Abstract: A control system for an induction electric motor utilized to drive a top loading agitator washing machine obviates the need for a mechanical transmission between the motor and the agitator of the washing machine. An integrated circuit module in the control system provides a nearly infinitely adjustable rate of output reversal. A plurality of phase shift capacitors enable a variety of output torques to be obtained from the motor.

Abstract: A linear motor is utilized to open and close large doors such as conventional segmented overhead garage doors or large single piece slidable doors. In the linear actuator, the stator, including a two-phase winding mounted thereon, is mounted for operation in a substantially stationary position. A straight elongate channel member is utilized as an armature for the motor, and with overhead garage doors is connected at one end to a door member. With horizontal sliding doors, the armature is mounted along the top edge of the door in spaced relation therewith, except at the opposed ends thereof where it is secured to the door. Energization of the linear motor moves the elongate armature to open or close the door as desired. A fail-safe brake mechanism may be incorporated in the linear motor to lock the armature in position and therefore lock the door when the motor is not energized.

Abstract: A linear induction motor includes one ferromagnetic member thereof which is movably resiliently mounted in the motor frame so as to move toward the stator in the motor whenever current is applied thereto. A portion of the armature in the motor extends between the resiliently movable member and the motor frame. When the motor is energized the armature is free to move between the ferromagnetic member and stator. When the motor is de-energized, the resiliently movable member is biased toward the motor frame and sandwiches the armature between the member and the frame so as to prevent the movement thereof. Reactivating the motor then attracts the movable member toward the stator and frees the armature.