Chart recorder programming interface

Abstract

A chart recorder or other applicable instrument uses the chart or other recording medium for programming purposes, thereby obviating the need for additional keypads and/or displays. By placing this chart onto the recorder, and by moving the pen to select among the available options, the unit is automatically programmed in accordance with the selections, without the need for controls other than those used for pen and/or chart movement. Since the position of the chart is known due to the spatial alignment with the start position, and the position of the marker is always known, selection of the programming features is unambiguous according to the invention. In addition to circular chart recorders, the invention applies to strip-chart recorders, plotters, printers, and other pieces of equipment wherein the position of a marker and/or paper or other substrate is known or determinable. An advantage of the invention is that the chart is produced in confirmation of the settings, thereby leaving a user or operator with a printed record of the way in which the chart was programmed. In the preferred embodiment, a chart is provided having a comprehensive list of certain options imprinted thereon, whereby the user moves the pen so as to strike out those options which the user does not choose, thereby leaving the options which are undesirable. Alternatively, however, the pen may be used to select desired options, as to underlining, for example, without affecting undesired options.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.