Abstract: In association with a polyphase hybrid rectifying bridge having controlled rectifiers, there is employed, in addition to the normal means for controlling the firing time of the controlled rectifiers, additional circuitry for preventing or at least reducing the probability of the occurrence of a commutation fault. This is achieved by first producing a timing signal which is representative of the time intervals during which a voltage exists across a load being supplied by the bridge and by then combining the timing signal with a basic reference signal representing a minimum time period during which this voltage should exist to guard against a commutation failure of the controlled rectifiers. When a prescribed relationship exists between the timing signal and the basic reference signal, the normal control means is overridden and the firing angle of the controlled rectifiers is advanced to a point which will guarantee commutation.

Abstract: An adaptive filter circuit using a time modulated dead band for suppressing the effects of spurious noise associated with an error signal used in controlling a position drive motor associated with process controlling elements. The circuit includes means for restricting all signals, including both control signals and spurious noise, to a positioning motor during those periods of operation when little positioning is required. However, in those instances where a relatively large amount of repositioning is required, the system provides means for switching to a nonrestrictive mode of filtering which thereby permits maximum control over motor operation.