Abstract: A control system controls the movement and position of an automated device as it moves along a movement track. The control system comprises a chart extending stationarily transversely adjacent along an operative portion of the movement track which includes a light reflective code uniquely defining each increment of length of the chart. A light source is carried by the movement device for illuminating the chart and creating the reflected optical signals. A camera device is also carried by the movement device and receives the optical signals. Corresponding electrical signals are derived and are utilized by a computer processor to control the position and movement of the movement device. The chart includes a plurality of parallel bars extending along the length of the chart. A portion of the bars define, in binary code, the unique optical signal reflected from each distance increment along the chart. A remaining portion of the bars assure the integrity of the reflected optical signal.

Abstract: This system incorporates a uniquely coded longitudinally extending absolute distance standard or code chart. The code chart includes bars and segments of different light reflectivity characteristics which uniquely define every different distance increment along the chart. Preferably the chart is binary coded. A transducer optically detects the code at each different distance measurement increment and converts the code into electrical signals. The electrical signals operatively control a manipulator device which moves along a movement track parallel to the stationarily positioned chart. The transducer includes means for detecting the code at or near the center of each distance measurement increment, rather than at the edges of the distance measurement increments where the code on the chart undergoes transitions. A sample bar extending along the chart defines the distance measurement increments and the points at which the code at or near the center of the distance measurement increments is to be sampled.