JPS581457B2 - Information signal generator - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an interactive computer terminal, and more particularly to an interactive terminal that is completely portable and operable.

Most computer terminals known in the art require fixed locations and special locations.

Generally, these devices were about the size of a suitcase and were not portable or portable.

Such a cumbersome configuration inhibits location flexibility and requires the computer terminal to be located at a convenient location for operation.

An object of the present invention is to provide an interactive computer terminal device that can be fully operated while being held in the hands of an operator.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer terminal device having the above-mentioned characteristics that is completely silent during operation.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer terminal device of the above-mentioned characteristics capable of providing all the functions that a larger and more complex computer terminal device can provide.

A further object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character which incorporates alphabetic and numeric display functions and the ability to review messages entered or received by the computer terminal.

The computer terminal device of the present invention includes 20 alphabetic characters,
It has a numeric display, 100 character storage elements and a total of 75 character keyboard functionality on a 20 keypad.

The fully self-contained stationary computer terminal can be held in one hand while the other hand operates the 20-keypad.

Each key can transmit four different characters or commands depending on the selection of the particular information level on which the character or life resides.

In the embodiment, three information transmission level shift keys are placed on one side of the mobile terminal device and are operated by holding the terminal device with one hand.

Each key can select one information level for transmission, while failure to suppress all of these shift keys results in the transmission of four information levels.

As a result, each of the 20 keys on the keyboard has the function of transmitting four different characters or other information.

Thus, 80 characters or command signals can be simply and easily transmitted by a small 20 keypad.

The portable stationary interactive computer terminal device also includes at least one
It is equipped with a self-contained storage device that can store 0 pieces of information.

Associated with the storage device is a scroll switch that can change the display to present to the operator all of the information stored thereon in sequential order.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the size of the alphanumeric display and the storage capacity of its storage device can be easily varied depending on the size constraints necessary to provide a conveniently sized mobile terminal device. can.

The portable terminal device of the present invention can be easily coupled to conventionally known devices to transmit and receive data to and from a computer or teletype receiver.

In one embodiment, the portable computer terminal device of the present invention is a well-known modem capable of communicating with a computer or teletype.
Easily plugs into telephone link equipment.

In other embodiments, the portable computer terminal device may simply be connected to a power source and its associated electronics, and then directly connected to the teletype.

Still further in embodiments of the present invention, the portable computer terminal device can be connected to a telephone link device, a teletype power supply, or a battery operated radio frequency generator capable of transmitting signals to a receiving device directly associated with the computer.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the portable computer terminal device may be equipped with a battery-operated radio frequency generator therein, which allows complete transmission from any position while moving freely, and allows the signal to be transmitted from any position. All that is required for transmission is that the operator be within the frequency detection range of the receiving source.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the ability of a portable interactive computing terminal to be fully portable and operable with two hands without any restrictions on position and location provides many different applications of the present invention. .

Because of the flexibility provided by the portable computer terminal device of the present invention, its applications are unlimited and its technology can be greatly developed.

In FIG. 1, the interactive terminal device 20 of the present invention is held in the hand of an operator for operation.

The terminal device 20 includes 20 alphabetic characters, a numeric display device 22, a keyboard 24, shift level control keys 26,
27 and 28 and a spiral switch 30 located opposite the three adjacent keys 26, 27 and 28.

The terminal device 20 also has indicator lights 36, 37, and 38.

The keys 26, 27, 28, and 30 are all arranged for easy operation by the operator.

The spiral switch 30 is arranged so as to be easily operated by the operator's left thumb, while the keys 26, 27 and 28 are arranged so as to be easily operated by the operator's left index finger, middle finger and ring finger.

1 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the alphanumeric display 22 consists of two lines with ten character display functions.

As will be clear to those skilled in the art, this is only one of many displays that can be employed in the terminal device of the present invention.

The limitations on the number of lines and characters in each line that can be employed depend only on the desired size of each character for ease of reading and on the size limitations of the terminal itself.

In this example, each character has a 35 point (5x7) light emitting diode (LED) matrix.

By adopting a 35-point matochris, ASCI
A highly readable display device is obtained that can clearly display all of the printable characters in the I-code.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, keyboard 24 has a 24 keypad with 20 keys representing four different levels of information.

By providing four different information levels for each of the 20 keys on the keyboard 24, the 20 keypad is
It can transmit all 75 characters in the CII code, but also has sufficient functionality for command signals.

By employing shift level control keys 26, 27 and 28, the operator can quickly and easily select a desired signal.

As discussed in more detail below, characters or signals located under a key may be transmitted by simply pressing that particular key.

As a result, if the operator wishes to enter the number 5, he can press the key 31 that supports that number.

Key 31 has three additional characters J, K and L that can be transmitted.
Display.

To enter the first character in key 31, the letter J, key 26 is first pressed and then key 31 is pressed.

To enter the second letter, in this example the letter K, control key 27 is first pressed and then key 31 is pressed.

Similarly, when the last letter L is entered, key 28 is pressed and then key 31 is pressed.

In this very simple and convenient manner, each key on the keyboard 24 can be separately populated with each of the four different characters displayed on the particular key.

By providing the terminal 20 with keys 26, 27 and 28 which are operated with one hand and keys of the keyboard 24 which are operated with the other hand, a very fast and efficient interactive terminal is obtained.

Indicator lights 36, 37, and 38 are provided to visually notify the operator that a key provided on the side has been pressed.

When key 26 is pressed, indicator light 36 is illuminated, while indicator light 38 indicates that control key 27 has been pressed, and indicator light 38 indicates that control key 28 has been pressed.

If none of the three indicator lights are turned on, the character displayed at the bottom of that key will be transmitted.

The keyboard 24 also includes four custom keys located in its bottom row.

These keys are clear key 32, A set key 33, and B.
It consists of a set key 34 and a C set key 35.

This row of keys can be kept on the terminal device 20 for activation without holding the terminal device 20 in the hand.

The A set key 33 provides the same closing function as the key 26, while the B set key 34 provides the same closing function as the control key 27, and the C set key 35 provides the same function as the control key 28.

The key 32 labeled CLEAR is used to change the incorrect set of the other three keys in the column prior to entering a particular character.

In particular, if the A set key is inadvertently pressed when the B set key is desired, the clear key is pressed to erase the signal represented by the A set key, and then the B set key clears the desired state. Pressed to get.

As previously mentioned, the keys in this row are a feature that can be provided if desired.

However, by eliminating this feature for one-handed operation of the terminal and requiring two-handed operation, the terminal of the present invention becomes more flexible and faster.

As mentioned above, the indicator light 36 is connected to the A set key 33 to indicate the setting of this special state.

Similarly, an indicator light 37 is connected to the B set key 34 and an indicator light 38 is connected to the C set key 35 to indicate the setting of these specific states.

The front mounted keys 33, 34, 35 are closed, ie the one pressed causes the next keyboard character to be in the selected information level transmission mode.

This mode is cleared after one character is sent or if clear key 32 is pressed.

In contrast, the operation of the shift keys 26, 27, 28 must be held down during the keystroke to select the transmission mode.

The terminal device 20 also has a spiral switch 30 that causes the display device 22 to display information stored in a storage device built therein.

By maintaining the scroll switch 30 in the steady position, information entered at the keyboard 24 or received at the terminal 20 is first displayed in the first or lower row of the display 22 and 10 in the first row of
When all of the characters are filled, the display automatically moves the contents of the first line to the second or upper line of the display.

When the lower row of display 22 is filled again, the information provided in row 1 is shifted to the upper row of display 22 and new information is displayed in row 1, the lower row, of the display. Ru.

When it is desired to retrieve any information stored in the self-contained storage of terminal 20 that is not visually visible on display 22, scroll switch 30 is moved to the retrieval position, which To automatically retrieve information stored in a device line by line.

When the desired line from the storage device is displayed, scroll switch 30 is moved to the retained position to ensure that the operator has sufficient time to visually read and understand the displayed information. It will be destroyed.

Whenever the operator desires to return the display 22 to a state showing information currently being received or entered, the scroll switch 30 is reset to the normal operating position.

This automatically presents on display 22 the textual information last received from a computer interface device or entered at a portable terminal device.

Terminal device 2 shown in FIG. 1 and detailed in the description below.
In the embodiment No. 0, only three lines need to be connected between the terminal device 20 and the external device.

These lines represent data input, data output and power.

As mentioned above, the terminal device of the present invention can incorporate its own power source and signal transceiver device.

When such a device is incorporated into a terminal device or provided in a portable self-contained unit connected to the terminal device, there is no need to make any direct connection between the terminal device and the external device. Rather, the portable terminal device of the present invention is completely portable and can function without any limitations regarding the length of the wire.

The actual operation of the interacting terminals 20 is better understood by reference to the schematic block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 2 shows an entire schematic block diagram showing the operation of the terminal device 20 of the present invention.

Keyboard 40 combines the information level keys, information level shift keys and spiral switch keys described above.

Additionally, keyboard 40 includes three light emitting diodes for indicating when any of the information level shift keys are selected.

Keyboard 40 is interconnected to a keyboard encoder and control logic block 42.

A keyboard encoder and control logic block 42 receives the signal from the keyboard 40 and converts the signal to a 6-bit binary signal representing the received information, and the 6-bit binary signal is transmitted to the universal asynchronous receive and transmit device 44. When the data is ready to be sent, the data ready signal is set.

As soon as the ready signal is received, the keyboard encoder and control logic block 42 stores the 6
Universal asynchronous reception and transmission device for bit type binary signals 4
Transfer to the register contained in 4.

The universal asynchronous receiving and transmitting device 44 includes two separate parts 2, a transmitting device part and a receiving device part.

Information transferred from the keyboard encoder and control logic block 42 is transferred directly into registers located within the transmitter section.

When the proper timing signal is received, this information is transmitted as serial data along line 46 to a particular data receiving device 4.
Transferred to 7.

Data receiving device 47 may take various forms, such as a frequency shift keying radio receiver, a modem input, or a computer communication input channel.

Universal asynchronous receiving and transmitting device 44 through line 48
This serial data placed in is transmitted by the data transmitting device 49.

Data transmitter 49 may also take various forms, such as a frequency shift keying radio transmitter, a modem output, or a computer communication output channel.

Serial data input through line 48 is stored in registers that are integrated into the receiver portion of receiver and transmitter 44.

When the data stored in the receiver portion of receiver and transmitter 44 is ready to be transmitted to character store 52, a data ready signal is sent from receiver and transmitter 44 to character address controller 50.

The character address control device 50 transfers the serial data stored in the receiving section of the receiving and transmitting device 44 to the character storage device 5.
2 includes a clock counter and a clock oscillator combined with a comparison circuit to determine the timing that can be sent to the clock.

The character address controller 50 determines the particular line and the particular character position within that line to occupy when the information being transferred from the receiver portion of the receiver and transmitter 44 is stored in the character store 52 and the memory. Indicates the currently available location within 52.

When the comparison is accomplished, the data stored in the receiving and transmitting device 44 is transferred to the character storage device 52.

Character address control 50 cooperates with spiral switch 54 to control a readable display associated with display 56.

When the proper timing has been achieved, the character address controller 50 signals the character store 52 to transfer the 6-bit digital signal stored in the character store 52 to the display device 56.

Display device 56 includes an ASCII character font generator;
This generator converts a 6-bit digital signal into a signal for illuminating the light emitting diodes of the display.

When the proper strobe signal is received, the display is illuminated with the desired characters and lines.

The particular rows presented on a display associated with display 56 is controlled by a scroll control circuit 54 which sets a particular mode for the display.

Scroll control circuit 54 allows an operator to determine whether serial data entered through line 48 is immediately displayed on display 56, whether information stored in character storage 52 is presented by display 56, or It is possible to select whether one row of the display is held constant while the second row shows serial data input through line 48.

Scroll control circuit 5 according to the particular mode selected
4 indicates the desired mode to character address controller 50, which performs the necessary timing and comparison functions;
Information to be transferred to and displayed by display device 56 is conveyed to character storage device 52 .

In the above-described manner, the portable interactive terminal device of the present invention operates efficiently without any noise, allowing the operator to enter commands with the terminal device held in his hand and transmit these commands to the data receiving device. In addition, the information sent to the data receiving device in this way can be sent directly to the terminal device 20.
be displayed on the display associated with.

Additionally, the operator can observe any of the information contained in the storage associated with the terminal 20, and whether the operator has been transferred to the terminal by instructions sent or by an external data transmission device. Make it possible to observe any of the information.

A more detailed block diagram showing the operation of the circuit of the terminal device of the present invention is shown in FIG.

The busy data processing operation of the terminal device of the present invention can be best understood with reference to FIG.

Figure 3 shows three drawings, Figure 3A, Figure 3B and Figure 3C.
3, which are combined to form an operational block diagram as shown in FIG.

In FIG. 3, specific elements of keyboard 40 and keyboard encoder control logic 42 are shown.

The keyboard 40 includes a 20-key keyboard 24 and information level shift keys 26, 27, 28, 33, 34, and 35.
, and light emitting diodes 36, 37 and 38.

As previously mentioned, the keyboard 24 contains all of the 75 ASCII code characters and control signals that would be needed in one terminal, with each key capable of transmitting four different levels of information.

Shift keys 26, 27 and 28 are used in combination with keyboard 24 to send any particular character or command.

The information level set key 33 is the key 26 attached to the side.
The information level set key 34 serves the same function as the side mounted key 27 and the information level set key 35 serves the same function as the side mounted key 28.

Light emitting diode 36 indicates selection of key 26 or 33, light emitting diode 37 indicates selection of key 27 or 34, and light emitting diode 38 indicates selection of key 28 or 35.

When no light emitting diodes are illuminated, no information level shift key is engaged and the characters or commands that appear on the lower half of the keys of keyboard 24 when that key is depressed are transmitted.

The keyboard encoder and control logic circuit 42 includes a keyboard row scanning device 60, a keyboard column input device 61, a programmable read-only storage device 62, and an output buffer 63.
, a timing counter 64, a data ready flip-flop 65, an exclusive OR circuit 66, a latching and exclusive OR circuit 67, and a decode and lamp driver 68.

Keyboard scanning device 60 continuously generates output signals on four lines to keyboard 24.

A signal is sent to keyboard row input device 61 when keyboard closure is detected.

The exclusive OR circuit 66 is connected to the information level shift keys 26, 2.
Latching and exclusive OR circuit 67 is driven by information level shift keys 33, 34 and 35.

Logic circuits 66 and 67 perform encoding and drive code level selection circuits 69 and 70.

Signals from code level selection circuits 69 and 70 actuate decoder and lamp driver 68 to cause a particular light emitting diode to emit light.

Signals on code level select lines 69 and 70 cooperate with signals from keyboard 24 to
to determine which characters or commands are selected to be transmitted.

keyboard string input device 61 drives programmable read-only memory 62 to activate read-only memory 62;
The corresponding 6-bit binary signal is sent to the output buffer 63.

When receiving this binary signal, output buffer 63 sets data ready flip-flop 65.

Data ready flip-flop 65 when set
initiates a signal on line 71, which clears logic circuits 66 and 67 and indicates to universal asynchronous receive and transmit device 44 that data is ready to be transmitted.
3B associated with the timing circuit 72 of FIG.

Timing circuit 72 then drives transmitter buffer register 73, which accepts a 6-bit binary word from output buffer 63 shown in FIG. 3A.

Referring again to FIG. 3, once the data has been placed in the buffer register 73 of the transmitter, the data is transferred to the transmitter register 7 of the universal asynchronous receive and transmit device 44.
Sent to 4.

At this time, the flip-flop 79 to which the data was sent
is set, which clears the data ready flip-flop 65.

Before the information in register 74 can be transmitted as data output, a start adder 75 adds a start bit to the stop bit placed in register 74, and a stop adder 76 adds a stop bit to this binary signal.

This entire 8-bit word is then passed in serial form into an interface amplifier 77 which drives the external data receiving device 47.

As mentioned above, this data receiving device uses frequency shifting and
It may take many different forms, such as a keying radio transmitter, a modem input, or a computer communication input channel.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in the manner described above, all of the information entered by the operator on the keyboard 24 of the terminal of the present invention is routed to the particular data receiving device desired.

In order to fulfill all the functions required for one terminal device, the terminal device of the present invention is capable of receiving information transmitted from a particular data transmitting device and displaying this information on a readable character display. It has to be something.

The receiving function of the terminal device of the invention is activated with the particular data transmitting device 49 used.

As mentioned above, this data transmission device 49 may take many different forms, such as a frequency shift keying radio receiver, a modem input, or a computer communication output channel.

The serial data being received by the terminal of the present invention on line 48 is fed into an interface amplifier 78 which converts this signal to the appropriate logic level.

This information is then transmitted to a universal asynchronous receiving and transmitting device 44.
The signal is sent to a serial receive register 80 located within.

When register 80 is filled, this 8-bit binary word is fed in parallel to receiver buffer 81.

Data ready flip-flop 82 is set when receiver buffer 81 is full.

The information held in receiver buffer 81 should be stored in character storage 52.

Character storage 52 can take many different shapes and sizes, and in the embodiment disclosed herein, character storage 52 consists of six 100-bit recirculating shift registers 85, which are 100 asci
They are interwoven to provide storage capacity for the I letter.

The operation and reason for storing characters in such an interwoven manner will become clear from the description below.

Transfer of information stored in receiver buffer 81 to character storage device 52 is controlled by character address control device 50.

Character address controller 50 receives clock pulses from clock oscillator 86, which in the preferred embodiment operates at approximately 1 MHz.

These clock pulses are fed into a long multi-bit clock counter 87 shown in FIG.
7 counts down by a factor of approximately 9600.

In this preferred embodiment, clock counter 87 has four clock counters.
Consists of a bit type clock counter.

The least significant bit of clock counter 87 is fed into comparator 88 and compared with the contents of 4-bit decimal write character register 89 and 4-bit decimal write row register 90.

When a match between the clock counter and write character register 89 and write row register 90 is detected by comparator 88, the signal generated is gated with the data ready signal from flip-flop 82 to The data in device register 85 is strobed into character store 52 and recirculating shift register 85.

As each character is received into character storage 52, comparator 8
The write character register 89 is incremented by one at the time 8 starts the data transfer signal.

A 4-bit decimal write character register 89 and a 4-bit decimal write row register 90 maintain a specific address for the location of data being entered into character store 52.

Since the character storage device 52 consists of six 100-bit recirculating shift registers connected in parallel, all six recirculating shift registers 85 can be used for one bit of a 6-bit character word in an interwoven manner. The data storage function is performed.

Characters received one after the other are not adjacent in the shift register memory, but are separated by a number of positions equal to the total number of memory rows.

This interwoven type of recirculating shift register 85 provides the system with sufficient time to obtain data from character storage 52 for transmission to display 56.

A write character register 89 and a write line register 90 maintain the particular character and line positions utilized for writing data into the character store 52, and provide a clock count that drives the recirculation register 85 of the character store 52. Comparator 88 initiates a data transfer signal when device 87 reaches a count indicating that the desired location in character storage 52 is now available for writing data.

When ten characters have been received and written to character storage 52, write character register 89 increments write line register 90 by one.

Character address controller 50 also includes write control logic 94 which provides an invalidation signal to write character register 89 and write row register 90.

By initiating a specific signal on the terminal keyboard, the operator can initiate a carriage return signal which, when interpreted by write control logic 94, returns write character register 89 to the zero position. let

Another invalidation control device included in write control logic circuit 94 includes an invalid character detection device that prevents the reception function from being disabled if a cherry-picked or invalid character is received.

The write control logic circuit 94 also includes row power supply control means,
When detected, this initiates a signal to the write row register 90 and increments the write row register 90 by one.

The character address control device 50 is a power stop clear delay device 9
Including 5.

The output of the power outage clear delay device on line 95 clears all state flip-flops, registers, and character storage 52.
Clear.

This ensures that the information in character storage 52 is completely erased each time power is applied to the terminal of the present invention.

A device is provided for erasing each character in the storage device before each character is written.

This causes the delay line to not display previously stored information before new information is written.

Retrieving information stored in character memory 52 for transfer to display device 56 will be best understood with reference to FIGS. 3B and 3C.

The least significant bit of the 4-bit clock counter 87 is sent to a comparator 97°, which compares the signal with signals received from the 4-bit Decade Display Character Register 98 and the 4-bit Decade Display Line Register 99. .

Display character register 98 and display line register 99 contain a specific character and the line position where it is desired to be displayed.

If a match is found in comparator 97, this indicates that the desired character and line location is now available for loading.

A read only memory (AS-CII character type generator) 100 is used to provide the display of the desired specific characters.

Type generator 100 receives a 6-bit binary signal representing the specific character desired and a row select (low) from clock counter 87.
signal) and outputs a 5-bit signal representing the actual number of diodes that must be illuminated to visually present the desired character on display 22.

As mentioned above, each character consists of a 35-dot light emitting diode matrix.

The 35 bits are arranged in 5 vertical rows containing 7 light emitting diodes each.

Type generator 100 generates a five bit signal in which each bit contains the number and location of light emitting diodes that must be illuminated in a particular vertical row to generate the desired character display.

When a match is obtained in comparator 97, the load signal is transferred to load and shift controller 101 and 50-bit shift register 102.

This causes type generator 100 to load a 5-bit signal into 50-bit shift register 102.

Load and shift controller 101 also receives clock pulses from clock oscillator 86 and instructs 50-bit shift register 102 to shift 5 bits after the 5-bit signal is loaded into 50-bit shift register 102.

The timing of this shift operation is the character memory 5 mentioned above.
This is achieved by the inklace technique used in 2.

This loading and shifting process continues until 10 characters of information have been completely transferred and the 50-bit shift register 102 is fully loaded.

10 characters in the desired line requires 50 column drivers 10
Visibly presented on display 22 by 3 and 14 row drivers 104 .

50 column driver 103 is 50 bit shift register 102
, this register 102 determines whether the seven light emitting diodes associated with each of the five columns in a particular line of display 22 are on or off to visually present the desired character.

Each of the 14 rows associated with two lines of display 22 is connected to a "16-1" decoder 105 and a 14-row driver 10.
4 is sequentially excited.

The “16-choice 1” decoder 105 is a clock counter 87.
is driven by the most significant bit of

This excites one row of row driver 104.

As a result, the ten characters in each of the two lines of display 22 are visually presented to the operator.

The row selection of the character oscillator 100 is determined by the most significant bit of the clock (
MSB) and the row driver.

The grasping operation terminal (terminal device) of the present invention includes a scroll control circuit 54 .

As mentioned above, the terminal of the present invention includes a finger operated three position scroll switch 30 having a normal position 30A, a scroll position 30B and a scroll advance position 30C.

These three positions are scroll timing and logic 1
It is interconnected with 06.

Scroll positions 30A, 30B and 30C control display line register 99, which in conjunction with display character register 98 and comparator 97 determines which word is to be read from character memory 52.

Display line register 99 is loaded with the contents of write line register 90 at the beginning of a raster or sweep of the display when scroll switch 30 is in normal position 30A.

The line to be written then appears on the lower line of ten characters on the display.

Once the first line of ten characters has been swept by the rask, the output signal from the sixteen-one decoder 105 is transferred to the scroll timing and logic 106.

Thereby, the display line register 99 counts down by one.

As a result, the lines already written in the character memory 52 are displayed on the upper line of the output display device 22.

After the lower line of the output display 22 has been swept by the raster, a signal is generated from the 16-one decoder 105, which is transferred to the scroll timing and logic 106, and again the contents of the write line register 90 are transferred to the display line register. 99.

In this way, the scroll switch is in the normal position 30A.
If so, the display line is alternately loaded with the contents of the write line register 90 and then counted down by one to bring the already written line to the output display 22.

When the scroll switch 30 is placed in the scroll position 30B, the line that was written when the switch was moved to the scroll position 30B is displayed in the lower line of the display 22.

The upper line displays the previously written line.

This state continues indefinitely until the scroll selection position is changed.

When scroll switch 30 is placed in scroll forward position 30C, display line register 99 counts down by two and counts up by one instead of alternately counting down by one and then counting up by one.

As a result, the most recently written line is moved to the display and
Previously written lines are moved to the display.

Each movement of the scroll advance switch actually moves a previously written line stored in the character memory 52 into the display position.

After this scrolling technique has been completed for as long as the operator desires, or until the scrolling process has cycled through all 10 lines, the currently written line can be reactivated by returning the scroll switch to its normal position. Lines that are displayed on the lower line of the display position and have already been written are displayed on the upper line of the display position.

For ease of reading and continuity, in the preferred embodiment of the two line position, the line being written appears in the lower line and the line already written appears in the upper line.

The reason for doing this is to simulate normal typing, similar to rewinding a piece of paper to see what you have previously written.

Note that these can be exchanged.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a position indicator can be incorporated into the display 22 to quickly inform the operator of the next available position for entering a character.

The apparatus described herein also describes full-duplex operation.

In other words, the information presented on the display device 22 is the information entered by the operator, sent to the interfacing data receiving means, and returned to the grasping terminal by the data transmission means.

In this way, the operator can see only the information that has been received and retransmitted by the device sending the information.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, this information can be modified to immediately display operator input data regardless of whether it has been received by the data receiving means.

It has become clear that the full duplex scheme used in the example described above provides great reliability in transmitting the correct information, allowing the operator to proceed while the computer processes the response. That's true.

Of course, this mode of operation can be changed by commercially available modom devices that allow local, half-duplex and full-duplex operation.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the selection of local, half-duplex or full-duplex operation can be made at the control terminal and not by means associated with a device such as a modem unit, but rather by a switch located on the terminal. It is possible to select directly by means.

Another alternative embodiment for the terminal of the present invention is to provide the keyboard 24 with one key with an independent command lock function.

By doing this, it is possible to make any of the remaining 19 keys generate multiple special command signals, and this special signal is generated only when the priority lock command key is closed. You can make it happen.

In this way, the relatively small 20-key keyboard of the terminal of the present invention has a total of 12 keys.
It is possible to transmit the 8-character ASCII code and the main command signal, and at the same time any other desired command signal can be transmitted.

Another alternative embodiment for the terminal is to provide a "horizontal scroll" to enlarge the viewing window to allow data formation.

The improved interactive terminal includes a built-in full 128 character keyboard, 20 character "alphanumeric" readout and 1000 character memory.

This terminal allows all 128 ASCII characters and
A "Break" signal can be generated.

When previous messages are displayed and incoming information is received at the terminal, the light intensity of the displayed message is modulated to indicate to the operator that information has been received but not displayed.

This improved device prevents the transmission of information when two or more of the twenty keys on the keyboard are pressed simultaneously.

Furthermore, in this terminal the character is automatically transmitted when the corresponding key is pressed for a short time.

It also includes an audible alarm that automatically sounds when inappropriate keyboard operations are performed.

This interoperating terminal allows local operation,
Information can be displayed without being transferred to any interconnected device.

The terminal's display shows the position of the next character to occur that will be transmitted when a key on the keyboard is pressed;
Includes a cursor to indicate format and information level.

In addition, this interoperable terminal allows for the selection of various parameters, such as communication speed, parity, half-duplex or full-duplex mode, transmission of uppercase or lowercase character symbols from the keyboard, and "type tidying" operation. Parameter selection is possible.

This "type tidying" operation causes ten characters or fewer words to be blocked from display on two or more display lines at a time.

Improved aspects of the present invention are directed to interoperable terminals and, more particularly, to interoperable computer terminals that are completely portable, understandable, and operable.

Today's typical teletype transmits a serial code when each of its keys is pressed.

This code represents a specific ASCII character, such as a number, alphabet, punctuation, control (command), etc.

Similarly, upon receiving a code, the teletype immediately prints it on paper and uses the specified ASCII code sent from an external device.
represents a character.

Most teletypes today operate in full duplex mode, i.e. only the received information is printed on the readout paper, and the storage of the transmitted information is carried out by an echo device that returns the received information from teletype to teletype. from the interconnection device via.

Some teletypes utilize a semi-duplex mode in which the transmitted data is also printed on the readout paper as the information is transmitted.

The present invention has a total of 128 characters in ASCII format and "
It achieves all the functions of a standard teletype, including the generation of "breaks".

However, because the present invention is of the grasping type, it can be used in many locations where standard teletypes are impractical due to their size and weight.

Furthermore, the present invention allows for intercommunication with an acoustic coupler.

The acoustic coupler communicates with an external device, such as a computer, and allows the operator to communicate with the computer wherever telephones are available.

Other forms of teletype terminals are also in use today that allow the operator to view and modify messages before transmitting them, and also allow the operator to perform some calculations before transmitting the information to a computer. is also possible, but
However, none of these so-called "agile" or "intelligent" teletype terminals are portable.

The present invention thus adds a new field to computer communications by allowing operators to communicate with computers from virtually any location.

The fields of application of such a grasp-type interactive computer terminal are countless. For example, a doctor may be in a medical room monitoring the organ signals of a hospitalized patient and based on the information displayed. Immediate research orders can be communicated, salespeople can communicate with an in-office calculator regarding the current inventory of a particular product, and real estate brokers can communicate with a commercial property calculator available at a prospect's office. You can check the list.

These are just some of the possible applications of the graspable interactive computer terminal of the present invention.

The computer terminal of the improved aspect of the present invention has a 20 character "alphanumeric" display, a 1000 character memory,
It has the ability to generate a total of 128 characters with a keyboard consisting of 20 keys.

The fully self-contained, silent computer terminal can be held in one hand and the 20-key keyboard can be operated with the other.

Each key can transmit four different characters by selecting the specific information level to which the character or command adheres.

At the same time, transmission of alphanumeric characters in upper or lower case is possible by means of separate switching means.

In the preferred embodiment, three information transmission level shift buttons are located on one side of the graspable terminal and are operated by the hand holding the terminal.

Each button can select one level of information to be transmitted; if no button is pressed, the fourth level of information is transmitted.

Each of the twenty keys on the keyboard thus has the ability to transmit four different characters or other information.

Therefore, the 80 characters containing the command code can be simply and easily transmitted using a small 20 key keyboard.

Furthermore, by use of one of the parameter selection switches in the group, some of the 80 characters or commands generated on the 20-key keyboard in conjunction with the 3 shift buttons can be
can be changed to represent characters in the form of and command information.

In particular, the transmission of lower case or upper case alphanumeric information in ASCII format of 128 characters is possible with the present invention.

The graspable silent interactive computer terminal further includes a built-in memory capable of storing at least 100 lines of information.

A scroll switch is provided in conjunction with the memory storage device, which allows the display to be changed to sequentially present all of the information stored in the memory to the operator.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the dimensions of the alphanumeric display and the storage capacity of the memory can be readily varied depending on the dimensional constraints required to create a suitably sized graspable terminal.

The improved grasp computer terminal of the present invention is functionally equivalent to today's teletypes, except that the display of information is generated by electronic means instead of paper prints.

Aspects of the present invention allow an operator to transmit and receive a "break" character and all 128 ASCII characters that electronically disconnect the device of the present invention from interconnected computers or other devices.

Further, in an improved aspect of the invention, the 20-key keyboard is provided with a "control/case" key that changes the transmission mode of the next key pressed, thus allowing A-SCII control from the keyboard. Can transmit the code and the counter "case" code.

Further aspects of the invention include a "lockout" feature which prevents transmission of incorrect character or control code information when two or more "shift level" shift buttons or type keys are pressed simultaneously. Ru.

Further aspects of the invention include an audible bell which rings when a "bell" code is received from an interconnected computer and when an incorrect keyboard operation is performed.

Additionally, aspects of the present invention include a character repeat feature whereby transmission of a selected character is automatically performed at high speed and within a predetermined short period of time following pressing of that character.

This repeat function is also utilized with respect to the scroll switch so that the information stored in the memory of the handheld computer terminal can be sequentially and automatically viewed.

A further improved embodiment of the terminal includes a switch for use in a local mode, whereby characters pressed on the keyboard are not transmitted to any interconnected device and displayed on the display. is shown.

Additionally, the display device includes a cursor that indicates the location of the next character; Indicates whether it is a character or lower case character, and whether it is in control mode.

Further aspects of the invention provide one of four communication speeds, odd, even, cake or space parity, half duplex or full duplex transmission mode, upper case or lower case character mode, (as a selection feature) "
Includes a switch to select "Type arrangement".

This "type tidying" feature prevents the display of fewer than 10 characters across more than one line of readout at any time.

Further aspects of the invention include a modulation feature for varying the light intensity of displayed information when data is received when the cursor is not displayed, such that information is received in the terminal's memory but not currently displayed. Instruct the operator that there is no

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the use of the present invention is greatly enhanced by providing a fully portable, two-handed, handheld computer terminal that has the various features described above and is operable with two hands without any limitations in usage conditions. It offers a wide range of possibilities.

The interoperability provided by the gripping terminal of the present invention opens up an unlimited field of applications.

The principal object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character which is capable of receiving, transmitting and displaying upper case and lower case alphanumeric information.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character capable of receiving and transmitting non-alphanumeric information, including ASCII control characters and "breaks."

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character capable of generating an audible signal in response to receipt of a "bell" ASCII control signal.

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character capable of generating an audible signal when an incorrect keyboard operation is performed.

Another object of the invention is to provide a means for automatic transmission of characters, forward or backward scrolling, when a selected switch is continuously pressed for a predetermined short period of time.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character in which the light intensity of the characters being displayed is modulated when information is received at the computer terminal but not yet displayed on the terminal.

Another object of the invention is to generate a cursor at the next character position on the display device indicating that the control code or displayable character code is to be transmitted next and the transmission information level of the displayable character or control code. An object of the present invention is to provide a computer terminal having the above characteristics.

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character comprising keyboard keys which can change the transmission mode of the next pressed key so that ASCII control codes or the opposite case of letters/numbers can be transmitted from the keyboard. It is.

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character in which the transmission of any information is blocked when two or more information level shift keys are pressed simultaneously.

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character which is capable of displaying information locally and not transmitting that information to any interconnected equipment.

Another object of the invention is to provide a computer terminal of the above character which can store 1000 display characters.

Another object of the invention is to provide various communication speeds, various parity modes, half-duplex or full-duplex transmission modes, upper case or lower case alphanumeric transmission modes as normal case mode when transmitting from a keyboard. It is an object of the present invention to provide a computer terminal having the above characteristics that allows selection.

Another object of the present invention is to
It is an object of the present invention to provide a computer terminal having the above characteristics, which prevents the display of words consisting of zero or less characters.

Next, an example device will be explained according to the drawings.

Fig. 4A shows grasp type interconnection terminal 20 of the invention.
is shown and held in the operator's hand for ease of operation.

As best shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6,
The terminal 20 has a 20-character character display 22 located close to each other on one side thereof, a top-mounted keyboard 24, side-mounted keys 26, 27, and 28, and the opposites of these three keys. It includes a side-mounted scroll switch 30, an upper side-mounted line/off/local switch 32', and a rear-mounted group of switches 34'.

A group of switches 34' control the state of several selectable parameters as described in detail below.

Keys 26, 27, 28 and 30 are provided for easy operation by the operator.

The scroll switch 30 is provided so that it can be easily operated with the thumb of the operator's left hand, and the keys 26, 27, and 28 are provided so that they can be easily operated with the index finger, middle finger, and ring finger of the operator's left hand.

As is clear, the terminal 20 is arranged so that the keys 26, 27 and 28 and the scroll switch 30 can be operated with the right hand.
can also be configured as a mirror image.

As best shown in FIG. 4A, the keyboard 24 has two
0 keys, each key representing four different transmission information levels as detailed below.

-27 switch 34, as best shown in Figure 6C.
' is an upper/lower case switch which, when the terminal is in normal case mode, generates lower case or upper case alphabetic information for the character shown on the keyboard key 24.

Thus, through the use of four levels for each of the twenty keys of keyboard 24 and the upper/lower case switches of switch group 34', the present invention is capable of generating all 128 characters of the ASCII code.

The operator can quickly and easily select any transmitted information level by using side mounted keys 26, 27 and 28.

As discussed in more detail below, any displayable characters or controls located below the keys or at the first information level are transmitted by simply pressing a particular key without pressing any side-mounted keys.

As a result, if the operator wishes to input the number "3", he only has to press the key 31' whose lower position represents the number "3".

Key 31' can also transmit the letters rDj, rEJ and rFJ.

If you want to enter the first character of this group of characters on key 31', i.e. the character rDJ of the second information level, first press the side-mounted button 26 and then press key 3
Press 1'.

If it is desired to enter the second character in the third information level, the letter "E" in the above example, button 27 is first pressed and then key 31' is pressed.

Similarly, when transmitting the last letter (at the fourth information level) of a group of letters, in the above example the letter "F", side mounting button 28 is pressed and then key 31' is pressed.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the side-mounted shift key 26,
27 and 28 can be operated in a locking manner so that the selected information level will also affect the next keyboard key pressed regardless of when it is pressed.

This means you no longer need to hold down the shift key while pressing keyboard keys.

As best shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, keyboard 24 includes a key 36' that generates a control code when the next keyboard key is pressed in the downward transmission mode.

The downward transmission mode of key 36' is therefore controlled by the control (c
"CTRL" is an abbreviated form of ontro1)
It is indicated by.

As best shown in FIG. 4B, several other keys on keyboard 24 provide various "A-SC" keys when pressed.
II” control code is generated.

All these control codes must be on the second, third or fourth transmission information level of the terminal, so that the side mounted buttons 26, 27 or 28 indicate that a valid control code is on terminal 2.
Note that key 36' must be pressed first before being transmitted by 0.

Therefore, the "NULL ASCII" control code is sent to terminal 2.
If it is desired to transmit by 0, control key 3
6' is pressed first, then side-mounted key 27 (third
represents the information level of

) is pressed, and while this key 27 is pressed, key 3 is pressed.
8' is pressed.

There are also several other non-alphanumeric codes on control key 36'.
It should also be noted that this can be generated by the present invention without first pressing .

Thus, the "line advance" code is generated by pressing key 39, and the "SPACE" code and the "C-A
RRIAGE RETURN” code is key 4.
Generated by pressing 1 and 43.

Keys 39, 41 and 43 are also initially
Pressing 7 or 28 generates other non-alphanumeric characters for transmission.

As best seen in Figure 4C, the lower case keyboard of the present invention has almost the same alphanumeric characters as occur in the upper case keyboard, except that the alphabetic characters are in the lower case. Generates an expression character.

However, the large cursor and vertical slash generated by pressing key 45 in conjunction with side keys 26, 27 and 28 for the lower case keyboard are the same as the cursor and vertical slash generated by upper case key 45, respectively. and backslash.

These differences, as well as the differences in the grave sign and @ character produced by pressing key 38' and side key 27 at the same time, cause the "ASC-II" code in the lower case to change to the "ASCII" code in the upper case. ” for the reason that it uses somewhat different punctuation than the code.

The control code shown in FIG. 4B is a control code generated by an "ASCII" code.

These codes, as well as the lower case keyboard information, can all be generated by the keyboard shown in FIG. 4A if the appropriate keys and switches are pressed.

As is typical of today's teletypes, the handheld computer terminal of the present invention transmits its information to interconnected devices in both full-duplex and half-duplex modes.

These modes are as known in the art:
Indicates the type of transmission and display produced by this handheld terminal.

More specifically, if a full-duplex terminal is used, all the information generated by pressing the various keys of the present invention is transferred to cable 29 and the specific auxiliary equipment shown in Figures 5A, 5B or 5C. automatically transmitted to the interconnect device via the

When this information is received by the interconnect device, an echo of this information is sent back from the interconnect device to the computer terminal.

This returned information is displayed on display 22 to allow the operator to verify that the correct information has been transmitted to the interconnect device.

This echo return information transmitted to the interconnect device is referred to as an "echoplex."

Therefore, in full duplex mode, only the received information will be displayed on display 22, unless it is desired to display previously stored information within the handheld terminal, as described in more detail below. be done.

Additionally, certain current teletypes use a half-duplex mode of transmission.

In this particular type of transmission, all information generated by the keyboard is simultaneously transmitted to the interconnect device as it is displayed on display 22.

Therefore, this mode of transmission does not perform error checking on the information transmitted to the interconnection device, but merely displays this information as it is generated by the handheld terminal.

Although this transmission method is not widely used in today's teletypes, the present invention includes this transmission method so that it is applicable to all of today's teletypes.

As best shown in FIG. 6C, one of an array of eight switches 34' is used to select between full-duplex or half-duplex transmission modes.

The hand-held computer terminal further includes a switch 34' to fully adapt the invention to today's teletypes.
It also includes various parameters that can be selected by an array of.

Thus, two of the array of eight switches 34' allow the operator to select one of four different communication speeds.

More specifically, the operator may receive information at a rate of 10, 15, . . . per second.
You can choose whether to transmit from or be received by a handheld terminal at a rate of 30 or 120 characters.

Standard "board" speeds are commonly used in data communications today.

At a rate of 10 characters per second, the transmission format for information creates a 12-bit code.

1 start bit, 8 information bits (including parity) and 2
It should be noted that this is a stop bit.

For speeds of 15, 30 or 120 characters per second, the format is a 10-bit code with one start bit, eight information bits (including parity) and one stop bit.

Also, two other switches in the array of eight switches 34' allow the operator to select one of four parity transmission modes.

Therefore, even, odd, mark or space parity may be selected.

These parity modes are well known in data transmission technology and are commonly used for error detection.

Therefore, if we want the parity added to the 12-bit code that determines the characters to be transmitted to always be 1, then
Mark parity will be selected.

Furthermore, even parity and odd parity are selected such that the total number of binary digits is always even or odd, respectively.

Also, by means of one switch in the array of switches 34', the operator can determine how to display information on the display 22 such that at any particular time it does not indicate a 10-letter word or a readout within or outside one line. It becomes possible to select.

In this mode of operation, referred to as the "adjust line spacing" mode, handheld terminal 20 causes all information generated by display 22 to be presented from the leftmost character display of both display lines.

Furthermore, if the word displayed on one line is less than 10 characters and the second word is displayed on the same line and is received sequentially, the number of characters in this second word destroys this word. If the second word is displayed partially on the second display line, the "adjust line spacing" display mode will prevent this second word from being displayed on the previous display line and cause this word to appear on the later display line. Place the first letter of this word on the left-most letter of the subsequent display line as shown.

It will be appreciated that in this display mode, the operator will be able to more easily view the information being received by the handheld terminal.

The operation of this "adjust line spacing" display mode, along with the other selectable parameters mentioned above, will be described in more detail later in this specification.

In addition to generating all "AscII" characters and "breaks" together in a manner that makes the present invention functionally equivalent to today's tetatypes, the present invention also makes it easier with less opportunity for error to occur. It includes various other features that enable the interconnect device manufactured in the United States to receive and transmit information.

Accordingly, the present invention includes a "lockout" feature that prevents the transmission of incorrect codes when more than one keyboard key is pressed simultaneously.

Furthermore, the present invention includes a "repeat" capability that automatically and repeatedly generates any character selected and pressed for approximately one second.

After this one second time period, the particular character selected is automatically transmitted at the press of a key.

This performance greatly facilitates repeated transmission of characters.

Furthermore, the terminal 20 incorporates a scroll switch 30 that allows the operator to display on the display 22 any information stored in the memory contained in the terminal 20.

By maintaining scroll switch 30 in the "normal" position, information entering keyboard 24 or information received by terminal 20 will be displayed on the first or lower line 23 of display 22 and When all ten characters of one line are filled, the display automatically moves the contents of the first line to the second line 25, the lower line of the display 22.

When the lower line of display 22 is filled, the information represented on this line is transferred to the upper line of display 22 and new information is displayed on line 23.

When it is desired to retrieve any information stored in the internal memory of the terminal 20 that is not visibly visible on the display 22, the scroll switch 30 is moved to the "down" position and the information stored in the memory is To automatically retrieve stored information line by line.

Once the desired line is displayed from the memory storage location, the cell roll switch 30 is set to "Normal" so that the operator has sufficient time to visually read and understand the displayed information. be placed in position.

Therefore, in this aspect of the invention, placing the scroll switch 30 in the "normal" position will not automatically cause incoming information to be displayed if the switch was previously in the "down" or "up" positions. .

Thus, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the operator moves the squall switch 30 backwards with his or her thumb, this feature of the invention causes the squall switch 30 to be moved backwardly by the operator to remove the You will be able to see information visually.

This operation is thus functionally equivalent to rewinding the teletype paper containing information previously received or generated on the teletype.

In this aspect of the invention, the scroll switch 30 may be a swinging switch that is caused to swing in the direction of the operator each time, so that one printed line in the internal memory is immediately above the line 23. It is displayed on line 25 along with the temporally new information line.

Therefore, for example, if the operator is looking at the two newest information lines (fourth and fifth information lines), the newest or fifth information line will be stored in the lower line of display 23. while the fourth line previously received and transmitted by the terminal is displayed on the upper line 25 of the display 22.

If the operator desires to view line number 3 stored in memory, the operator swings the scroll switch 30 towards him.

At this time, memory line 3 occurs in the upper display line 25, while memory line 4 occurs in the lower display line 23.

The operator can continue to rock the scroll switch 30, each time the operator can view a previously stored memory line in the terminal's memory.

However, only a scroll switch return operation can be performed until the first information line (primarily memory line 1) is obtained in the upper line 25.

This improved feature of the handheld terminal will require the operator to view an information line that does not exist if the user attempts to perform a scroll switch return operation to view the next fastest line. An audible "bell" signal is generated to indicate that the

The display remains on memory lines 1 and 2 until the operator moves the swing arm of the scroll switch away from the operator to the "up" position.

At this time, the memory line is advanced one line per press of the scroll switch until the newest line, memory line 5, is displayed within the lower display line 23.

When the operator attempts to operate the scroll switch to view line 6, which does not exist, the audible "bell" is generated again. The operator is prompted that the scroll switch is being operated incorrectly.

Therefore, it is clear that the operator can view all the memory lines stored in the internal memory of the terminal 20 by operating the scroll switch.

Also, when the scroll switch is in the "normal" position, a display pointing to the two memory lines most recently selected by the scroll switch remains.

If the operator is viewing previously stored information and new information is being received by the handheld terminal 20, then
The fact that this new information is being received is indicated to the operator by modulation of the light intensity of the information shown on display 22.

If the operator wishes to view this incoming information without operating the scroll switch forward through all lines between the line currently viewed and the most recent information line being received,
The operator simply presses any of the side keys 26, 27 or 28 or any of the front keys which automatically advances the information shown on the display 22 to the "current" state.

Moreover, the scroll switch 30 has a switch of approximately 1
It incorporates an "auto-repeat" feature that causes the scroll switch to operate backwards or forwards in memory whenever it is held in backwards or forwards mode for seconds.

After this one second time period, operation of the scroll switch automatically causes the information shown on display 22 to move at a rate of approximately four lines per second.

This allows the operator to actually read the information stored in the memory at a speed that makes the object easily understood without long time intervals between advancing or receding memory lines.

The audible bell signal described above is generated when a "bell" code is received by terminal 20 from an interconnect device.

Also, an audible bell signal is automatically generated when an inappropriate keyboard operation is attempted by the operator.

Accordingly, this audible bell signal feature of the present invention provides a highly effective operator warning system for notifying the operator of incoming ring information as well as improper operation of the terminal.

' Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of a cosa to indicate the position at which the next character will be shown on the display 22.'

Since all incoming characters are first shown on line 23 below display 22 with all the information transmitted in half-overlap mode, this cosa is of lO character positions on line 23 below display 22. found only in one.

As shown in FIG. 10D, the shape of the cosa displayed at the character position of the next character to be displayed on the lower line 23 is various.

These various shapes tell the operator whether the lower case character or the upper case character should be displayed using the side keys 26, 27, or 2.
8 is pressed, indicates whether a control character is to be generated and whether information can be sent to the interconnected device at that time.

Thus, for example, if cosa 51 of FIG. be informed of what should have been done.

Similarly, if Cosa 53 appears in the third character window of the lower display line 23, the operator is informed that the second transmitted information level of the character in the upper case is to be sent and displayed by the terminal on hand. Ru.

This second transmission information level indicates that the side key 26 is pressed and therefore the left hand character on the keyboard is to be transmitted.

Similarly, if Cosa 45 is displayed in the third character window, it informs the operator that the third transmission information level character in the above case is to be transmitted by the handheld terminal.

Cosa 57 indicates to the operator that the character in the upper case of the fourth transmission information level is to be transmitted, and that the upper right hand character from keyboard 24 is to be transmitted, and side key 28 is pressed by the operator. Show that.

Furthermore, if a character in the lower case is to be generated and transmitted, the operator must
, 58, 60', 62'.

These cosas are here also the lower case characters are generated and transmitted and should be displayed by the terminals at hand, as well as the transmitted information level and therefore from the keyboard 24 at the bottom, top left, top center, or top right. It also indicates that the character is to be transmitted by a hand held terminal.

Similarly, Xhosa 6 4', 6 6', 6 8', 7
0' indicates to the operator that the control character is to be transmitted by the handheld terminal and that the first, second, third or fourth transmitted information level character is to be transmitted.

Courser 72' indicates to the operator that he cannot send information to the interconnected device.

This signal indicates to the operator that there is a malfunction between the handheld terminal and the interconnected device, or a malfunction of the interconnected device itself.

Furthermore, these cosas always modulate the intensity of the light to distinguish them from the characters currently being displayed by the display device 22.

In this way, confusion between the Xhosa and the displayed character is avoided.

It is thus clear that the cosa functionality of the present invention provides a new and effective device for informing the operator of the next character to be transmitted by him to interconnected equipment.

Operator can use side key switch 26, 27 or 28
It is also necessary to pay attention to the conditions of the above and decide whether to select the upper or lower case or the control information).

All this information is easily and instantly provided to the operator by the Cosa.

Furthermore, this cosa indicates exactly where on the display device 22 the next displayable character is to be shown.

Control characters entering the hand-held terminal are neither shown on the display 22 nor stored in internal memory, but if these control characters are to be transmitted by this terminal, the operator will know when he is trying to generate the control characters. This can be realized through the display device 22 that is present.

As shown in Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C, improvements of the present invention can communicate with external devices through several different means.

The cable 29 used for various internal connections of the present invention is D
Only four lines are required: ATAIN, DATAOUT, power supply, and ground.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the terminal of the present invention can use its own power source, thereby eliminating one of the four wires in cable 29.

As shown in FIG. 5A, this improvement of the invention may be directly coupled to a computer such that a bit string interface with RS-232C signal levels receives information from and sends information to the computer terminals.

If the terminal of the present invention does not include a power supply, a 5V, 3A DC power supply is required to properly drive the terminal.

The RS-232C/current loop connection modules are interconnected by cables 29 as shown in FIG. 5B.

In this configuration, the handheld terminal utilizes this current loop connection module as a power source and for transmitting information to and from interconnected computers via cable connections 76.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the present invention utilizes an acoustic coupler 78 for proper communication with the computer.

In this configuration, a computer with remote access through a telephone modem type 103A communicates with terminal 20 through a switch circuit having a standard voice class telephone line.

When the coupler 78 is used, a 117V AC power source is required.

Short-term battery operation is also possible with this coupler 78.

As can be seen, this mode of communication using interacting computers is highly portable and allows the operator of terminal 20 to use the invention in the presence of voice reading.

It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be associated not only with its own power source, but also with a signal transmitting and receiving device.

A portable self-contained unit (No. 5B,
5C), a direct connection between the terminal and an external device is unnecessary, and the hand-held terminal of the present invention is completely portable and fully functional without being limited by wire length. do.

Terminal operation of improved example The basic operation of an improved example of the interaction terminal 20 is shown in FIG.

A detailed block diagram illustrating the operation of the entire circuit of this terminal, including the various features described at the beginning of this specification, is shown in Section 7.
Shown in Figures 8, 9, and 10.

Each of these drawings shows various parts of the terminal 20, with FIG. 7 showing the transmitter section, FIG. 8 the display section, FIG. 9 the receiver section, and FIG. Each register used for writing is shown.

As shown in FIG. 7, side shift keys 26, 27, 2
A keyboard switch 40 having 8's communicates therethrough to a keyboard encoder and control logic block 42.

Keyboard encoder and control logic block 42 includes shift key encoder 80', keyboard encoder 82
', an OR gate 84 and a ROM 86'.

The shift key encoder 80' is connected to the keyboard 24 (4th A).
Figure 3) Utilizes an exclusive OR device to determine the transmission information level selected for the key pressed above.

Keyboard encoder 82' sequentially examines each key switch on keyboard 24 and this information is transferred to OR gate 84 along with shift encoder information.

The output of OR gate 84 is passed to a blink generator 88' (FIG. 8) to reset the blink generator when information is being transmitted by terminal 20.

The reason for this reset is that when information is being transmitted by terminal 20, the display is on the current or NOW line, and thus the current information is being displayed by the terminal.

As mentioned above, this improvement of the invention has a modulation characteristic that indicates to an operator looking at past memory lines when information is being received.

A blink generator is the device used in the present invention to produce this modulation of light.

Keyboard encoder 82' generates 5-bit parallel data words in ROMB 6'.

ROMB6' translates this 5-bit data word and generates an ASCII data word from this information.

This A-SCII information is transferred to the UART transmitter 44 where it is transferred to an external device via the EIA level buffer 90'.

As is well known, EIA is a standard electronic association level used to receive and transfer serial data.

As shown in FIG. 7, keyboard encoder 82' transfers data to control flip-flop 92, where this information is used to determine whether a break signal or control character should be generated. It is used to check the alphanumeric case.

Control flip-flop 92, on the other hand, communicates with bell timer 94' to generate an audible alarm 96' to generate a warning when the operator makes an incorrect keystroke.

Additionally, control flip-flop 92 communicates with ROM 86' regarding the alphanumeric case and whether control information is to be generated by the ROM.

This particular alphanumeric case is determined by switch array 34' (FIG. 6C) and this information is entered into control flip-flop 92.

Clock information for the generation of information transmitted by UART 44 comes from keyboard encoder 82' via signal line 96'.

This strobing of UART 44 ensures that the transmission of information occurs in proper synchronization with the rest of terminal 20.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7, the transmitting part of the present invention is an AND
Includes a repeat timer 98' connected to gate 100' to cause UART transmitter 44 to automatically and repeatedly send ASCII data coming from ROM 86' when a key on keyboard 24 is pressed for approximately one second. .

Furthermore, a clear signal for transmission (CLEAR TO
SEND) does not enter terminal 20 from an interconnected device, AND gate 102' outputs bell timer 94'.
to issue alarm 96'.

Furthermore, this CLEAR TO SEND signal is transferred to the character generation portion of the display portion of the present invention (see FIG. 8).

The receiving portion of the invention is shown in FIG.

In order to perform all the functions required of the terminal, the terminal of the present invention must be able to receive information transmitted from a particular data transmitting portion and display this information on a readable character display.

The receiving function of the terminal of the present invention is specified by a specific data receiving device 49 (
Figure 2).

As previously mentioned, data receiving device 49 may take a variety of forms, such as a frequency shift keyed radio receiver, a modem output, or a computer communication output channel.

Serial data received by the terminal of the present invention on line 48 is sent to an interface amplifier 104' which converts this signal to the appropriate logic level.

This information is then transferred to full/half local gate 106', where this serial data is passed to U via signal line 108.
The signal is transferred to the ART receiver 44.

The UART receiver 44 includes a serial receive register that transfers parallel ASCII data characters to a receive character decoding module 110 when full, and an interface buffer 112 that connects to a shift register memory 114.
and has.

The information in the receive character decoding module 110 is processed by the justify generator 1.
Moved to 16th.

When this Justify generator is in the ON state (this is due to one of the switches in the eight switch array 34' (FIG. 6C) being in the ON state), the space is on one particular line. The display of information causes buffer 118 to display a single word of 10 characters or less on one or more display lines at a particular time.

Shift register memory 114, into which parallel ASCII data from UART receiver 144 is transferred, is part of character memory 52 (FIG. 2).

In this embodiment, the character memory 52 is l O 0 0
It consists of seven 1000-bit circular shift registers incremented to provide a storage capacity of one SCII character.

The proper positioning of parallel ASCII data in shift register memory 114 is such that the write line register is equal to the count of line counter (WLR=LC) 128 and the write character register is equal to the count of character counter (
WCR=CC) equal to 126, data ID (rea
dy) signal 124 through the receive control logic module 120 which generates a LOAD character signal 122 as it enters from the UART receiver 44.

At this time, the information in buffer 112 is properly transferred to shift register memory 114.

The generation of a write line register equal to line counter signal 126 and a write character register equal to character counter 128 are shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, character address controller 50 receives clock pulses from crystal clock generator 130.

In this embodiment of the invention, the crystal clock generator preferably operates at 1.2 MHz.

These clock pulses are sent to character and line counters 132.

Information generated by the character counter and line counter is transferred to a write line comparator 134 and a read line comparator 136.

Additionally, the write line comparator 134 receives signals from a write line register and a write character register 138.

The write line register and write character register 138 are the receive control logic module 1 of the receive portion of the terminal (FIG. 9).
20 is actuated by the appropriate signal being generated.

Thus, write line comparator 134 produces a write line register equal to line counter 126 and a write character register equal to character counter signal 128 when the shift register memory is in a suitable position to receive ASCII data.

More specifically, write line registers and write character registers 138 maintain the specific character and line positions available for entry into character memory 52, and clock generator 130 drives character and line counters 132. Write line comparator 134 provides a data transfer signal when a count is reached indicating that the desired location in character memory 152 is available.

10 characters are received and stored in character memory 52.
When written to, the write character register 138 increments the write line portion of this register.

Character memory 5 for transmission to display system 56
Retrieval of the information stored in 2 is shown in FIGS. 8 and 10.

As shown in FIG.
It will be used to carry out appropriate reinforcements.

Once equality is established in the read line comparator 136, this equality indicates that the desired line position can now be used to enter the display portion of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 8, ROM 142 is used to generate an ASCII character font to display the desired specific characters.

Font generator 142 receives a 7-bit binary signal from character memory 52 representing the particular character desired.

This ROM 142 generates a 5 bit signal representing the actual number of diodes that must be illuminated to visually display the desired character on display 22.

As mentioned above, each character consists of a 35-point light emitting diode matrix.

Each of the 35 points is composed of 5 rows of 7 light emitting diodes.

Font generator 142 generates a 5-bit signal containing the number and location of diodes to illuminate within that particular column to produce the desired character representation.

When read line comparator 136 obtains equality, LC
A control signal RLR equal to is asserted 144 and enters column counter 146.

Furthermore, the character counter and line counter 132 pass the information to the character register and select decoder 148.
Move to.

If the equality is equalized in this character register and the select decoder, the display column signal is 10 to be displayed.
generated for one of the characters.

Information from character generator 142 is thus transferred to a group of display column drivers 150 where information regarding the illumination of a particular column is stored and amplified to generate ten characters.

In addition, column counter 146 communicates with column decoder 152, which sequentially energizes one of the fourteen columns corresponding to the fourteen columns within two lines of the display of display 22.

Column duder 152 connects to column driver 154, which amplifies the signal on 14 lines from the column decoder.

These outputs from the column drivers are fed into the display device 22 so that when the display column driver 150 directs the activation of a particular diode in a particular column, the columns corresponding to the particular column energized are sequentially energized. Make it.

It can be seen that the I4 diode array thus providing the two-line display is sequentially viewed by column driver 154 according to information from display column driver 150.

Thus, the generation of the particular characters selected for the two-line display occurs sequentially.

Since the column driver generates 14 columns of this display (82.5 times per second), the display is stable without flickering.

Two other counts from column counter 146 are utilized by character generator 142 to enter the desired character information into the display column driver to indicate two different character lines for a two line display.

Thus, after the first seven columns making up a line display have been shown, column counter 146 instructs character generator 142 to transfer the next ten characters of the next line of memory to display column driver 150.

This is repeated 82.5 times/second. It should be noted here that spaces can be inserted into the display line through the use of the SPAGE command which, when decoded, de-energizes all 35 LEDs at one character position.

Furthermore, the output of the column counter is 7. 5 Hz clock.

This clock signal is used to send the characters generated on the keyboard 24 at 7.5 characters/second if the selected key is pressed for at least about one second.

Furthermore, this 7. Modulate the cosa generated by the 5 Hz clock terminal.

Note that character generator 142 includes a cosa select portion that is placed into the display column driver at the proper character location.

The amplitude of this cosa is modulated to indicate to the operator that the cosa is not one of the ASCII characters.

7. 5 Hz clock 156 is the control logic module 1.
5159, this module is used to generate read line information to read line register 140 (FIG. 10).

This terminal of the present invention also includes scroll control circuitry.

Specifically, this terminal includes a three position finger operated scroll switch 30 having a DOWN position 30A', an OFF position 30B' and an UP position 30C'.

These locations are internally connected to scroll logic module 160.

Scroll positions 30A', 30B', 30C' control read line register 140, which in conjunction with read line comparator 136 determines which word is being read for character memory 52.

Scroll switch 30 is OFF, that is, normal NOR
When in MAL location 30B', control logic module 158 controls the display of the last selected line of memory and the previously stored line of memory.

When the scroll switch 30 is in the DOWN position 30A', the control logic module 158 subtracts one line of memory.

Similarly, when switch 30 is in the UP position 30C', control logic module 158 is incremented by one line.

The present invention is 7. Scroll repeat which receives an output from the 5 Hz clock 156 and causes the scroll logic module to repeatedly send a signal to the control logic module 159 to increase or decrease the displayed memory line at approximately 3.5 lines/sec. Includes a timer 162.

In this manner, the operator can view the memory of the terminal at a speed convenient for reading.

Additionally, the blink generator 88' is connected to the control logic module 1.
58 for modulating the amplitude of the light of the displayed information when the switch 30 receives incoming information at its terminal while acting on the display to display the previously stored memory line. It gets a lot of attention.

In this manner, the terminal operator becomes aware that incoming information is being received that is not currently displayed on display 22.

As shown in Figures 4A, 4B and 4C, the keyboard of the present invention is capable of generating all 128 AS-CII characters, including the CONTROL character and break.

Key switch 3 8', 6 1', 6 3', 6
5', 6 7', 6 9', 7 1', 7 3
', 75' utilizes the same number and character configurations used in today's pushbutton telephones.

The only difference between these keys and the indicators shown on the keys of today's pushbutton telephones is the "1" key or key 38', which includes single and double apostrophes and the @ symbol, which is the key of today's pushbutton telephones. Above the "0" which has no other information thereon, the present invention includes Z, Q and $ signs.

The reason for using this configuration for these ten keys is that most operators of this handheld terminal are familiar with push button telephones.

Furthermore, the present invention provides "?", "&", "=", ":", "
;",","and".

” key 7 to generate typewriter marks containing
Use 7' and 79'.

Thus 10 keys...3 8', 6 1',
3 1', 63', 65', 67', 69',
71', 73', 75', 7 7', 7 9'・
All alphanumeric fonts with... are shown.

Furthermore, the present invention uses keys 81', 83, 4 to enable the generation of other marks as well as the marks used in ordinary typewriters and symbols representing various operations.
Use 5,85'.

Thus, as shown in key 85', the ``( )'' sign can be used for ordinary typed English, and the ``( )'' sign for operations is
)” can be used to indicate grouping and multiplication of numbers.

Similarly, "*" (key 83) can be used to indicate multiplication.

The horizontal line indicated by key 45 can be used as a dash in the generation of English information and is used to indicate subtraction.

Similarly, the thin line in key 81' can be used in plain English to indicate division or to indicate one of two possibilities.

The bracket shown in key 45 can also be used in English to indicate factor components and multiplication in operations.

These keys thus allow the operator to create various English symbols as well as various operational symbols.

For operations, these symbols are placed on the left edge of the keyboard 24 so that they do not interfere with the use of the numerical keys.

This configuration of operators is somewhat different from today's calculators.

Additionally, the invention includes keys 36', 39, 41, 43, which enable the generation of various control information and the transition of other keys from the lower case mode to the upper case mode or vice versa. do.

Specifically, the key 36' is the side key 26, 27 or 28.
If a key is pressed without pressing any of the keys, the next key pressed will generate a CONTROL code.

Thus, the key 36 value up and right keys are changed for the generation of control characters.

In the preferred embodiment, these control characters are ASCII
It is a control character.

Furthermore, pressing key 36' while pressing side key 27 changes the case of alphanumeric information shown on the keyboard to the opposite case.

Thus, for example, if the invention is in the above case mode (
(This is determined by a switch on the back of the hand-held terminal as part of the switch array 34') By pressing the CASE key 36', the next key pressed on the keyboard will be in the alphanumeric shape of the case below.

After this press of another key, the CASE reversal is omitted and the unit returns to the original alphanumeric case.

If it is desired to maintain the generated information in the opposite case, the CASE LOCK position of key 36' should first be changed to side key 26.
and then key 36'.

If you want to release the lock, use the side key 28 with the key 36'
You can press it together.

Keys 39, 41 and 43 generate non-alpha numerical characters and break signals.

Thus, when key 39 is pressed without pressing the side key, a line advance character code is generated.

Similarly, if key 41 is pressed without pressing the side key, S
PACE ASCII code is generated and CARR
-IAG RETURN signal is generated when key 43 is pressed.

These signals are used together to move the type head of an ordinary typewriter and hence the TYPE HEA
It is called the D control signal.

Other controls generated by keys 41, 39, 43 are interpreted by various interconnect devices to create different functions.

Thus one particular interconnection device is the NUL of key 41.
Erases the character previously sent from the handheld terminal to this interconnect device when the position is generated.

Occurrence of break mode disconnects this terminal from the interconnect device.

Thus, a particular code is not actually generated, but a different code type other than another code is generated because the terminal on hand simply goes to 0 mode.

This condition continues as long as the break signal is pressed via key 41.

Other control codes generated by keys 39, 41, 43 have specific control functions for specific interconnect devices.

The occurrence of alphanumeric information in the case below is the 4th C.
As shown in the figure.

As shown in Figure 4C, the information generated by pressing these keys is essentially to change the upper case character to the lower case character in the lower case mode.

However, as mentioned above, some of the symbols generated are different in the lower case mode.

Thus, for key 45, the cursor in the upper case mode is changed to a place, and the backslash in the upper case mode is changed to a slash line of decay.

Similarly, in the upper case mode, key 38' generates an "@" in the third information transmission mode, and in the lower case alphanumeric mode of transmission, the third level of transmission produces an accented grape.

Also, in either case mode, the fourth information transmission level for key 81' is "~" or an approximate code (which is not an upper case A-SCII character).

This character is included to indicate an approximation symbol.

Thus, the keyboard used in the present invention supports all AS
CII characters (alphanumeric and control)
In the ability to generate a control character by pressing one key, in the ability to change from bottom to top or vice versa by pressing one key on the keyboard It has a new key configuration.

Generation of control signals can also occur for some keys by simply pressing these keys.

These control codes are also common codes, particularly the type head movement codes commonly used in today's teletypes.

Further, the keyboard of the present invention allows for the generation of operations such that the generation of algebraic or arithmetic expressions is easily obtained in relation to the numbers and letters represented on the keys of the keyboard.

The present invention thus provides a handheld terminal with a number of features that facilitate operation.

The present invention not only transmits information to interconnect devices, but also receives information from these devices and stores in its memory over 1,000
Information up to the character can be memorized.

The selectable parameters of the present invention make it fully compatible with any interconnect device capable of connecting with standard teletypes.

Additionally, the present invention includes modulation and scrolling features that allow the operator to view past memory lines while indicating to the operator that current information is entering the handheld terminal.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interactive portable computer terminal device of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the operation of the terminal device of the present invention, and FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are diagrams of the device shown in FIG. Detailed schematic block diagram; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing how to combine the devices in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C to form a single device; FIG. 4A is a book showing upper alphanumeric information; FIG. 4B is a front view of a keyboard used by the device of FIG. 4A showing control codes at various key positions; FIG. 4C is a perspective view of an improvement of the device of the invention; FIG. 4D is an illustration of the various slides that can be generated by the device of the invention; FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the device of the invention in a direct connection configuration; FIG. 5B is a diagram of the current 4A is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 4A in a loop configuration, FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 4A connected to an acoustic coupler, FIG. 6A is a front view of the device of FIG. 4A, and FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the device of FIG. Right side view of the device in Figure 4A,
FIG. 6C is a back view of the device in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 6D is a back view of the device in FIG. 4A.
7 is a detailed block diagram of the transmitter section of the device shown in FIG. 4A, FIG. 8 is a detailed block diagram of the display section of the device shown in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 9 is a detailed block diagram of the transmitter section of the device shown in FIG. 4A. FIG. 10 is a detailed block diagram of the register portion of the device of FIG. 4A. 20...Terminal device, 22...Display device, 26, 27. 28...Key, 36, 37
, 38... Indicator light, 24... Keyboard.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. An information signal generator comprising: a) an information entry keyboard operable by one hand of a user and having a plurality of keys each representing transmission of n different information levels; and n is an integer greater than 1; b) operable by the user's other hand and with the cyst level control key to select the desired information level for the generation of n information levels; and that the minimum number of system level control keys is determined by the following two equations that depend on the value of n: A) (log2n) for n equal to an integer power of 2; B) :lll) an integer For n not equal to the power [
1+(truncated value of log2n)] C) In response to simultaneous operation of the shift level control key and the keyboard, selecting an information level by operating a selected key of the keyboard and operating the cyst level control key. and d) a housing having dimensions suitable for the palm of the user's other hand, the housing accommodating the keyboard as a device. and at least one side surface having dimensions for mounting the shift level control key so that the shift level control key can be operated with a finger of the other hand when the housing is held; thereby selecting a desired shift level control key with the fingers of said other hand of the user and selecting a desired key of said information entry keyboard with said one hand. 2. In an information signal generating device operable at at least four information levels, a) a shift device operable to select any one of the information levels, the shift device comprising a number of the information levels; one less shift level control key than the number of shift level control keys, and one of said information levels
(b) A keyboard operable to select desired information, the keyboard including 12 keys arranged in a 4 x 3 matrix; , when the first information level is selected, each number from 0 to 9 is individually selectable by operation of a corresponding individual key of said 12 keys, and the letters from A to Z are mutually selectable; are divided into exclusive first, second, and third groups, and each of these groups has fewer than 13 characters, and when the second information level is selected, the each character of the first group of characters is individually selectable by a corresponding individual key of said keyboard, and when a third information level is selected each character of said second group of characters is individually selectable by a corresponding individual key of said keyboard; are individually selectable by operation of the four keys, and when the fourth information level is selected, the fourth information level is selected. each character of the three groups of characters is individually selectable by operation of a corresponding individual key of said keyboard; and c) responsive to simultaneous operation of said shift device and said keyboard, said selected key of said keyboard is ．． and a signal generation circuit for generating a signal corresponding to the information represented by the operation of the shift device and the selection of the information level by the operation of the shift device. 3. In an information signal generating device for generating a signal corresponding to information represented by one of at least four information levels, the apparatus is operable and maintainable to select any one of said at least four information levels. a shifting device, the shifting device having a number of shift level control keys one less than the number of said information levels, and wherein one of said information levels is selected when said shift level control keys are not actuated; (b) an information entry keyboard operable to select desired information, the keyboard including 12 keys arranged in a 4 x 3 matrix;
each number from 0 to 9 is individually selectable by operation of a corresponding individual key of said 12 keys, and when the information level of A is selected and maintained during operation of said keys; The characters up to Z are divided into mutually exclusive first, second, and third groups, each of these groups having fewer than 13 characters, and the second information level is each character of said first group of characters when selected and held during operation is individually selectable by operation of a corresponding individual key of said keyboard, and a third information level is selected during operation of said key; and when held, said second
each letter of the group of letters is individually selectable by actuation of a corresponding individual key of said keyboard, and a fourth information level of said third group is selected and held during actuation of said key. each character of the characters is individually selectable by actuation of a corresponding individual key of said keyboard; c) a selected and held actuation of said shift device and a corresponding actuation of a key of said information entry keyboard; and d) a signal generating circuit for generating a signal corresponding to the information represented by the operation of the selected key of the keyboard while the information level is selected by the operation of the shift device; d) the keyboard; a mode selection device operable to select at least one modification of at least a portion of information represented by the keyboard when operated during selection of at least one information level, the signal generating circuit further comprising: in response to operation of a mode selection device, changing said signal corresponding to information represented by operation of a selected key of said keyboard while an information level is selected by operation of said shift device; Generator.