Abstract: A controlled glassware-forming machine is disclosed which has a plurality of individual machine sections each capable of individually forming glassware. Fluid actuators such as pneumatic pistons and cylinders are connected to move the various machine elements within each of the individual sections. These actuators are used to open and close the molds and to move the invert-revert arms, for example. The initiation of the movement of these machine elements is by way of a plurality of main valves to start and stop the movements. These valves are controlled by solenoids in turn controlled by electronic outputs of a computer or control means. The speed of movement of the machine elements is controlled by variable aperture valves such as needle valves, and a power means is provided to vary the aperture of such needle valves, also controlled by outputs of the computer.

Abstract: A drive system is disclosed which is particularly suitable for use in the glass industry. The drive system is for a plurality of conveying mechanisms to support and to move a load which may be discrete glass objects or a strip or sheet of glass. An electrical line shaft is created by using a plurality of squirrel cage synchronous motors which are connected to drive the conveying mechanisms, whether they be transfer mechanisms for discrete objects or rolls for conveying the strip of glass. One or more electrical inverters supply power to the motors so that not only are the motors operated in synchronism but also in phase register. Thus where discrete glass objects are conveyed the phase register of the transfer mechanisms between glass machines prevents glass breakage, and where rolls are conveying a strip of float glass, the phase register prevents difference in phase rotation of the rolls which could mar the surface of the float glass.