Abstract: In revising a figure element, the figure element (C.sub.2) to be revised is designated, the designated figure element (C.sub.2 ) is displayed by a type of line or and color different from those of other figure elements, the figure elements (S.sub.1, C.sub.1) used in defining the designated figure element (C.sub.2) are displayed by a line of a different type and color, a message (M) which includes definition statements of the figure elements (S.sub.1, C.sub.1), as well as a radius necessary for defining the figure element (C.sub.2), is displayed on a display screen, and revision of the figure element is executed by referring to the display.

Abstract: A device for the distribution of a large number of element on a tray housed in a container for these elements. The elements are distributed by a mechanical action communicated to the container during a specified period. The device has a system which functions in a learning mode by the recording of parameters of mechanical action and by the storing of these parameters. This system also enables the automatic functioning of the device according to the recorded parameters.

Abstract: A process controller may incorporate statistical computations of the variance in the controlled variable. Statistical measures may then be used to offset the controller set point to maintain the controlled variable distribution in an acceptable specification zone. The statistical measures may be made automatically and continuously thereby obviating human intervention, while producing high quality, though statistically variable, process output. The statistical measures may be calculated specifically or generated by a weighted integration method.

Abstract: An information processing system which has a portion for storing metaknowledge and a portion for utilizing the metaknowledge stored in said storage portion. In newly acquiring knowledge, the utilizing portion utilizes the metaknowledge stored in said storage portion. A knowledge input prompting function that works to utilize the metaknowledge makes reference to metaknowledge in the metaknowledge memory function, looks for knowledge that is lacking, and prompts the input thereof. An input knowledge checking function which also utilizes the metaknowledge makes reference to metaknowledge to look for constraint related to the input knowledge, and evaluates whether it is satisfied or not. These utilization functions make it possible to keep the justification and consistency of knowledge acquired.

Abstract: A computer-aided method for predicting the layup of fiber-reinforced prepreg resin material for compression molding into three-dimensional shapes depends on the area relationships of the final thickness of the molded shape to the initial thickness of the prepreg material. A graphic display is generated incorporating the initial thickness needed at each location on the prepreg material to provide the desired final thickness of the three-dimensional shape with controlled fiber distribution throughout the shape.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for automatically stamping designs onto candles under computer control. For a given stamped mark, a turret selects the tool with a specific die is to be stamped. The turret orients the tool angle about the axis defined by the tool's travel line during stamping by use of a planetary gear system. A rotatable chuck mounted on a movable bed selects the location on the candle surface to receive the die. A linear solenoid plunges the selected and oriented tool onto the candle. This process is repeated until all marks in a desired design are completed. The planetary gear system is designed so that all tool orientations are controlled by one motor, and tool anti-rotation during travel is controlled by the face length of a sun gear.

Abstract: A gas accident preventive unit has a memory circuit which is capable of memorizing in advance a continuous service safety time according to a consumed gas volume of gas apparatuses that are installed at a gas user. The unit also includes a control circuit for sending out to an emergency shutoff valve, a close signal for cutting off the gas being supplied to the user in the event that any increase in gas flowrate is recognized in the previously measured value and the value measured this time by taking a measurement of the whole gas flowrate value being supplied to the gas user at a certain interval of time. The unit takes the measurement of continuous service hours on individual gas apparatuses or the gas apparatus having the largest gas consumption volume now under service, or responds to when the service of gas apparatus with the largest gas consumption volume being monitored has elapsed the continuous service safety time.

Abstract: A magnet wire oven for an in-line drawing fabrication process is controlled by means of a local operator control station having a plurality of menu screens stored therein for operator call-up and control via a remote controller for controlling a plurality of oven parameters. The remote controller is located in an output of the way location so as to efficiently utilize floorspace while at the same time controlling a large number of parameters in one main controller unit. The local operator station comprises a local signal processor, a keyboard, a display and an input/output port. The remote controller comprises a remote signal processor, a multiplexer and a plurality of analog loop controllers. The remote controller may also include either analog or digital input/output devices or both.

Abstract: A microcomputer control utilizes a nonvolatile memory with an interlock. The interlock functions upon the removal of the microcomputer control from a base or from a mounting surface, and its reinstallation. The removal and reinstallation deletes memory and requires reprogramming. This prevents the removal of a microcomputer control that is protected by battery backup without reprogramming the memory. This safety function is particularly useful in flame safeguard or burner control equipment where the interchange of microcomputer fuel burner controls without reprogramming for the particular burner could create a hazard.

Abstract: A communication control unit for controlling communication between an electronic control unit and other equipment or other electronic control units, the communication control unit functioning to judge whether or not the operation of the electronic control unit is normal and, if it is judged that the electronic control unit is operating abnormally, the communication control unit acts to reset the electronic control unit to an initial operating status in order to attempt recovery from the abnormal condition, while halting transmission by the electronic control unit until it is judged that the electronic control unit has commenced to operate normally.

Abstract: A conversational-type programming apparatus well suited for use when data are to be input in response to prompts on a conversational display in order to create a partial program, is provied. When a predetermined parameter item has been selected, the details of the selected item can be correctly understood, even by a person who is not skilled in NC programming language, thanks to a display of auxiliary graphics corresponding to the selected item. This enables an operator to input machining data while referring to auxiliary graphics corresponding to the parameter items, as a result of which the operator can rapidly become skilled at determining inputs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing a reproduction of an object and an apparatus for carrying out said method. A particular object of the invention is the reproduction of the remaining stump of an amputated leg (18) for producing an improved prosthetic socket. When carrying out the method, the object (18) is positioned in a predetermined position in relation to a rotatable framework (8) on which a laser apparatus (12) and a video camera (13) are mounted in such positions that they can illuminate, and pick up, respectively, the image of a contour line (17) of the object via a pair of mirrors (15, 16; 20, 21) each during the rotation of the framework (8) through substantially a complete revolution. The image thus obtained of the contour line (17) is converted through a video/AD-converter (26) into numerical information identifying coordinates of points on the line.