Abstract: A multikey keyboard for inputting data into a computer, wherein pressing a key places in circuit the point of intersection of a row conductor and column conductor respectively connected to portions of separate row and column sequential series of capacitors whose cumulative capacitance correspond to the specific row and columns of the pressed key, thus allowing the computer to establish which key was pressed by measuring the capacitance between the events involving said completed keyboard circuits.

Abstract: An acoustic keyboard comprises a plurality of keys arranged in a matrix. A plurality of reflector members, each one associated with a different one of the keys, reflect acoustic energy when the associated key is actuated. Acoustic energy is emitted from a transducer for reflection from the actuators. The reflected energy is detected, and the actuated key is identified based upon the transit time of acoustic energy from the transducer to the detector via reflection off of the reflector member associated with the actuated key.

Abstract: A multikey keyboard for inputting data into a computer, whose keys place in circuit the points of intersection of an X rank conductor and Y rank conductor matrix, characterized in that X rank and Y rank conductors are respectively connected together by interconnection resistors (R) and to an X output and Y output of the keyboard, intended to be connected to two analog inputs of the computer, so that the resistance values applied at the input of these two latter are representatively X rank and of the Y rank of any key pressed.

Abstract: An inductive keyboard, including, printed circuit patterns forming a multiplicity of key excitation patterns and key sensing patterns. The key excitation patterns are divided into groups of excitation patterns formed in rows. The key sensing patterns are divided into groups of sensing patterns formed in columns. Each key excitation pattern has an adjacent complementary key sensing pattern for providing output signals from the sensing patterns in different columns by passing an excitation signal through an individual row of excitation patterns. At least one movable element is located adjacent each pair of complementary key excitation and sensing patterns. The movement of each movable element is between positions close to and away from each pair of complementary patterns to provide for a change in the output signal from the individual key sensing patterns. Printed circuit reference patterns form at least one excitation reference pattern and one sensing reference pattern.

Abstract: This circuit, controlled by the counter (Z) and via the row transistors (ZTm) and upon actuation of a pushbutton key, successively interrogates the row lines (1m) and, via the column line (2n) as connected to the row line, forms an inverter with the corresponding resistor (SRn), so that an L level will appear at the input of the corresponding column inverter (SI1n). In the ROM-type matrix (M), with the aid of the matrix transistors (T . . . ) and the resistors (MRmn) it is accomplished that the m.multidot.n lines (Lmn) are only controlled in such a way that the corresponding line conducts an H level upon actuating only one single pushbutton key of the keyboard (TF). Accordingly, a l-ex-m-times-n code appears on the lines (Lmn) which, via the NOR gate (N) also effects the release of the counter (Z) counting the clock pulses of the clock pulse generator (TG).

Abstract: A keyboard having keys activated by electrical contacts and the capacity to read one state from among four possible states, wherein the keyboard is a dipole disposed between two terminals between which are positioned in parallel three connectors, each including one of the electrical contacts, two of these connectors including diodes mounted anode to cathode, in such a way that the various states may be discriminated by means of the successive application of two reverse electrical voltages (V1, V2) to the terminals of the dipole and the corresponding detection of the logic states of the contacts using a logic detector.

Abstract: A keyboard in which, when one of the function keys is depressed simultaneously with one of the character keys, the signal generated by the depressed function key is transmitted during a first period of time following the key-stroke which depressed the keys, and the signal generated by the depressed character key is transmitted during a second period of time following the key-stroke which depressed the keys, the second period having an initial instant following the last instant of the first period. To achieve this result the character signal is delayed, so that an associated printer receives and is capable of performing the function commanded by the function signal before the printer is caused to print the character of the character signal which is subsequently received.

Abstract: A touch control arrangement which employs a touch panel comprising a plurality of touch keys and a network of electrically connected capacitive elements; an oscillator which incorporates the network of capacitive elements in its timing circuit; and a microprocessor coupled to the output of the oscillator and operative to control various appliance operating components as determined by the frequency of the oscillator output signal. The keys of the touch panel are operatively coupled to the network of capacitive elements such that actuation of a key or pad by the user changes the equivalent capacitance of the timing circuit causing the oscillator a generate a control signal at the frequency associated with the actuated key.

Abstract: A portable word-processor comprising the following components; a microprocessor and, connected thereto, a manually operable input chord keyboard having four finger keys and at least one thumb key, the microprocessor being programmed to respond to signals produced by operation of a chord of a combination of up to a maximum of five keys to generate a coded signal representing a particular alpha-numeric character or processing instruction; a display device; output means for connection of the word-processor to a printer; memory means; and an internal power supply connected to power all the aforesaid components; the microprocessor being additionally programmed so as to process the character signals in response to the instruction signals, feed signals to the display device for display of processed characters as an edited text, and to the memory means to store the edited text and print format instruction signals available for transmission through the output means.

Abstract: A simplified, symmetrical encoding apparatus of the acoustic rod type with polarized output signals, e.g., where key-actuated strikers impact an acoustic bar having a number of differently-shaped tabs on the bar, the impact giving rise to divergent acoustic waves sensed by a transducer at each end of the bar. Providing paired sets of a non-polarizing tab and oppositely-oriented raked (polarizing) tabs in mirror image form at desired locations on right and left halves of the bar, preferably with a first tab located at the bar's midpoint, facilitates distinguishing between impacts on the different tabs.

Abstract: A keyboard assembly (FIG. 1, 11) is constructed of first light transmission members (13) second light transmission members (15), a key actuation assembly (17) having a matrix of keybuttons (25), plural light source assembly (19) and plural sensor assembly (21). Each light source on assembly (19) is exclusively and sequentially energized causing its light to be transmitted through the first light transmission member (13) to be split up and deflected downwardly by the surfaces (43) and then rightwardly by the surfaces (45) to emanate through the surfaces (47) to enter the surfaces (49) of the second light transmission member. Actuation of a keybutton (25) causes its associated interrupter (29) to assume a light blocking position between the first light transmission member (13) and a second light transmission member (15). Light passing through the second light transmission member (15) to the sensor array indicates that none of the interrupters (29) have blocked the light path.

Abstract: A membrane switch in which switch activation produces a change in the combined resistance and capacitance across leads of the switch.

Abstract: A switch assembly with a different combination of resistance and capacitance associated with each of a plurality of switches and with as few as two leads connecting the plurality of switches to external circuitry. The external circuitry detects switch activation by sensing combined resistance and capacitance across the switch leads.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for representing characters employ a printing unit to print symbols which correspond to characters, the characters being represented either by individual printed symbols or by two or more symbols printed in sequence or two or more overstruck symbols. The characters to be printed are encoded into one or more data words, each data word having a code word associated therewith which is stored in one of three memories which serve to address the printing unit to represent a particular symbol or symbols. If a character is encoded by a single data word, this single data word is supplied to a first memory and if the corresponding code word is contained in the first memory, the code word is released to the printing unit and the symbol is printed. If the corresponding code word is not contained in the first memory, an address word for a second memory is read from the first memory, this address word containing the code words and associated positioning words for the character.

Abstract: An improved acoustic transport member for use in a keyboard having key operated strikers individually actuatable for inducing acoustic energy in the form of sound waves which propagate through the member from selected inducing positions therealong. A first portion of the member is fabricated in the form of a series of tabs to provide discrete impact positions for generating sound waves in response to impact actuation of related strikers. A second portion integrally connected with the first portion links all of the tabs and functions as a sound corridor for receiving and transporting all sound waves generated as a result of the selected striker impacting its related tab. An aperture is provided through the tabs. A peripheral rim of the aperture provides sound reflecting boundaries that define sound passages on the tabs for directing the sound waves in different directions in communicating the sound waves from the tabs into the corridor.

Abstract: Generation of a character code for an alphabetic character is performed by depressing at least two keys in a sequence. The code is generated when the last key is depressed and the other keys in the sequence still are pressed, or when all keys in the sequence are released. Numerical character codes are generated by depressing only one key per character. A logic and storage means is provided having a number of registers, code converting tables and control circuits for storing the history of depressed keys and for generating character codes.

Abstract: Polarity of transducer signals is controlled in encoding apparatus of the acoustic rod type, e.g. where key-actuated strikers impact an acoustic bar having a transducer at each end of the bar, the impact giving rise to divergent acoustic waves. The wave fronts of these acoustic waves are sensed by the transducers, the output signals of which are used to produce codes corresponding to the actuated key. By varying the shape of the bar at each point of impact, the polarity of the wave fronts can be controlled so as to distinguish the operation of adjacent strikers and thus provide correspondingly coded outputs or can be combined with elapsed time sensing systems to afford more reliable encoding even in the presence of lot-to-lot differences in the bar material's acoustic wave properties--differences aggravated by temperature changes.

Abstract: A keyboard apparatus has item keys for data entry, and select keys for changing the display of input data written on sheets, according to the item keys, and a changer for the sheets stored in a cartridge, which separates the sheets in the cartridge into two groups, the sheets from one group being moved in the cartridge to a display position and the sheets from the other group being held in a non-display position. A cartridge holds the sheet to be displayed on the top of the stack of sheets remaining in the cartridge and a translator moves the sheets in the cartridge horizontally to the display position.

Abstract: An acoustic transport member for use in a keyboard having key operated strikers individually actuatable for inducing acoustic energy in the form of sound waves which propagate through the member from selected inducing positions therealong. A first portion of the member is fabricated to provide discrete impact positions for generating sound waves in response to impact actuation of related strikers. A second portion integrally connected with the first portion links all impact positions for receiving and transporting all sound waves generated by the first portion. A step joins the first with the second portions to allow communication of the sound waves from the first portion into the second portion yet thereafter provides unidirectional acoustic separation therebetween which effectively minimizes wave dispersion by substantially isolating the propagating sound waves in the second portion from coming into contact with successive impact positions of the first portion.

Abstract: Electronic apparatus having transmission capability of data from memory to a transmission line, such as a telephone line, having print-out capability of the data being transmitted, and having a control function, in response to actuation of a special key, to permit selection of either transmission and print out, or transmission only, as desired.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a portable word-processor comprising the following components; a micro-processor and, connected thereto, a manually operable input chord keyboard having four finger keys and at least one thumb key, the micro-processor being programmed to respond to signals produced by operation of a chord of a combination of up to a maximum of five keys to generate a coded signal representing a particular alpha-numeric character or processing instruction; a display device; output means for connection of the word-processor to a printer; memory means; and an internal power supply connected to power all the aforesaid components; the micro processor being additionally programmed so as to process the character signals in response to the instruction signals, feed signals to the display device for display of processed characters as an edited text, and to the memory means to store the edited text and print format instruction signals available for transmission through the output means.

Abstract: A keyboard encoder/decoder and method is provided for encoding on a keyboard output into a serial format data word representative of one and only one actuated key for transmission to an external device, and for decoding a serial format data word received from the external device. In a specific embodiment, a highest priority encoder output in parallel format is translated into a serial word format representative of one and only one actuated key. A repeat feature is also disclosed.

Abstract: Generation of a character code for an alphabetic character is performed by depressing at least two keys in a sequence. The code is generated when the last key is depressed and the other keys in the sequence still are pressed, or when all keys in the sequence are released. Numerical character codes are generated by depressing only one key per character. A logic and storage means is provided having a number of registers, code converting tables and control circuits for storing the history of depressed keys and for generating character codes.

Abstract: A magnetoacoustic system adapted to use as a keyboard can employ a serpentine acoustic delay line passing under a number of transducers which are activated simultaneously with a current pulse through the wire. Magnets adjacent to the wire generate magnetoacoustic pulses along the wire which arrive sequentially at a sensor at one end of the line. For each key on a keyboard at least two magnets are associated with each key position with one magnet affixed in position and one reciprocably movable towards and away from the wire in a response to actuation of the key. The magnet which remains close to the wire is used to provide a "location" signal indicating the location along the delay line provided by the wire by producing an acoustic pulse for that point on the wire for each clock pulse of current which passes through the wire.

Abstract: A dialing system which utilizes a keypad on teleprinters retrofitted into existing teleprinter models through interfacing by voltage biasing and output circuitry with integrated circuit components having inputs to the teleprinter keypad and a pulse driver coupled to the existing dialing circuit through relays. The relays, driver and integrated circuit components are energized under different voltage levels lower than the teleprinter operating voltage through the voltage biasing circuits connected to the teleprinter power supply.

Abstract: A circuit for coded symbol conversion has first and second memories and a switching stage. Standard code characters from a keyboard are entered into the first memory and if the entered character is one which can be represented by a single binary word the switching stage enables transmission of the single word. If the entered character is one requiring more than one binary word for representation the input is transmitted to the second memory which generates an equivalent set of binary words to represent the symbol and further transmission is delayed until all such binary words are generated.

Abstract: An acoustic transmission member is disclosed for use in an encoding system utilizing acoustic energy wherein diverging sound waves are induced within the member in response to selected actuation of a striker positioned along the member. The time taken by each sound wave to travel through the member is measured in the system to provide an elapsed time interval unique to all strikers for generating a code indicative of the selected input. The acoustic transmission member is a rod formed into a series of coils or helixes with at least one coil length provided and when assembled disposed between adjacent striker positions. The coil configuration defines an expanded path, as compared to the straight linear distance between adjacent strikers, for the sound waves to travel.

Abstract: An ultrasonic waveguide provides the encoding of magnetic keys on a keyboard. The magnetic keys couple their respective magnetic fields to an ultrasonic waveguide producing signals in a given time relation to permit encoding by depressed keys. Since the necessary information appears essentially on two wires, the system is basically a very reliable solid state system where all basic signal processing takes place in an "integral" ultrasonic waveguide component. Potential simplicity, low cost construction, very high reliability, makes the application very suitable in keyboards for computers, data processing equipment, teletype equipment, computer time sharing stations, computerized reservation stations, display consoles, etc.

Abstract: A system for transmitting information from a plurality of observation stations to a central station, especially for military purposes. Every observation station is equipped with a coder and a code transmitter for selecting and transmitting code signs corresponding to the observations. Preferably the coder comprises a key set provided with a key for each kind of observation. The coded information from the different observation stations is transmitted on separated wave-lengths or channels and received in a central station and stored together with time information in a computer memory to be presented in assembled form whenever needed.

Abstract: An encoding apparatus in which strikers actuated by the keys of a keyboard, for example, impact selected ones of a group of parallel bars (equivalent to sonic delay lines) at points substantially equally distant from single transducers located on each bar. A timer controls transfer of data signals--the transducer output of the bars--to a display, a printer, etc. The transfer includes storage in a multibit electronic latch.

Abstract: A key-operated arrangement for teleprinters as a keyboard for encoding characters and data arranged in matrix fashion in rows and columns. Along with the keyboard an addressable fixed-value store is provided. A scanning device periodically scans the keyboard and fixed-value store and produces a coded character from the store when a signal is present which is provided by operation of a contact on the keyboard. At least one additional matrix column is arranged on the keyboard for special functions. A mode register connected via a column selector to the additional matrix column stores signals arriving from the scanning device and converts them into control signals which appear in parallel at outputs of the mode register.

Abstract: An input signal recognition circuit for a control system having an array of momentary switching elements (hereinafter referred to as "keys") whose number is larger than that of the array input terminals, which prevents erroneous control system operation which may occur upon simultaneous actuation of a plurality of keys. The control system with the input signal recognition circuit stably operates against key chattering and noise.

Abstract: At least one movable device is mechanically coupled to a coupling device which moves in response to the motion of the movable device. The coupling device moves in a path which closely parallels the path of a time-varying, propagating electric field. Upon interception of the electric field with the coupling device, a signal is transferred through the coupling device by capacitive coupling with the field to an input of a detector. The signal is detected by circuitry which generates a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal corresponding to the period of time between the initiation of the propagation of the electric field and the moment of interception. Circuitry is provided to generate pulse code modulated (PCM) signals responsive to the position location of up to 2.sup.n movable devices.

Abstract: A control system is disclosed for the control of sequential flow of functions in teletypewriters and data typewriters. Input signals are presented to the control system which release the carrying out of the functions. The control system produces output signals which correspond to individual steps of the functions to be carried out successively. A plurality of control units are provided in the control system with each of the control units being provided with a respective allocator. The control units produce control signals which are formed in accordance with the state of signals presented at inputs of the control units. These control unit input signals may correspond to the control system input signals and/or the control signals at the outputs of the control units. At least a portion of the control signals are utilized as the output signals for the control system.

Abstract: Actuator for use with a push-button keyboard in which the keys are arranged in an array of intersecting rows and columns. A single solenoid is provided for each row and column, and means operated by the solenoids causes the key to be depressed at the intersection of a row or column for which the solenoids are energized.

Abstract: A keyboard apparatus includes a pair of juxtaposed tablets against which a single probe or signal pen may be applied through an overlay or overlays. Each tablet has a multiplicity of key segments defined on its surface at specified coordinates. Each segment is operable as a key as the probe is applied against a particular overlay which assumes an open position over a selected one of the tablets. A plurality of overlays are bound in a binder or fastener in the form of a book so that any overlay can assume an open position on either tablet. Each overlay has indicium segments on its surface which coorespond to the key segments and on which indicia such as letters or characters designating the key segments may be entered. When a particular overlay assumes an open position on one of the tablets, a probe may be applied against a desired indicium segment thereof, whereupon the probe senses a signal from the corresponding key segment.

Abstract: This invention relates to a keyboard switch or push button transducer for use in keyboards which makes use of the advantages of resistive and capacitive methods of closure. The switch element is comprised of a resilient conductive element attached to a pad of compressible foam mounted on the end of a key plunger. When the push button or switch plunger is depressed, the switch element is brought into contact with conductive elements etched on a printed circuit board. One of the conductive elements has a coating of dielectric material thereon, and the other conductive element has a raised conductive surface to contact the conductive elastomer sheet prior to the contact with the dielectric material. The insulated area forms a capacitance between the elastomer sheet and the conductive element or metallic pad on the printed circuit board, and the other area of conductor element, being uninsulated, makes a resistive contact with the elastomer.

Abstract: A full-roll electronic keyboard having upper and lower case capabilities is disclosed. The keyboard includes a shift key which when depressed will generate first and second coded signals with the first signal utilized to indicate the start of a shift operation. Upon release of the shift key, the first and second coded signals are again generated with the first signal again being used to indicate the end of a shift operation. The first coded signals generated by the movement of the shift key informs a processing unit that any character key on the keyboard depressed between the generation of the two first coded signals will be shifted from the lower to the upper case. The shift key circuit includes an inverter which is utilized in the generation of the first and second coded signals upon the operation of the shift key.

Abstract: A printout device for calculators and the like includes a plurality of print segments, each encased in elastomer and embedded in a rigid block with the lower, indicia forming ends flush with the lower surface of the block. The upper end of each print segment is provided with a diametrically extending slot. Disposed above each print segment and axially aligned therewith is an electromagnetic driver element which is provided with a diametrically extending bar or key projecting from the lower surface thereof. With the electromagnet unactuated, downward pressure applied to the upper surface of the block will drive the key into the aligned slot so that no force will be transmitted to the printing segment. Actuation of the electromagnet will cause the key to be attracted to the upper extremities of the printing segment as it approaches it, causing the key to misalign with the slot and impinge on the upper surface of the printing segment.

Abstract: A key input circuit includes a binary-coded N-ary counter consisting of a plurality of binary counters, a decoder decoding coded pulse outputs of the counter for converting the counter outputs into a plurality of timing pulse signals, which are applied respectively to a plurality of keys. These timing pulse signals form a key information input by manipulation of the corresponding key, and a plurality of gates are provided for coding the key information by gating the input provided by the specific coded pulse output of the counter in response to receipt of the control input provided by the specific key signal applied through the manipulated key.

Abstract: Apparatus for coding input data characters from a keyboard incorporates apparatus for recognizing characters which are to be represented by two successive code representations, rather than the usual single code representation for each character. When a two-code character is recognized, ordinary operation of the apparatus is inhibited, and an auxiliary counter is energized which, in conjunction with a fixed-value storage device, causes the plural code signals to be generated in the correct sequence, after which normal operation of the apparatus is resumed.

Abstract: A guard for protecting the keys of a keyboard from being untimely depressed, the guard is formed of a rigid material, such as an acrylic plastic, and contains an aperture(s) therethrough for accommodating the positioning of the keys therein, so as to avoid their being depressed other than when acted upon intentionally by a machine operator. The apertures may be in the form of a pair of slots extending the length of the guard and which are designed for accommodating at least a pair of rows of keys therein, with the guard containing a vinyl decal that is imprinted with indicia to indicate the function of the proximate keys upon depressing. The guard contains either one or more holes provided there through and into each a pin projecting from the keyboard may be inserted for providing proper positioning of the guard, or alternatively, stick angles may be provided at the corners of the guard to insure its reasonably stationary positioning upon the keyboard.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for use with typewriters of the type having trip hammers and is adapted to receive combinations of electrical signals which uniquely define the respective characteristics and to decode the electrical signals to selectively activate the trip hammers of the typewriter. The apparatus has a number of coded plates located adjacent one another in general alignment, with each of the plates having a number of transverse slots at one edge thereof at predetermined positions. Lateral or longitudinal movement of the elongated plates between first and second positions in response to receiving appropriate electrical signals causes the slots to be either into or out of alignment with an activating member which effects triggering of the trip hammer of the typewriter. Any one of the coded plates having a slot in a nonaligned orientation will prevent activation of the particular hammer.

Abstract: This invention relates to a control device of a teletypewriter to be used by invalids, which comprises at least one control member, a synoptical board and at least one electronic part, said synoptical board comprising at least one line or column, where all the vowels are grouped, and said electronic part being made in such a way that the sign which is printed corresponds, for certain boxes of the board at least, to the combination of the consonant in the chosen box with the vowels in the same column or line of the line or column in which the vowels are grouped.

Abstract: A keyboard which has 10 keys controlled by the four fingers and four keys controlled by the thumb of the same hand. On it, the operator forms chords somewhat as a pianist forms chords on a piano. It allows the user to type at normal speed using only one hand and offers the possibility of typing at a faster rate than the conventional two-handed keyboard. The operator presses several keys at once, as when playing a chord on a piano. Each finger or thumb can press one key, or overlap two or four adjacent keys to press the two or four keys. There are 27 such finger positions on the 10 finger keys and 7 thumb positions on the four thumb keys. The thumb position on the thumb keys select the alphabet/case, output order of characters in the chord, a space character preceding the chord, and capitalizing of the first outputted character of a chord. The finger positions on the finger keys select the characters in the alphabet/case selected by the thumb position.

Abstract: A keyswitch assembly including a circuit board having a plurality of circuits, each circuit terminating with a pair of first and second contacts, and a curved, resilient contact plate associated with each pair of contacts having at least a portion of its periphery in communication with one of the pair of contacts, the plate being selectively deflectable so that it communicates with the other contact to close the respective circuit. The contact plates are fixed in position by a retaining element comprising a film formed by a layer of thermoplastic material bonded to a flexible sheet of insulative material, the thermoplastic material being bonded to the resilient plates and circuit board thereby maintaining the former in correct position relative to the latter. The method of manufacturing the assembly includes precisely locating the plates over the pairs of contacts, placing the retaining element over the circuit board an applying pressure to the assembly at an elevated temperature for a predetermined time.

Abstract: An apparatus for recording data in arabic script is disclosed. Arabic script is written from right to left and characters of arabic script are written in two forms referred to as short form and full form with few exceptions. Each character of the arabic script is stored temporarily in a store before recording. A character having both short and full forms is recorded from the store in short form when followed by another character and in full form when followed by a space.

Abstract: A keyboard for generating alpha-numeric character data for an output device such as a printer or display or transmission line or memory or the like. A keyboard with five sets of keys for operation with one hand to produce an eight bar matrix character code, with the sets positioned in a row and with the central sets selectively providing upper, lower and combination of upper and lower bars of the matrix.

Abstract: A pocket calculator includes a main frame which consists of a keyboard, a display and display drivers mounted on a printed circuit board, a case, and a connector for receiving one of a plurality of arithmetic or processor modules. Each processor module includes an arithmetic chip mounted in a package which is, in turn, mounted on a printed circuit board having an edge connector. The case of the calculator has an aperture for receiving each one of the modules. The connector on the printed circuit board of the main frame is mounted in registry with the aperture and is disposed for receiving the module, such that any one of the number of processor modules may be employed with the same calculator main frame.

Abstract: The disclosure comprises a method and apparatus for using a pushbutton telephone keyboard in which a signal sequence representing a unique symbol is generated by pushing a first button on which the desired symbol is located, each button being labeled with at most a three by three array of symbols, and pushing a second button, which is indicated by the position of the symbol in the array on the first button. Letters and numbers are arranged corresponding to the arrangement of a standard typewriter keyboard, insuring that anyone familiar with the location of letters and numbers on a typewriter can quickly find the letter on the keyboard.