Abstract: Technical functional components variable relatively to a starting position are examined by comparing an image of the component, produced by relative motion with respect to sensor means, with a corresponding earlier, stored image, and by triggering a warning signal in accordance with the congruence and/or the differences of the two images.

Abstract: A safety system for a machine tool, e.g. an EDM machine, having a multiplicity of different items of setting procedure to be attended to manually and inspected by the operator before the machine is actuated for performing a given machining operation, employs a loudspeaker associated with the machine. A control unit is used to produce a preselected sequence of multiple, time-spaced electrical signals corresponding to multiple verbal instructions prescribed for alerting the different setting items, respectively, and to apply these signals in that sequence to an electromechanical transducer in the loudspeaker. The transducer responsive to each of the electrical signals produces through the loudspeaker a corresponding unit of the multiple verbal instructions audible to the operator for a corresponding item of the setting procedure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for monitoring, during machining of a workpiece (30,30'), the wear condition of a cutting tool (31,31') having its cutting portion in a structure (32,32') that is held by substantially more massive means (33,33').A dynamometer (35,35') and filter (36) measure the component of the dynamic force exerted between the tool (31,31') and the workpiece (30,30') approximately in the direction (A,A') normal to the primary cutting edge (34,34') of the tool (31,31') and to the main cutting velocity (V,V') at approximately the fundamental natural frequency of the held structure (32,32') in the same normal direction (A,A'). An accelerometer (37,37'), filter (38), and integrators (39) measure the component of vibration in the tool (31,31') approximately in the same normal direction (A,A') at approximately the same frequency.

Abstract: A drilling machine including an electric drill being selectively fixed at a desired angle with respect to a workpiece and a manual feed handle for moving the electric drill toward and away from the workpiece. A control circuit for the electric drill is provided having a sensor member being operatively connected in said control circuit for detecting a load applied on the electric drill. An alarm member is operatively connected in the control circuit for sending out a signal when a load signal exceeding a first reference level is detected. A switch is operatively connected in the control circuit for deenergizing said control circuit for the electric drill when a load signal exceeding a second reference level is detected.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in determining the location of a surface of a solid object such as that being machined by a machine tool includes a stylus having an electrically conductive end that is supported by two support members, which are disposed in pressure contact with each other by means of a spring or other bias, one of the two support members being formed to have a spherical contact surface that is a portion of an imaginary sphere concentric with the contact electrode, the other of the two support members being formed so that upon contacting the spherical surface the area of contact is substantially line contact.

Abstract: The vibration level (a) is measured and applied to controllable filter (F). The filter (F) is a band pass filter that only passes a narrow band around a certain frequency that is determined by the frequency (1) of the machining cycle. The output signal of the filter is then compared to one or several reference levels (7) and an alarm signal is outputted in case of unacceptable deviation from the reference level.

Abstract: A tool setting-aid comprising an anodized aluminum "button" and a support therefor is set up at a predetermined datum position on the worktable of a computer controlled machine tool, the machine program including a check cycle which sends the cutting tool around and over the button or, if the tool is oversize or set wrongly, into contact with the button. The button is supplied with electrical current via a cable having a resistor coupled to the button end thereof by an electronic detector circuit which includes a sensor for detecting current increase due to contact between button and cutting tool and a sensor for sensing interruption of such current due to cable breakage or a failure to properly connect it to the setting-aid.

Abstract: A load sensor generates a signal representing the amount of force applied to a workpiece during each blow of a multi-blow forming process. In a two blow process, a first amplifier is connected to the load sensor for amplifying the load sensor signals representing both blows in the forming process. A first gain control circuit is connected to the first amplifier for adjusting the amount of amplification to a first predetermined level. A logic control circuit is connected to the first amplifier for generating a first enabling signal during the first blow in the forming process and a second enabling signal during the second blow in the forming process. A second amplifier is connected to the first amplifier for amplifying the load sensor signals representing only the first blows in the forming process. A second gain control circuit is connected to the second amplifier for adjusting the amount of amplification to a second predetermined level.

Abstract: A sensing pin is mounted to a housing by means of a linkage which makes it possible for the sensing pin to move entirely within the housing in the event of extreme deflection. In this way, extensive protection from damage is provided to the sensing pin in the event of excessive deflection.

Abstract: The machine comprises an electric driving motor, a speed reducer having at least two mechanical ratios coupled to the output shaft of the motor, a device for changing the mechanical ratio and a speed variator of the electric motor. The machine further comprises devices (7, 35, 36, 41) for selecting and displaying the speeds of rotation of the electric motor coupled to the device for changing the mechanical ratio.

Abstract: A warning and braking device for use on a power cutting tool such as a circular saw or a lawnmower comprises a generator, a drive shaft and a pulley connected by a lever to the power tool on/off switch. When the power tool is in the working "on" position, the generator assembly does not contact the power tool drive belt and no electric current is produced by the generator. When the power tool switch is shifted to the off position, however, the pulley on the generator drive shaft is brought into contact with the drive belt, exerting a braking force on the drive belt and producing an electrical signal from the generator which is connected to a warning device such as a light or a siren.

Abstract: A worn tool detector system for analyzing input signals from a sensor were the signal is in the form of an analog waveform exhibiting periodic impulses exceeding the average amplitude thereof as the tool wears. A microprocessor controlled variable gain amplification network is utilized to normalize the average waveform amplitude to a fixed level. During machine operation, impulses are detected by comparing the sensor waveform to a programmable selected ratio of the normalized level. When a given number of successive impulses are received the microprocessor generates a warning signal which may be used to retract the tool. An adaptive mode is disclosed wherein the sensor waveform throughout the course of the machining operation is repetitively normalized to adjust for different sensor waveform amplitudes.

Abstract: In an improved digital readout for machine tools, an apparatus is provided which automatically offsets the digital position display by the radius of the cutting tool. A machinist is thereby enabled to work more rapidly and with reduced chance of making errors.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting the presence of a tool in a spindle which can be used where automatic unattend operation occurs and it must be known that a tool is in the spindle. For example, if the tool changer on a machining center dropped a tool when transferring it from a magazine to a spindle the machine would continue to operate but machining would not occur. In the invention, air pressure is supplied to a point through a series of holes in the spindle and if a tool is present in the spindle, it will prevent air from escaping. If the tool is absent, air will escape from the spindle or when the tool is not properly seated in the taper of the spindle which will cause the air pressure to drop and to stop the spindle motor and/or provide a suitable indication and warning to the operator.

Abstract: A portable electric device in which a surveying arrangement is incorporated for permitting a reading of the corresponding operating condition. The surveying arrangement consists of a visual reading instrument which is arranged on the casing so as to be within the range of vision and which is indicating respective characteristic data of the corresponding operating condition.

Abstract: A multi-position proximity switch having a plurality of binary outputs, each output indicating whether the distance between an object and a field transducer exceeds a corresponding one of a plurality of predefined distances. The sensitivity of a proximity detector having a single binary output is stepped through a plurality of adjustable levels by a digital counter having decoded outputs and the binary output of the proximity switch is sampled after the decoded counter outputs change state so that a plurality of binary outputs, each associated with a detector sensitivity level and a corresponding distance, are provided. The failure of the greatest distance to be detected or the detection of the smallest distance activates an alarm indicating that the object is outside a permissible range of distances.

Abstract: To control the operation of a machine tool, which has a tool bit cutting a workpiece, the temperature of a measurement spot or area, such as on the cut surface of the workpiece, is checked by an optical element which collects infra-red radiation and focuses it on a thermal sensor. The temperature read by the thermal sensor is registered in an evaluating device which generates a signal when a predetermined temperature condition is reached for discontinuing operation of the machine tool.

Abstract: A centering device for locating and aligning the center of a workpiece with the center axis of the spindle of a manufacturing machine such as a drill press and the like, comprising a centering pointer and a centering block; the centering pointer having a needle slidably disposed therein and an indicator lamp and being adapted to be detachably mounted to the spindle of the manufacturing machine, the centering block having a cylindrical surface and an L-shaped cut away to be mounted onto an edge of the workpiece, the L-shaped cut away having one surface passing through the center axis of the centering block.

Abstract: In a computerized numerical control (CNC) or a direct numerical control (DNC) machine tool, the second derivative as a function of time of the net power applied to the cutting tool is used to detect approaching tool failure, and a statistical representation of such occurrences with a series of tools is used to derive instantaneously the percentage of wear experienced by a new tool in terms of the statistically expected critical level of net power.

Abstract: By mounting unusual vibration transducer apparatus consisting of a piezo-electric vibration detecting member, a pre-amplifier including a gain adjust knob, a comparator including level adjust knob, a monostable multivibrator including a pulse width adjust knob, a preset counter including preset value setting switch, a flip flop memorizing signals, an amplifier amplifying signals, and an output circuit at a machine tool like a grinding machine, a lathe, a milling machine, a planer, and/or a drilling machine, or by mounting only a piezo-electric vibration detecting member and installing the other components at a separate position outside a specified machine tool, vibrations produced during machining work are taken out by a comparator as high or low signal and alarm is then issued when such a vibration reaches the preset value of the counter, causing rotation or travel of a tool to stop or feed of workpiece to stop, and/or causing the rapid infeed rate of wheelhead to be changed to an adequate roughing feedrate.

Abstract: The vibration of a moving device which has repetitive movements, for instance a rotary compressor, are sensed at the outer case and analyzed in real time in both the time and frequency plane. For the time analysis the envelope of the signal is generated; for the frequency analysis a fast Fourier transform is performed and separate power spectra for fractions of a revolution are produced. The signatures are compared with those of an acceptable device to identify rejects and abnormalities at a particular position of a moving part.

Abstract: A system for testing key duplicating machines to determine the accuracy thereof. This system is provided with a pair of identical detector plates each of which are intended for alignment positioning of the key and key blank within the two vises of the key duplicating machine. Portions of the detector plates which are to be in contact with the vises are provided with an insulating surface, and portions of the remainder of the detector plates are electrically conductive and are exposed for contact. An electrical circuit is provided which attaches to these detector plates such that electrical continuity can be determined visually when the guide member of the key duplicating machine contacts the detector plate held in the appropriate vise.

Abstract: A tool setting device for a machine tool (10) having a numerical control (22) includes a gage unit (24) with a frame (26) adapted to be secured upon a slide (20) of the machine tool. A photodetector, which includes a source (96) and a receiver (98), is mounted upon the frame for generating a first signal indicating the arrival of the tip of a tool (18). A slide (64) mounted upon the frame carries an engagement head (38) adapted to be contacted and displaced by the tool tip. An LVDT (60) is mounted upon the frame in proximity to the engagement head for sensing its axial displacements. A control meter relay (86,88) is operatively connected to the LVDT and generates a second signal after initial displacement of the engagement head and a third signal after displacement of the engagement head to a reference position.

Abstract: Speed regulation, either closed loop or open loop, in a hand-held electric tool such as a drill, a miller, a saw or, in particular, combination tools for home use, is carried out by use of a microcomputer. Then-present operating conditions such as the speed of the drill bit, the direction of rotation of the bit, the presently engaged gear, etc. are indicated by a display which has a plurality of fields which are selectively lit. Alternatively, the display can include a seven-segment indicator for displaying the speed. Overload indication is also furnished, as is an automatic shutoff when the motor current exceeds its nominal value. The display, overload indication and shutoff, etc. are all computer-controlled.

Abstract: A system is described for indicating the appropriate time to perform preventive maintenance operations upon a machine tool. The system includes a signal generator which is to be connected to the machine tool to generate signals whenever the tool is in operation. These signals are integrated and a threshold sensitive detector responsive to the output of the integrator produces a control signal. The control signal is then applied to a audio/visual indicating means to notify operators of the advent of a particular preventive maintenance operation to be performed upon the machine tool.

Abstract: An electronic edge and center locator is a device for setting up a machine tool so that a tool holding chuck is aligned with a workpiece to be machined. The electronic edge and center locator has a metal probe for contacting a workpiece and the probe has an insulated shank for mounting in the chuck of a machine tool. The electronic edge and center locator includes electronic circuitry for detecting when the probe makes electrical contact with the workpiece. The circuitry provides visual indication of normal probe operation and indication when contact between the probe and the workpiece is detected. Mounting of the probe in the chuck of the machine tool provides a highly accurate method of precisely determining the spatial relationship between a workpiece and the machine tool.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the abrasion depth of an outer surface of a substantially stationary body such as a tool which rests in working position against a rotating body such as a shaft to be ground. A measurement pin is inserted in a first direction into a measurement sleeve arranged in the stationary body, displaceably in the sleeve by action of one end of the pin against the shaft. During the grinding operation as a result of the abrasion on the surface of the stationary body the measurement pin is gradually inserted further into the sleeve and upon exceeding a distance of insertion corresponding to a predetermined abrasion on the surface of the stationary body which requires replacement of the stationary body the other end of the measurement pin contracts against an electric contact disposed inside the sleeve so as to provide an alarm via an electric circuit of an indicating device. In a path detection system a desired reference length of an end length of the measurement pin is stored.

Abstract: Net power consumed by one or more tools, continuously or intermittently is totalized and compared with a predetermined energy limit characterizing the life expectancy of a tool for optimum and safe use on a machine tool. Digital and computer techniques are used in order to keep track of the usage of the various tools within their respective life expectancies.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an abnormal condition sensing monitor system for use in conjunction with machine tools, such as automatic press apparatus. Means for sensing an abnormal condition of the machine tool is provided in the vicinity of an essential portion of the machine tool.When a signal indicative of abnormal condition in outputted from the sensing means, a signal processing circuit is actuated. In response to an output obtained from the signal processing circuit, the operation of the machine tool is halted by means of a control circuit or the alarming device, such as lamp, buzzer, is actuated to warn the abnormal condition of the machine tool. Both the control circuit and the alarming device are connected to the signal processing circuit, and either of which are actuated depending upon a level of the signal obtained from the sensing means.

Abstract: A material hardness testing apparatus is provided, for use in quality control of production materials and parts, in which a pneumatically actuated indenter probe, incorporating an LVDT displacement transducer, is coupled by an analog-to-digital converter to a microprocessor-based computer that controls the cyclic actuation of the indentor probe, and processes indenter measurement data received from the LVDT transducer. The pneumatically actuated indenter probe includes pneumatic control means for providing independently adjustable control over the rates of probe impact and retraction in order to achieve consistent hardness measurements from cycle to cycle, together with relatively rapid displacement cycling of the indenter probe. The microprocessor-based computer incorporates a recalibration processor which automatically causes the testing apparatus to branch into a recalibration routine after a predetermined period of operation.

Abstract: A machine for truing both the tire bead seats, and the side surfaces of a web of a wheel. The machine has a work supporting station with radially inwardly movable bead seat deforming jaws, and top and bottom machining heads on slides which move toward and away from the respective sides of the web of a wheel supported by the jaws. The axis of rotation of the machining heads are precisely concentric with the deforming jaws. The bottom machining head is used to chamfer the edges of bolting holes, and the top machining head is used to machine the bolting surfaces of the web. In the preferred embodiment, the bottom slide carries a plurality of gauging switches for contact with the web and for locating its welded position relative to the bead seats. The lower machine head also carries an adjustable gauge post which projects up past the jaws for contact by a gauging switch carried by the slide of the upper head.

Abstract: An electronic postal meter is provided with a date setter having an access door coupled to a switch. The position of the switch is signalled to the internal computer, in order to effect a warning indication if the access or dater door is open. The computer further inhibits operation of the postal meter upon the initial application of power to the postal meter, until the dater door has been opened and closed at least once.

Abstract: A numerically controlled machine tool controls the movement of a tool relative to a workpiece along a commanded path to cut the workpiece and to detect a load on the tool or workpiece. A specified position or section on the commanded path is the point at which the load on the tool or workpiece is detected and stored. Subsequently, the load on the tool or workpiece is detected each time the tool passes through the specified position or section and this detected value is compared with the above stored content. When the difference is larger than a predetermined value, an alarm signal is produced to indicate that the tool has worn out.

Abstract: A tool breakage detecting apparatus is provided with a preset counter to be preset with a predetermined value. The content of the counter is subtracted one by one each time either one of a tool and a workpiece to be machined is moved a unit distance toward the other thereof from a cutting movement start position being spaced a predetermined distance from the other thereof. If the content of the counter is reduced an amount corresponding to a distance larger than the predetermined distance, tool breakage is detected.

Abstract: In a numerical control machine tool, the time that the tool or bit actually operates is counted in the control device of the numerical control system. The present time control data collection system comprises a data memory having a plurality of flags, the condition of each of which reflects the actual operation of the related tool or bit, a real time clock which provides signals at predetermined intervals, and means for counting the real time clock on the condition that the particular flag in said memory is on. The counted value is displayed either directly, or the fact that the counted value exceeds the predetermined reference value is indicated. The present system can also be implemented using a programmed micro-computer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring tool wear and breakage as a function of the electrical power dissipated by a machine tool which is carrying out subsequent cuts for removing stock. Optimal tool life is achieved by monitoring tool wear and breakage as a function of the power dissipated by a machine tool by monitoring said power, storing pertinent selected values thereof associated with successive cuts of the tool and periodically comparing the stored values with one another to determine if the difference therebetween exceeds a predetermined limit value, in which case the operator is warned and/or the machine tool is de-energized. The analysis phase can be carried out by a general-purpose microprocessor or discrete digital or analog components.

Abstract: The invention relates to an optical fire-detector in which a radiation-emitting means is arranged to emit a beam of radiation and which has modulator means for the modulation of the beam of radiation in a phase-inverted relationship within a first and a second wavelength band, and a radiation-detecting means is arranged to receive the beam of radiation after it has passed through an intermediate air medium and includes first means for an individual measurement of intensity in the two wavelength bands and second means for the detection of such variations in the measured intensities which are representative for a fire.

Abstract: An impact sensing detector for monitoring the operation of metal forming impact presses. The detector operates on an analog electric signal corresponding to the shock wave produced as the press ram impacts the fixed press platen and workpiece to produce a plurality of samples of the amplitude of said analog signal. These samples are digitized and compared against time corresponding standard samples previously derived from normal press operation. The detector may also be applied to other working areas of the press where waveform analysis can detect improper operation in order to avoid catastrophic failures. Predetermined differences between compared samples produce warning indicator signals which may be used to stop the press and also a fault analysis tool to help the press operator pinpoint the malfunction.