Abstract: Apparatus for manufacturing or processing articles includes smart microcontroller boards which cooperate with sensors and a communication system to monitor and control manufacturing processes. Microcontroller boards disposed within a container create a microprocessor module which is secured to the apparatus for controlling the same responsive to information provided to them. Sensors are provided for monitoring operation of the apparatus and providing such information to the microcontroller boards. The communication system provides for communication between the sensors and the microcontroller boards, among microcontroller boards and between the microcontroller boards and other portions of the apparatus which are to be subjected to responsive control. In a preferred embodiment, the microcontroller boards are positioned within a container which is secured in a recess in the apparatus and has an overlying material covering the boards. A plurality of microcontroller modules may be employed in a system.

Abstract: Apparatus for manufacturing or processing articles includes smart microcontroller boards which cooperate with sensors and a communication system to monitor and control manufacturing processes. Microcontroller boards disposed within a container create a microprocessor module which is secured to the apparatus for controlling the same responsive to information provided to them. Sensors are provided for monitoring operation of the apparatus and providing such information to the microcontroller boards. The communication system provides for communication between the sensors and the microcontroller boards, among microcontroller boards and between the microcontroller boards and other portions of the apparatus which are to be subjected to responsive control. In a preferred embodiment, the microcontroller boards are positioned within a container which is secured in a recess in the apparatus and has an overlying material covering the boards. A plurality of microcontroller modules may be employed in a system.

Abstract: Apparatus for progressively manufacturing fabricated or semi-fabricated articles, such as a rotor or stator assembly, includes a punch press and a progressive stamping die for creating the assemblies from sheet stock moving therebetween. A microcontroller board or network, including a plurality of microcontroller boards, is secured to the die for controlling operation of the apparatus responsive to information provided to them. Sensors are provided for monitoring operation of the apparatus and providing such information to the microcontroller boards. The communication system provides for communication between the sensors and the logic chips, among the logic chips and among the microcontroller boards and between the microcontroller boards and other portions of the apparatus which are to be subjected to responsive control.