US2812048A - Rotating drum typewriting machine - Google Patents
Rotating drum typewriting machine Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US2812048A US2812048A US402015A US40201554A US2812048A US 2812048 A US2812048 A US 2812048A US 402015 A US402015 A US 402015A US 40201554 A US40201554 A US 40201554A US 2812048 A US2812048 A US 2812048A
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- links
- link
- fingers
- type bar
- bar
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
- B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
- B41J7/00—Type-selecting or type-actuating mechanisms
- B41J7/02—Type-lever actuating mechanisms
Definitions
- Objects of this invention are to provide a typewriting machine which is simple and positive in operation, which uses a minimum of mechanical elements, which causes the impression to be made by the free flight movement of the type bars, which permits independent adjustment of the imppression of the respective type bars, which has a control for varying the impression of the type bars as a group, and which advances the art generally.
- the novel means for working the type bars includes a constantly running power-driven impeller unit serving all of the type bars alike; 2. series of mechanical actuators for the several type bars; and selector means which may be either key-operated or remotely controlled for subjecting the desired one of these actuators to the action of the common impeller unit whereby it moves the type bar against the platen for a printing impression.
- the general organization of the type bar operating mechanism or action can be understood from the nature of the preferred impeller unit shown and from its action in relation to the type bar actuators and their selectors considered generally.
- the power-driven impeller unit is in constant rotating motion during any period of operation of the machine and carries a series of cams, any one of which is capable of imparting a longitudinal thrust to a type bar actuating link when one end of the link is moved into the path of these cams.
- the impeller unit shown which is in the form of a rotating disc having an annular flange forming an open drum with a series of cams spaced around the inner surface of the flange, is located at the back of the machine and rotates about a tilted axis.
- a bank of type bar actuating units each controlled by a particular selector such as a key, is so mounted at a midportion of the frame as to engage respectively an arcuate series of links which project rearwardly into the space bounded by, the flanged disc of the impeller unit with the extending ends of the links normally clearing the cams.
- the keys are at the front ends of a bank of forwardly extending pivoted arms which are interconnected with the corresponding links.
- the corresponding type bar actuating link Upon depressing any one of the keys, the corresponding type bar actuating link is dropped into the path of the cams so that the first random cam which passes the point where the end of the link is located comes into engagement with the link end to exert a longitudinal forward thrust upon the link.
- impeller cam engages the actu ator link subjected to the impeller drum action, since all of the cams act alike.
- the speed of rotation of the impeller drum and the spacing of its cams are such that the cams pass a given point in rapid succession, and there is no appreciable time lag between the movement of the.
- Fig. 1 is a schematic isometric view of the operating elements for one of the type bars
- Fig. 1a is a fragmentary view of the drum cams
- Fig. 2 is a side elevation view in partial section of the operating elements in their normal positions
- Figs. 3 and 4 are views similar to Fig. 2 in sequential operating positions;
- Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic view of an electromagnetic unit
- Fig. 6 is a plan view of the electromagnetic actuators.
- Fig. 7 is a sectional view on line 7-7 of Fig. 6.
- the mechanical form is illustrated by a single type bar unit or action, a number of similar units being used in accordance with the number of type bars in the machine.
- This unit mechanism as to main parts, consists of a pivoted type bar 10 (Fig. 1) having a downwardly and rearwardly extending bell crank portion 11 7 beyond its pivot 12 in the arcuate frame 15 which serves to mount the bank of type bars; a longitudinal rearwardly extending type bar actuating link 20 pivotally connected as at 21 to the bell crank portion 11 and extending at its other end into proximity to the earns 35 on the impeller drum 30; a manually operated key 40 on a pivoted arm 41 extending to the front of the machine; and a cable 45 and associated parts through which downward motion of the key 40 is caused to lower the extremity of the actuating link 20 into the path of the earns 35 whereby the thrust of a random one of the cams upon the end of the actuator link 20 moves the latter forward and swings the pivoted type bar 10 up against the platenroll 50 (Fig. 2).
- the type bar is'pivotally mounted to rotate freely about a heavy wire 12,1"unning through andtightly fitting in a series of aligned holes'in the fins 16.
- the heads 14 of the several type bars 10 are bent laterally with respect to the bars in such different amounts that the heads of all of them strike the platen in the same vertical zone of action, past which the platen is moved in the usual way.
- the impeller drum 30 consists of a disc 31 mounted on a forwardly extending spindle 32 which is journalled in bearings (not shown)v carried in the frame, the axis of the spindle being inclined upwardly by a small amount at its forward end as shown.
- the spindle .32 is driven ina counter-clockwise direction (as seen in Fig. l) at a constant speed by an electric motor (not shown), and has a conventional pawl and ratchet (not shown) to prevent reverse rotation.
- Extending forwardly at the outer 1 rim of the disc 31 is an annular flange 36 on the inner surface of which are raised the series of spaced impelling cams 35.
- Each cam (Fig.
- a fixed arcuate comb 38 which serves as a spacer and guide for the rearward ends of the type bar actuating links 20.
- Each link 20 lies between adjoining teeth 39 of the comb with a free fit giving lateral support but permitting both an edgewise pivotal motion into the path of the cams 35 and also the endwise longitudinal motion involved in the operation of the type bar 10.
- the teeth '39 of this arcuate comb are in alignment with the fins 16 of the arcuate frame for the type bars 10.
- a rod 25 which at one end is connected to the end of the bell crank portion 11 of the type bar 10 extends rearwardly through the fixed frame plates 26 and another movably mounted abutment plate 27. At its rearmost end this rod is threaded to engage a circular nut 28 which is slotted to receive a screwdriver.
- the end of the nut 28 bears against a'helical compression spring 29 surrounding the rod 25 and lying between the nut end and the abutment plate 27 Turning the circular nut 28 gives adjustment of the force exerted by the spring 29 so as to vary the impression upon the platen roll 50 i by the individual type bar, whileforward or backward movement of the abutmentplate 27 provides a common adjustment of the force of allof the springs 29 in the several type bars 10.
- the key operated means for bringing the type bar actuating link 20 into the path of the drum earns is. next described.
- the key is attached near the forward end of a horizontal arm 41 pivotally mounted on a heavy wire 42 serving to mount all of the like key arms.
- a tension spring 43 connecting a downwardly directed leg at the forward end of the key arm 41 to a fixed portion of the main frame as at 44, holds the key normally in raised position.
- a cable 45 which transmits motion of the key 40 to the lever 51 acting on the actuating link 20, is attached at its forward end to a ratchet wheel 46 carried on a transverse shaft 47 serving also to mount like wheels for other like units.
- the ratchet wheel 46 By the selection of the particular tooth 49 of the ratchet wheel 46 engaged by a spring pawl 48 extending down from the key arm 41 adjustment can be made in the tension of the cable 45.
- the ratchet wheel 46 also serves as a bell crank in as much as it changes the vertical motion of the pawl 48 into a horizontal motion which draws the cable forward when the key 40 is struck.
- the cable extends through an enclosing housing to connect with a bent lever 51 which is pivoted at 52 on an extension 38a from the comb 38.
- This bent lever 51 has a lateral lug portion 55 which is bent over and down so that it overlies a finger 56 which projects outwardly from the side of the type bar actuating link 20, so that when the cable 45 is drawnforward by action of the ratchet wheel 46, upon depression of the key 40, the bent lever 51 isrotated about its pivot 52 to move the actuating link 20 down against the force exerted by the spring 22 and a ball detent spring 60 which normally hold the end of the link clear of the impelling cams 35.
- the length of the cam surface 37 is such that the link 20 andtype bars 10 are positively impelled through only a part of their travel, for instance through of swing of the type bar in one desirable form; and for the rest of their travel the arm and type bar are in free flight until the type bar 10 strikes the platen roll 50.
- FIG. 2 A comparison of Figs. 2, 3 and 4 shows the different positions of the partsin a cycle of action.
- the type bar 10 is in its idle position with the type head 14 on the rest and the cam follower end 57 of the actuating link 20 in raised position clear of the impelling cams 35 so that the ball spring detent 58 is below the beveled nose 59 of the link.
- Both the biasing springs 22 and 29 andthe spring detent 58 thus serve to hold the end of the link 20 clear of the cams 35.
- FIG. 3 shows the actuating link 20 moved into operative position, as a result of rocking of the bent lever 51 so that the cam follower 57 is in the cam path and its nose 59 engaged by the detent ball 58, which is the condition set up when the key 40 is struck to bring the cable 45 into operation.
- the effective cammed surface 37 of one of the cams 35 is shown first coming into engagement with the cam'follower portion 57 of the actuating link 20.
- the cam 35 has not yet thrust the link 20 forward, so the type bar 10 is still at rest under the influence of the spring 22.
- the motive means proper are fixedly mounted within the drum-shaped space bounded by the flange 36 of the impeller drum 30.
- this mechanism has an arcuate (semicircular) series of thin radial fingers 96 each of which is associated with a particular pair of type bar. actuating links 20.
- the links as before are in an arcuate bank and extend rearwardly into the slots between the teeth 39 provided by the comb member 38.
- the fingers 96 are in a generally vertical plane in front of the motive unit and at right angles to the longitudinal actuating links and those in thecenter of the arc extend downwardly, as shown in thelower part of Figs. 6 and 7.
- each finger In its normal position, each finger is withdrawn radially inwardly from its associated pair of links 20 and is in register with the space between them immediately in front of the corresponding comb tooth 39 so that if the finger is moved axially (radially outward) it would enter that space, clearing the links on either side.
- the manner of bringing a particular finger 96 into play to move one of its associated actuating links 20 into the cam path is to displace the finger sidewise until it is in register with the top edge of the link, and then to advance the finger axially so that the end thereof engages the link to move it into the position wherein the ball 58 and the spring 60 move the cam follower portion 57 into the cam path, all with the same result as described above where the link is so moved by the bent lever 51 operated by cable from the key 40.
- One way of so displacing a finger 96 is to mount it pivotally and to have a means adjacent the finger, movable laterally upon depression of the proper key, to deflect the free end of the finger.
- the mechanism Apart from the fingers 96, the mechanism consists of ('1') an electromagnetic controlled motive means for selectively deflecting or displacing the finger 96 which operates the particular type bar 10 to be struck against the platen roll 50, together with (2) a further electromagnetic controlled motive means for advancing the deflected finger axially and thereby move the type bar actuating link 20 into the path of the cams 35.
- These means can be individual to each actuating link 20, as in the fully mechanical form already described, but I prefer in order to minimize the number of components a mechanism such as the one illustrated in Figs. 6 and 7 in which a motive means of each sort serves several links and associated type bars. This is made possible by the use of the displaceable fingers 96 as the agency for moving the links 20 and by a proper relation of the respective electromagnetic motive means to diiferent fingers.
- a first fact of which advantage is taken is that a single motive means may serve to advance axially a group of several fingers 96 simultaneously, but with the result of moving only one actuating link 20 into the cam path, if only one finger of the group so advanced has been displaced laterally into operative register with an actuating arm. All of the other fingers of the group of fingers 96 so advanced and not being displaced laterally will pass between their associated arms 20. Further, when the fingers 96 are thus divided into groups with a motive unit for-independently advancing each group, a single displacthem are in the same group for purposes "of advancement.
- Fig. 5 illustrates the general scheme diagrammatically, without reference to the character of the motive means or of the control for those means. It shows only sixteen actuating links 20, out of a total bank of fifty-six, and eight operating fingers 96 each of which is normally in register with the space between two adjoining links, there thus being one finger for each two adjacent links.
- the fingers 96 are displaceable by being deflected either to the right or to the left so that each may be put in register with either of its two associated links 20 to move the link into the cam path when the fingers are advanced axially, i. e., radially outward.
- the eight fingers are in two groups of four each, with separate motive means a and 90b for advancing each group of four respectively; so that from the standpoint of association with the finger advancing means, the links may be considered as being in two groups of eight each.
- the sixteen links are designated A, a, B, b, etc., the same letter being used in upper and lower case to designate the two links served by a single finger.
- a single motive means 114 is used for displacing the two fingers associated with the Aa fingers of each group, and is double-acting so that when operated in one direction it deflects those fingers to the left to register with the A links, and when operated in the opposite direction it deflects those fingers to register with the a links.
- There are three other similar motive means (not shown), one for the finger serving the B--b links, another for the Cc links, etc.
- the arrangement is such that when the M key is struck, the displacing motive means 114 is energized to displace the finger that serves that A-a links of each group to the left to bring the left hand finger of each group into register with the A link associated with each group. Striking such key also causes energization of the particular advancing means 90a serving the left hand group which includes the finger for the type bar carrying the letter M. In the case shown, that is the A link of the left group, served by the advancing means 90a.
- the resulting advance of the left hand group of fingers 96 therefore moves that particular link into the cam path.
- the other fingers of that group being undeflected, advance into the spaces between lines; While at the second right hand group, although its left hand finger is also deflected, nothing happens because that group of fingers is not advanced by the motive means 90b.
- Figs. 6 and 7 show an illustrative structure embodying the fingers 96 and the motive means 90 and 114 as mounted within theimpeller drum 30. Seven advancing units 90 are shown, each serving four fingers 96; and since there is provision for deflecting each finger in either direction to serve either of two actuating links 20, there are four double-acting displacement units 114.
- the arcuate comb member 38 providing slots between its teeth 39 which receive the ends of the actuating links 20, is located as in Figs. l-4 in the lower half-circle of the impeller drum 30.so that as the drum rotates the cams on its flange 31 pass in close proximity to the outer edges of the actuating links. Motion of the end of any link 20 radially outward brings its cam-follower portion 57 into the pathtof the cams.
- the fingers 96 for selectively moving the actuating links 20 in that manner are arranged radially in seven groups of four each in the lower half of the circle.
- Each group of four has motive means such as the electromagnetic actuator 90 which is secured by bosses 84 to .a back plate 80 carried by the machine frame and having a bored central boss wherein is journalled the forward end of the spindle 32 of the drum 30.
- Each of the electromagnetic actuators 90 comprises a U-shaped magnetic structure 86. (Fig. 7) having a central core piece 88 about which is wound an electric solenoid B9.
- the magnetic circuit is completed through an armature 92 which extends transversely between the ends of the arms of the structure 86.
- the armature 92 When the solenoid .89 is energized, the armature 92 is in contact with the end of thecore piece88gand the ends of the arms of the magnetic structure 86 as is shown in Fig. 7. When the solenoid 89 is deenergized, the armature 92 is biased by a spring 94 so that it pivots about the end of the left hand magnetic structure leg to a normal position wherein there is an air gap between the armature and the core piece 88. The free end of the armature 92 carries the fingers 96 which are secured to it in any suitable way, being disposed at a substantially right angle to the end of the armature so as to extend radially outward of the circle at the front, into close proximity to the inner edges of the actuating arms 20.
- the fingers .96 are of a resilient material such as a suitable spring metal. Normally the fingers project outwardin a direction in line with the spaces between the actuator links and in line with the teeth 39 of the comb member 38. Thus, energization of the solenoid 89 of one of these actuators 90 causes its armature 92 to be drawn against the end of the core piece 88, overcoming the retracting force of spring 94, with the result of advancing the attached four fingers 96 into the spaces between adjacent actuator links 20.
- Each finger 96 serves two links 20 alternatively, the finger being capable of pivoting in either direction into register with either of the links defining the space with which the finger normally registers.
- each actuator 90 is energized through circuit control means such as a switch (not shown) which is closed by the operation of any one of eight. associated keys 40, so that if anyof the eight keys is struck the group of four fingers 96 operated by that actuator is advanced axially.
- circuit control means such as a switch (not shown) which is closed by the operation of any one of eight. associated keys 40, so that if anyof the eight keys is struck the group of four fingers 96 operated by that actuator is advanced axially.
- the relation of these eight keys to the displacing units 114 is such that only one ofthe fourfingers of the particular group is '8 displaced laterally, .and in a particular direction, when any of the eight keys is struck; and the advanceof fingers results .in the movement of only one actuating link 20 intothe cam path.
- the four double-acting electromagnetic displacingunits 114 arepositioned in the upper portion of the drum circle and serve to impart a smallangular motion in either direction to the fingers 96. This is accomplished by passing each of the fingers 96 through an aperture in an inwardly turned .tab 100 which extends at right angles from the edge of one of four sector shaped frames 102 and 104 which are journalled to rotateon the fixed central boss 106 extending from the back plate 80,
- the sector frames 102 and 104 lie in substantially :vertical planes, two in front of and two behind the bank, of fingers 96.
- Each sector frame 102 and 104 consists of a thin metal sheet formed as a diametral web 93 mounted on the boss 10,6, and an arcuate web-connected at its ends to the ends of the diametral web.
- Thearcuate webs of the two outside frames 102cm either of the bank of fingers have a greater radial dimension than the webs of the two inner frames 104 so that the webs do not overlie one another.
- Each arcuate web carries seven inturnedspaccd tabs 100 through each of which there extends one of the fingers 96 advanCQd axially by each of the actuators or, using the same terminology as above, one frame has holes so located as to receive the Aa fingers of each ofthe seven groups; anotherreceives the Bb fingers, etc. Slight rotation of the frame under action of the actuator 114 associated with it displaces all of the sevenconnected fingers passing through the tabs of that frame by deflecting the fingers laterally.
- the sector frames 102 and 104 are rotated by means of a second setof electromagnetic actuators 114, .four
- Each of the actuators 114 has two separate .magnetic structures 112 with axially aligned central core pieces upon each of which is wound a respective solenoid 108.. Interposed between the ends of the core pieces is a common armature 116 one end of which is pivoted at 118 so that armature is movable in either direction by the cnergization of the-corresponding solenoid 108.
- the otherendof the armature 116 carries apin 124 which is located between twolcat spring members 120 whose ends are fixed as at that the armature is normally held in a centralposition between the pole pieces.
- the pin 124 also extends through a slot in an arm extending from a corresponding frame 102 or 104, so that as the armature 116 is moved in either direction by the energization of a corresponding solenoid 108, the interconnected sector frame is rotated in either a clockwiseor counterclockwise direction about the hub 106.
- the tabs 100 on-the inter.- connected sector frame move one finger 96 associated with each group advanced by the first set of electromagnets 90 so that such fingers are deflected either to the leftor right to position the ends thereof above-the adjacent links 20.
- each combination of two electromagnetic actuators selected from both the first and second sets will result in the lateral deflection of seven fingers 96 (one-from each group) and the axial advance of four fingerstof one group) so that of the seven fingers brought into register with their respective links 20 only one is advanced to contact the link, i.;e., for every combination of actuators one. (and only one) link is motivated. While it is probably best from a theoretical standpoint to complete the lateraldeflection of .a finger 96 before the finger is advanced, I have found as a practical matter that because the distance which a finger is advanced is materially greater than the amount of deflection required, no :time delay other thanthat inherent-is required and it is possible to.
- any particular type bar 10 is the energization of one combination out of 56 possible combinations of solenoids, it will be evident that the present invention is not limited to use with a manual keyboard but is also applicable to robot and card operated typewriters or other machines wherein an output of printed characters in required, the only requirement being that the machine incorporate an electrical circuit which will selectively emit any combination of two electrical pulses from a total of 56 pulses.
- a typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is operatively interconnected with a corresponding type bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of raised cammed surfaces upon its inner surface Whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively bringing the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
- a typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the links extending into the drum through the open en thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link "10 and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
- a typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate bank so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links, one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end andhaving a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact
- a typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the
- a typewriting machine according to claim 4 wherein the motivating means includes a plurality of electromagnetically operated actuators for pivotally moving the links selectively to bring the ends thereof into engagement with the cammed surface.
- a typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of, type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating drum having a plurality of cammed surfaces whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy, a plurality of fingers for selectively rotating the respective links about their pivots to bring the ends thereof into engagement with the cammed surfaces, the fingers between arranged in a pluralit
- A-typewriting machine the number of actuators in the second set corresponds in: number to the number of fingers in each group, each actuator in the second. set being arranged to deflect the fingers associated therewith in either of two opposed directions so as selectively to bring the fingers in register with. the links to either side of the normal undeflected positions of the fingers.
- each of the actuators of the second set is provided with a member which is rotatable about the drum axis in either direction by the actuator, each member interconnecting with one finger from each group so that the interconnected fingers are deflectable laterally in either direction.
- a typewriting machine wherein'each' electromagnetic actuator of the second set ineludes two independently energized solenoids having a common armature suspended therebetween, the armature being connected with a respective one of the members which rotate about the drum axis so that energization of. either of the solenoids causes the member to be rotated in a corresponding direction.
- a typewriting machine comprising a movable platen, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the platen, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the platen contacting portion of the' bar, a continuously rotating drum having a plurality of cammed surfaces whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammcd surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is im-' parted to the selected linkand connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the platen, and means for controlling the force with which the type bars strike the platen including a plurality of compression springs, and a tension rod extending between one end of. each respective spring and the same
- a typewriting machine whereinis further provided means for adjusting the bias imposed by the impression control springs so as to vary the striking force of the type bars.
- a typewriting machine according to claim 10 wherein is'further provided means for independently adjusting the force exerted by each spring.
- a typewriting machine according to claim 12 wherein the means for independently adjusting the force exerted by each spring includes means for varying the relative point of connection of the end of each spring to the corresponding rod thereby to change the initial spring biasing force.
- a typewriting machine according to claim 14 wherein the means for simultaneously changing the spring forces includes a common member for simultaneously moving the opposite ends of the springs thereby to change the initial spring. biasing force of all of the springs.
- a typewriting machine comprising a movable platen; a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the platen, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the platen contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces beingshaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, motivating means including a plurality of pivotally mounted levers each of which is joined with a respective link by means of a slidable connection so as not to interfere with the lengthwise movement of the link by the carnmed surfaces, a plurality of keys and means interconnecting the levers with the respective keys
- a typewriting machine according to claim 16 wherein the means interconnecting the levers with the correlated keys includes a plurality of mechanical linkages.
- each of the mechanical linkages includes a ratchet operated by the depressing of the correlated key and a flexible cable one end of which is connected to the associated lever, the other end of the cable being wound on the ratchet by' the operation thereof thereby to rotate the lever and initiate the movement of the associated type bar.
Landscapes
- Impression-Transfer Materials And Handling Thereof (AREA)
- Transmission Devices (AREA)
- Discharge By Other Means (AREA)
Description
Nov. 5, 1957 s. B. TlBBLlNG 2,312,048
ROTATING DRUM TYPEWRITING MACHINE Filed Jan. 4, 1954 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 v INVENTOR;
-BY 5H9 Bffibbhng hgwwfw Nov. 5, 1957 s. B. TIBBLING ROTATING DRUM TYPEWRITING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 'Filed Jan. 4, 1954 N wc INVENTOR.
BY 5117 B. Tcbblinj Nov. 5, 1957 s. B. TlBBLlNG 2,81
ROTATING DRUM TYPEWRITING MACHINE Filed Jan. 4, 1954 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 as f 56 INVENTOR.
BY 511351 112511 n Nov. 5; 1957 s. B. TIBBLING ROTATING DRUM TYPEWRITING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed Jan. 4, 1954 N] a fa L 7 .T. s W :0 mm m:
United States Patent ROTATING DRUM TYPEWRITING MACHINE Stig B. Tibbling, Hyde Park, N. Y., assignor to International Business Machines Corporation, New York, N. Y., a corporation of New York Application January 4, 1954, Serial N 0. 402,015
18 Claims. (Cl. 19717) This invention has to do with a powered operating means or action for such instrumentalities as the type bars of a printing mechanism such as a typewriter. While not so limited in usefulness, it is described here as it is applied to a typewriting machine of conventional design in other respects (not described in detail), such as keyboard, carriage, roller platen, ribbon, and mechanism for moving the carriage, the roller platen and the ribbon.
Objects of this invention are to provide a typewriting machine which is simple and positive in operation, which uses a minimum of mechanical elements, which causes the impression to be made by the free flight movement of the type bars, which permits independent adjustment of the imppression of the respective type bars, which has a control for varying the impression of the type bars as a group, and which advances the art generally.
The novel means for working the type bars includes a constantly running power-driven impeller unit serving all of the type bars alike; 2. series of mechanical actuators for the several type bars; and selector means which may be either key-operated or remotely controlled for subjecting the desired one of these actuators to the action of the common impeller unit whereby it moves the type bar against the platen for a printing impression.
The general organization of the type bar operating mechanism or action can be understood from the nature of the preferred impeller unit shown and from its action in relation to the type bar actuators and their selectors considered generally. The power-driven impeller unit is in constant rotating motion during any period of operation of the machine and carries a series of cams, any one of which is capable of imparting a longitudinal thrust to a type bar actuating link when one end of the link is moved into the path of these cams. The impeller unit shown, which is in the form of a rotating disc having an annular flange forming an open drum with a series of cams spaced around the inner surface of the flange, is located at the back of the machine and rotates about a tilted axis. A bank of type bar actuating units, each controlled by a particular selector such as a key, is so mounted at a midportion of the frame as to engage respectively an arcuate series of links which project rearwardly into the space bounded by, the flanged disc of the impeller unit with the extending ends of the links normally clearing the cams. The keys are at the front ends of a bank of forwardly extending pivoted arms which are interconnected with the corresponding links. Upon depressing any one of the keys, the corresponding type bar actuating link is dropped into the path of the cams so that the first random cam which passes the point where the end of the link is located comes into engagement with the link end to exert a longitudinal forward thrust upon the link. The resulting forward motion of the'link swings the pivotally attached type bar upwardly against the platen. Provision such as a spring is made for restoring the parts to their idle positions wherein the actuating link is restored to a position. clear of the cams and the type bar is returned to its rest position as soon as ICC 2 the key is released. Provision is also made forvarying the spring force and therefore the adjustment of the impression. I
In addition to the novel combination involved in the general arrangement, particular novelty resides in the construction of the type bar actuating means by which the impelling thrust causes the type bar to swing against the platen and by which the subsequent restoration to idle position is effected, and in the means by which the actuating link of the desired type bar is moved into the path of the cams when a particular key is struck.
It is immaterial which impeller cam engages the actu ator link subjected to the impeller drum action, since all of the cams act alike. The speed of rotation of the impeller drum and the spacing of its cams are such that the cams pass a given point in rapid succession, and there is no appreciable time lag between the movement of the.
end of an actuating link into the cam path and the temporary engagement of it by a random cam. The interval in which a cam is in positive engagement with an actuating link is brief and occurs over less than the full travel of the link, so that during the final phase of the motion of the link and its type bar the link and the bar are in free flight.
These and other objects and aspects of the invention will be apparent from the following description of two specific embodiments of the invention which refer to drawings wherein:
Fig. 1 is a schematic isometric view of the operating elements for one of the type bars;
Fig. 1a is a fragmentary view of the drum cams;
Fig. 2 is a side elevation view in partial section of the operating elements in their normal positions;
Figs. 3 and 4 are views similar to Fig. 2 in sequential operating positions;
Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic view of an electromagnetic unit;
Fig. 6 is a plan view of the electromagnetic actuators; and
Fig. 7 is a sectional view on line 7-7 of Fig. 6.
The mechanism will now be described in detail, first in a form in which the key controlled operation of the particular type bar actuator to subject it to the action of the impeller drum is entirely mechanical, and then in an alternative form in which the mechanism includes electromagnetic components.
The mechanical form is illustrated by a single type bar unit or action, a number of similar units being used in accordance with the number of type bars in the machine. This unit mechanism, as to main parts, consists of a pivoted type bar 10 (Fig. 1) having a downwardly and rearwardly extending bell crank portion 11 7 beyond its pivot 12 in the arcuate frame 15 which serves to mount the bank of type bars; a longitudinal rearwardly extending type bar actuating link 20 pivotally connected as at 21 to the bell crank portion 11 and extending at its other end into proximity to the earns 35 on the impeller drum 30; a manually operated key 40 on a pivoted arm 41 extending to the front of the machine; and a cable 45 and associated parts through which downward motion of the key 40 is caused to lower the extremity of the actuating link 20 into the path of the earns 35 whereby the thrust of a random one of the cams upon the end of the actuator link 20 moves the latter forward and swings the pivoted type bar 10 up against the platenroll 50 (Fig. 2).
lateral play in one. of the slots formed by an arcuate series frame 15 secured to the frame of the machine in front of the impeller drum 30. The type bar is'pivotally mounted to rotate freely about a heavy wire 12,1"unning through andtightly fitting in a series of aligned holes'in the fins 16. As in known machines, the heads 14 of the several type bars 10 are bent laterally with respect to the bars in such different amounts that the heads of all of them strike the platen in the same vertical zone of action, past which the platen is moved in the usual way.
The impeller drum 30 consists of a disc 31 mounted on a forwardly extending spindle 32 which is journalled in bearings (not shown)v carried in the frame, the axis of the spindle being inclined upwardly by a small amount at its forward end as shown. The spindle .32 is driven ina counter-clockwise direction (as seen in Fig. l) at a constant speed by an electric motor (not shown), and has a conventional pawl and ratchet (not shown) to prevent reverse rotation. Extending forwardly at the outer 1 rim of the disc 31 is an annular flange 36 on the inner surface of which are raised the series of spaced impelling cams 35. Each cam (Fig. 1a) is of thin cross-sectional area and extends across the flange 36 at an angle to the axis of the impeller drum so that, in reference to the direction of travel, the cam has a concave forward face 37 which forms the operative cam surface. The momentum of the type bar 10 and link 20 will at some point of the travel cause disengagement between cam 35 and the link, after which the type bar will be in free flight.
Within the flange 36, and spaced slightly from the top surface of the cam 35 on the flange, is a fixed arcuate comb 38 which serves as a spacer and guide for the rearward ends of the type bar actuating links 20. Each link 20 lies between adjoining teeth 39 of the comb with a free fit giving lateral support but permitting both an edgewise pivotal motion into the path of the cams 35 and also the endwise longitudinal motion involved in the operation of the type bar 10. The teeth '39 of this arcuate comb are in alignment with the fins 16 of the arcuate frame for the type bars 10.
A helical tension spring 22 connects a bell crank portion 23 extending downwardly from the forward end of the type bar actuating link to a fixed plate 24 (Fig. 2) on the main frame of the machine so that the spring serves to bias the rear end of the actuating link upwardly against the body portion of the comb 38, and serves also to retract the type bar to its normal position shown=in Fig. 2. Since in moving upwardly-to printing position the type bar moves against the tension of this spring,-the biasing force affects the impression.
To permit adjustment of the biasing force on the type bar 10, a rod 25 which at one end is connected to the end of the bell crank portion 11 of the type bar 10 extends rearwardly through the fixed frame plates 26 and another movably mounted abutment plate 27. At its rearmost end this rod is threaded to engage a circular nut 28 which is slotted to receive a screwdriver. The end of the nut 28 bears against a'helical compression spring 29 surrounding the rod 25 and lying between the nut end and the abutment plate 27 Turning the circular nut 28 gives adjustment of the force exerted by the spring 29 so as to vary the impression upon the platen roll 50 i by the individual type bar, whileforward or backward movement of the abutmentplate 27 provides a common adjustment of the force of allof the springs 29 in the several type bars 10.
The key operated means for bringing the type bar actuating link 20 into the path of the drum earns is. next described. The key is attached near the forward end of a horizontal arm 41 pivotally mounted on a heavy wire 42 serving to mount all of the like key arms. A tension spring 43, connecting a downwardly directed leg at the forward end of the key arm 41 to a fixed portion of the main frame as at 44, holds the key normally in raised position. A cable 45, which transmits motion of the key 40 to the lever 51 acting on the actuating link 20, is attached at its forward end to a ratchet wheel 46 carried on a transverse shaft 47 serving also to mount like wheels for other like units. By the selection of the particular tooth 49 of the ratchet wheel 46 engaged by a spring pawl 48 extending down from the key arm 41 adjustment can be made in the tension of the cable 45. The ratchet wheel 46 also serves as a bell crank in as much as it changes the vertical motion of the pawl 48 into a horizontal motion which draws the cable forward when the key 40 is struck.
The cable extends through an enclosing housing to connect with a bent lever 51 which is pivoted at 52 on an extension 38a from the comb 38. This bent lever 51 has a lateral lug portion 55 which is bent over and down so that it overlies a finger 56 which projects outwardly from the side of the type bar actuating link 20, so that when the cable 45 is drawnforward by action of the ratchet wheel 46, upon depression of the key 40, the bent lever 51 isrotated about its pivot 52 to move the actuating link 20 down against the force exerted by the spring 22 and a ball detent spring 60 which normally hold the end of the link clear of the impelling cams 35. This depression of the actuating link 20 brings a ball which is biased by the spring 60 into engagement with the beveled nose upon the end of the link so that the force exerted by the spring moves the link downwardly to bring its cam follower toe portion 57 into the path of the earns 35 as shown in Fig. 3.
The camming action of the forward face 37 of the cam 35 upon cam follower portion 57 thrusts the actuating link 20 forward'in a longitudinal direction (i. e., to the right) thus swinging the type bar 10 counterclockwise about its pivot 12, against the force of the springs 22 and 29. The length of the cam surface 37 is such that the link 20 andtype bars 10 are positively impelled through only a part of their travel, for instance through of swing of the type bar in one desirable form; and for the rest of their travel the arm and type bar are in free flight until the type bar 10 strikes the platen roll 50.
A comparison of Figs. 2, 3 and 4 shows the different positions of the partsin a cycle of action. In Fig. 2, the type bar 10 is in its idle position with the type head 14 on the rest and the cam follower end 57 of the actuating link 20 in raised position clear of the impelling cams 35 so that the ball spring detent 58 is below the beveled nose 59 of the link. Both the biasing springs 22 and 29 andthe spring detent 58 thus serve to hold the end of the link 20 clear of the cams 35. Fig. 3 shows the actuating link 20 moved into operative position, as a result of rocking of the bent lever 51 so that the cam follower 57 is in the cam path and its nose 59 engaged by the detent ball 58, which is the condition set up when the key 40 is struck to bring the cable 45 into operation. In Fig. 3 the effective cammed surface 37 of one of the cams 35 is shown first coming into engagement with the cam'follower portion 57 of the actuating link 20. The cam 35 has not yet thrust the link 20 forward, so the type bar 10 is still at rest under the influence of the spring 22. Fig. 4 shows the condition an instant later as the cam has advanced and has thrust the actuating link 20 forward (to the right) so that the link is free of the cam surface, with the result of swinging the type bar 10 up against the platen roll 50. Because of the longitudinal sliding movement which can take place between the link finger 56 and the lug 55 of the bent lever 51, this action takes place irrespective of whether or not the key 40 has been released. As soon as the key 40 is released, the key spring 43 lifts the key bar 41 with its spring pawl 48 so that the ratchet wheel 46 is free to be turned in a clockwise direction as the bent lever 51 and the link 20 are returned to the position in Fig. 2 by the action of the springs 22 and 29 upon all restraining forces being released.
The alternative form which is the subject of Figs. 5 and 6 retains the impeller drum 30 with its cams 35, the type bars 10 and the actuating links 20, and the biasing spring 22 which operates as before. The ditference is in the mechanism for moving the desired type bar actuating arm link into the cam path. For the key-controlled means of Figs. 1-4, comprising the ratchet wheel 46, cable 45 and depressing bent lever 51 individual to each particular actuating link 20, this alternative form substitutes an electromagnetic motive means for effecting the same end result which may be key operated or remotely controlled by a combination of electric pulses obtained for example in a remote control circuit of an electric typewriter.
, The motive means proper are fixedly mounted within the drum-shaped space bounded by the flange 36 of the impeller drum 30. Considering first the main parts and general arrangement this mechanism has an arcuate (semicircular) series of thin radial fingers 96 each of which is associated with a particular pair of type bar. actuating links 20. The links as before are in an arcuate bank and extend rearwardly into the slots between the teeth 39 provided by the comb member 38. The fingers 96 are in a generally vertical plane in front of the motive unit and at right angles to the longitudinal actuating links and those in thecenter of the arc extend downwardly, as shown in thelower part of Figs. 6 and 7. In its normal position, each finger is withdrawn radially inwardly from its associated pair of links 20 and is in register with the space between them immediately in front of the corresponding comb tooth 39 so that if the finger is moved axially (radially outward) it would enter that space, clearing the links on either side. i
The manner of bringing a particular finger 96 into play to move one of its associated actuating links 20 into the cam path is to displace the finger sidewise until it is in register with the top edge of the link, and then to advance the finger axially so that the end thereof engages the link to move it into the position wherein the ball 58 and the spring 60 move the cam follower portion 57 into the cam path, all with the same result as described above where the link is so moved by the bent lever 51 operated by cable from the key 40. One way of so displacing a finger 96 is to mount it pivotally and to have a means adjacent the finger, movable laterally upon depression of the proper key, to deflect the free end of the finger.
Apart from the fingers 96, the mechanism consists of ('1') an electromagnetic controlled motive means for selectively deflecting or displacing the finger 96 which operates the particular type bar 10 to be struck against the platen roll 50, together with (2) a further electromagnetic controlled motive means for advancing the deflected finger axially and thereby move the type bar actuating link 20 into the path of the cams 35. These means can be individual to each actuating link 20, as in the fully mechanical form already described, but I prefer in order to minimize the number of components a mechanism such as the one illustrated in Figs. 6 and 7 in which a motive means of each sort serves several links and associated type bars. This is made possible by the use of the displaceable fingers 96 as the agency for moving the links 20 and by a proper relation of the respective electromagnetic motive means to diiferent fingers.
A first fact of which advantage is taken is that a single motive means may serve to advance axially a group of several fingers 96 simultaneously, but with the result of moving only one actuating link 20 into the cam path, if only one finger of the group so advanced has been displaced laterally into operative register with an actuating arm. All of the other fingers of the group of fingers 96 so advanced and not being displaced laterally will pass between their associated arms 20. Further, when the fingers 96 are thus divided into groups with a motive unit for-independently advancing each group, a single displacthem are in the same group for purposes "of advancement. The reason is that if several fingers 96 from different groups are simultaneously displaced,'including the finger that is associated with the particular link 20 to be moved into the cam path, so that if the only group advanced is the group containing that particular finger, then the displacement of a finger in each of several other groups not advanced becomes immaterial. In this way it is possible to reduce materially the number of motive units needed for the lateral displacing step and for the axially advancing step of the various fingers 96. I prefer to reduce the number of fingers required by having each finger 96 serve two actuating links 20 and by providing for the lateral displacement of each finger in either directionso that the finger can be brought into register with either the actuating link lying to its right or to the link at its left.
Fig. 5 illustrates the general scheme diagrammatically, without reference to the character of the motive means or of the control for those means. It shows only sixteen actuating links 20, out of a total bank of fifty-six, and eight operating fingers 96 each of which is normally in register with the space between two adjoining links, there thus being one finger for each two adjacent links. The fingers 96 are displaceable by being deflected either to the right or to the left so that each may be put in register with either of its two associated links 20 to move the link into the cam path when the fingers are advanced axially, i. e., radially outward. The eight fingers are in two groups of four each, with separate motive means a and 90b for advancing each group of four respectively; so that from the standpoint of association with the finger advancing means, the links may be considered as being in two groups of eight each. To identify the corresponding links of each group, the sixteen links are designated A, a, B, b, etc., the same letter being used in upper and lower case to designate the two links served by a single finger. A single motive means 114 is used for displacing the two fingers associated with the Aa fingers of each group, and is double-acting so that when operated in one direction it deflects those fingers to the left to register with the A links, and when operated in the opposite direction it deflects those fingers to register with the a links. There are three other similar motive means (not shown), one for the finger serving the B--b links, another for the Cc links, etc.
if now, for example, the letter M is the character 13 on the type bar 10 actuated by the A arm of the first group, for which the fingers 96 are served by the advancing motive means 90a, the arrangement is such that when the M key is struck, the displacing motive means 114 is energized to displace the finger that serves that A-a links of each group to the left to bring the left hand finger of each group into register with the A link associated with each group. Striking such key also causes energization of the particular advancing means 90a serving the left hand group which includes the finger for the type bar carrying the letter M. In the case shown, that is the A link of the left group, served by the advancing means 90a. The resulting advance of the left hand group of fingers 96 therefore moves that particular link into the cam path. The other fingers of that group, being undeflected, advance into the spaces between lines; While at the second right hand group, although its left hand finger is also deflected, nothing happens because that group of fingers is not advanced by the motive means 90b.
It will be evident that this reduces the number of fingers 96, of advancing means 90, and of displacing means 114; that as many groups may be formed as are needed for the total number of type bars 10 to be served; and that the basic idea is to provide as many displacing units as there are fingers in each group served by a single advancing means, the displacing unit being double-acting when a finger is displaceable in two directions to serve two links. If there is a finger for each link, with a dis placing unit serving todeflect it inthe single direction thenrequired, there still are as many displacing units as there-are fingers in each group served by a single advancing unit. 7
It will be evident also that energization of one displacing unit (for one direction of displacement) and of one advancing unit can result in the movement of but a single actuating link into the cam path, so that each pair of energizations gives a unique result.
Figs. 6 and 7 show an illustrative structure embodying the fingers 96 and the motive means 90 and 114 as mounted within theimpeller drum 30. Seven advancing units 90 are shown, each serving four fingers 96; and since there is provision for deflecting each finger in either direction to serve either of two actuating links 20, there are four double-acting displacement units 114.
The arcuate comb member 38, providing slots between its teeth 39 which receive the ends of the actuating links 20, is located as in Figs. l-4 in the lower half-circle of the impeller drum 30.so that as the drum rotates the cams on its flange 31 pass in close proximity to the outer edges of the actuating links. Motion of the end of any link 20 radially outward brings its cam-follower portion 57 into the pathtof the cams.
The fingers 96 for selectively moving the actuating links 20 in that manner are arranged radially in seven groups of four each in the lower half of the circle. Each group of four has motive means such as the electromagnetic actuator 90 which is secured by bosses 84 to .a back plate 80 carried by the machine frame and having a bored central boss wherein is journalled the forward end of the spindle 32 of the drum 30. Each of the electromagnetic actuators 90 comprises a U-shaped magnetic structure 86. (Fig. 7) having a central core piece 88 about which is wound an electric solenoid B9. The magnetic circuit is completed through an armature 92 which extends transversely between the ends of the arms of the structure 86. When the solenoid .89 is energized, the armature 92 is in contact with the end of thecore piece88gand the ends of the arms of the magnetic structure 86 as is shown in Fig. 7. When the solenoid 89 is deenergized, the armature 92 is biased by a spring 94 so that it pivots about the end of the left hand magnetic structure leg to a normal position wherein there is an air gap between the armature and the core piece 88. The free end of the armature 92 carries the fingers 96 which are secured to it in any suitable way, being disposed at a substantially right angle to the end of the armature so as to extend radially outward of the circle at the front, into close proximity to the inner edges of the actuating arms 20.
The fingers .96 are of a resilient material such as a suitable spring metal. Normally the fingers project outwardin a direction in line with the spaces between the actuator links and in line with the teeth 39 of the comb member 38. Thus, energization of the solenoid 89 of one of these actuators 90 causes its armature 92 to be drawn against the end of the core piece 88, overcoming the retracting force of spring 94, with the result of advancing the attached four fingers 96 into the spaces between adjacent actuator links 20. Each finger 96 serves two links 20 alternatively, the finger being capable of pivoting in either direction into register with either of the links defining the space with which the finger normally registers. If, for example, the unit is to be used with amanual keyboard having keys similar to those shown in Fig. 1, each actuator 90 is energized through circuit control means such as a switch (not shown) which is closed by the operation of any one of eight. associated keys 40, so that if anyof the eight keys is struck the group of four fingers 96 operated by that actuator is advanced axially. Further, the relation of these eight keys to the displacing units 114 is such that only one ofthe fourfingers of the particular group is '8 displaced laterally, .and in a particular direction, when any of the eight keys is struck; and the advanceof fingers results .in the movement of only one actuating link 20 intothe cam path.
The four double-acting electromagnetic displacingunits 114 arepositioned in the upper portion of the drum circle and serve to impart a smallangular motion in either direction to the fingers 96. This is accomplished by passing each of the fingers 96 through an aperture in an inwardly turned .tab 100 which extends at right angles from the edge of one of four sector shaped frames 102 and 104 which are journalled to rotateon the fixed central boss 106 extending from the back plate 80, The sector frames 102 and 104 lie in substantially :vertical planes, two in front of and two behind the bank, of fingers 96. Each sector frame 102 and 104 consists of a thin metal sheet formed as a diametral web 93 mounted on the boss 10,6, and an arcuate web-connected at its ends to the ends of the diametral web. Thearcuate webs of the two outside frames 102cm either of the bank of fingers have a greater radial dimension than the webs of the two inner frames 104 so that the webs do not overlie one another. Each arcuate web carries seven inturnedspaccd tabs 100 through each of which there extends one of the fingers 96 advanCQd axially by each of the actuators or, using the same terminology as above, one frame has holes so located as to receive the Aa fingers of each ofthe seven groups; anotherreceives the Bb fingers, etc. Slight rotation of the frame under action of the actuator 114 associated with it displaces all of the sevenconnected fingers passing through the tabs of that frame by deflecting the fingers laterally.
The sector frames 102 and 104 are rotated by means of a second setof electromagnetic actuators 114, .four
of which are mounted upon a plate 110 spaced from the top half of the back plate 80. Each of the actuators 114 has two separate .magnetic structures 112 with axially aligned central core pieces upon each of which is wound a respective solenoid 108.. Interposed between the ends of the core pieces is a common armature 116 one end of which is pivoted at 118 so that armature is movable in either direction by the cnergization of the-corresponding solenoid 108. The otherendof the armature 116.carries apin 124 which is located between twolcat spring members 120 whose ends are fixed as at that the armature is normally held in a centralposition between the pole pieces. The pin 124 also extends through a slot in an arm extending from a corresponding frame 102 or 104, so that as the armature 116 is moved in either direction by the energization of a corresponding solenoid 108, the interconnected sector frame is rotated in either a clockwiseor counterclockwise direction about the hub 106. The tabs 100 on-the inter.- connected sector frame move one finger 96 associated with each group advanced by the first set of electromagnets 90 so that such fingers are deflected either to the leftor right to position the ends thereof above-the adjacent links 20.
It will be evident from the above that each combination of two electromagnetic actuators selected from both the first and second sets will result in the lateral deflection of seven fingers 96 (one-from each group) and the axial advance of four fingerstof one group) so that of the seven fingers brought into register with their respective links 20 only one is advanced to contact the link, i.;e., for every combination of actuators one. (and only one) link is motivated. While it is probably best from a theoretical standpoint to complete the lateraldeflection of .a finger 96 before the finger is advanced, I have found as a practical matter that because the distance which a finger is advanced is materially greater than the amount of deflection required, no :time delay other thanthat inherent-is required and it is possible to. obtainsuccessful operation when both electromagnetic actuators of a combination are energized simultaneously. If the electromagnetic action is to be used in a typewriter which is manually operated a keyboard having keys 40 mounted near the end of a pivoted arm 41, similar to that illustrated in Fig. 1, may be used. The movement of each key arm 41 as the corresponding key 40 is struck may be used to close the contacts of two normally open switches (not shown) which complete circuits energizing the electromagnet solenoids 89 and 108 of the actuator combination that pivots the link 20 connected with the type bar corresponding to the struck key.
It will be evident that a material saving in the number of switches required can be made by providing only one switch for energizing each of the electromagnet solenoids 89 and 108 and having each switch closed by operation of any of several keys. As there are 56 links and only eight deflecting actuator solenoids 108, each solenoid must be energized by the operation of any of seven keys. Similarly, as there are seven advancing actuators 90 each must service eight links so that each associated switch must be closed by the operation of any one of eight keys. The closing of the switches by any of several keys is readily accomplished by a simple mechanical linkage interconnecting each switch operating member and the arms 41 of its associated keys, the only precaution required being that the operation of each key close the two switches which will energize a unique combination of two solenoids one of which is selected from the first set of actuators 90 and the other from the second set of actuators 114.
As the only requirement for operating any particular type bar 10 is the energization of one combination out of 56 possible combinations of solenoids, it will be evident that the present invention is not limited to use with a manual keyboard but is also applicable to robot and card operated typewriters or other machines wherein an output of printed characters in required, the only requirement being that the machine incorporate an electrical circuit which will selectively emit any combination of two electrical pulses from a total of 56 pulses.
I claim:
1. A typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is operatively interconnected with a corresponding type bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of raised cammed surfaces upon its inner surface Whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively bringing the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
2. A typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the links extending into the drum through the open en thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link "10 and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
3. A typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate bank so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links, one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end andhaving a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
4. A typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, and motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy.
5. A typewriting machine according to claim 4 wherein the motivating means includes a plurality of electromagnetically operated actuators for pivotally moving the links selectively to bring the ends thereof into engagement with the cammed surface. a
6. A typewriting machine comprising means for moving the copy along a predetermined path, a plurality of, type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the copy at the same point along the copy path, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the copy contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating drum having a plurality of cammed surfaces whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the copy, a plurality of fingers for selectively rotating the respective links about their pivots to bring the ends thereof into engagement with the cammed surfaces, the fingers between arranged in a plurality of groups, a set of electromagnetic actuators each of which simultaneously advances axially the fingers of a respective group so that the end of each of the fingers passes between two adjacentalinks, and a second set of electromagnetic actuat'ors each of which simultaneously deflects laterally one finger from each group to bring the ends of the deflected fingers into register with the adjacent links to one side thereof whereby the energization of any combination of two electromagnetic actuators selected from the first and second setswill rotate only one of the links corresponding. to such combination.
1 7.. A-typewriting machine according to claim 6 wherein=the number of actuators in the second set corresponds in: number to the number of fingers in each group, each actuator in the second. set being arranged to deflect the fingers associated therewith in either of two opposed directions so as selectively to bring the fingers in register with. the links to either side of the normal undeflected positions of the fingers.
8. .A typewriting machine according to claim 7 wherein? the fingers extend substantially radially outwardly from the axis of rotation of the drum and each of the actuators of the second set is provided with a member which is rotatable about the drum axis in either direction by the actuator, each member interconnecting with one finger from each group so that the interconnected fingers are deflectable laterally in either direction.
9; A typewriting machine according to claim 8 wherein'each' electromagnetic actuator of the second set ineludes two independently energized solenoids having a common armature suspended therebetween, the armature being connected with a respective one of the members which rotate about the drum axis so that energization of. either of the solenoids causes the member to be rotated in a corresponding direction.
10; A typewriting machine comprising a movable platen, a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the platen, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the platen contacting portion of the' bar, a continuously rotating drum having a plurality of cammed surfaces whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammcd surfaces being shaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, motivating means for selectively rotating the links about their pivotal connections to bring the respective links into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is im-' parted to the selected linkand connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the platen, and means for controlling the force with which the type bars strike the platen including a plurality of compression springs, and a tension rod extending between one end of. each respective spring and the same side of a correlated type bar as that to which the link is pivotally connected.
11. A typewriting machine according to claim 10 whereinis further provided means for adjusting the bias imposed by the impression control springs so as to vary the striking force of the type bars.
12. A typewriting machine according to claim 10 wherein is'further provided means for independently adjusting the force exerted by each spring.
13; A typewriting machine according to claim 12 wherein the means for independently adjusting the force exerted by each spring includes means for varying the relative point of connection of the end of each spring to the corresponding rod thereby to change the initial spring biasing force.
14. .A typewriting machine according to claim 10 wherein is further provided means for simultaneously changing the biasing forces exerted by the springs thereby to vary the impression of the type bars upon the platen.
15. A typewriting machine according to claim 14 wherein the means for simultaneously changing the spring forces includes a common member for simultaneously moving the opposite ends of the springs thereby to change the initial spring. biasing force of all of the springs.
16. A typewriting machine comprising a movable platen; a plurality of type bars pivotally mounted in an arcuate group so that each can selectively be brought into contact with the platen, a plurality of bar actuating links one end of each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding type bar upon the opposite side of the bar pivot point from the platen contacting portion of the bar, a continuously rotating hollow drum open at one end and having a plurality of cammed surfaces upon its inner surface whose locus is disposed adjacent the other ends of the links, the cammed surfaces beingshaped to move substantially lengthwise a link brought into contact therewith, the links extending into the drum through the open end thereof with said other ends of the links normally spaced from the path of said cammed surfaces, motivating means including a plurality of pivotally mounted levers each of which is joined with a respective link by means of a slidable connection so as not to interfere with the lengthwise movement of the link by the carnmed surfaces, a plurality of keys and means interconnecting the levers with the respective keys so that depressing a selected key rotates the correlated lever andlink about their associated pivots to bring the end of the link into operative engagement with a random cammed surface whereby a free flight movement is imparted to the selected link and connected type bar to bring the bar into forcible contact with the platen.
17. A typewriting machine according to claim 16 wherein the means interconnecting the levers with the correlated keys includes a plurality of mechanical linkages.
18-. A'typewriting machine according to claim 17 wherein each of the mechanical linkages includes a ratchet operated by the depressing of the correlated key and a flexible cable one end of which is connected to the associated lever, the other end of the cable being wound on the ratchet by' the operation thereof thereby to rotate the lever and initiate the movement of the associated type bar.
References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 869,526 Secor Oct. 29, 1907 1,199,824 Schluns Oct. 3, 1916 1,202,878 Morley Oct. 31, 1916 1,395,600 Satterstrom Nov. 1, 1921 1,737,439 Stickney Nov. 26, 1929
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DENDAT1074598D DE1074598B (en) | 1954-01-04 | Type lever movement device on power-driven typing machines, among other things | |
NL89962D NL89962C (en) | 1954-01-04 | ||
US402015A US2812048A (en) | 1954-01-04 | 1954-01-04 | Rotating drum typewriting machine |
FR1120526D FR1120526A (en) | 1954-01-04 | 1954-12-28 | Rotary drum typewriter |
GB191/55A GB768468A (en) | 1954-01-04 | 1955-01-04 | Improvements in typewriters |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US402015A US2812048A (en) | 1954-01-04 | 1954-01-04 | Rotating drum typewriting machine |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US2812048A true US2812048A (en) | 1957-11-05 |
Family
ID=23590194
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US402015A Expired - Lifetime US2812048A (en) | 1954-01-04 | 1954-01-04 | Rotating drum typewriting machine |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US2812048A (en) |
DE (1) | DE1074598B (en) |
FR (1) | FR1120526A (en) |
GB (1) | GB768468A (en) |
NL (1) | NL89962C (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3373857A (en) * | 1966-03-29 | 1968-03-19 | Litton Business Systems Inc | Mechanism for power operating type actions both to and from the printing point |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2795782B1 (en) * | 1999-07-01 | 2001-09-14 | Plastic Omnium Valeo Interiors | DEVICE FOR ASSEMBLING TWO PARTS HAVING A POSITION SET |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US869526A (en) * | 1906-10-05 | 1907-10-29 | Williams Typewriter Company | Type-writer mechanism. |
US1199824A (en) * | 1915-11-06 | 1916-10-03 | Mercedes Bureau Maschinen Ges M B H | Type-writing machine. |
US1202878A (en) * | 1914-09-28 | 1916-10-31 | William H Waller | Power-driven type-writer. |
US1395600A (en) * | 1920-01-31 | 1921-11-01 | A corpora | |
US1737439A (en) * | 1925-06-12 | 1929-11-26 | Underwood Elliott Fisher Co | Typewriting machine |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2254764A (en) * | 1938-12-03 | 1941-09-02 | Underwood Elliott Fisher Co | Typewriting machine |
US2383256A (en) * | 1943-07-03 | 1945-08-21 | Royal Typewriter Co Inc | Typewriting machine |
US2407195A (en) * | 1944-02-17 | 1946-09-03 | Ibm | Typewriting machine |
DE921627C (en) * | 1948-02-03 | 1954-12-23 | Royal Typewriter Co Inc | Power drive device for typewriters u. like |
-
0
- NL NL89962D patent/NL89962C/xx active
- DE DENDAT1074598D patent/DE1074598B/en active Pending
-
1954
- 1954-01-04 US US402015A patent/US2812048A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1954-12-28 FR FR1120526D patent/FR1120526A/en not_active Expired
-
1955
- 1955-01-04 GB GB191/55A patent/GB768468A/en not_active Expired
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US869526A (en) * | 1906-10-05 | 1907-10-29 | Williams Typewriter Company | Type-writer mechanism. |
US1202878A (en) * | 1914-09-28 | 1916-10-31 | William H Waller | Power-driven type-writer. |
US1199824A (en) * | 1915-11-06 | 1916-10-03 | Mercedes Bureau Maschinen Ges M B H | Type-writing machine. |
US1395600A (en) * | 1920-01-31 | 1921-11-01 | A corpora | |
US1737439A (en) * | 1925-06-12 | 1929-11-26 | Underwood Elliott Fisher Co | Typewriting machine |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3373857A (en) * | 1966-03-29 | 1968-03-19 | Litton Business Systems Inc | Mechanism for power operating type actions both to and from the printing point |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB768468A (en) | 1957-02-20 |
DE1074598B (en) | 1960-02-04 |
FR1120526A (en) | 1956-07-09 |
NL89962C (en) |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US2812048A (en) | Rotating drum typewriting machine | |
US3353647A (en) | Electric typewriter with type mounted on flexible comb | |
US3919933A (en) | High speed printer | |
US3128694A (en) | Print hammer mechanism | |
US2478630A (en) | Power-operated printing machine | |
US2643753A (en) | Electric typewriter | |
US3623587A (en) | Type action drive | |
US3715978A (en) | Printer hammer mechanism | |
US3364852A (en) | High-speed print drum with traveling print hammer | |
US3648602A (en) | Parallel input printing mechanism | |
US3493091A (en) | Print head shift mechanism | |
US3528368A (en) | Device for initiation of the printing action on a high-speed printer | |
US3103272A (en) | Power action for typewriter | |
US710089A (en) | Type-writing machine. | |
US2905301A (en) | Cam operated code setup mechanism | |
US3026984A (en) | Syllabic typewriting machine | |
US3773162A (en) | Document card transport mechanism | |
US1614473A (en) | Power-operated typewriter | |
US2267915A (en) | Typewriting machine | |
US3817366A (en) | Keyboard controlled encoding mechanism | |
US3643596A (en) | High-speed in-line printer | |
US3665852A (en) | High speed front impact printer | |
US3179226A (en) | Impression control mechanism | |
US1579151A (en) | Typewriting machine with power drive | |
US2988987A (en) | High speed printing mechanism |