US4107784A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Management control terminal method and apparatus
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1975-12-22
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Granted: 1978-08-15
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Expires: 1995-12-22
Abstract
Abstract Management control terminal method and apparatus are provided in which the management control terminal as a whole is divided into two sections, namely, a custom application module (CAM) and a central master unit (CMU) which can be plugged together to form a CAM-CMU set having particular attributes uniquely adapted for conveniently performing a particular management function. The CMU contains local computing ability and local storage ability and can communicate with peripheral equipment and with a main centralized computer for updating the computer from time-to-time, and the CAM determines the nature of the CMU thereby converting the management control terminal as a whole into one which is especially adapted or customized for a particular application. The CAM has a keyboard layout and key functions arranged for the convenience of the user in applying the terminal to a particular task; the CAM contains an application program which controls the operation of the CMU to customize its operation to that particular task by automatically processing the data in a way suited to that task; in addition, the application program flashes prompting instructions on a screen reminding the user of the sequence of steps to be followed for performing the task and introducing the user as to the next data to be entered into the keyboard. When the CAM is unplugged and replaced by another CAM, the terminal as a whole is now converted into one which is dedicated to and conveniently arranged for performing another management control function, and thus the user obtains the benefits of having a specialized computer customized to a particular management control function at a low cost for planning or operations systems.
Inventors
- 👤 Henri M. Van Bemmelen
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-24 09:10
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06F; G06F15/00; G06F15/76; G06F15/80; G06F15/8007; G06F3/00; G06F3/01; G06F3/048; G06F3/0487; G06F3/0489
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 28
Claim 1
Independent Claim
418 words
Management control terminal apparatus specifically adaptable to a particular management application comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. an upstanding back and a low front portion projecting forward from the lower portion of said upstanding back; b. said low front portion having a support deck thereon; c. input/output means for connection to other equipment; d. data memory means for storing data and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; e. read out display means with a display screen positioned in said upstanding back portion for displaying data; f. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus being adapted to be removably mounted upon said support deck in a predetermined position thereon with said second electrical connector means mating with said first electrical connector means when said second section is mounted in said predetermined position on said deck, said second section including: g. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; h. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering particular data as instructed by said prompting means to be in proper order for that particular management application; i. application program memory means pre-programmed for that particular management application for controlling the operation of said terminal apparatus to perform that particular management application; j. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application program memory means; whereby when said second section is mounted upon said support deck of said first section with said first and second electrical connector means mated together, said management control terminal apparatus has a keyboard which is conveniently arranged for use in performing a particular management application, and the terminal apparatus is operationally and functionally completed and specifically adapted for conveniently carrying out that particular management application.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
418 words
Management control terminal apparatus specifically adaptable to a particular management application comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. an upstanding back and a low front portion projecting forward from the lower portion of said upstanding back; b. said low front portion having a support deck thereon; c. input/output means for connection to other equipment; d. data memory means for storing data and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; e. read out display means with a display screen positioned in said upstanding back portion for displaying data; f. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus being adapted to be removably mounted upon said support deck in a predetermined position thereon with said second electrical connector means mating with said first electrical connector means when said second section is mounted in said predetermined position on said deck, said second section including: g. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; h. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering particular data as instructed by said prompting means to be in proper order for that particular management application; i. application program memory means pre-programmed for that particular management application for controlling the operation of said terminal apparatus to perform that particular management application; j. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application program memory means; whereby when said second section is mounted upon said support deck of said first section with said first and second electrical connector means mated together, said management control terminal apparatus has a keyboard which is conveniently arranged for use in performing a particular management application, and the terminal apparatus is operationally and functionally completed and specifically adapted for conveniently carrying out that particular management application.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
56 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which: said support deck has detachable fastening means associated therewith for mechanically engaging said second section when said second section is placed in predetermined location upon said support deck for producing the mating engagement of the second electrical connector means with the first electrical connector means.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
387 words
Management control terminal apparatus specifically adaptable to a particular management application comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. a keyboard having a plurality of blank keys; b. a plurality of light means arranged in a predetermined pattern; c. input/output means for connection to other equipment; d. data memory means for storing data and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; e. read out display means with a display screen positioned in said first section for displaying data; f. said first section having a receptacle and said first detachable connector means communicating with said receptacle; g. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means, said light means, said keyboard and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus being adapted to be removably inserted into said receptacle and having said second detachable connector means positioned thereon for mating with said first connector means when said second section is inserted into said receptacle, said second section of the terminal apparatus including: h. first overlay means adapted to be placed on the keyboard in a predetermined position with respect thereto; i. second first overlay means having predetermined regions adapted to extend between respective predetermined keys of the keyboard with indicia on said regions aligned with the respective keys for identifying to a user the functions being assigned to the respective keys by said second section; j. second overlay means adapted to be placed over said plurality of light means in a predetermined position with respect to said light means; k. said second overlay means having transparent windows containing predetermined prompting messages adapted to overlie the respective light means for flashing various prompting messages for prompting the user in the correct use of the keyboard for entering particular data in the order as required for that particular management application;
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
387 words
Management control terminal apparatus specifically adaptable to a particular management application comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. a keyboard having a plurality of blank keys; b. a plurality of light means arranged in a predetermined pattern; c. input/output means for connection to other equipment; d. data memory means for storing data and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; e. read out display means with a display screen positioned in said first section for displaying data; f. said first section having a receptacle and said first detachable connector means communicating with said receptacle; g. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means, said light means, said keyboard and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus being adapted to be removably inserted into said receptacle and having said second detachable connector means positioned thereon for mating with said first connector means when said second section is inserted into said receptacle, said second section of the terminal apparatus including: h. first overlay means adapted to be placed on the keyboard in a predetermined position with respect thereto; i. second first overlay means having predetermined regions adapted to extend between respective predetermined keys of the keyboard with indicia on said regions aligned with the respective keys for identifying to a user the functions being assigned to the respective keys by said second section; j. second overlay means adapted to be placed over said plurality of light means in a predetermined position with respect to said light means; k. said second overlay means having transparent windows containing predetermined prompting messages adapted to overlie the respective light means for flashing various prompting messages for prompting the user in the correct use of the keyboard for entering particular data in the order as required for that particular management application;
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
91 words
predetermined specific application memory means for that particular management application for controlling the operation of said terminal apparatus to perform that particular management application; m. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said second section is inserted into said receptacle with said first and second connector means mated together and with said first and second overlay means in said predetermined positions will said terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for that particular management application.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
91 words
predetermined specific application memory means for that particular management application for controlling the operation of said terminal apparatus to perform that particular management application; m. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said second section is inserted into said receptacle with said first and second connector means mated together and with said first and second overlay means in said predetermined positions will said terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for that particular management application.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
127 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 3, in which: said keyboard is positioned on said first section on one side of said receptacle; said plurality of light means are positioned on said first section on the other side of said receptacle; said first section has a central portion adapted to be inserted into said receptacle; and said first and second overlay means are hinged to opposite sides of said central portion for swinging said first and second overlay means into their respective predetermined overlay positions when said central portion is inserted into said receptacle and for swinging said first and second overlay means against opposite sides of said central portion when said central portion has been removed from said receptacle for providing a compact configuration.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
363 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: e. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; f. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; g. application memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application; h. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said first and second sections are mated together in operative relationship will said management control terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for use in conveniently carrying out said particular management application.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
363 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: e. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; f. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; g. application memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application; h. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said first and second sections are mated together in operative relationship will said management control terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for use in conveniently carrying out said particular management application.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
93 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 5, in which: said second section includes error display means for indicating to a human operator that transactional data has been incorrectly entered on said keyboard, and said application memory means also contains error determining data defining predetermined correct characteristic limitations of the transactional data normally associated with said particular management application for causing said microprocessor means to actuate said error display means to indicate that an error has occurred whenever the operator deviates from said predetermined characteristic limitations during the entry of transactional data.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
123 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 5, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field, and said application memory means also contains conversion data for causing said microprocessor means automatically to convert the transactional data which has been entered corresponding with at least one field of each line of said record format into revised data appropriate for the particular management application.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
184 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 5, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field and for operating in a search mode, and said keyboard includes at least one key for identifying a field of each line to be searched, and said application memory means in said second section also contains search data for causing said microprocessor means when in said search mode to search through and retrieve the transactional data which has been stored in said data memory means corresponding to a predetermined identifying field of each line of said record format, and for causing said microprocessors means to sequentially display on said read out display means the retrieved transactional data associated with such predetermined identifying field in the respective lines.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
194 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 5, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field and for operating in a total mode, and said keyboard includes at least one key for identifying a field of each line with respect to which the stored transactional data identified by such field is to be totalized, and said application memory means in said second section also contains totalizing data for causing said microprocessor means when in said total mode to search through, retrieve, accumulate and totalize the transactional data which has been stored in said data memory means corresponding to a predetermined identified field of each line, and for causing said microprocessor means to display on said read out display means the totalized transactional data associated with such predetermined identified field in the respective lines.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
365 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for varous particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to peripheral devices of said terminal apparatus; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: d. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; e. read out display means for displaying data; f. prompting means for promoting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboa4rd for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; g. application memory means containing application data defining particular processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means corresponding to predetermined processing of said transactional data as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in carrying out said particular management application; h. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said read out display means, said prompting means, and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said first and second sections are mated together in operative relationship will said management control terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for conveniently carrying out said particular management application.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
365 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for varous particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to peripheral devices of said terminal apparatus; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: d. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; e. read out display means for displaying data; f. prompting means for promoting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboa4rd for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; g. application memory means containing application data defining particular processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means corresponding to predetermined processing of said transactional data as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in carrying out said particular management application; h. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said read out display means, said prompting means, and said application memory means; whereby only when and if said first and second sections are mated together in operative relationship will said management control terminal apparatus be completed and specifically adapted for conveniently carrying out said particular management application.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
93 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 10, in which: said second section includes error display means for indicating to a human operator that transactional data has been incorrectly entered on said keyboard, and said application memory means also contains error determining data defining predetermined correct characteristic limitations of the transactional data normally associated with said particular management application for causing said microprocessor means to actuate said error display means to indicate that an error has occurred whenever the operator deviates from said predetermined characteristic limitations during the entry of transactional data.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
123 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 10, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field, and said application memory means also contains conversion data for causing said microprocessor means automatically to convert the transactional data which has been entered corresponding with at least one field of each line of said record format into revised data appropriate for the particular management application.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
184 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 10, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field and for operating in a search mode, and said keyboard includes at least one key for identifying a field of each line to be searched, and said application memory means in said second section also contains search data for causing said microprocessor means when in said search mode to search through and retrieve the transactional data which has been stored in said data memory means corresponding to a predetermined identifying field of each line of said record format, and for causing said microprocessors means to sequentially display on said read out display means the retrieved transactional data associated with such predetermined identifying field in the respective lines.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
194 words
Management control terminal apparatus as claimed in claim 10, in which: said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for handling formatted transactional data to be entered in accordance with a predetermined record format having a plurality of lines of transactional data with predetermined fields in each line and with a predetermined number of characters in each field and for handling non-formatted transactional data having an unpredetermined number of characters per field and for operating in a total mode, and said keyboard includes at least one key for identifying a field of each line with respect to which the stored transactional data identified by such field is to be totalized, and said application memory means in said second section also contains totalizing data for causing said microprocessor means when in said total mode to search through, retrieve, accumulate and totalize the transactional data which has been stored in said data memory means corresponding to a predetermined identified field of each line, and for causing said microprocessor means to display on said read out display means the totalized transactional data associated with such predetermined identified field in the respective lines.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
358 words
Terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing trasactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: e. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; f. application memory means including random access memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said mircoprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular application; g. said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for operating in a program mode for changing application data contained in said random access memory means, h. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering into said random access memory means revised application data as required in proper order for establishing a revised application program, and i. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
358 words
Terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing trasactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: e. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; f. application memory means including random access memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said mircoprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular application; g. said second section includes manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for operating in a program mode for changing application data contained in said random access memory means, h. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering into said random access memory means revised application data as required in proper order for establishing a revised application program, and i. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
402 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to peripheral devices of said terminal apparatus; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus, and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. random access memory means in which variable data factors can be stored, e. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means, said random access memory means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: f. a keyboard arranged for convenience use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; g. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; h. application memory means containing application data defining particular processing of said transactional data and defining particular processing of said variable data factors to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in carrying out said particular management application; i. manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for changing the variable data factors stored in said random access memory means through use of said keyboard; j. lock means which normally prevents use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means; and k. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, said lock means and said application memory means.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
402 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to peripheral devices of said terminal apparatus; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus, and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. random access memory means in which variable data factors can be stored, e. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means, said random access memory means and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: f. a keyboard arranged for convenience use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; g. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; h. application memory means containing application data defining particular processing of said transactional data and defining particular processing of said variable data factors to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in carrying out said particular management application; i. manually adjustable control means for preparing the terminal apparatus for changing the variable data factors stored in said random access memory means through use of said keyboard; j. lock means which normally prevents use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means; and k. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, said lock means and said application memory means.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
388 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. random access memory means in which variable data factors can be stored; e. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said random access memory means, and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: f. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; g. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application and for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means, h. application memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application and for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means; and i. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
388 words
Management control terminal apparatus adaptable for various particular management applications comprising: first and second sections which are detachable and separatable one from the other, said sections being matable together in operative relationship for forming said management control terminal apparatus; said first and second sections having respective first and second mating detachable electrical connector means for electrically interconnecting said first and second sections to complete said management control terminal apparatus when said sections are mated together in operative relationship; said first section of the terminal apparatus including: a. input/output means for connection to other equipment; b. data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; c. read out display means for displaying data; d. random access memory means in which variable data factors can be stored; e. first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said random access memory means, and said first detachable connector means; said second section of the terminal apparatus including: f. a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to that particular management application; g. prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application and for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means, h. application memory means containing application data defining particular predetermined processing of said transactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application and for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering variable data factors into said random access memory means; and i. second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable connector means, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means.
Claim 27
Independent Claim
364 words
The method of providing a management control terminal which is specifically adaptable for a number of different management control tasks, comprising the steps of: providing a first section of the terminal having a first detachable electrical connector, said first section of the terminal apparatus including: input/output means for connection to other equipment; data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; read out display means for displaying data; first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable electrical connector; providing a plurality of second sections of the terminal each having a second detachable electrical connector, each respective second detachable electrical connector being engageable with said first electrical connector, each second section of the terminal apparatus including: a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application different from the particular management application conveniently performed by a keyboard in another of said second sections, said keyboard in each second section being useable for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to the respective particular management application for which the respective second section is conveniently useable, prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the respective particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; application memory means contaning application data defining particular predetermined processing of said trasactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application; and second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable electrical connector, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means; whereby said management control terminal can be completed and specifically adapted for use in conveniently carrying out various particular management applications.
Claim 28
Independent Claim
364 words
The method of providing a management control terminal which is specifically adaptable for a number of different management control tasks, comprising the steps of: providing a first section of the terminal having a first detachable electrical connector, said first section of the terminal apparatus including: input/output means for connection to other equipment; data memory means for storing transactional data which has been entered by a user of the terminal apparatus and microprocessor means for sequencing the operation of the terminal apparatus; read out display means for displaying data; first circuit means for carrying data connected to said data memory means and microprocessor means, said input/output means, said read out display means and said first detachable electrical connector; providing a plurality of second sections of the terminal each having a second detachable electrical connector, each respective second detachable electrical connector being engageable with said first electrical connector, each second section of the terminal apparatus including: a keyboard arranged for convenient use in performing a particular management application different from the particular management application conveniently performed by a keyboard in another of said second sections, said keyboard in each second section being useable for entering transactional data into said memory means relating to the respective particular management application for which the respective second section is conveniently useable, prompting means for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard for entering the respective particular transactional data as required in proper order for that particular management application; application memory means contaning application data defining particular predetermined processing of said trasactional data to be carried out by said microprocessor means as required for said particular management application, said application memory means also containing prompting sequence data defining the particular sequence in which said microprocessor is to operate said prompting means as required for prompting a human operator in the correct use of the keyboard in carrying out said particular management application; and second circuit means for carrying data connected to said second detachable electrical connector, said keyboard, said prompting means, and said application memory means; whereby said management control terminal can be completed and specifically adapted for use in conveniently carrying out various particular management applications.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1981-08-14 | 1982-02-13 | 1982-08-15 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1985-08-14 | 1986-02-13 | 1986-08-15 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1989-08-14 | 1990-02-13 | 1990-08-15 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |