A data processing system comprising a keyboard having a plurality of keys arranged in an array of rows and columns, and programming means likewise arranged in an array of rows and columns such that each intersection of a row and a column corresponds to a single key at a row-column intersection of the keyboard. Means are included for electrically scanning one of the keyboard rows and columns to sequentially detect activated keys, and means are included for latching the scanning means until an output is provided which corresponds to the activated key.
A data storage and retrieval system facilitates interface between a human operator and a digital processing system or computer, by first manually selecting visual human word(s) in an identification table overlaid on a display board and next automatically retrieving information by its corresponding address code in conjunction with a magnetic card. Moreover, since the identification table and magnetic card are replaceable from one item block to another item block, numerous arbitrary and repeatable combinations of requested words and their corresponding addresses a different item block can be easily made for many different operators and themes by applying data processing and versatile programming.
In devices such as electronic calculators, which perform mathematical or like functions and require plurality of data inputs to perform their functions; a data input key is pivotally maintained within the body of said device and is adapted to provide a plurality of input data. The data input key has an upper exposed portion having an opening configured and adapted to be engaged by the thumb or finger of the user whereby the key may be manipulated to various contact positions situated in a circular or longitudinal path. These various contact positions provide different input data to the device. In another embodiment, a plurality of the input keys may be used to accommodate a large number of inputs, for example, the inputs of a typewriter.
In a retail self-checkout system, a customer places an item to be purchased into an itemization area. The system identifies the item by using an item detector/scanner or, alternatively, through a customer input at a touchscreen display or other suitable device. The system then determines whether the item satisfies predetermined security criteria to ensure that the item in the itemization area is in fact the identified item. If the item satisfies the security criteria, the system deactivates a security tag affixed to the item to be purchase. If the item fails to satisfy the security criteria, an alarm summons store personnel to provide human intervention in the self-checkout process.
