Abstract: A method of controlling the speed of an alternating current motor is disclosed. A direct current reference signal, the magnitude of which is proportional to the speed of an electric motor, is coupled to one input of a voltage comparator. A control pulse is generated at the beginning of each half cycle of the alternating current source and utilized to periodically discharge a timing capacitor. The voltage present on the timing capacitor is applied to a second input of the voltage comparator and when the timing capacitor voltage equals or exceeds the direct current reference signal, power is applied to the motor.

Abstract: An optically coupled solid state relay circuit is disclosed. A light emitting diode input circuit is utilized to trigger a photosensitive transistor. A trim resistor in the base of the photosensitive transistor is utilized to adjust the sensitivity of the circuit. The photosensitive transistor is utilized, in conjunction with other circuitry, to control a silicon controlled rectifier which provides gate drive to a triac. Voltage limiting circuitry is provided to insure that the solid state relay will switch only during those periods within a selected range of the zero crossing of the line voltage and half of the bridge circuit which provides single polarity operating voltages is comprised of fast recovery diodes to improve the circuit's ability to withstand rapid polarity reversals.

Abstract: A pulse transformer having primary and secondary windings on separate insulating bobbins which are carried on the arms of a pair of U-shaped ferrite cores which provide a continuous magnetic path for coupling relatively high energy pulses. The bobbin and core assembly is assembled in and held together by a close fitting molded plastic housing which carries four pins to which the primary and secondary windings are attached. The connecting pins extend from a side of the housing which is open to receive the bobbin/core assembly and are adapted for printed circuit board mounting in which the board covers the housing opening so that the transformer is completely protected.

Abstract: A potentiometer and switch assembly wherein the potentiometer resistance is deposited on a circuit board. The control member of the assembly comprises a shaft having a rotor mounted thereon, attached to which is a wiper for contacting the resistance. The switch mechanism includes a cam shaft adapted to be engaged by the rotor whenever the control shaft is pushed. The cam shaft is positioned to the side of the rotor and is rotated through a predetermined angle each time the control shaft is pushed. Camming surfaces on the cam shaft contact one member of the switch contact pair to alternately cause that contact pair member to open and close the switch. The cam shaft may be arranged to contact a second switch contact pair which opens and closes oppositely to the first switch contact pair so that a three-way switching function may be effectuated.

Abstract: An improved system for washing and coating metal can bodies, such as seamless aluminum and tin plate can bodies, in a can processing line wherein various can washing, coating and curing stations are arranged in a unique fashion along the line so as to utilize generally fully compatible washing and coating materials, the residues of which are adapted to be either recycled or discharged into a common waste disposal system, as well as an improved coated can body.

Abstract: An automatic mixed drink dispensing apparatus includes a housing including a secured liquor receiving zone which receives a plurality of liquor containers. The housing also receives syrup containers, a water container, and a carbon dioxide container. An ice chest is mounted in the upper portion of the housing and has a liquid chilling apparatus in the bottom thereof. A dispensing head is mounted on the housing and extends into a mixed drink preparation zone. Drains extend from a point in the mixed drink preparation zone beneath the dispensing head and from a point in the bottom of the ice chest to a drain pan slidably supported in the bottom of the housing. Liquor pumps function to withdraw liquor from the liquor containers and to discharge the liquor through the dispensing head. The syrup containers are pressurized with carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide container, whereby syrup is caused to flow through the liquid chilling apparatus and through the dispensing head.