Abstract: A dot-type printer of the type using printing pins or wires is improved by employing a driving system which includes a variable-volume sealed container enclosing a pressure transmitting medium. Electrodes are disposed in the medium and are closely spaced such that the application of a high voltage will cause arc discharge across the same. The discharge energy applied to the medium causes an expansion of the medium, which in turn causes an expansion of the sealed container. The printing pins or wires are abutted against a movable membrane or bellows portion of the container, so that container expansion effects linear movement of the pins or wires.

Abstract: An improved machine for heating and die cutting plastic tape to form letters, numerals and other characters is disclosed which includes a rotatable disc-shaped print plate which defines a plurality of raised characters spaced in a circle on and around one broad surface thereof. The print plate includes a central hub, a thermally conductive backing plate attached to the hub but thermally isolated from the hub by thermally insulating washers disposed therebetween, and a thermally conductive print ring, containing the raised characters thereon, which is attached to the backing plate, and a heating ring including electrical resistance wire zig-zagging between a pair of sheets of electrically insulating rubber material, the heating ring being disposed between the backing plate and print ring.