Location History:
- Marathon, NY (US) (1988 - 1989)
- Ithaca, NY (US) (1989)
- Dryden, NY (US) (1991)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1988-1991
Title: Innovations of Howard C. Duncan IV: Pioneering Electronic Typewriters
Introduction: Howard C. Duncan IV, an inventive spirit hailing from Marathon, NY, has made significant contributions to the world of electronic typewriters and word processing systems. With a total of five patents to his name, Duncan’s work has greatly enhanced typing efficiency and user experience through innovative technology.
Latest Patents: Among his latest patents, one stands out: an electronic typewriter or word processor equipped with a detection and correction system. This remarkable invention features a memory typewriter that stores lists of misused phrases alongside alternative phrases. It boasts a spelling dictionary and a phrase alert component, which collaboratively identify and suggest corrections for phrases typed by users. Moreover, the apparatus includes a detection mechanism that activates a warning signal when a misused phrase is inputted, thereby ensuring smooth and accurate typing.
Another notable patent by Duncan is a portable electronic typewriter equipped with a dictionary memory allowing visual scanning from a selectable starting point. This invention contains a low-cost spell-check dictionary and advances the typing process by enabling users to sequentially display dictionary entries in alphabetical order. The typewriter caters to typists uncertain about spelling by enabling a listing mode that assists them right before or after attempting to type a word, streamlining the correction process.
Career Highlights: Duncan has established himself as a key innovator in electronic typing solutions. His notable accomplishments include developing features that enhance word processors' interactivity and responsiveness, making typing less cumbersome and more intuitive for users. Through these innovations, he has contributed to the evolution of typing technology.
Collaborations: At Smith Corona Corporation, Duncan has worked alongside esteemed colleagues, including R. William Gray and Donald T. Adams. Their collaborative efforts have helped propel the development of advanced typing technologies and improve the overall functionality of products within the company.
Conclusion: Howard C. Duncan IV's patents reflect his dedication to innovating the electronic typewriter sector. His transformational work continues to impact how we engage with written communication today. As technology continues to advance, Duncan’s contributions will undoubtedly remain integral to the progression of word processing systems.