Key operated mechanism for producing coded signal combinations for selecting a function of a multifunctional device
AssigneeFrama AG
InventorWerner Haug
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Abstract
This invention pertains to a key operated mechanism for producing coded signal combinations for selecting a function of a multifunctional device. The mechanism includes a plurality of magnetically operated switches arranged along a key guide. The key includes magnets specifically positioned for interaction with the magnetically operated switches in accordance with a code diagram. Closing of the switches sends signals to a code signal user, which if the signals are enabling activates an associated machine such as a franking machine.
Claims9
A key operated mechanism for producing coded signal combinations for selecting a function of a multifunctional device, said mechanism comprising:
- a keyguide having a rear abutment;
- circuitry associated with said keyguide;
- a signal processing unit associated with said circuitry for receiving signals from said circuitry;
- a plurality of magnetically operable switches located generally in a row and associated with said keyguide, said switches being connected to said circuitry and operable to send said signals through said circuitry, at least one of said switches operable to power said signal processing unit and at least a second of said switches operable to block the operation of said signal processing unit;
- a key receivable in said keyguide;
- a first magnet located on said key, said key being capable of enabling said mechanism by closing said first switch when said key abuts said rear abutment and said first magnet being located generally between said first and said second switch and in operable proximity to said first switch.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.