Abstract: The electronic typewriter is of the `daisywheel` type and comprises a microprocessor, a stepping selector motor controlled by a position register for positioning the daisywheel 28, and a support frame for a correction ribbon. The support frame is arranged to oscillate from a down position for viewing purposes to an up position for the correction operation. A tab (104) moves up and down with the frame. The daisywheel rotates together with a sleeve member 97 provided with a stop seat 98. The tab (104), in the up position, urges a tooth (99) on a lever (101) into interference with the sleeve member (97), via a resiliently yielding blade (107) of the lever (101). During the correction cycles, rotary movement of the daisywheel (28) takes place when the support frame and hence the tab (104) is in its own position and thus without any obstacle. In the initialization phase, the microprocessor raises the support frame and tab (104) in advance of a command for complete rotation of the daisywheel (28).

Abstract: Mechanism to raise and transport print and correction ribbons in typewriters and similar machines as a function of the direction of a rotation of a motor. The required motions are brought about by means of a cam wheel containing different cams and by appropriate cam followers, and provision is made to maintain ribbon raised to the typed line level so that during rapid printing only transport steps need to be carried out. It is also possible with the mechanism to effect transport steps of different size, to meet the requirements of the ribbon type used.

Abstract: In an electronic correcting typewriter, a character correction and replacement system is disclosed for facilitating the task of correcting typed character errors. The typewriter includes a printing and a correcting mechanism operated under electronic control and a correction buffer is associated with the electronic control for storing the last plurality of printed characters. To automatically erase any previously printed character which character has its code stored in the correction buffer and print a new replacement character, the typist locates the carrier opposite the unwanted character and actuates the character key of the desired replacement character. Under control of the electronics, the unwanted character code is recalled from the correction buffer, the correcting mechanism is operated to erase that character and the printing mechanism is operated to print the new character. Operator setting of an overstrike flag provides character overprint capability.

Abstract: In the dot matrix printer disclosed herein, a multicolor ribbon is shifted to bring different colored stripes in alignment with the nosepiece of a dot matrix printhead by means of cup-like ribbon guide members journaled on either side of the nosepiece. Each guide member provides, in its periphery, an arcuate slot through which the ribbon can freely slide as the printhead traverses. A stepping motor is coupled to the guide members for rotating them so as to selectively bring a stripe of desired color into operative position.

Abstract: A printer for use with a data processor and a ribbon cartridge for use in the same are disclosed. The cartridge has at least two separate ribbon supplies which may differ in the type of ink on the ribbon (MICR vs. ordinary) and/or in color of ink or otherwise. A mechanism moves the cartridge along a straight line path to index selectively an active portion of each of the ribbons to a position aligned between a printhead and a platen for printing through the selected ribbon. A ribbon drive mechanism drives at least one of the ribbon supplies only when that ribbon supply has been selectively indexed to be printed through. In one embodiment a Magnetic Ink Character Recognition ribbon supply is driven between take-up and supply reels only when it is indexed for printing, while a multi-strike ribbon with ordinary ink is driven continuously. In another embodiment only one of two or more ribbon supplies is driven at one time.

Abstract: A printer includes a carriage, a printing head, a platen, a cartridge holder for removably holding a cartridge accommodating a multi-colored ink ribbon which is rockably mounted on the carriage so as to be able to move the multi-colored ink ribbon in the width direction relative to the printing head, and a ribbon-position switching device for driving the cartridge holder to bring a desired color zone on the multi-colored ink ribbon to a position corresponding to an end of the printing head for using the desired color zone.

Abstract: A dot matrix type serial printer wherein a print medium is printed with indicia such as letters, characters, symbols, or the like by selectively driving a number of print elements while moving a print head having the print elements in a direction of a printing line. To enable the simultaneous printing of a number of print lines in different colors, an ink ribbon is provided having a plurality of tracks in the different colors. The print head includes groups of print elements which are arranged such that the respective groups face and are associated with the respective different tracks of the ink ribbon thereby enabling the simultaneous printing of a number of print lines in the different colors by moving the print head.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a simplified mechanism by which a multitude of ribbon styles may be both transported across a record medium of a data communications printer and shifted band to band to obtain color printing results.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for a member to be driven in one direction is disclosed. The mechanism is incorporated in an electronic typewriter and includes a clutch including a clutch spring which provides a driving connection between a small DC motor and the member to be driven of the typewriter. Means is provided which normally holds a driven member of the clutch to a particular angular position and, when the motor is energized, it releases the driven member to allow the driven member to be rotated by the motor. After a cycle of rotation of the driven member, the holding means positively stops rotation of the second element and hence of the driving member and the motor.A new and efficient ribbon feed mechanism is also disclosed which enables selective use of a carbon ribbon and a fabric ink ribbon depending upon a cassette mounted thereon.

Abstract: In a printing apparatus with a correction ribbon, a ribbon placement mechanism comprising a holder swingably supported on a carriage adapted to move along a printing line and holding a printing ribbon and a correction ribbon; a first lever supported on the carriage so as to be swingable between a first position and a second position; a first electromagnet for shifting the first lever from the first position to the second positon; a second lever supported on one end of the first lever so as to be swingable between a working position and a resting position; a second electromagnet for shifting the second lever from the resting position to the working position; and a coupling means coupling one end of the second lever with the holder, wherein the printing ribbon is selected and placed at a print position through operation of the first electromagnet, while the correction ribbon is selected and placed at the print position through the swing motion of the holder when both the first and second electromagnets are actu

Abstract: The printing and correcting device is applied to a daisywheel printer and comprises a frame supporting a cartridge for a typing ribbon and a correcting ribbon arranged below the typing ribbon. The frame is able to swing as the result of operation of an electromagnet, from a rest position providing visibility of the print, to an intermediate position for printing the characters. A second electromagnet raises the frame through a greater length of travel in order to position the correcting ribbon in front of the printing point. A rotating electromagnet causes automatic unidirectional advance of the typing ribbon after each character has been printed. The correcting ribbon is wound between two spools and its motion is provided by means of a pawl which engages with a gear wheel for driving the spool only in the case where the path of travel of the frame is greater than that which relates to positioning of the typing ribbon.

Abstract: A printing device having a plurality of indicating units for indicating information on the ink ribbon and having a detecting unit for ink ribbon information, with the indicating units and the detecting unit being arranged opposite to each other.

Abstract: A cartridge for a typing ribbon and spools for a correcting ribbon are mounted on a common frame which can tilt about a spindle. In a lowered position of the frame the typing line behind a daisy wheel is visible. The frame is raised by a first stroke to the position shown to dispose the typing ribbon over the typing point on the platen. A longer stroke raises the correcting ribbon to the typing point and this longer stroke also actuates an automatic ratchet wheel and pawl type of feed mechanism for the correcting ribbon. The two strokes of the frame are controlled by a disc comprising two cam tracks with a common part and separate parts having different degrees of eccentricity relative to the common part.

Abstract: A color impact matrix printer has replaceable color cartridges which are selectively brought into cooperative engagement with a print head. The printer includes a powered manifold for adjusting the print gap, a cartridge housing which is rapidly moveable by a lever system and a ribbon drive mechanism which allows for selective and incremental driving of each cartridge.

Abstract: The printing and correcting device is applied to a daisywheel printer and comprises a frame supporting a cartridge for a typing ribbon and a correcting ribbon arranged below the typing ribbon. The frame is able to swing as the result of operation of an electromagnet, from a rest position providing visibility of the print, to an intermediate position for printing the characters. A second electromagnet raises the frame through a greater length of travel in order to position the correcting ribbon in front of the printing point. A rotating electromagnet causes automatic unidirectional advance of the typing ribbon after each character has been printed. The correcting ribbon is wound between two spools and its motion is provided by means of a pawl which engages with a gear wheel for driving the spool only in the case where the path of travel of the frame is greater than that which relates to positioning of the typing ribbon.

Abstract: In an abbreviated typing system, in which a data processor (20) transfers abbreviations typed on the keyboard (10) into longer, full words, display of words in exceptional forms is efficiently achieved. Such special forms include initial capitalized, all capitalized, initial italics, all italics and combinations of these. The sequence for capitalization is typical. When the first letter only of the abbreviation is capitalized, decision (260) (FIG. 9) of the processor (20) results in action (264), by which only the first character of the full word is capitalized. When more than one letter is capitalized, decision (260) results in action (262) by which all characters of the full word are capitalized. Underlining is effected by underlining all characters when the first letter of the abbreviation is underlined and all of the characters plus the space following the word when more than one letter of the abbreviation is underlined.

Abstract: An improved multicolor ribbon cassette system for use with a printing mechanism. A ribbon cassette is carried on a plate which is pivotally connected to a shuttle mechanism. The plate rotates about an axis which is perpendicular to a printing medium and the portion of the ribbon adjacent the printing mechanism. The pivot plate is tilted up or down to position a different part of the ribbon in alignment with a printing mechanism. The configuration of the device is such that the ribbon will remain parallel to the printing medium as it is tilted. The position of the pivot plate is controlled by means of a barrel cam driven by a stepper motor. The stepper motor is controlled by a logic circuit. An optical sensor is also connected to the logic circuit to determine whether a single color or multicolor cassette is in position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanism for raising and lowering a ribbon in front of the typing area of a typewriter or similar machine. The mechanism is so designed that only a few lightweight plastic parts need be moved thereby greatly reducing the actuating force necessary to elevate a ribbon. The mechanism also is configured to track the ribbon such that deformation of the ribbon as could impair proper functioning of the lifting and/or transporting of the ribbon during the ribbon lifting motion is minimized.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mechanism so arranged that a relatively weak power source can be employed to effect error ribbon elevation and incremental feed. A bridge which is pivotably mounted on a frame carries a rotatably mounted ratchet and a pivotably mounted pawl which, when the bridge is rotated by a magnet to elevate the bridge, is caused to react with a frame part and pivot relative to and to drive the ratchet to feed ribbon.

Abstract: An error correcting typewriter having separate elevating and feed mechanism for carbon and error correction ribbons includes a common cyclic motive source operable in response to type commands to drive a cam shaft which is axially shiftable by means of an electromagnet energized by a correction signal. Normally, the cam shaft is positioned in engagement with a carbon ribbon drive lever and out of engagement with an error correction ribbon drive lever. A shift of the cam shaft disengages it from the carbon ribbon drive lever and engages it with the error correction ribbon drive lever. The carbon ribbon drive lever simultaneously operates a carbon ribbon elevating mechanism and a feed mechanism. Energization of the electromagnet operates a lever which directly operates the correction ribbon feed mechanism and simultaneously shifts the cam shaft to engage it with the error correction ribbon drive lever which when driven is operative on the correction ribbon elevating mechanism.

Abstract: Apparatus for color printing for installation in a printer having a platen, a carriage, a printing head mounted on the carriage, a mechanism for moving the carriage along parallel to the platen and a control for actuating the print head so that the print head can print on a printing medium engaged on the platen employs a guide for guiding a segment color-banded ink ribbon between the printing means and the platen parallel to the platen so that, when actuated, the print head prints indicia in a color corresponding to the ribbon segment color band located opposite the print head. The apparatus also includes a rigid beam pivotally connected to the guide, the pivotal connection being displaced along the beam from the beam transverse centerline. First and second pivots are connected adjacent to opposite ends of the beam.

Abstract: Ribbon lifting apparatus for a printing device having a print wheel and a ribbon cartridge. The lifting apparatus includes a pair of ribbon guides for supporting an exposed portion of a ribbon extending from an outlet opening of the ribbon cartridge to an inlet opening thereof. The pair of ribbon guides are supported by respective pairs of supporting levers which are swung in a plane parallel to the face plane of the print wheel. The pair of ribbon guides are lifted so that the lifting movement of the guides causes variation of a distance therebetween for keeping the path of the exposed length of ribbon substantially constant.

Abstract: The invention is a mechanism for raising and lowering the ribbon in typewriters to make typed text visible. No separate drive such as a motor or magnet is required to raise the ribbon. The ribbon is raised by means of a spring-loaded bar prior to each character reproduction. To accomplish this, an armature of a control magnet releases a pivoting lever and the spring loaded bar. A pin wheel, driven by a motor and acting on the lever serves to return the bar and allow return of the ribbon. The motor is energized after each character reproduction to advance either a type element carrier or the paper carrier by one character space. In typewriters with ribbon spools fixed to the machine frame, the ribbon spool drive also can be derived from the spring powered bar.

Abstract: A pivoted ink ribbon guide in front of a matrix print head is positioned by a lever linkage which translates the four different combinations of energization stages of two solenoids into four different alignment positions for a multi-colored ink ribbon.

Abstract: In the printer disclosed herein, shifting of a multi-color ribbon carried on a movable carriage is effected by differentially adjusting the free length of a cable extending parallel to the carriage motion. The cable passes over at least a pair of pulleys on the carriage, at least one of the pulleys being movable with respect to the other in response to changes in the free length of the cable. Solenoids are provided at each end of the cable for controllably changing the free length of the cable, the amount of change being different for the two solenoids so that four different combinations of free length are available. A ribbon shifting mechanism is coupled to the movable pulley so that the multi-color ribbon is shifted in accordance with the free length of the cable.

Abstract: A cartridge ribbon lift apparatus is provided in which a pivotally mounted cartridge, containing a ribbon, is pivoted upward to a printing position by a linkage which is operated by a solenoid. When the cartridge reaches the printing position a second linkage latches the cartridge in the printing position for repeat and burst speed printing and the cartridge remains in the printing position as long as the solenoid remains energized. While the cartridge is latched in the printing position the first linkage is restored to its initial operating position.

Abstract: In a daisy wheel or rotary print wheel typewriter, a single motor (stepper motor) is employed to accomplish both ribbon lift and feed for typewriter ribbon and correction ribbon loaded in a cartridge assembly. A single motor drive moves a cartridge assembly support about an axis to present either the typewriter ribbon or the correction ribbon to the print point at the print line. In the first portion of the arc that the cartridge assembly moves, normal typing on the typewriter ribbon occurs, only the feed ratchet for the typewriter ribbon being engaged. Alternately, when the rotation is greater, to present a correction ribbon at the print line, the added elevation of the cartridge assembly causes disengagement of the normal ratchet feed for the typewriter ribbon but allows advancement of the correction ribbon.

Abstract: A miniature printer includes character rings, each having a series of characters on the outer periphery thereof and teeth on a side surface thereof for selection of a character to be printed. The shaft carrying the character rings also has mounted thereon a radially-slotted disc through the slots of which a light beam is passed for signalling the angular position of said shaft, the light beam being directed at light-detection means. Electronic circuitry controls pawls for selectively stopping the character rings so that a selected character on each ring is brought to rest at a printing position for printing. The electronic circuitry also controls the intermittent feed of printing paper and printing ribbon. A gear-selection mechanism provides for a plurality of printing-paper feed rates as well as for holding the paper stationary when required.A number of the components are of unitary contruction to increase the ease of assembly and decrease the costs as well as the number of parts.

Abstract: An assembly for elevating the print ribbon and the erase ribbon of an impact printer is disclosed. In their respective rest positions, the ribbons are positioned in vertical relationship to one another and in one embodiment the ribbons are in the same plane when in their rest positions. When the printer is operating in the print mode, the print ribbon is selectively elevated to the print point while the erase ribbon remains stationary. When the printer is operating in the erase mode, both ribbons are elevated. In the erase mode, the print ribbon is elevated to a point above the print point and the erase ribbon is elevated to the print point.

Abstract: A printing apparatus comprising a type carrier to travel along a print line on a printing paper, a plurality of printing hammers to be selectively driven to strike the printing paper against an inking ribbon and the inking ribbon against a platen in front of the inking ribbon, and a support member supporting the type carrier, inking ribbon and platen thereon, wherein the support member is movable between a position holding the type carrier, inking ribbon and platen in positions capable of performing printing operation but intercepting the line of sight between the print line and the operator's eyes and a position holding the type carrier, inking ribbon and platen in inoperative positions but providing an unobstructed line of sight from the operator's eyes toward the print line for enabling the operator to clearly view the printed information along the print line.

Abstract: A ribbon feed mechanism for a typewriter has a linkage for incrementally feeding a ribbon, a power roll rotated by a motor and a control member actuated by a printing mechanism for connecting the power roll to the linkage to incrementally feed the ribbon. The control member is also actuated by a carriage shift mechanism when shifting a carriage from an upper case position to a lower case position for connecting the power roll to the linkage to incrementally feed the ribbon.

Abstract: A ribbon cassette having a body portion and a nose portion which pivots with respect to the body portion to obtain bi-color printing capability. The cassette also includes hinges and a fracturable member interconnecting the body portion and the nose portion. The fracturable member retains the nose portion in fixed relationship with respect to the body portion; however, upon removing the fracturable member, the nose portion is free to pivot between first and second positions with respect to the body portion and thereby present first and second colors of inked ribbon to an associated print means.

Abstract: A ribbon cassette having a body portion and a nose portion which pivots with respect to the body portion to obtain bi-color printing capability. The cassette also includes hinges and a fracturable member interconnecting the body portion and the nose portion. The fracturable member retains the nose portion in fixed relationship with respect to the body portion; however, upon removing the fracturable member, the nose portion is free to pivot between first and second positions with respect to the body portion and thereby present first and second colors of inked ribbon to an associated print means.