Abstract: System for dynamically testing the dimensional accuracy of punched tape. A microprocessor controller and modified capstan drive tape reader are utilized to provide large volume checking of punched tape. Dimensional requirements of the tape are tested dynamically at tape reader speeds.

Abstract: A distributed microcomputer network is interconnected with a plurality of operator-supervised, numerically controlled (N/C) machines, visual display paging boards, terminal printers and CRT/keyboard terminals for communicating operator-originated CALLs (requests for assistance) to support personnel via the paging boards and terminal printers, and for sensing and transmitting encoded signals representing the STATUS of each machine to a central control room where the current status of the various machines is displayed on a CRT and where a central data processor compiles periodic reports of the operating history of each machine and stores such reports on a permanent recording. The microcomputer network includes a separate microcomputer for each machine for receiving and concentrating CALL and STATUS data at the individual machine level.

Abstract: A pneumatic fail-safe sensor system including a probe adapted to monitor the outline of a master pattern as the directed cutter spindle system of an N/C machine tool forms a part is disclosed. When the probe impinges on the master pattern to indicate that the cutter is deviating from the desired path of travel, a valve is opened and causes a pressure drop that actuates a pressure switch. The valve includes a pressurized dome that presses a valve plate against a valve seat. A valve stem is attached to the valve plate and supports the probe. Movement of the probe disturbs the static pressure of an annular chamber contained wholly within the valve seat area and, thereby, creates the pressure drop that activates the pressure switch. Activation of the pressure switch causes an electronic circuit to energize the control system of the N/C machine tool that terminates its operation by deenergizing the blocking valves.

Abstract: An AC relay control circuit comprising a pair of back-to-back, series connected zener diodes control current flow through a control resistor. The control resistor is connected in parallel with parallel, reverse-connected light emitting diodes forming the light emitting portions of optical isolators. The photo transistor portions of the optical isolators are connected in parallel and control the generation of a trigger signal adapted to control the closure of relay contacts. Regardless of the instantaneous state of the AC voltage waveform (e.g., positive or negative), during the higher portions of the AC voltage waveform, one or the other of the LED's is forward biased and emits light, causing its related photo transistor to be turned on and the trigger signal to be at a low level.

Abstract: A system for continuously, automatically sensing the setting of operator controlled switches that denote: (1) the need for operator assistance [CALL]; and, (2) the operational status [STATUS] of a plurality of numerically controlled (N/C) machines is disclosed. The sensed CALL and STATUS information is transmitted, in a highly noise immune push-pull voltage manner, from the N/C machine locations (e.g., shop area) to a central processing unit (CPU) located in a control room. The CPU processes the received information and in accordance therewith transmits CALL control signals to one or more visual paging boards located in the shop area and to a status display board located in the control room. The status board displays, in real time, the STATUS information and CALL information, plus the elapsed time since a particular STATUS state started, or a particular CALL was made.

Abstract: A pneumatic fail-safe sensor system including a probe adapted to monitor the outline of a master pattern as the directed cutter spindle system of an N/C machine tool forms a part is disclosed. When the probe impinges on the master pattern to indicate that the cutter is deviating from the desired path of travel, a valve is opened and causes a pressure drop that actuates a pressure switch. The valve includes a pressurized dome that presses a valve plate against a valve seat. A valve stem is attached to the valve plate and supports the probe. Movement of the probe disturbs the static pressure of an annular chamber contained wholly within the valve seat area and, thereby, creates the pressure drop that activates the pressure switch. Activation of the pressure switch causes an electronic circuit to energize the control system of the N/C machine tool that terminates its operation by deenergizing the blocking valves.

Abstract: A following error measurement system for phase analog servo systems is disclosed. The leading or lagging status of a phase analog servo system's command signal with respect to its feedback signal, is used to create a variable width error signal. This variable width error signal controls the counting of modulated command pulses received from the phase analog servo system. Since the frequency of the variable width error signal is proportional to the frequency of the modulated command pulses, the total count is normalized and a pulse weighted count is obtained. In addition, the conditioned variable width error signal controls the transfer of the pulse weighted count to a display system. Because the total count is normalized, the resultant display is also normalized for variations in the rate at which command pulses are applied to the phase analog servo system. Hence the measured following error is displayed.