Abstract: A controller for detecting abnormal operating conditions of a continuous motion machine such as a packaging machine. The acceleration and velocity of motors for the various axes of the machine are examined by the controller and rapid deceleration or a more gradual deceleration to a lower velocity relative to a machine velocity are employed for stopping the machine when overloads in the form of jams or mechanical faults occur in moving parts of the machine. By using this system, machine overloads can be detected much earlier than by using conventional techniques, and as a result, damage resulting from overloads and nuisance tripping can be eliminated or greatly reduced.