Abstract: A method for controlling a pull motor, the method including generating an error signal based on a difference between a signal representing a force applied on a wire by a push motor and a signal representing a desired force applied on the wire by the push motor; comparing a signal representing a force applied on the wire by the pull motor and the error signal, and generating an output signal based on the comparison; and controlling an armature current of the pull motor based on the output signal is disclosed.

Abstract: A system and associated method for determining an operational condition of a gas torch are provided. The system includes a diode device that is electrically connected between the workpiece and the nozzle. A sensing circuit is configured to provide an electric potential across the diode device and sense a resulting voltage characteristic of the condition of continuity of the system. For example, the sensing circuit can determine whether the nozzle is otherwise electrically connected to the workpiece and/or whether the nozzle is electrically connected to the electrode. The sensing circuit can determine the condition of continuity throughout the operation of the system, e.g., to verify the proper assembly of the torch, to verify proper movement of the electrode or nozzle, to verify that the torch is separated from the workpiece at start-up, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention provides a modified buck regulator circuit capable of providing two output voltage levels. The circuit includes an inductive element connected between the input and output of the circuit. Further, the circuit includes an auto-transformer and two switches creating separate current paths with a load connected to the output of the circuit. In one mode, the switches are operated in parallel to provide a first voltage across the load. Because the switches are in parallel with respect to each other, the load current is divided between the two switches. In a second mode, the switches are operated in a push-pull mode. In this mode, the auto-transformer steps down the load voltage and also effectively steps down the current across each switch. As such, the buck regulator circuit of the present invention may provide two separate voltages, while also reducing the current across the switches of the buck regulator circuit.