Abstract: A system for controlling power supplied by a solar array panel to one of either a load or a battery for optimal power consumption is disclosed. The solar array power control system of the present invention includes a power stage for directing the solar array to discharge an appropriate amount of current, a signal conditioner for receiving and conditioning voltage and current signals from the solar array and determining the signs of the time derivatives of solar array voltage and power, a processor for evaluating the signs of the time derivatives of solar array power voltage and for directing operation of either a battery current control mode or a peak power tracking mode and a high gain amplifier for directing an appropriate voltage to the power stage according to the operating mode. The signal conditioner, processor and high gain amplifier cooperate to determine whether the solar array is capable of supplying the power demanded by at least one of the battery and the load.

Abstract: A load sensing probe for disposition in a cavity in a back-up member arranged to support a tool at a working station for measuring the strain associated with such working forces applied to the tool comprises a generally cylindrical body member having first and second generally end adjacent regions of substantially equal outside diameter and a third intermediate region of reduced size. A centrally disposed bore extends through the cylindrical member. A first pair of slots extend axially inwardly into the intermediate region and a second pair of slots extend from the second region into the intermediate region and are disposed at a right angle to first pair of slots. A threaded rod having a frusto-conical surface extends through the centrally disposed bore and includes a threaded fastener. This assembly may be utilized to apply outwardly directed forces to the body of the probe to retain it within the cavity of the tool.

Abstract: A load sensing probe for monitoring working forces in compressive elements such as found in presses and other machine tools is disclosed. The probe has an elongate configuration which allows it to be mounted at a point remote from its load sensing end and enables it to be conveniently used with a plurality of similar probes in relatively confined spaces. A split plug includes a slot defining two sensing arms, which arms are pushed outwardly into engagement with an accommodating cavity formed in a back-up member of the machine tool. The probe is sensitive to relative closing movement of the cavity caused by compressive strain in the back-up member.