Check digit numbering mechanisms

US4085670A · kind A · utility

Inventor

• William Poole

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 1, 1976
• Grant date: Apr 25, 1978
• Expiry date: Jul 1, 1996

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B41K3/126
• WIPO field: Textile and paper machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A check digit numbering mechanism for generating check digits in accordance with a check digit load setting utilizes a check digit printing mechanism for printing a check digit on a printing medium including serial reference numerals. The check digit printing mechanism is indexed by a check digit numerator device. A plurality of solenoids and a corresponding plurality of movable armatures, each associated with a particular one of the solenoids, are provided such that at least one of the armatures is movable to engage the check digit numerator device to actuate it in association with the relative motion between the check digit numerator device and the solenoids. The plurality of solenoids are selectively actuated by a control mechanism which is responsive to a signal generated each time a reference number is printed on the printing medium to index the check digit numerator device to print an appropriate check digit associated with a given reference number on the printing medium. Switching circuitry changes the setting of the check digit numerator device to enable selected solenoids to receive appropriate signals in accordance with the check digit load setting.