means. The constant pressure is applied to the lead during drafting and plotting. When the lead is removed from a drafting sheet or is stopped, it is held and lifted up, so as to draw high quality lines and curves independently of the abrasion of the lead.

Abstract: An automatic pencil apparatus for use with an automated drafting system comprises a gripping mechanism for releasably gripping a lead and comprised of a cylindrical tube, and a collet mounted for longitudinal movement in the tube for gripping and releasing the lead. A driving mechanism including an electromagnet selectively drives the gripping mechanism to actuate the collet and release the lead so that a drawing operation can be carried out. A pneumatic cylinder applies a predetermined constant pressure to the lead while in its released state thereby pressing the lead into contact with a drafting paper under constant pressure so that high quality lines can be drawn throughout consumption of the lead and independent of lead wear.