Abstract: A distributed automated control network system consisting of a master host computer, network processing nodes for monitoring and control of work locations and a subhost node which interfaces the nodes and host computer. The subhost includes dual microprocessor configurations on a common bus, one for communications and one for control, operating 180.degree. out of phase. Each node can be configured from a variety of modular subsystems on a common bus including modules for network control, data acquisition, digital and analog inputs and outputs, display terminals and the like in accordance with system requirements. The nodes communicate via two fiber optic channels, one operating clockwise and the other counterclockwise with foldback capability in the event of a fault. A conventional signal back-up is also provided.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an improved apparatus and method for displaying and printing the results of an analysis of an internal combustion engine. The results simultaneously are displayed on a cathode ray tube (CRT) face and are written into a buffer memory of a printer. An operator can move a cursor to the line of the CRT display for which special printing is desired. By pushing an ENTER switch, the operator causes a problem flag to be displayed on the screen at the desired line. The information displayed on the CRT face then is printed, together with an additional message indicating a possible vehicle problem. The line designated by the problem flag is printed in a modified ink color to indicate the source of the possible vehicle problem.

Abstract: The present invention is a metering system including a signal conditioning circuit, processor and output system. The signal conditioning circuit receives a state-indicating signal and responsively produces a repetitive digital signal compatible with the processor. The processor samples the repetitive digital signal, determines the period thereof and produces an output signal having a value related to the state-indicating signal. The output system displays the value of the output signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for diagnosing the operating state or condition of various components of an automotive engine is disclosed herein. The apparatus generates diagnostic signals representing the relationship between engine operating parameters and engine specifications. The diagnostic signals are selectively processed according to a test matrix to determine the operating state of each engine component. A diagnostic message then identifies which, if any, of the components requires repair or replacement.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an improved automated engine diagnosing device employing a digital data processor computer and a cathode ray tube display monitor which displays engine parameter (i.e., condition) values in alphabetic, numeric, and graphical form. Some data is accumulated from the engine by means of direct digital measurements, whereas other data is obtained from the engine by an analog-to-digital converter. The data is then processed by the computer and displayed on the cathode ray tube display monitor.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an analyzer controlled by a microprocessor having a memory for diagnosing a vehicle engine. Engine specifications are read into the analyzer by a card bearing: (1) specifications of the engine printed in alpha-numeric form; and (2) a machine-readable code representing a portion of the specifications. A code reader reads the code on the card and converts it into electronic digital signals. The digital signals are converted to a form usable by the microprocessor so that the specifications can be stored in the memory. During analysis, information can be written on the card and stored for use during a subsequent analysis.

Abstract: The disclosure describes apparatus for determining the relative compression of the chambers of an internal combustion engine by analyzing the voltage or current waveform of the starter system during cranking. The waveform is rapidly and repetitively sampled by an analog-to-digital converter which converts the amplitude waveform into corresponding digital signals. A processor selects one of the signals having either a maximum or minimum value to represent each of the chambers. The processor automatically determines the number of chambers in the engine, determines the relative compression of the chambers and displays the result to the operator of the system.

Abstract: An interface for an ignition coil voltage analyzer is disclosed. The interface includes adaptive sample-and-store logic for secondary peak amplitude detection. The interface also generates timing pulses to effect and facilitate secondary voltage analysis, including frequency component analysis and time domain analysis.