GB945033A - Reading apparatus for the blind - Google Patents

Abstract

945,033. Teaching the blind. ORYX TRADING A. S. March 18,1960, No. 9797/60. Heading G5G. Reading apparatus for the blind conforming to the braille system comprises a casing 10, a reading platform 16 through which one or more rows of pins arranged according to the position of the Braille code may be projected according to the data recorded as conductive ink areas on a sheet 15 placed on a flat platten 13 movable stepwise in a line spacing direction under a contact carrier 98. A motor 64 drives a shaft 66 engaged by the carrier 98 to traverse it so that a contactor 106 may scan contacts 114,116 of a rail 112 which is held in contact with the row of data on the sheet 15. Signals from the contactor 106 are passed through an amplifier 120 to a contact pin 121 which runs over a rail 124 in synchronism with the contacter 106 traversing the rail 112. Segments of the rail 124 are connected to solenoids 125 which actuate reading pins 18, according to the data sensed, which are then held elevated. Thus the line of data sensed is set up in Braille code by the row of pins 18 the projection of which can be adjusted by raising or lowering the platform 16 by cams 78 operated by a knob 20. Depression of a knob 21 through a rod 40 closes contacts 60 to start the motor 64, operates an arm 44 to effect escapement of a pawl and rack 48, 50 to line space the platen 13, and by an arm 133, moves the rod 130 to cause fingers 129 to restore pins 18 operated in the previously scanned line. The carrier 98 is engaged alternatively with right and left threads on the shaft 66 as it reaches the end thereof to cause it to traverse backwards and forwards and at the left-hand end a finger 104 opens contacts 105 to stop the motor. If desired two or more sets of pins 18 operated alternately may be provided in which case stopping means are provided at each end of the shaft 66 and depression of the knob 21 is arranged to be effected on each set alternately. Correct positioning of the sheet 15 can be effected by a knob 140. When sensed, with the sheet 15 in the correct position, contacts 136 operate a buzzer 138 while a finger 92 indicates the line being sensed.