Abstract: A drive system for a machine, in particular a weaving machine, is designed in a manner such that controlled electric power is applied to a rotary electric drive motor (2) as a function of particular angular positions of the motor and such that electrical energy applied to the motor is reduced or interrupted during phases of increasing angular speed of the motor. Phases of increasing angular speed are detected by the drive system to determine phases of increasing angular speed. A method for controlling an electrical motor drive system using a switchable reluctance motor to reduce or interrupt electrical energy supplied to the motor based on motor speed increases as a function of motor angular position is also disclosed.

Abstract: A weaving machine of the type in which a main shaft is braked by an electromagnetic brake has, in addition to the brake, a lock for locking the main shaft against rotation. The lock includes a locking element which meshes into gear teeth of a wheel coupled to the main shaft. The lock is automatically activated when power to the weaving machine fails, and may be deactivated by turning a hand wheel.

Abstract: A drive system for weaving machines includes normally coupled main and auxiliary drive shafts for at least the batten and heddles of the weaving machine, respectively, with the shafts driven by main and auxiliary drive motors at different speeds through appropriate speed reducers and couplings. The shafts are coupled together at one point by an adjustable coupling that is controllable remotely so as to permit fine adjustment between the relative angular positions of the main and auxiliary drive shafts and therefore between the batten and heddle positions. This system has particular application during weaving machine start-up after a weaving interruption; e.g., when a thread break occurs. Various embodiments are described.