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CLASS 341,	CODED DATA GENERATION OR CONVERSION
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE CLASS SUBJECT MATTER

This is the generic class for (a) originating or emitting a coded set of discrete signals or (b) translating one code into another code wherein the information signal content remains the same but the formats may differ. For classification herein, at least one of the codes must be a set of pulses or digits and electrical in nature.

SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS

Excluded from this class is analog to analog conversion. See References to Other Classes, below, for examples of other classes containing this subject matter.

Included in this class (341) is subject matter relating to codes, per se, such as Morse codes, grey codes. Excluded from this class are coded records and coded record readers . See References to Other Classes, below,

Combinations of an optically encoded shaft wheel and a photocell absent any signal processing circuitry are classified elsewhere. See References to Other Classes, below.

Code converters which may be utilized in pulse or digital communication systems, Class 375, are classified in this class (341).

A. The combination of the subject matter of this class (341) and another art environment is generally classified with the art device where the environment is significant by virtue of the claimed relationship. For example:

Coding and decoding for cryptography

Coding and decoding for error detection or correction

Code transmitters specific to telemetry.

Data compression and expansion

Microwave devices.

Radiowave beacons.

Radar generation, conversion or systems

B. Pulse generation or conversion which is not unique to communications are classified in the appropriate classes. For example:

Pulse demodulation, per se.

Pulse generation.

Pulse modulation, per se

Pulse wave conversion systems; i.e., sine wave to pulse wave

See References to Other Classes, below, for appropriate class references.

This class is structured into 14 main divisions. See Subclass References to the Current Class, below.

SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

SECTION IV - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

SUBCLASSES

1	DIGITAL PATTERN READING TYPE CONVERTER:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Subject matter having a spatial variation of a parameter on an object to form a digital pattern carrier (e.g., movable code disk), and a pattern reading device providing a digital output. (1) Note. Data conversion combined with structural detail of another art device is classifiable with the art device. (2) Note. A record reader reads a selected one of plural recorded patterns, while a digital pattern reader can only read one pattern. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 235,  Registers,   subclasses 435 through 495for coded records and readers. 250,  Radiant Energy,   subclass 271 for invisible radiant energy coded record readers. 382,  Image Analysis,   subclasses 181+ for alphanumeric character recognition.

2	Plural denominationally related carriers (e.g., coarse/fine geared discs):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter having a plurality of digital pattern carriers each producing an output signal portion representing a different integral power of the base or radix (denominational order) of the digital representation or an element of a combination code. (1) Note. Included herein are plural code disks with gearing to cause different motion from a common motive power source. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 9, for a denominational pattern on a single pattern carrier. 113, for coarse and fine conversions in a synchro or resolver to or from digital conversion. 145, for coarse and fine conversions in a digital to analog conversion. 156, for coarse and fine conversions in an analog to digital conversion.

3	Plural types of codes on single carrier:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter including a digital pattern carrier having two or more disparate code patterns thereon. (1) Note. Included herein are carriers with different codes on different surfaces.

4	According to nonlinear function:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter wherein the pattern is characterized by a mathematical function such that an encoded signal does not vary in direct proportion to the input being encoded. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 75, for digital nonlinear code conversion. 138+, for nonlinear analog to or from digital conversion.

5	For X or Y coordinate determination (e.g., stylus-pad):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter having structure to produce a signal in accordance with the position of an object on a predetermined surface. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 178,  Telegraphy,   subclasses 18.01+ for position determination. 700,  Data Processing: Generic Control Systems or Specific Applications,   subclass 85 for a positional input to a data processing control system. 708,  Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and Calculating,   subclasses 131 through 146for a positional input to a digital calculating computer.

6	With directional discrimination:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter in which the digital pattern carrier and the pattern reading device have bidirectional motion therebetween, and includes circuitry or structure to distinguish the direction of such movement.

7	Antiambiguity feature:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter having structure or circuitry to positively ascertain which one of two adjacent pattern portions is being read when close to a boundary between two pattern portions.

8	Real and complementary patterns:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the digital pattern carrier has two patterns, one of which is the complement of the other.

9	Having combined (e.g., denominational, combination code) coding pattern:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the digital pattern has a plurality of separate tracks such that the digital output signal obtained is composed of several signal parts usually each representing a denominational order of the digital representation or an element of a combination code. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 2, for digital pattern reading converters with plural denominationally related carriers.

10	Constant distance code:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 9.  Subject matter wherein successive portions of the digital pattern differ only in one bit or element. (1) Note. Included herein are reflected binary codes and grey codes. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 96+, for digital constant distance code conversion.

11	Incremental:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the digital pattern is such that it produces a signal (pulse) on a single terminal for each predetermined incremental change of an input.

12	Cathode ray:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where a beam of electrons is moved relative to a pattern in order to convert an analog signal to a digital signal. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 137, where a cathode ray tube is used as a flying spot optical scanner or as an optical display in an analog to or from digital converter.

13	Optical:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the digital pattern carrier is read by an optical device. (1) Note. For optical shaft encoders in combination with a photocell absent any signal processing circuitry, search Class 250, subclass 231. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 137, for analog to or from digital conversion using optical devices. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 250,  Radiant Energy,   subclass 231 for a photocell shaft encoder, subclass 271 for invisible radiant energy coded record readers, subclasses 555+ for coded record controlled photocell circuits and subclasses 566+ for coded record reading optical or prephotocell systems absent any signal processing circuitry. 346,  Recorders,   subclass 225 and 246 through 264 for recording of a code disc by scanning of light. 369,  Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval,   subclasses 100+ for information retrieval from an optical information carrier.

14	Having optical waveguide:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 13.  Subject matter which includes an elongated optically transparent structure to carry light between the pattern carrier and a pattern reading device or light source. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 385,  Optical Waveguides,   appropriate subclasses for optical fibers or waveguides, per se.

15	Magnetic, inductive or capacitive:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the digital pattern on the carrier is a spatial variation of a magnetic, or electrostatic field, or permeability thereof to such a field, and the pattern reading device includes a device responsive to such a field. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 149, for a digital to analog converter using magnetic components. 150, for a digital to analog converter using capacitors. 171, for an analog to digital converter using magnetic components. 172, for an analog to digital converter using capacitors. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 235,  Registers,   subclasses 499+ for magnetic coded record sensors. 324,  Electricity: Measuring and Testing,   subclasses 60+ for measurement of capacitance. 360,  Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,   subclasses 39+ for magnetic recording or reproduction of a digital signal. 361,  Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,   subclasses 271+ for electrostatic capacitor structure. 369,  Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval,   subclasses 59.1 through 59.27for capacitive recording or reproduction of a digital signal.

16	Brush and contacts or conductive pattern:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter where the indicia on a movable code member are formed by conductive elements. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 200,  Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,   appropriate subclasses for switch structure. 235,  Registers,   subclasses 444+ , 452 and 453 for electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic coded record sensors respectively.

17	Actuated by physical projection:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Subject matter having a code member with projections for actuating a force operated switch according to a code to be generated.

20	Bodily actuated code generator:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Subject matter having a control element which an operator physically contacts to control the transmission or generation of a coded set of pulses. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 178,  Telegraphy,   subclasses 79+ for a telegraph transmitter; subclasses 101+ for a telegraph key. 200,  Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,   for a switch or switch actuator, absent circuitry. 250,  Radiant Energy,   subclass 231 for an optical mouse. 338,  Electrical Resistors,   appropriate subclasses for a variable resistance input controller. 340,  Communications: Electrical,   subclass 825.56 for selective communications system having a multidigit encoder. 345,  Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual Display Systems,   subclasses 156+ for input devices used in conjunction with a display device. 379,  Telephonic Communications,   subclasses 353+ , particularly subclasses 368 and 369 for a manually actuated telephone signalling device (e.g., keypad or dial). 380,  Cryptography,   subclass 52 for a cryptos:graphic transmitter having specified keyboard structure. 463,  Amusement Devices: Games,   subclasses 1+ , particularly subclasses 36+, for a code generator or conversion device either combined with a game or particularly adapted to serve as an input device for an electronic game. 708,  Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and Calculating,   subclasses 142+ for a keyboard input for a digital calculator.

21	For handicapped user:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 20.  Subject matter particularly designed for use by a physically impaired individual. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 340,  Communications: Electrical,   subclass 825.19 for selective communications or remote control equipment for a handicapped user, and subclass 407 for an electrical tactile signalling device. 379,  Telephonic Communications,   subclass 52 for telephone equipment specifically designed for a handicapped user.

22	Including keyboard or keypad:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 20.  Subject matter including an array of manually actuated control elements, each of which is indicative of a code value (i.e., digits). SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 84,  Music,   appropriate subclasses for a musical instrument having a keyboard. 200,  Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,   subclasses 1+ for a multiple circuit control arrangement, such as a keyboard, absent circuitry to generate or transmit a code. 235,  Registers,   subclasses 7+ for a cash register having a keyboard; subclasses 54, 55 for a voting machine, having a keyboard; subclasses 59-61 for a mechanical register, having a keyboard; subclass 145 for a mechanical keyboard; subclasses 430+ for a record controlled device, having a keyboard. 340,  Communications: Electrical,   subclass 825.56 for selective communications system having a multidigit encoder. 345,  Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual Display Systems,   subclasses 168+ for a keyboard actuated display. 380,  Cryptography,   subclass 52 for a cryptos:graphic transmitter having specified keyboard structure. 400,  Typewriting Machines,   subclasses 472+ for typewriter keyboard structure. 708,  Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and Calculating,   subclasses 142+ for a keyboard input for a digital calculator.

23	Variable key legends:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter wherein each control element may represent a plurality of code values and includes structure to provide an indication of the code value of each element. (1) Note. Included herein are overlays and movable legend exhibitors, and electrical legend indicators. (2) Note. A plural legend which is always on a key such as a shifted character indication which legend does not change is not in this subclass. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 345,  Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual Display Systems,   subclasses 173+ for selective displays with overlying touch panels wherein the selective display may define a keyboard.

24	With error prevention means (e.g., debounce, antichatter):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter including compensation for improper system operation or operator actuation. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 327,  Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices, Circuits, and Systems,   subclasses 385+ for the elimination of contact bounce noise signals, per se. 714,  Error Detection/Correction and Fault Detection/Recovery,   appropriate subclasses for error detection or correction in an electrical device of general utility.

25	With rollover feature (i.e., antidouble strike):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 24.  Subject matter which compensates for simultaneous actuation of plural control elements.

26	With particular key scanning feature:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter having a detail of a device which sequentially senses the state of the plural control elements. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 340,  Communications: Electrical,   subclasses 825+ for a selective scanning device.

27	With audible or tactile indicator:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter which gives an indication of key operation which may be heard or felt by the operator. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 340,  Communications: Electrical,   subclasses 815+ for a visual indicator; subclasses 384.1+ for an audible signal; subclasses 407.1+ for an electrical tactile indicator.

28	For pictorial or ideos:graphic characters (e.g., design, chinese or japanese characters):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter wherein the keys are specifically adapted for generating a code corresponding to a design or a pictorial language symbol representative of an idea or object rather than a word or sound. (1) Note. Such a symbol code is often produced by operation of a key combination rather than single key. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 400,  Typewriting Machines,   subclass 110 for an oriental language typewriter.

29	With variable pulse spacing or grouping:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the duration of or between pulses, or the order of diverse types of pulses, is varied. (1) Note. This subclass includes pulse permutation devices. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 178, for this subject matter not controlled by a keyboard or keypad.

30	For numerical pulse type transmission:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the meaning of the pulse code is determined solely by the number of pulses transmitted. (1) Note. The type of code found in this subclass is known in the art as the numerical pulse type. (2) Note. The pulses may, but need not, be identical.

31	Photoelectric actuation:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the operation of a control element is sensed by an electrical light sensor. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 250,  Radiant Energy,   appropriate subclasses for a photoelectric switch.

32	Magnetic or inductive actuation:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the operation of a control element is sensed by a magnetic field responsive sensor. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 335,  Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets, and Electromagnets,   subclasses 205+ for a magnetically operated switch, per se.

33	Capacitive actuation:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the operation of a control element is sensed by a capacitive sensor. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 200,  Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,   subclass 600 for a capacitive switch, absent circuitry. 307,  Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,   subclasses 112+ for a capacitive device controlled switching circuit. 361,  Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,   subclasses 287+ for a mechanically variable capacitor.

34	Pressure sensitive actuation:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 22.  Subject matter in which the operation of a control element is sensed by a sensor responsive to an applied mechanical force. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 200,  Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,   appropriate subclasses for a force or pressure actuated switch, per se.

35	With rotary dial:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 20.  Subject matter including a control element adapted for rotational motion. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 379,  Telephonic Communications,   subclasses 353+ , particularly subclasses 362-368 for a telephone dial, or a dial mounting on a telephone set.

50	DIGITAL CODE TO DIGITAL CODE CONVERTERS:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Subject matter comprising means whereby a system of digital signals representing information is changed to a different system of digital signals representing the same information.

51	Adaptive coding:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 50.  Subject matter for converting digital signals to or from other digital signals wherein the coding is automatically modified during the coding process. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 358,  Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing,   subclasses 426.02 through 426.11for transmission of facsimile data combined with adaptive or predictive encoding. 370,  Multiplex Communications,   subclasses 465+ for adaptive multiplex communications systems. 700,  Data Processing: Generic Control Systems or Specific Applications,   subclasses 28 through 55for adaptive control systems.

52	To or from particular bit symbol:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 50.  Subject matter for converting digital signals, where certain types of wave forms are used to represent zeros and ones, to other digital signals where different wave forms are used to represent zeros and ones.