GB1019866A - Key-operated data-processing machines - Google Patents

Abstract

1,019,866. Telegraphy. SIEMENS & HALSKE A.G. Aug. 26, 1964 [Aug. 27, 1963], No. 34856/64. Heading H4P. In a keyboard apparatus in which each key corresponds to two code characters, i.e. upper and lower case, means is provided whereby a code character representing one character on a key is transformed to a character representing the other character by reversing the polarity of certain of the code elements under control of a single transfer key. In an electrical system, Fig. 5 (not shown), depression of a character key causes code bars to Set switches T (a 7-bit code is referred to) which feeds signals via transmission contacts S. All keys in which, to change from the one character to the other, requires contact T3 to be reversed are coupled to group selector switch G2. If then transfer switch U is operated the third element is reversed. Switches G3 and G4 are associated with other keys which require the fourth and fifth elements to be reversed. A mechanical system, Fig. 6, includes code selector bars 1 (only one shown) which selectively places lever 2 to abut stop 3 on lever 4 which, under control of timing cam 6, operates switch 8. If depression of a key also moves group selector bar 10 rightwards, lever 9 is potentially above to abut stop 3, but, spring 13 being stronger than spring 11, it cannot do so until transfer key 14 is operated. Thus when bar 10 is to the right and the key 10 is operated switch 8 cannot be operated whether or not lever 2 is operated. Other generally similar mechanical systems are described, Figs. 7-10 (not shown), including one in which a single group selector bar 10 is associated with two levers 9 for controlling two elements in a code combination.