1992.299

Ohtsuki Typewriter

A mode switch is used to select the desired typing mode. In the braille writer mode, keys F, D, S, J, K, and L correspond respectively to dot positions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 of the braille cell. This machine also produces additional copies; a copying key is pressed and the number of copies selected from the number keys on the keyboard. It accepts general braille paper and rolled paper. The typewriter emits warning sounds to indicate seven characters before the end of the line, the end of the line, one line before the end of the paper, out of paper, completed copies, and full memory. "Ohtsuki Typewriter" and "Nippon Dentsu" are on the front of the typewriter. On the back is "Ohtsuki Typewriter Model #BT-4000E, Power AC100V 50/60 Hz, 35 VA, Serial no. ND-824002." The typewriter weighs approximately 24 1/4 lbs. The carrying case is orange and has a handle.

1982

Nippon Dentsu Company. Ltd.

Tokyo, Japan

The Ohtsuki typewriter produced regular print, braille, and braille with regular print. The APH Newsletter described it as "both a typewriter and a brailler." Available in 1995 from American Thermoform for $15,000. The original American patent for the idea, #4488828, was issued to Naoto Ohtsuki in December 1984.
APH received this example as a gift from representatives of Nippon Dentsu in July 1982. Carl Lappin, the Director of the APH Instructional Materials Resource Center, had helped the company develop the machine.

APH Collection, 1992.299