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 load sensing probe for disposition in a cavity in a back-up member arranged to support a tool at a working station for measuring the strain associated with such working forces applied to the tool comprises a generally cylindrical body member having first and second generally end adjacent regions of substantially equal outside diameter and a third intermediate region of reduced size. A centrally disposed bore extends through the cylindrical member. A first pair of slots extend axially inwardly into the intermediate region and a second pair of slots extend from the second region into the intermediate region and are disposed at a right angle to first pair of slots. A threaded rod having a frusto-conical surface extends through the centrally disposed bore and includes a threaded fastener. This assembly may be utilized to apply outwardly directed forces to the body of the probe to retain it within the cavity of the tool.

Abstract: A digital processing and comparison indicating apparatus is responsive to an input signal having a value proportional to the quantity to be indicated for displaying a quantity of electrical information in an analog form of decimal notation. A microprocessor compares the value of the input signal with a first plurality of reference values and generates decade enable signals for each one of the first reference values which are less than or equal to the input signal value. The microprocessor also compares the input signal value with a second plurality of reference values and generates units enable signals for each one of the second reference values which are less than or equal to the difference between the input signal value and the value of the largest one of the first reference values for which first enable signals have been generated. The decade and units enable signals drive a display which typically includes a plurality of light emitting diodes for indicating the quantity of the electrical information.

Abstract: A load sensing probe for monitoring working forces in compressive elements such as found in presses and other machine tools is disclosed. The probe has an elongate configuration which allows it to be mounted at a point remote from its load sensing end and enables it to be conveniently used with a plurality of similar probes in relatively confined spaces. A split plug includes a slot defining two sensing arms, which arms are pushed outwardly into engagement with an accommodating cavity formed in a back-up member of the machine tool. The probe is sensitive to relative closing movement of the cavity caused by compressive strain in the back-up member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the length of wire blanks in a wire cutting machine is disclosed, the machine including feed apparatus for feeding wire stock into the cutting machine, stop apparatus for engaging one end of the wire stock at a predetermined length in the cutting machine, and cutting apparatus for cutting wire blanks from the wire stock. When the leading end of the wire stock engages the stop apparatus with a predetermined pressure, the blank is at a proper length to be cut. The pressure causes the stop apparatus to expand radially. Strain gauges mounted about the stop apparatus detect the expansion by generating an electrical signal when connected in a bridge circuit. The strain gauges detect an over feed situation when the stop apparatus expands beyond a predetermined point. Similarly, an under feed situation is detected when little or no expansion of the stop apparatus is sensed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the feedback path in a signal conditioning system. An input signal having signal pulses superimposed on a first d. c. voltage level is applied to a signal conditioner to generate conditioned signal pulses superimposed on a second d. c. voltage level established by a feedback circuit. A first comparator generates a constant magnitude output pulse during the time that the magnitude of a signal pulse exceeds the magnitude of a first reference voltage. The output signal is differentiated and a second comparator generates a control signal during the time the magnitude of the differentiated signal exceeds the magnitude of a second reference voltage. A transistor switch is responsive to the control signal for interrupting the feedback path during which time capacitor means continues to establish the second d. c. voltage level while the signal pulse is conditioned by the signal conditioner.