Abstract: This disclosure relates to a programmable unit employing plural levels of sub-instruction sets in addition to conventional instruction sets. The conventional level of instruction sets is employed to specify computational routines and other processing algorithms to be carried out by the unit. Each instruction in a conventional set is implemented in the unit by a sequence of first level sub-instructions which specify the various operations to be carried out within the unit which operations are comprised within the specific routine. In turn, the various first level sub-instructions are implemented by second level sub-instructions which specify the various control signals required to set the various gates as required for the particular unit operation to be carried out. With this hierarchy of sub-instruction sets, first level sub-instruction sets may be interchanged dynamically during the operation of the unit to dynamically change the processing capability of the unit.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a multimicroprocessor unit which is adapted for implementation in a single MOS semiconductor chip, which unit includes a plurality of sets of registers where each set represents a different processing capability. The unit further includes common elements which are shared by the different sets of registers in a time multiplex manner. The shared elements include two scratch pad memories, an arithmetic logic unit, and a control unit which incorporates a composite read only memory from which control signals are fetched to initiate the respective data transfers and arithmetic operations. This control memory acts as a decoder for encoded microinstructions retrieved from outside of the multi-processor unit. In this sense, the present invention employs both vertical and horizontal microprogramming as those terms are conventionally defined. The different sets of dedicated registers are formed of 4-bit shift registers so as to permit a four-way time slicing among the processing capabilities.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed toward a data driven network of uniform processing or function modules and local storage units which network may be readily partitioned to accommodate various concurrent operations or tasks. Data transfer is serial in nature so that data segments can be of any length. Execution by each function module is initiated by arrival of all of the required data structures, one of which contains an operator and may be stored in the associated local storage unit. The other data structure may contain operands and modifiers. Thus, a series of such operators may be distributed throughout the network to increase processing performance and throughput. A particular character set and data structure format is also disclosed.

Abstract: A loader-unloader is disclosed which can controllably move a workpiece into and out of a workstation in a machine without danger to the machine operator. The loader-unloader has a table which supports the workpiece and aligns it with the workstation. A plurality of clamps are used to grip the workpiece. One clamp is provided for each part of the workpiece exiting the machine. The working faces of the clamps make point or line contact with the workpiece so that it can be moved slightly in the clamps under the influence of aligning means on the table and in the machine. The clamps lift the lower portion of the workpiece as it is moved toward the workstation to reduce frictional resistance and to prevent the lower portion of the workpiece from being scratched. In operation, the machine operator places the workpiece on the table and initiates the loader-unloader cycle. The workpiece is clamped and aligned and then moved forward into the workstation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to electric light sources such as may be used in sealed beam lighting units. An electric lamp assembly comprises a sealed envelope containing a light source mounted in a flanged lamp cap. Terminal pins pass through hermetic seals in the cap and support the light source in a predetermined position relative to the cap flange.