Patent GB-1304360-A (GB)
IPC: G06C7/06
Filed: 1969-12-22
Abstract: 1304360 Cash registers; calculating machines GROSS CASH REGISTERS Ltd 9 Dec 1970 [22 Dec 1969] 62227/69 Headings G4B and G4T Apparatus such as a mechanical or electrical cash register or calculating machine includes a keyboard wherein at least two of the columns have keys operable both to enter values into, and effect cycling of, the apparatus, one of these columns being arranged to enter a series of whole numbers, e.g. 1 to 9 while the other column is arranged to enter the same numbers either plus a fraction, e.g. 1¢ to 9¢ or plus a higher order number, e.g. 11 to 19. Visual indicator elements are actuated by the depression of the keys, a common element being actuated by either of the keys for entering the same whole number. The apparatus also includes at least one column of non-cycling keys. In the embodiment of Fig. 1 the keyboard is for use with the English decimal monetary system and includes a single halfpenny key which also effects cycling, a common halfpenny indicator element being actuated by the keys 1¢ to 9¢ and the single halfpenny key. A dollar keyboard is also described (Fig. 6, not shown) in which the "10" key of the 10 to 90 column is a cycling key. Other keys are provided for various functions, e.g. "List" key 15A for cycling the apparatus, key I to IX for different types of merchandise, "X" key for sub-totals, "Z" key for clearing totals and Amount Tendered key "A/T" which when depressed with key 15A causes the machine to cycle twice and compute the change required. A table indicating which keys must be depressed for certain functions of the apparatus is shown in Fig. 7 (not reproduced). Operation.-The key stems 16 carry magnets 24 which actuate reed switches 25 sending signals to the calculator through connector 28. The calculator comprises a function decoder containing the equivalent of the table Fig. 7, arithmetic unit, ferrite store, store control and result buffer (see Fig. 5, not reproduced). The keyboard is continuously scanned for a live key (Fig. 9, not shown), and when a scan is completed including a live key a signal is sent to initiate an operating cycle of three scans, the first detecting from the depressed keys which functions are to be performed, scan 2 performing the arithmetical computations and scan 3 providing signals for the indication of the required information (see also the table Fig. 8, not shown). Indicators.-The indicator elements (Figs. 2 to 4, not shown) comprise ciphered drums geared (45), (47) each drum (45) geared to a toothed disc (64). During a cycle of operation a solenoid (103) controlled by the function decoder effects the return to zero and subsequent rotation of a drum. Synchronized to the movement of each drum is a timing disc (151) which generates a signal as each character is displayed, these signals being counted by timing counter (152A), (Fig. 5, not shown), and the number compared with that in the result buffer, a solenoid (109) being actuated to arrest the toothed disc (64) when the required number is displayed.  Printing.-Geared to each drum (45) is a print wheel (49). When the function performed is such that a ticket is required the function decoder sends a signal through ticket driver (33) to solenoid (172) which serves to effect one cycle of the printing mechanism (Fig. 11, not shown) by clutching cams (182), (183) to driven shaft (178), the cams operating various levers to print the required information on the wheels (49) on a ticket and to issue the ticket.