Abstract: A digitally controlled pulse width modulated control system for a servo device is disclosed wherein the control transistors (46, 48, 50, 52) can be operated directly from the incoming voltage source. The system converts the input or feedback signal into digital form that is applied to a downward counter arrangement (16, 18) which, after a pre-set period of time, allows logic circuitry (20) to selectively apply conduction pulses to the transistors (46, 48, 50, 52). Such selective conduction allows the transistors (46, 48, 50, 52) to regulate the direction of rotation of a motor (58) and the "width" or portion of the incoming waveform applied thereto via the transistors (46, 48, 50, 52).

Abstract: A pulse control circuit for a three-terminal d.c. series motor having an armature and two oppositely-wound field windings comprises a respective main thyristor in series with each field winding, one or other of the main thyristors being operated at a variable mark-to-space ratio to energize the field winding appropriate to drive the motor in a selected direction. The circuit includes switch means operable to connect the motor in a regenerative braking mode in which the armature and each field winding are connected to the battery in series with a freewheel diode and with a diode across the motor so that charging current can flow from the motor to the battery during regenerative braking. Circuit means are provided to effect initial energization of at least one field winding when the circuit is first switched to the regenerative braking mode.

Abstract: A control method and circuit providing smooth transition between two regulating modes involving two regulating parameters, one active and one inactive. The method comprises the steps of providing a reference signal and developing a signal representing the inactive parameter. The two signals are then compared to provide an inactive output signal that is indicative of any difference existing between them. Another signal is developed that represents the active parameter, and this signal is compared to the inactive output signal. The inactive output signal is then forced continuously to the value of the signal representing the active parameter when the values of the two signals are different. Change from the one parameter and mode to the other parameter and mode can now be made without a disturbing effect.

Abstract: A motor switching and control circuit is disclosed in which the direction of transport of web material transferred between two reels is reversed by detecting a condition requiring reversal, generating a reversing signal in response to the detected condition, and switching the direction of rotation of an AC motor in response to the reversing signal. Both motor direction switching and reversing condition detection switching are accomplished at substantially zero motor current flowing through and zero motor voltage across the contacts of any circuit switches, thereby eliminating radio frequency interference and logical noise generation during switching. The circuit is particularly useful in connection with the ribbon control drive in an impact printer such as a matrix printer.