Single input controller for a communication system

Abstract

Abstract A communication system for the handicapped having a single-input transducer or switch and a dual output for operation of an office machine, typewriter or the like, or a display, or a punched or magnetic storage device, as well as almost any material where data or information is to be stored, printed, displayed, or otherwise used, e.g., through a device which may be a matrix. In a ''''Hold'''' embodiment, upon the first actuation of the input switch, a stepping switch is stepped to provide the first coordinate of the matrix. When the switch is deactivated, the stepping switch stops at a desired row, and a second stepping switch automatically moves to the desired column. Upon reactivation of the input switch, the second stepping switch stops at the desired column, and signals are sent out through the matrix to initiate activation of an element or elements. The activated element or elements may cause a letter on a typewriter to be typed or a lamp to light which displays a symbol, letter, or function, or any combinations thereof. Whereupon, the stepping switches are reset and the system is ready to accept other signals. In a ''''No-Hold'''' embodiment of the invention, upon a first actuation of the input switch, the row stepping switch commences to step. Upon a second actuation of the input switch, the row stepping switch stops at the desired row, and at the same time a column stepping switch automatically starts stepping along the matrix. When the desired column is reached, the input switch is actuated a third time, and a signal is fed to actuate an element in the matrix to type a letter, etc.

Inventors

• 👤 H Kafafian

Bibliographic Details