Abstract: A technique for detecting and verifying a fingerprint includes a skin resistance sensing array for translating the skin resistance of a fingertip into an electrical signal. The fingertip is moved relative to the skin resistance sensing array in a first linear direction for producing a reference trajectory signal which is stored into a memory. The fingertip is again moved relative to the skin resistance sensing array in a second linear direction for producing a sample trajectory signal. The second linear direction of movement is offset from the first linear direction of movement by a predetermined angle. A processor is provided for performing a set of functions on the reference trajectory signal and the sample trajectory signal. The sample trajectory signal is correlated with the reference trajectory signal for producing a verification signal related to the probability that the fingertip generated both the sample trajectory signal and the reference trajectory signal.

Abstract: A computer input device uses an ordinary sheet material such as a card, letter or envelope to select and point to a symbol. A remote portion of the sheet material covers adjacent light emitters and sensors which sense reflected light from the emitters. A single sensor is associated with multiple symbols and is associated with symbols in at least two specific groups of symbols. A processor is connected to a demultiplexer and a multiplexer, and the demultiplexer and multiplexer are connected to individual sensors. Biasing resistors are connected to individual sensors. The processor selects a pair of connectors from the demultiplexer and multiplexer, thus sampling a particular sensor. The output of that sensor is converted a digital signal, which is sent to the processor and stored in a random access memory.

Abstract: A printer includes a carriage supporting a print head and movable across print paper for enabling the print head to print on the print paper, a fixed frame, a switch device mounted on one of the carriage and the fixed frame, the switch device being composed of a light transmission means and a light blocking means for blocking light passing through the light transmission means, a sensor means on the other of the carriage and the fixed frame for sensing light passing through the switch device to produce an electric signal, and a means for reading the electric signal as information indicative of printer functions in response to movement of the carriage.

Abstract: A photoelectric circuit for reading punched data tape wherein the circuit compensates for variations in phototransistors and light emitting diodes, dust accumulation and degradation of the light emitting diodes by comparing the light transmitted through a punched section of the tape to the light transmitted through a solid section of the tape.

Abstract: In a key-operated machine in which actuation of a key moves code elements of an associated code card into the path of a photoelectric sensing system, each code card is moved by a drive mechanism so as to cause the code elements to traverse the sensing system path only once, and at a speed which is independent of the speed of key movement, in response to each key actuation.

Abstract: A plurality of optical transmission tracts direct radiant energy from an appropriate light source to each of a plurality of photo-transistors or other light sensitive elements. The photo-transistors are adapted to generate an output signal whenever the radiant energy impinging thereon exceeds a threshold value which distinguishes environmental radiation from the radiant energy generated by the light source. A plurality of code bars, each representative of a different character code, are provided. Each code bar includes a hinged rail pivotally coupled to the housing and a plurality of radiant energy interrupting code projections depending therefrom. The number and location of the plurality of radiant energy interrupting code projections depending from each hinged rail is determined by the character code associated with the code bar of which they form a part.

Abstract: A decoder clutching system for use in a minicomputer such as the Burroughs Series-L or TC-Series minicomputer is employed to reduce noise and extend the life of the decoder while minimizing power consumption. An electromagnetic master clutch is secured to a main motor which enables a decoder to be intermittently driven in response to decoder alert or command signals representing anticipated binary to decimal conversion by the decoder. The motor operates continuously so as to drive the decoder only when the electromagnetic master clutch is energized and to release the drive to the decoder when the master clutch is de-energized.