EP1046517B1 - Device to reproduce writing - Google Patents

Device to reproduce writing Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1046517B1
EP1046517B1 EP00401094A EP00401094A EP1046517B1 EP 1046517 B1 EP1046517 B1 EP 1046517B1 EP 00401094 A EP00401094 A EP 00401094A EP 00401094 A EP00401094 A EP 00401094A EP 1046517 B1 EP1046517 B1 EP 1046517B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pantograph
reproducing machine
memory
lever
branches
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EP00401094A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1046517A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Jacques Regnault
Jean-Paul Regnault
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Signascript
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B43—WRITING OR DRAWING IMPLEMENTS; BUREAU ACCESSORIES
    • B43L—ARTICLES FOR WRITING OR DRAWING UPON; WRITING OR DRAWING AIDS; ACCESSORIES FOR WRITING OR DRAWING
    • B43L13/00—Drawing instruments, or writing or drawing appliances or accessories not otherwise provided for
    • B43L13/10—Pantographic instruments for copying, enlarging, or diminishing
    • 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
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/485—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters or image elements applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes
    • B41J2/49—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters or image elements applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes by writing

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a writing reproduction machine intended to bring a special personalization to automated mail by ensuring reproduction with an ink pen designer, for example, of signatures, initials, even polite expressions.
  • the invention relates more particularly to a reproduction machine pantograph writing and aims to improve the control system of this pantograph.
  • pantograph writing reproduction machines There are several known pantograph writing reproduction machines. Such a system is generally considered preferable, for this use, to that of a plotter operating in X-Y, relatively slow when it comes to reproduce irregular curves such as those encountered in handwriting and / or signature.
  • the French patent FR-A-2 420 437 describes a pantograph with two branches each comprising two articulated end-to-end and joined by a joint in the vicinity to which is attached the tracer element which can be constituted by a simple ink pen.
  • the mechanism is provided with feelers arranged to follow the edges of an endless flexible ribbon which constitutes a sort of cam command for execution of signatures. Scrolling the tape conditions the movement of each probe and consequently of each branch of the pantograph.
  • the endless ribbon is replaced by a circular wooden tray with an ornate outline to control the movements of the two branches of the pantograph and therefore the path of the tracer element.
  • the ribbon or the circular tray or more generally the element constituting the control cam is representative of a signature given.
  • the development of such an element requires complicated operations and costly.
  • the invention makes it possible to solve all these problems by proposing a motorization of the pantograph.
  • the invention relates to a reproduction machine of writing, in particular of signature, of the type comprising a pantograph bearing a tracer element such as a stylographer or the like, characterized in that two branches of said pantograph are respectively provided with axes of maneuver coupled to respective rotary drive means, electrically controlled and in that it further comprises means for control of said drive means, capable of delivering information electrics representative of a predetermined handwritten plot.
  • the pantograph can have two branches with two articulated elements joined by a joint in the vicinity of which is attached said tracer element.
  • the two ends of these two branches are respectively provided with the aforementioned operating axes, driven by two electric motors.
  • stepper motors are used ordered in open loop.
  • motors can also be used. direct current controlled in position by optical encoder or the like or contactless motors slaved in the same way.
  • each motor is coupled to an operating axis correspondent of the pantograph by a reducing mechanism.
  • This mechanism reducer can for example consist of a worm screw fixed to the shaft of the motor and a pinion or toothed sector secured to the operating axis.
  • Other reducers can be used, for example with toothed belts or gears, this list not being exhaustive. We can also consider remove reducers using high torque motors, in gear direct on each operating axis.
  • the control means advantageously include a memory in which is stored representative information of trips synchronized between the two motors. It is the reading and decoding of information registered in this memory, in a predetermined order and at the rate of a clock, which controls the movement of the two motors and therefore the movement of the stylographer carried by the end of the pantograph.
  • Memory therefore advantageously replaces the cam system previously used.
  • the memory can be a preprogrammed read only memory and contain information to reconstruct, for example, both a signature and an appropriate support formula.
  • Packaging in form of a read only memory is advantageous insofar as this can easily be integrated into a removable module that can be replaced by another similar module containing information representative of another route predetermined, namely another signature and / or another formula.
  • Memory also contains information to control the lifting of the pantograph so that the pen is not always in contact with the sheet of paper, if necessary for the desired reproduction.
  • the pantograph has a lifting lever made up of several articulated elements, the lever being controlled by an electric actuator such as a motor or a electromagnet associated with a cam.
  • the cam operates the lever, which is attached to the two aforementioned branches of the pantograph, preferably at the point of articulation of these two branches.
  • the writing machine 11 illustrated in the drawings comprises a pantograph 13 carrying a tracer element 14 in this case a fountain pen.
  • This pantograph evolves over a flat surface 15 on which one can put a sheet of paper 16.
  • Processing mechanisms of known sheets can be adapted to successively present the documents to initial on this surface. These mechanisms are not part of the invention and will therefore not be described in detail.
  • the pantograph shown here is a pantograph with two branches 19a, 19b, additionally provided with a lifting lever 22.
  • Each branch has two rectilinear elements articulated end-to-end.
  • the branch 19a comprises a first element 23a connected by a hinge 24a to a second element 25a which carries at its other end a support 29 capable of receiving the stylographer 14.
  • the other branch has a first element 23b similar to that (23a) of branch 19a and a second element 25b connected to the first element 23b, by a hinge 24b.
  • the other end of the second element 25b is connected to the second element 25a of the branch 19a by a hinge 28 located near the stylograph support 29.
  • each branch is further provided with an axis of operation 30a, 30b, more particularly an axis extending perpendicular to the corresponding branch and secured to the end of the first element 23a or 23b opposite the articulation 24a or 24b.
  • axes of maneuver are respectively coupled to drive means in separate rotation 32a, 32b, electrically controlled.
  • the machine is supplemented by control means 33 of these drive means, suitable to deliver electrical information representative of a handwritten trace predetermined.
  • the drive means include two electric motors 34a, 34b respectively mechanically coupled to the two maneuvering axes 30a, 30b mentioned above via, in the example described, a corresponding reduction mechanism 35a, 35b.
  • a reducing mechanism here comprises a worm screw 36 fixed to the end of the motor shaft and a toothed sector 37, forming a pinion, integral with the operating axis.
  • the axis of rotation of the toothed sector coincides with the axis above-mentioned maneuver.
  • the two motors are here advantageously motors step-by-step which have the advantage of being able to be ordered in a loop open in one direction or the other with great precision in position and displacement.
  • a tension spring 39 is pre-stressed between the elements 23a, 23b, for catching up.
  • the lifting lever 22 has several rectilinear elements articulated end-to-end.
  • the element 40 is mounted on a pivot 41 so as to be able tilt in a plane perpendicular to the flat surface 15 on which we place the piece of paper.
  • One of its ends is in contact with a cam 42 driven by a motor 43. This one turns half a turn each time it receives a control pulse, which has the effect of placing the cam in two possible positions and therefore to tilt the element 40 towards either of two possible positions.
  • the other end of this element is connected by a hinge 44 to a second rectilinear element 45, itself connected by a hinge 46 to a third rectilinear element 47.
  • the end opposite of the latter is attached to the two branches 19a, 19b of the pantograph at the junction point of the two elements 25a, 25b located near the support 29 for stylographer.
  • the purpose of this arrangement is to support the branches of the pantograph and therefore the stylographer by holding the latter at a certain height above the flat surface in case of non-writing and in letting it rest on it, and therefore on the paper surface in case writing.
  • Joints 44 and 46 have perpendicular pins to elements 40, 45 and 47 constituting the lifting lever 22.
  • Figures 2 to 4 show better the structure of the branches, the articulations between their elements, their attachment and their junction with the lifting lever 22.
  • the articulation 24a which connects the elements 23a and 25a is a ball joint.
  • Ball 50a is retained in a hole through element 25a and is partially engaged in a smaller hole of element 23a by being urged to bear on the perimeter of this hole by a leaf spring 52a fixed to a small column integral with the element 23a.
  • the spring itself has a hole in which the ball 52a is partially engaged.
  • the assembly is the same for the articulation 24b which connects the elements 23b and 25b.
  • the spring has a hole in which the ball is partially engaged.
  • the elements 25a and 25b meet at the joint 28 made up of two tubular sliding rings 54, 55, shouldered, coaxial.
  • the rings are of different diameters and engaged one inside the other.
  • the ring 55 of larger diameter is mounted in a hole in the element 25a while the ring 54 of smaller diameter is mounted in a hole in element 25b.
  • the two rings are assembled by a screw 56 axially passing through the ring 54 and protruding upward.
  • a nut 57 and a washer 58 hold the two rings one inside the other around the screw.
  • a leaf spring 60 is mounted between a support 62 and the articulation 28.
  • the support 62 is itself installed on the element 23a by means of a small ball bearing 64.
  • the spring ends, on the side of the joint 28, with a fork which bears on washer 58.
  • the force that the spring is likely to exert on the joint 28 is adjusted by a button screw 66 mounted on the support 62 and of which the end is supported on the spring.
  • the upper part of the mounting screw 56 is surrounded by a sleeve 68 of electrically insulating material.
  • This sleeve is topped with a nut metal 70 (screwed onto screw 56) forming an electrical contact stop at adjustable positioning.
  • the end of element 47 of the lifting lever has a hole through which it is attached to joint 28. More particularly, the screw 56 and the sleeve 68 pass through the hole; a ring game sufficient is provided to allow the lever to occupy two possible positions compared to the pantograph.
  • the elements of the lever and those of the pantograph are electrically conductive material (typically metallic) with the exception of sleeve 68.
  • the pantograph is electrically isolated from the rest of the machine so that electrical contact between said lever and said pantograph is or is not established according to the position of the lever 22.
  • the stylographer (not shown) is assumed to be in contact with the sheet of paper while the element 47 occupies an intermediate position along the sleeve insulating. No electrical contact is made between the lever and the pantograph.
  • Figure 4 when the lever 22 is in the high position to raise the pen of the stylographer, an electrical contact is established between the element 47 and the nut 70. Such an electrical contact is therefore representative of a feather lift and exploited as such.
  • the end of element 47 has no other influence on the pantograph than lifting the stylographer in certain circumstances.
  • the pantograph places the stylograph in a predetermined position with regard to the flat surface and the lifting lever keeps the stylographer above this flat surface, without contact with the paper.
  • a reset procedure is implemented work to reposition the pantograph in this predetermined position after lifting the stylographer 14.
  • a program of displacement of the motors is implemented until an optical stop or mechanical is reached, indicating that the pantograph is in position for write again.
  • control means 33 comprise a memory M in which information representative of synchronized movements of the two motors 34a, 34b and also of the information representative of the actuation of the motor 43.
  • this memory M is a read only memory preprogrammed. It is here part of a removable module 75 capable of being connected to the other circuits of the control means 33, via a connector 76 suitable.
  • a given module 75 containing information representative of a particular signature, possibly accompanied by a suitable handwritten message can be quickly and at any moment replaced by another similar module containing information representative of another predetermined route consisting for example of another signature and / or other suitable handwritten formula.
  • the control means 33 comprise, in connection with this memory M, reading and decoding means symbolized here by a processor 78 associated with its program memory Mp, to read and decode information entered in read-only memory, in a predetermined order and to the rhythm of a clock H.
  • the processor is arranged to deliver three control signals, respectively applied to the inputs of three amplifiers 80, 81, 82 whose outputs are respectively connected to motors 34a, 34b and 43.
  • the signals delivered by the processor to the different amplifiers are simple impulses, positive or negative, appearing at predetermined times, relative to each other, as the memory is read dead M to the rhythm of the clock. These impulses translate into the displacement of the end of the pantograph carrying the stylograph to reproduce the desired formula and / or signature.
  • the motor 43 is controlled and the pen is lifted at the same time as the contact electric is established between the element 47 and the nut 70.
  • This contact information is taken into account and "monitored” by the processor while the pantograph moves stylograph to new recovery position writing. This position is for example read in the memory M.
  • the motor 43 is again commanded to lower the lever but the processor does not start reading the information contained in the memory M at the rhythm clock H that when the electrical contact disappears, indicating that the pen is actually in contact with the paper.
  • Optical sensors 81, 82, 83 respectively opposite parts detectable sectors 37 and lever 40 allow to account for effective positions of the pantograph branches and the lever.
  • a system using a scanner can be used to digitize the writing and position it in a corresponding space to the actual dimensions of the pantograph.
  • the writing is analyzed point by point and transformed into digital data which is memorized then transferred from the same way to an exploitable read-only memory. If the ROM is not removable, a reprogrammable read-only memory can be used.
  • the machine can be simplified.
  • the lifting lever can be removed if care is taken that the entire chassis is mounted with the possibility of tilting around an axis passing substantially through the center of gravity of the device. In these conditions, it is the entire device that pivots to raise or lower the stylographer when you want to write.
  • the lever can be removed if the support 29 is transformed to that it includes means making it possible to raise or lower the stylographer compared to the two branches of the pantograph.
  • a sliding device or “elevator” is mounted at the end of the pantograph and powered by a motor small electric vehicle with appropriate gear reduction to ensure up or down movement of the stylographer.
  • a long arm mounted in pendulum can be pressed on the underside of elements 25a, 25b of the pantograph, the arm being provided at its end with a rigid perpendicular rod long enough to cover the average displacement value of a pantograph.
  • a motor electric fitted with a cam, a screw or any other system which transforms a rotary movement in rectilinear movement.

Landscapes

  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)
  • Holo Graphy (AREA)
  • Photographic Developing Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Nitrogen And Oxygen Or Sulfur-Condensed Heterocyclic Ring Systems (AREA)
  • Optical Recording Or Reproduction (AREA)
  • Pens And Brushes (AREA)

Abstract

Machine comprises a pantograph (13) with an tracer element such as a fountain pen or similar. Two arms (30a, 30b) of the pantograph are coupled to rotation drives (32a, 32b) that are controlled electrically and also have a control mechanism (33) tha delivers electrical commands to the arms such that the pen follows the path of a predetermined manuscript or signature.

Description

L'invention se rapporte à une machine de reproduction d'écriture destinée à apporter au courrier automatisé une personnalisation particulière en assurant la reproduction avec un stylographe à encre, par exemple, de signatures, paraphes, voire de formules de politesse.The invention relates to a writing reproduction machine intended to bring a special personalization to automated mail by ensuring reproduction with an ink pen designer, for example, of signatures, initials, even polite expressions.

L'invention concerne plus particulièrement une machine de reproduction d'écriture à pantographe et vise un perfectionnement du système de commande de ce pantographe.The invention relates more particularly to a reproduction machine pantograph writing and aims to improve the control system of this pantograph.

On connaít plusieurs machines de reproduction d'écriture à pantographe. Un tel système est généralement considéré comme préférable, pour cet usage, à celui d'une table traçante fonctionnant en X-Y, relativement lent lorsqu'il s 'agit de reproduire des courbes irrégulières telles que celles qu'on rencontre dans une écriture manuscrite et/ou une signature.There are several known pantograph writing reproduction machines. Such a system is generally considered preferable, for this use, to that of a plotter operating in X-Y, relatively slow when it comes to reproduce irregular curves such as those encountered in handwriting and / or signature.

Dans le domaine des machines de ce genre, le brevet français FR-A-2 420 437 décrit un pantographe à deux branches comportant chacune deux éléments articulés bout-à-bout et se rejoignant par une articulation au voisinage de laquelle se trouve rattaché l'élément traceur qui peut être constitué par un simple stylo à encre. Le mécanisme est pourvu de palpeurs agencés pour suivre les bords d'un ruban souple sans fin qui constitue une sorte de came de commande pour l'exécution des signatures. Le défilement de la bande conditionne le déplacement de chaque palpeur et par conséquent de chaque branche du pantographe.In the field of machines of this kind, the French patent FR-A-2 420 437 describes a pantograph with two branches each comprising two articulated end-to-end and joined by a joint in the vicinity to which is attached the tracer element which can be constituted by a simple ink pen. The mechanism is provided with feelers arranged to follow the edges of an endless flexible ribbon which constitutes a sort of cam command for execution of signatures. Scrolling the tape conditions the movement of each probe and consequently of each branch of the pantograph.

Dans d'autres systèmes connus, le ruban sans fin est remplacé par un plateau circulaire en bois dont le contour est ouvragé pour commander les mouvements des deux branches du pantographe et par conséquent le trajet de l'élément traceur.In other known systems, the endless ribbon is replaced by a circular wooden tray with an ornate outline to control the movements of the two branches of the pantograph and therefore the path of the tracer element.

Bien entendu, le ruban ou le plateau circulaire ou plus généralement l'élément constituant la came de commande est représentatif d'une signature donnée. L'élaboration d'un tel élément nécessite des opérations compliquées et coûteuses. Of course, the ribbon or the circular tray or more generally the element constituting the control cam is representative of a signature given. The development of such an element requires complicated operations and costly.

De plus, on peut difficilement envisager avec un tel système de reproduire autre chose qu'une simple signature, comme par exemple une formule de politesse adéquate. Notamment, selon la nature du courrier, la formule d'accompagnement qui convient peut changer, ce qui, pour une même signature, peut nécessiter d'élaborer une pluralité de cames.In addition, it is difficult to envisage with such a system of reproducing something other than a simple signature, such as a formula of adequate politeness. In particular, depending on the nature of the mail, the formula of suitable support can change, which, for the same signature, may require developing a plurality of cams.

L'invention permet de résoudre tous ces problèmes en proposant une motorisation du pantographe.The invention makes it possible to solve all these problems by proposing a motorization of the pantograph.

Plus particulièrement, l'invention concerne une machine de reproduction d'écriture, notamment de signature, du type comportant un pantographe portant un élément traceur tel qu'un stylographe ou analogue, caractérisée en ce que deux branches dudit pantographe sont respectivement munies d'axes de manoeuvre couplés à des moyens d'entraínement en rotation respectifs, commandés électriquement et en ce qu'elle comporte en outre des moyens de pilotage desdits moyens d'entraínement, aptes à délivrer des informations électriques représentatives d'un tracé manuscrit prédéterminé.More particularly, the invention relates to a reproduction machine of writing, in particular of signature, of the type comprising a pantograph bearing a tracer element such as a stylographer or the like, characterized in that two branches of said pantograph are respectively provided with axes of maneuver coupled to respective rotary drive means, electrically controlled and in that it further comprises means for control of said drive means, capable of delivering information electrics representative of a predetermined handwritten plot.

Le pantographe peut comporter deux branches à deux éléments articulés se rejoignant par une articulation au voisinage de laquelle se trouve rattaché ledit élément traceur. Les deux extrémités de ces deux branches sont respectivement pourvues des axes de manoeuvre précités, entraínés par deux moteurs électriques. De préférence, on utilise des moteurs pas-à-pas commandés en boucle ouverte. Cependant, on peut aussi utiliser des moteurs à courant continu asservis en position par codeur optique ou analogue ou encore des moteurs sans contact asservis de la même manière.The pantograph can have two branches with two articulated elements joined by a joint in the vicinity of which is attached said tracer element. The two ends of these two branches are respectively provided with the aforementioned operating axes, driven by two electric motors. Preferably, stepper motors are used ordered in open loop. However, motors can also be used. direct current controlled in position by optical encoder or the like or contactless motors slaved in the same way.

De préférence, chaque moteur est couplé à un axe de manoeuvre correspondant du pantographe par un mécanisme réducteur. Ce mécanisme réducteur peut par exemple être constitué d'une vis sans fin fixé à l'arbre du moteur et d'un pignon ou secteur denté solidaire de l'axe de manoeuvre. D'autres réducteurs peuvent être utilisés, par exemple à courroies crantées ou engrenages, cette liste n'étant pas limitative. On peut aussi envisager de supprimer les réducteurs en utilisant des moteurs à grand couple, en prise directe sur chaque axe de manoeuvre. Preferably, each motor is coupled to an operating axis correspondent of the pantograph by a reducing mechanism. This mechanism reducer can for example consist of a worm screw fixed to the shaft of the motor and a pinion or toothed sector secured to the operating axis. Other reducers can be used, for example with toothed belts or gears, this list not being exhaustive. We can also consider remove reducers using high torque motors, in gear direct on each operating axis.

Les moyens de pilotage comportent avantageusement une mémoire dans laquelle sont enregistrées les informations représentatives de déplacements synchronisés des deux moteurs. C'est la lecture et le décodage des informations inscrites dans cette mémoire, dans un ordre prédéterminé et au rythme d'une horloge, qui commande le déplacement des deux moteurs et par conséquent le mouvement du stylographe porté par l'extrémité du pantographe. La mémoire remplace donc avantageusement le système de came utilisé antérieurement. La mémoire peut être une mémoire morte préprogrammée et renfermer des informations permettant de reconstituer, par exemple, à la fois une signature et une formule d'accompagnement appropriée. Le conditionnement sous forme d'une mémoire morte est avantageux dans la mesure où celle-ci peut facilement être intégrée à un module amovible susceptible d'être remplacé par un autre module semblable renfermant des informations représentatives d'un autre tracé prédéterminé, à savoir une autre signature et/ou une autre formule. La mémoire renferme aussi des informations permettant de commander le soulèvement du pantographe pour que le stylo ne soit pas toujours en contact avec la feuille de papier, si cela est nécessaire pour la reproduction désirée.The control means advantageously include a memory in which is stored representative information of trips synchronized between the two motors. It is the reading and decoding of information registered in this memory, in a predetermined order and at the rate of a clock, which controls the movement of the two motors and therefore the movement of the stylographer carried by the end of the pantograph. Memory therefore advantageously replaces the cam system previously used. The memory can be a preprogrammed read only memory and contain information to reconstruct, for example, both a signature and an appropriate support formula. Packaging in form of a read only memory is advantageous insofar as this can easily be integrated into a removable module that can be replaced by another similar module containing information representative of another route predetermined, namely another signature and / or another formula. Memory also contains information to control the lifting of the pantograph so that the pen is not always in contact with the sheet of paper, if necessary for the desired reproduction.

En effet, selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse, le pantographe comporte un levier de soulèvement constitué de plusieurs éléments articulés, le levier étant commandé par un actionneur électrique tel qu'un moteur ou un électro-aimant associé à une came. La came actionne le levier, lequel est rattaché aux deux branches précitées du pantographe, de préférence au point d'articulation de ces deux branches.According to another advantageous characteristic, the pantograph has a lifting lever made up of several articulated elements, the lever being controlled by an electric actuator such as a motor or a electromagnet associated with a cam. The cam operates the lever, which is attached to the two aforementioned branches of the pantograph, preferably at the point of articulation of these two branches.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages de celle-ci apparaítront plus clairement à la lumière de la description qui va suivre d'une machine de reproduction d'écriture conforme à son principe, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue générale de la machine dans laquelle les éléments mécaniques de celle-ci sont représentés vus de dessus, les composants électroniques étant représentés sous forme d'un schéma bloc ;
  • la figure 2 est une coupe II-II de la figure 1, le pantographe en position de fonctionnement ;
  • la figure 3 est une coupe III-III de la figure 1, et
  • la figure 4 est une coupe IV-IV de la figure 1, le stylographe étant relevé.
The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the following description of a writing reproduction machine in accordance with its principle, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
  • Figure 1 is a general view of the machine in which the mechanical elements thereof are shown seen from above, the electronic components being shown in the form of a block diagram;
  • Figure 2 is a section II-II of Figure 1, the pantograph in the operating position;
  • FIG. 3 is a section III-III of FIG. 1, and
  • Figure 4 is a section IV-IV of Figure 1, the stylograph being raised.

La machine de reproduction d'écriture 11 illustrée sur les dessins comporte un pantographe 13 portant un élément traceur 14 en l'occurrence un stylographe. Ce pantographe évolue au-dessus d'une surface plane 15 sur laquelle on peut poser une feuille de papier 16. Des mécanismes de traitement de feuilles connues peuvent être adaptés pour présenter successivement les documents à parapher sur cette surface. Ces mécanismes ne font pas partie de l'invention et ne seront donc pas décrits en détail.The writing machine 11 illustrated in the drawings comprises a pantograph 13 carrying a tracer element 14 in this case a fountain pen. This pantograph evolves over a flat surface 15 on which one can put a sheet of paper 16. Processing mechanisms of known sheets can be adapted to successively present the documents to initial on this surface. These mechanisms are not part of the invention and will therefore not be described in detail.

Le pantographe ici représenté est un pantographe à deux branches 19a, 19b, muni en outré d'un levier de soulèvement 22. Chaque branche comporte deux éléments rectilignes articulés bout-à-bout. Ainsi, la branche 19a comporte un premier élément 23a connecté par une articulation 24a à un second élément 25a qui porte à son autre extrémité un support 29 susceptible de recevoir le stylographe 14. L'autre branche comporte un premier élément 23b semblable à celui (23a) de la branche 19a et un second élément 25b connecté au premier élément 23b, par une articulation 24b. L'autre extrémité du second élément 25b est reliée au second élément 25a de la branche 19a par une articulation 28 située à proximité du support de stylographe 29. Ainsi, les deux branches 19a, 19b se rejoignent par l'articulation 28, laquelle se trouve au voisinage de l'élément traceur 14. Chaque branche est en outre munie d'un axe de manoeuvre 30a, 30b, plus particulièrement un axe s'étendant perpendiculairement à la branche correspondante et solidaire de l'extrémité du premier élément 23a ou 23b opposé à l'articulation 24a ou 24b. Ces axes de manoeuvre sont respectivement couplés à des moyens d'entraínement en rotation séparés 32a, 32b, commandés électriquement. La machine est complétée par des moyens de pilotage 33 de ces moyens d'entraínement, aptes à délivrer des informations électriques représentatives d'un tracé manuscrit prédéterminé. Plus précisément, les moyens d'entraínement comportent deux moteurs électriques 34a, 34b respectivement mécaniquement couplés aux deux axes de manoeuvre 30a, 30b précités par l'intermédiaire, dans l'exemple décrit, d'un mécanisme réducteur 35a, 35b correspondant. Un tel mécanisme réducteur comprend ici une vis sans fin 36 fixée à l'extrémité de l'arbre du moteur et un secteur denté 37, formant pignon, solidaire de l'axe de manoeuvre.The pantograph shown here is a pantograph with two branches 19a, 19b, additionally provided with a lifting lever 22. Each branch has two rectilinear elements articulated end-to-end. Thus, the branch 19a comprises a first element 23a connected by a hinge 24a to a second element 25a which carries at its other end a support 29 capable of receiving the stylographer 14. The other branch has a first element 23b similar to that (23a) of branch 19a and a second element 25b connected to the first element 23b, by a hinge 24b. The other end of the second element 25b is connected to the second element 25a of the branch 19a by a hinge 28 located near the stylograph support 29. Thus, the two branches 19a, 19b are joined by joint 28, which is in the vicinity of the tracer element 14. Each branch is further provided with an axis of operation 30a, 30b, more particularly an axis extending perpendicular to the corresponding branch and secured to the end of the first element 23a or 23b opposite the articulation 24a or 24b. These axes of maneuver are respectively coupled to drive means in separate rotation 32a, 32b, electrically controlled. The machine is supplemented by control means 33 of these drive means, suitable to deliver electrical information representative of a handwritten trace predetermined. More specifically, the drive means include two electric motors 34a, 34b respectively mechanically coupled to the two maneuvering axes 30a, 30b mentioned above via, in the example described, a corresponding reduction mechanism 35a, 35b. Such a reducing mechanism here comprises a worm screw 36 fixed to the end of the motor shaft and a toothed sector 37, forming a pinion, integral with the operating axis.

Dans l'exemple, l'axe de rotation du secteur denté est confondu avec l'axe de manoeuvre précité. Les deux moteurs sont ici avantageusement des moteurs pas-à-pas qui présentent l'avantage de pouvoir être commandés en boucle ouverte dans un sens ou dans l'autre avec une grande précision en position et déplacement.In the example, the axis of rotation of the toothed sector coincides with the axis above-mentioned maneuver. The two motors are here advantageously motors step-by-step which have the advantage of being able to be ordered in a loop open in one direction or the other with great precision in position and displacement.

Un ressort de traction 39 est monté avec précontrainte entre les éléments 23a, 23b, pour le rattrapage de jeu.A tension spring 39 is pre-stressed between the elements 23a, 23b, for catching up.

Le levier de soulèvement 22 comporte plusieurs éléments rectilignes articulés bout-à-bout. L'élément 40 est monté sur un pivot 41 de façon à pouvoir basculer dans un plan perpendiculaire à la surface plane 15 sur laquelle on pose la feuille de papier. L'une de ses extrémités est en contact avec une came 42 entraínée par un moteur 43. Celui-ci tourne d'un demi-tour chaque fois qu'il reçoit une impulsion de commande, ce qui a pour effet de placer la came dans deux positions possibles et par conséquent de faire basculer l'élément 40 vers l'une ou l'autre de deux positions possibles. L'autre extrémité de cet élément est connectée par une articulation 44 à un second élément rectiligne 45, lui-même relié par une articulation 46 à un troisième élément rectiligne 47. L'extrémité opposée de ce dernier est rattachée aux deux branches 19a, 19b du pantographe au point de jonction des deux éléments 25a, 25b situé près du support 29 de stylographe. Cet agencement a pour but de soutenir les branches du pantographe et par conséquent le stylographe en maintenant ce dernier à une certaine hauteur au-dessus de la surface plane en cas de non écriture et en le laissant reposer sur celle-ci, et par conséquent sur la surface de papier en cas d'écriture. Les articulations 44 et 46 comportent des tourillons perpendiculaires aux éléments 40, 45 et 47 constituant le levier de soulèvement 22.The lifting lever 22 has several rectilinear elements articulated end-to-end. The element 40 is mounted on a pivot 41 so as to be able tilt in a plane perpendicular to the flat surface 15 on which we place the piece of paper. One of its ends is in contact with a cam 42 driven by a motor 43. This one turns half a turn each time it receives a control pulse, which has the effect of placing the cam in two possible positions and therefore to tilt the element 40 towards either of two possible positions. The other end of this element is connected by a hinge 44 to a second rectilinear element 45, itself connected by a hinge 46 to a third rectilinear element 47. The end opposite of the latter is attached to the two branches 19a, 19b of the pantograph at the junction point of the two elements 25a, 25b located near the support 29 for stylographer. The purpose of this arrangement is to support the branches of the pantograph and therefore the stylographer by holding the latter at a certain height above the flat surface in case of non-writing and in letting it rest on it, and therefore on the paper surface in case writing. Joints 44 and 46 have perpendicular pins to elements 40, 45 and 47 constituting the lifting lever 22.

Les figures 2 à 4 montrent mieux la structure des branches, les articulations entre leurs éléments, leur rattachement et leur jonction avec le levier de soulèvement 22. On voit que l'articulation 24a qui relie les éléments 23a et 25a est une articulation à bille. La bille 50a est retenue dans un trou traversant de l'élément 25a et est partiellement engagée dans un trou plus petit de l'élément 23a en étant sollicitée en appui sur le périmètre de ce trou par un ressort à lame 52a fixé à une colonnette solidaire de l'élément 23a. Le ressort comporte lui-même un trou dans lequel la bille 52a est partiellement engagée. Le montage est le même pour l'articulation 24b qui relie les éléments 23b et 25b. Il s'agit d'une articulation à bille dans laquelle la bille 50b est retenue dans un trou traversant de l'élément 25b et est partiellement engagée dans un trou plus petit de l'élément 23b en étant sollicitée en appui sur le périmètre de ce trou par un ressort à lame 52b fixé à une colonnette solidaire de l'élément 23b. Le ressort comporte un trou dans lequel la bille est partiellement engagée. Les éléments 25a et 25b se rejoignent au niveau de l'articulation 28 constituée de deux bagues tubulaires de coulissement 54, 55, épaulées, coaxiales. Les bagues sont de diamètres différents et engagées l'une dans l'autre. La bague 55 de plus grand diamètre est montée dans un trou de l'élément 25a tandis que la bague 54 de plus petit diamètre est montée dans un trou de l'élément 25b. Les deux bagues sont assemblées par une vis 56 traversant axialement la bague 54 et faisant saillie vers le haut. Un écrou 57 et une rondelle 58 maintiennent les deux bagues l'une dans l'autre autour de la vis. Par ailleurs, un ressort à lame 60 est monté entre un support 62 et l'articulation 28. Le support 62 est lui-même installé sur l'élément 23a par l'intermédiaire d'un petit roulement à billes 64. Le ressort se termine, du côté de l'articulation 28, par une fourche qui prend appui sur la rondelle 58. La force que le ressort est susceptible d'exercer sur l'articulation 28 (en sollicitant ainsi le stylographe vers la feuille de papier) est réglée par une vis à bouton de manoeuvre 66 montée sur le support 62 et dont l'extrémité prend appui sur le ressort.Figures 2 to 4 show better the structure of the branches, the articulations between their elements, their attachment and their junction with the lifting lever 22. It can be seen that the articulation 24a which connects the elements 23a and 25a is a ball joint. Ball 50a is retained in a hole through element 25a and is partially engaged in a smaller hole of element 23a by being urged to bear on the perimeter of this hole by a leaf spring 52a fixed to a small column integral with the element 23a. The spring itself has a hole in which the ball 52a is partially engaged. The assembly is the same for the articulation 24b which connects the elements 23b and 25b. It is a ball joint in which the ball 50b is retained in a through hole of element 25b and is partially engaged in a larger hole small of element 23b while being pressed against the perimeter of this hole by a leaf spring 52b fixed to a small column integral with the element 23b. The spring has a hole in which the ball is partially engaged. The elements 25a and 25b meet at the joint 28 made up of two tubular sliding rings 54, 55, shouldered, coaxial. The rings are of different diameters and engaged one inside the other. The ring 55 of larger diameter is mounted in a hole in the element 25a while the ring 54 of smaller diameter is mounted in a hole in element 25b. The two rings are assembled by a screw 56 axially passing through the ring 54 and protruding upward. A nut 57 and a washer 58 hold the two rings one inside the other around the screw. In addition, a leaf spring 60 is mounted between a support 62 and the articulation 28. The support 62 is itself installed on the element 23a by means of a small ball bearing 64. The spring ends, on the side of the joint 28, with a fork which bears on washer 58. The force that the spring is likely to exert on the joint 28 (thus urging the stylographer towards the sheet of paper) is adjusted by a button screw 66 mounted on the support 62 and of which the end is supported on the spring.

La partie supérieure de la vis de montage 56 est entourée d'un manchon 68 en matériau électriquement isolant. Ce manchon est surmonté d'un écrou métallique 70 (vissé sur la vis 56) formant butée de contact électrique à positionnement réglable. L'extrémité de l'élément 47 du levier de soulèvement comporte un trou par lequel il est rattaché à l'articulation 28. Plus particulièrement, la vis 56 et le manchon 68 traversent le trou ; un jeu annulaire suffisant est prévu pour permettre au levier d'occuper deux positions possibles par rapport au pantographe. Les éléments du levier et ceux du pantographe sont en matériau électriquement conducteur (typiquement métallique) à l'exception du manchon 68. Par ailleurs le pantographe est électriquement isolé du reste de la machine de sorte qu'un contact électrique entre ledit levier et ledit pantographe est ou non établi selon la position du levier 22. Ainsi, sur la figure 2, le stylographe (non représenté) est supposé en contact avec la feuille de papier tandis que l'élément 47 occupe une position intermédiaire le long du manchon isolant. Aucun contact électrique n'est établi entre le levier et le pantographe. En revanche (figure 4) lorsque le levier 22 est en position haute pour relever la plume du stylographe, un contact électrique s'établit entre l'élément 47 et l'écrou 70. Un tel contact électrique est donc représentatif d'une levée de plume et exploité comme tel. Comme on le verra plus loin, lorsque le levier rabaisse le pantographe pour mettre la plume en contact avec le papier, le contact électrique disparaít au moment où la plume prend appui sur la feuille de papier, ce qui permet de synchroniser le mouvement ou la reprise du mouvement du pantographe avec la prise de contact effective de la plume sur le papier.The upper part of the mounting screw 56 is surrounded by a sleeve 68 of electrically insulating material. This sleeve is topped with a nut metal 70 (screwed onto screw 56) forming an electrical contact stop at adjustable positioning. The end of element 47 of the lifting lever has a hole through which it is attached to joint 28. More particularly, the screw 56 and the sleeve 68 pass through the hole; a ring game sufficient is provided to allow the lever to occupy two possible positions compared to the pantograph. The elements of the lever and those of the pantograph are electrically conductive material (typically metallic) with the exception of sleeve 68. Furthermore, the pantograph is electrically isolated from the rest of the machine so that electrical contact between said lever and said pantograph is or is not established according to the position of the lever 22. Thus, in FIG. 2, the stylographer (not shown) is assumed to be in contact with the sheet of paper while the element 47 occupies an intermediate position along the sleeve insulating. No electrical contact is made between the lever and the pantograph. In revenge (Figure 4) when the lever 22 is in the high position to raise the pen of the stylographer, an electrical contact is established between the element 47 and the nut 70. Such an electrical contact is therefore representative of a feather lift and exploited as such. As will be seen later, when the lever lowers the pantograph to put the pen in contact with the paper, the contact electric disappears when the pen rests on the sheet of paper, which allows to synchronize the movement or the resumption of the movement of the pantograph with the actual contact of the pen on the paper.

En raison des articulations 44, 46 qui se succèdent le long du levier de soulèvement, l'extrémité de l'élément 47 n'a d'autre influence sur le pantographe que celle de soulever le stylographe dans certaines circonstances. Notamment, lorsque la machine est en attente, le pantographe place le stylographe dans une position prédéterminée en.regard de la surface plane et le levier de soulèvement maintient le stylographe au-dessus de cette surface plane, sans contact avec le papier. A la fin de chaque écriture, une procédure de réinitialisation est mise en oeuvre pour repositionner le pantographe dans cette position prédéterminée après soulèvement du stylographe 14. Pour ce faire, un programme de déplacement des moteurs est mis en oeuvre jusqu'à ce qu'une butée optique ou mécanique soit atteinte, indiquant que le pantographe est en position pour effectuer une nouvelle écriture.Due to the articulations 44, 46 which follow one another along the lever lifting, the end of element 47 has no other influence on the pantograph than lifting the stylographer in certain circumstances. Especially, when the machine is on standby, the pantograph places the stylograph in a predetermined position with regard to the flat surface and the lifting lever keeps the stylographer above this flat surface, without contact with the paper. At the end of each write, a reset procedure is implemented work to reposition the pantograph in this predetermined position after lifting the stylographer 14. To do this, a program of displacement of the motors is implemented until an optical stop or mechanical is reached, indicating that the pantograph is in position for write again.

Dans l'exemple représenté, les moyens de pilotage 33 comportent une mémoire M dans laquelle sont enregistrées des informations représentatives de déplacements synchronisés des deux moteurs 34a, 34b et également des informations représentatives de l'actionnement du moteur 43. In the example shown, the control means 33 comprise a memory M in which information representative of synchronized movements of the two motors 34a, 34b and also of the information representative of the actuation of the motor 43.

Avantageusement, cette mémoire M est une mémoire morte préprogrammée. Elle fait ici partie d'un module amovible 75 susceptible d'être connecté aux autres circuits des moyens de pilotage 33, par l'intermédiaire d'un connecteur 76 approprié. Ainsi, un module 75 donné renfermant des informations représentatives d'une signature particulière, éventuellement accompagnée d'un message manuscrit adapté, peut être rapidement et à tout moment remplacé par un autre module semblable renfermant des informations représentatives d'un autre tracé prédéterminé constitué par exemple d'une autre signature et/ou d'une autre formule manuscrite adaptée.Advantageously, this memory M is a read only memory preprogrammed. It is here part of a removable module 75 capable of being connected to the other circuits of the control means 33, via a connector 76 suitable. Thus, a given module 75 containing information representative of a particular signature, possibly accompanied by a suitable handwritten message, can be quickly and at any moment replaced by another similar module containing information representative of another predetermined route consisting for example of another signature and / or other suitable handwritten formula.

Les moyens de pilotage 33 comportent, en liaison avec cette mémoire M, des moyens de lecture et de décodage symbolisés ici par un processeur 78 associé à sa mémoire-programme Mp, pour lire et décoder des informations inscrites dans la mémoire morte, dans un ordre prédéterminé et au rythme d'une horloge H. Le processeur est agencé pour délivrer trois signaux de commande, respectivement appliqués aux entrées de trois amplificateurs 80, 81, 82 dont les sorties sont respectivement reliées aux moteurs 34a, 34b et 43.The control means 33 comprise, in connection with this memory M, reading and decoding means symbolized here by a processor 78 associated with its program memory Mp, to read and decode information entered in read-only memory, in a predetermined order and to the rhythm of a clock H. The processor is arranged to deliver three control signals, respectively applied to the inputs of three amplifiers 80, 81, 82 whose outputs are respectively connected to motors 34a, 34b and 43.

Dans l'exemple de l'utilisation de moteurs pas-à-pas (et d'un moteur demi-tour pour ce qui concerne l'actionnement du levier de soulèvement), les signaux délivrés par le processeur aux différents amplificateurs sont de simples impulsions, positives ou négatives, apparaissant à des moments prédéterminés, les unes par rapport aux autres, au fur et à mesure de la lecture de la mémoire morte M au rythme de l'horloge. Ces impulsions se traduisent par le déplacement de l'extrémité du pantographe portant le stylographe pour reproduire la formule et/ou la signature souhaitée.In the example of the use of stepper motors (and a half-turn motor for the actuation of the lifting lever), the signals delivered by the processor to the different amplifiers are simple impulses, positive or negative, appearing at predetermined times, relative to each other, as the memory is read dead M to the rhythm of the clock. These impulses translate into the displacement of the end of the pantograph carrying the stylograph to reproduce the desired formula and / or signature.

Chaque fois qu'un ordre de soulèvement de plume est élaboré par le processeur 78 traduisant les informations contenues dans la mémoire M, le moteur 43 est commandé et la plume se soulève en même temps que le contact électrique s'établit entre l'élément 47 et l'écrou 70. Cette information de contact électrique est prise en compte et "surveillée" par le processeur pendant que le pantographe déplace le stylographe vers une nouvelle position de reprise d'écriture. Cette position est par exemple lue dans la mémoire M. Ensuite, le moteur 43 est à nouveau commandé pour abaisser le levier mais le processeur ne recommence à lire les informations contenues dans la mémoire M au rythme de l'horloge H qu'au moment où le contact électrique disparaít, indiquant que la plume est effectivement en contact avec le papier.Whenever a feather lift order is prepared by the processor 78 translating the information contained in the memory M, the motor 43 is controlled and the pen is lifted at the same time as the contact electric is established between the element 47 and the nut 70. This contact information is taken into account and "monitored" by the processor while the pantograph moves stylograph to new recovery position writing. This position is for example read in the memory M. Then, the motor 43 is again commanded to lower the lever but the processor does not start reading the information contained in the memory M at the rhythm clock H that when the electrical contact disappears, indicating that the pen is actually in contact with the paper.

Des capteurs optiques 81, 82, 83 respectivement en regard de parties détectables des secteurs 37 et du levier 40 permettent de rendre compte des positions effectives des branches du pantographe et du levier.Optical sensors 81, 82, 83 respectively opposite parts detectable sectors 37 and lever 40 allow to account for effective positions of the pantograph branches and the lever.

La programmation d'une mémoire morte intégrée à un module 75 susceptible d'être mis en place sur le connecteur 76 peut s'effectuer de la façon suivante. On utilise un pantographe en tout point identique à celui qui vient d'être décrit mais dépourvu de moyens d'entraínement. Autrement dit, les axes de manoeuvre 30a, 30b ne sont plus reliés à des moteurs mais à des codeurs optiques de grande résolution. Un système électronique numérique enregistre les signaux aux sorties des deux codeurs. Il s'agit, pour chaque codeur, de deux signaux carrés déphasés de 90° permettant de connaítre le déplacement en amplitude, en vitesse et en sens de rotation. Des moyens d'encodage traduisent ces informations en données numériques. Ces informations sont stockées dans une mémoire vive dont l'adressage est confié à un compteur piloté par une horloge de même fréquence que l'horloge utilisée dans le dispositif décrit ci-dessus. Un module contenant une mémoire morte programmable est alors connecté à ce dispositif de saisie des données et les informations sont transférées de la mémoire vive vers la mémoire morte qui est prête à être utilisée.Programming a read-only memory integrated into a module 75 likely to be placed on the connector 76 can be done in the manner next. We use a pantograph identical to the one just to be described but devoid of training means. In other words, the axes maneuver 30a, 30b are no longer connected to motors but to encoders high resolution optics. Digital electronic system records the signals at the outputs of the two encoders. For each coder, there are two 90 ° phase shifted square signals to know the displacement in amplitude, speed and direction of rotation. Encoding means translate this information in digital data. This information is stored in a random access memory, the addressing of which is entrusted to a counter controlled by a clock of the same frequency as the clock used in the device described above. A module containing a programmable read-only memory is then connected to this data entry device and the information is transferred from RAM to ROM which is ready to be used.

En variante, on peut utiliser un système faisant appel à un scanner pour numériser l'écriture et positionner cette dernière dans un espace correspondant aux dimensions réelles du pantographe. L'écriture est analysée point par point et transformée en données numériques qui sont mémorisées puis transférées de la même façon vers une mémoire morte exploitable. Si la mémoire morte n'est pas amovible, on peut utiliser une mémoire morte reprogrammable.Alternatively, a system using a scanner can be used to digitize the writing and position it in a corresponding space to the actual dimensions of the pantograph. The writing is analyzed point by point and transformed into digital data which is memorized then transferred from the same way to an exploitable read-only memory. If the ROM is not removable, a reprogrammable read-only memory can be used.

D'autres variantes sont encore possibles. Par exemple, la machine peut être simplifiée. Le levier de soulèvement peut être supprimé si on fait en sorte que l'ensemble du châssis soit monté avec possibilité de basculement autour d'un axe passant sensiblement par le centre de gravité du dispositif. Dans ces conditions, c'est l'ensemble du dispositif qui pivote pour soulever ou abaisser le stylographe lorsqu'on désire écrire.Other variants are also possible. For example, the machine can be simplified. The lifting lever can be removed if care is taken that the entire chassis is mounted with the possibility of tilting around an axis passing substantially through the center of gravity of the device. In these conditions, it is the entire device that pivots to raise or lower the stylographer when you want to write.

De même, le levier peut être supprimé si on transforme le support 29 pour qu'il comporte des moyens permettant de soulever ou d'abaisser le stylographe par rapport aux deux branches du pantographe. Un dispositif coulissant ou "ascenseur" est monté à l'extrémité du pantographe et actionné par un moteur électrique de petite taille muni d'une démultiplication appropriée pour assurer le mouvement de montée ou de descente du stylographe.Similarly, the lever can be removed if the support 29 is transformed to that it includes means making it possible to raise or lower the stylographer compared to the two branches of the pantograph. A sliding device or "elevator" is mounted at the end of the pantograph and powered by a motor small electric vehicle with appropriate gear reduction to ensure up or down movement of the stylographer.

Selon encore une autre variante possible, un long bras monté en balancier peut être appuyé sur le dessous des éléments 25a, 25b du pantographe, le bras étant muni à son extrémité d'une tige rigide perpendiculaire de longueur suffisante pour couvrir la valeur de déplacement moyenne d'un pantographe. A l'autre extrémité, il suffit de déplacer le bras par un moteur électrique muni d'une came, d'une vis ou de tout autre système qui transforme un mouvement rotatif en mouvement rectiligne. Par ce moyen, on peut soulever le pantographe à tout moment quel que soit l'emplacement du stylographe.According to yet another possible variant, a long arm mounted in pendulum can be pressed on the underside of elements 25a, 25b of the pantograph, the arm being provided at its end with a rigid perpendicular rod long enough to cover the average displacement value of a pantograph. At the other end, just move the arm by a motor electric fitted with a cam, a screw or any other system which transforms a rotary movement in rectilinear movement. By this means, we can raise the pantograph at any time regardless of the location of the stylograph.

Claims (16)

  1. A machine for reproducing writing, in particular signatures, of the kind comprising a pantograph (13) carrying a tracer such as a fountain pen or the like, characterized in that two branches of said pantograph are respectively provided with operating shafts (30a, 30b) coupled to respective electric rotational drive means (32a, 32b) and in that it further comprises control means (33) for said drive means adapted to deliver electrical information representing a predetermined manuscript writing trace.
  2. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said pantograph comprises two branches (19a, 19b) with two articulated members joined together by an articulation (28) near which said tracer is attached and in that two ends of said two branches are respectively provided with said operating shafts.
  3. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that said drive means comprise two electric motors (34a, 34b) respectively mechanically coupled to said operating shafts (30a, 30b).
  4. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 3, characterized in that the motors (34a, 34b) are stepper motors.
  5. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 3 or claim 4, characterized in that each motor is coupled to an operating shaft by a speed-reducing mechanism (35a, 35b).
  6. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said speed-reducing mechanism comprises a worm screw (36) fixed to the shaft of said motor and a gear or toothed sector (37) coupled to said operating shaft.
  7. The reproducing machine claimed in one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that said control means comprise a memory (M) storing information representing synchronized movements of the two motors.
  8. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 7, characterized in that said memory (M) is a preprogrammed read-only memory.
  9. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 8, characterized in that said read-only memory is part of a removable module (75) which can be replaced by another similar module containing information representing another predetermined writing trace.
  10. The reproducing machine claimed in one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that said control means comprise means (78, Mp) for reading and decoding the information stored in said memory (M), in a predetermined order and under the control of a clock (H).
  11. The reproducing machine claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said pantograph comprises a lifting lever (22) constituted by a plurality of articulated members (40, 45, 47), said lever being controlled by an electric actuator such as a motor (43) or an electromagnet and in that one end of said lever is attached to said two branches.
  12. The reproducing machine claimed in the combination of claim 2 with claim 11, characterized in that said lever is attached to the articulation point (28) of the two branches.
  13. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 11 or 12 and claim 7, characterized in that said memory (M) also contains information representing the state of said lifting lever (22).
  14. The reproducing machine claimed in one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that said lifting lever (22) and said pantograph (13) are adapted to make electrical contact between them representing a pen lifting and used as such.
  15. The reproducing machine claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the end of said lever attached to the pantograph is engaged over an insulative material sleeve and cooperates with an electrical contact abutment (70) carried by the pantograph and in that at least one member of the pantograph is urged toward a plane surface (15) on which a sheet of paper can be placed.
  16. The reproducing machine claimed in one of claims 2 to 15, characterized in that each branch (19a, 19b) of the pantograph comprises two members (23a-25a, 23b-25b) connected together by a ball joint (24a, 24b).
EP00401094A 1999-04-23 2000-04-19 Device to reproduce writing Expired - Lifetime EP1046517B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9905183A FR2792574B1 (en) 1999-04-23 1999-04-23 WRITING REPRODUCTION MACHINE
FR9905183 1999-04-23

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1046517A1 EP1046517A1 (en) 2000-10-25
EP1046517B1 true EP1046517B1 (en) 2003-09-17

Family

ID=9544798

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP00401094A Expired - Lifetime EP1046517B1 (en) 1999-04-23 2000-04-19 Device to reproduce writing

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US6425185B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1046517B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE249939T1 (en)
DE (1) DE60005240T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2792574B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6736180B2 (en) * 2001-10-30 2004-05-18 The Boeing Company Method and apparatus for automated location marking
US7697713B1 (en) * 2002-08-27 2010-04-13 Smart & Associates, Inc. Method and program for producing photographs with autographed messages written in customized character fonts and method for distributing, transmitting and producing a digital photograph of a celebrity figure with personalized and autographed messages
US6907131B2 (en) * 2002-08-27 2005-06-14 Signarom, Inc. Method and program for producing photographs with autographed messages written in customized character fonts
US20040054694A1 (en) * 2002-09-12 2004-03-18 Piccionelli Gregory A. Remote personalization method
WO2008034257A1 (en) * 2006-09-22 2008-03-27 Agop Jean Georges Apkarian Apparatus, system and computer program for controlling a tool
DE102007022968B3 (en) * 2007-05-16 2009-01-29 Iprm Intellectual Property Rights Management Ag labeling device
US20120206758A1 (en) * 2009-08-17 2012-08-16 Thomas Matthew Mann Gibson Method, system and computer program for generating authenticated documents
FR2951003A1 (en) * 2009-10-01 2011-04-08 Neopost Technologies MANUFACTURED SIGNATURE MAIL ARTICLE SENDING SYSTEM
EP2813374A1 (en) * 2013-06-10 2014-12-17 Robert Levy Measurement and/or drawing and/or viewing instrument
EP2923746B1 (en) * 2014-03-26 2019-01-09 Montres Jaquet Droz SA Automaton capable of writing a signature

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2332511A (en) * 1940-10-05 1943-10-26 Edward Costigan Signature writing apparatus
US2881521A (en) * 1955-11-22 1959-04-14 Jr Charles Pearson Electrically operated engraving unit
US4306464A (en) * 1977-11-08 1981-12-22 Robotics, Inc. Multi-directional mechanical positioning apparatus
FR2420437A1 (en) 1978-03-24 1979-10-19 Regnault Jacques Machine for reproducing signatures - has pantograph controlled by profiled edge of endless moving strip driven past roller by toothed wheel
GB2094998B (en) * 1981-03-11 1985-01-16 Centronics Data Computer Character drawing apparatus
FR2633748B1 (en) * 1988-06-30 1992-03-06 Schlumberger Ind Sa WRITING TOOL IDENTIFICATION METHOD AND DEVICE
SE462587B (en) * 1988-11-30 1990-07-23 Wiklund Henry & Co DEVICE FOR MARKING THE WORK PAPER WITH WRITTEN OR OTHER SIGNS
DE4307582A1 (en) * 1992-03-10 1993-09-16 Max Co Ltd Printer or plotter with print head pin raised for movement over paper - uses electromagnet operating cord to cause rail to pivot through small angle to displace print head support arm and so raise pen clear of surface

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE60005240T2 (en) 2004-07-01
DE60005240D1 (en) 2003-10-23
EP1046517A1 (en) 2000-10-25
US6425185B1 (en) 2002-07-30
FR2792574A1 (en) 2000-10-27
FR2792574B1 (en) 2001-07-27
ATE249939T1 (en) 2003-10-15

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