Abstract: A head equipment comprises a component such as a helmet connectable to the head of a wearer and movable by the wearer in a limited field, with at least five degrees of freedom. It comprises an arm constituted by articulated segments giving the component at least five degrees of freedom with respect to the fixed structure and linking the component to a fixed structure.

Abstract: A temperature compensated overcurrent and/or undercurrent detector monitors current through a solenoid or other load and signals when the load current exceeds an upper limit or falls below a lower limit. Such a signal may indicate a failure of another circuit which supplies the load current via a load transistor. This other circuit which supplies the load current is temperature compensated, and likewise the detector is temperature compensated so it can be set to signal an overcurrent or undercurrent condition when the load current varies a small amount from a predetermined range. The load transistor has an on-resistance which passes the load current and varies with temperature. The temperature compensation for the detector is provided in part by two pilot transistors which are integrated with the load transistor such that as the load transistor heats-up due to the load current passing through the on-resistance, the pilot transistors heat-up due to heat conduction from the load transistor.

Abstract: The operating mechanism according to the present invention is so constructed that an indexing mechanism moves by rotation of a reversible driving device in one direction and when the mechanism reaches a specified section corresponding to a selecting device, the mechanism drives a loading system, selected by the selecting device, by rotation thereof in the other direction at the section. The friction mechanism of a camera according to the present invention is so constructed that a spring for applying to a spool is attached to a spool driving gear. The electric film rewinding apparatus according to the present invention is so constructed that a planetary gear disengages from a driven gear in film rewinding gears by a driving force of a driving device. The driving control apparatus of a camera is so constructed that a single motor is driven for reversibly rotation in both of one direction and the other direction to execute only a necessary operation in loading and unloading a film, reversibly.

Abstract: An integrated pilot protection and restraining system having a circular bearing structure configured to surround the neck of the wearer, and a non-conformal helmet which is detachably coupled to and rotatably supported by the bearing structure. An automatic helmet rotation system is provided for controlling rotation of the helmet in response to movements of the wearer's head in order to maintain the helmet in a predetermined position with respect to the wearer's head. The system further includes a restraining anchor disposed on a rear portion of the bearing structure at its non-rotating base proximate to the base of the wearer's neck. The restraining anchor is coupled to a retractable restraining device.

Abstract: A medical apparatus has an apparatus part which is motor-adjustable relative to a surface in a direction of at least one degree of freedom. A sensing card means comprising a plurality of sensing cards forms a matrix-like grid which is attachable to the surface in a range of adjustment of the apparatus part. The sensing cards each output a signal given the presence of a subject in the region of the respective sensing card. The signals output by these sensing cards are evaluated in dependence upon the desired adjustment direction in such a way that only the sensing card or cards of the matrix-like grid lying in the desired adjustment direction is or are taken into consideration. An adjustment of the apparatus part in the desired adjustment direction is suppressed when at least one sensing card taken into consideration outputs a signal indicating the presence of a subject.

Abstract: A low power consumption wireless data transmission and control system 10 is disclosed and in one embodiment, is used to automatically articulate a shade 24 by use of a transmitted command signal 14. The system 10 contains a receiver/detector 18 which is selectively activated for only certain intervals of time thereby allowing substantially all of the previously transmitted signals 14 to be received while reducing the power consumed by the detector 18 during periods in which the signals 14 are absent.

Abstract: A screw adjusting apparatus includes a positioning control device for outputting rotation instructions to a designated position based on a rotation detection signal; an image sensing section; a visual recognition section for processing a video signal outputted from the image sensing section so as to measure position of an object; a screw feeding amount calculating device for deciding a feeding amount of the screw so as to place the object at a predetermined position according to position information outputted from the visual recognition section and the information of the object which has been moved by contact between the screw and a tool; and an instruction control device for issuing instructions to the positioning control device based on a decided feeding amount of the screw.

Abstract: A concentration of a given gas is detected by a gas sensor when a command signal for turning off the gas sensor is present, the concentration is stored and the gas sensor is turned off. The invention detects the concentration of the given gas by the gas sensor when a command signal for turning on the gas sensor is present and determines a reference value by choosing either the stored concentration or the concentration detected after the gas sensor is turned on whichever is lower at an instant a predetermined interval after the gas sensor is turned on. A blower motor of an air cleaner is controlled in accordance with the difference between the reference value and the concentration detected after the gas sensor is turned on. In a second method, the concentration is stored in a nonvolatile memory just before the air cleaner is turned off. In a third method, a given value may be set as the reference value replacing the stored concentration if the given value is smaller than the stored concentration.

Abstract: The control pedal (7) for an electric machine (3) comprises a movable member (9) connected to a foot support (11) and adapted to be actuated by the foot of the user, whose heel rests on the plate (10). When the pedal (7) is not in use, the member (9) may be lowered against the plate (10), whereas the cord (8) and that which is provided for the plug (6), are wound about the portions (12) forming bobbins.

Abstract: A low power consumption wireless data transmission and control system 10 is disclosed and in one embodiment, is used to automatically articulate a shade 24 by use of a transmitted command signal 14. The system 10 contains a receiver/detector 18 which is selectively activated for only certain intervals of time thereby allowing substantially all of the previously transmitted signals 14 to be received while reducing the power consumed by the detector 18 during periods in which the signals 14 are absent.

Abstract: A novel and improved temperature detecting device for detecting the temperature of a vehicular clutch is disclosed which is able to provide an accurate voltage across the electromagnetic clutch by taking account of a voltage drop across power supply elements inside the clutch and a voltage drop in wiring due to a current flowing through the clutch, improve the accuracy in detection of the clutch temperature, and have high reliability and commerciality for vehicular use. To this end, a clutch voltage sensing element senses a voltage across an electromagnetic clutch. A clutch current calculating element generates a clutch current command signal, which controls the current supply to the electromagnetic clutch, and a clutch cut-off signal based on engine control information data and travel control information data of a vehicle.

Abstract: A fail-safe variable damping suspension system for a motor vehicle controls the oscillatory spring movements of each wheel via a permanent magnet rotary electric machine which is connected to machine control circuitry by normally open contacts of a relay. In the event of failure of the suspension system, the relay is released and the machine takes the form of a permanent magnet alternator which is connected to a defined load via normally closed contacts of the relay. Thus, in the event of a failure of the suspension system, the machine control circuitry is disabled and all shock absorbers are set to a fail-safe mode by the defined load upon closure of the normally closed contacts of the relay.

Abstract: An improved patient support structure comprising an articulatable frame, a plurality of elongated inflatable sacks, some of the sacks having one or two comfort slots therein, a low pressure compressed air blower and a plurality of pipes and manifolds for carrying gas from the blower to the sacks. The sacks are connected to the gas supply pipes and manifolds so as to be easily detachable thereform. Each manifold has a variable muffler to control gas exhaust. An automatic switching circuit determines whether to power the brushless DC electric motor from a rectified AC power source or DC power supplied by batteries carried unobtrusively by the support structure. A multi-outlet, variable flow, gas valve connects the blower to the pipes and comprises a housing defining at least two cylinder chambers and a discrete outlet for each cylinder chamber. A primary silencer is connected to each discrete outlet. The sacks rest atop a neoprene membrane which covers a planar upper surface of the frame.

Abstract: A microcomputer with a motor controller circuit includes a motor controller circuit (4) which has NAND circuits (8) for producing a logical product of a rise pulse from a rise pulse generator (5) and a start level from a register (7) and flip-flop circuits (9a-9b) each responsive to start level set signals from the NAND circuits and an output pulse from a three-phase inverter waveform generator timer (6a-6b) to generate three-phase inverter waveforms.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bidirectional interface-forming electronic device comprising one logical circuit connected to an input/output of the central unit through a unique wire connection and permitting controlling the load and informing the central unit of the condition of the load through the wire connection.

Abstract: The precise and smooth control of the hydraulic fluid supplied to a hydraulic system, such as the lifting cylinders of a turret stockpicker, under varying operating conditions includes an optical encoder on the operator's control handle connected to an electronic control of a hydraulic pump motor, which s initially operated at a predetermined minimum speed, and a hydraulic valve which provides the initial control of hydraulic fluid under the control of an operator's handle. Because the pump is initially at a low speed, greater efficiency of the system is realized, an important feature in a battery operated vehicle. As the operator moves the handle from the off or neutral towards the fully open position, the hydraulic valve will open and reach its fully open position as the handle passes approximately the one-third on position.

Abstract: To control a reversible element (E), such as a motor and especially a motor operating a tape recorder tape transport, actual operating level input signals in form of timed pulses, depending on speed, and operating sign input signals are applied to a controller (8) through a frequency measuring circuit (5). The controller (8) compares the command level input signal and the actual input signal and provides corresponding error or control output signals. In accordance with the invention, a switch or gate (6) is interposed between the actual operating level input and a frequency measuring circuit (5) which, in turn, controls the controller, the gate or switch being conductive if and only if the sign of the actual operating signal and the sign of the command signal agree, as determined by an antivalence or AND-function gate (7). Upon disagreement of the sign signals, the gate is opened.

Abstract: Variable potential and breaking detection potential of a controller in a sewing machine are respectively subjected to analog-to-digital conversions, thereby to make it possible that the breaking detection of the controller and correction of dispersions of component accuracies of the controller are effected at one time.

Abstract: A multiple cooling fan installation in which a master fan is driven by a brushless electric drive motor, and at least one slave fan having blades positioned adjacent the blades of the master fan is driven by magnetic coupling between such adjacent blades. Synchronism of rotation between the master and slave fans is ensured by generating a speed command N.sub.cmd for the master fan drive motor in relation to position feedback from the slave fan(s) so that the speed of the master fan is increased in relation to the ability of the slave fan(s) to follow in step with the master fan.

Abstract: A motor control for a refrigeration apparatus having a cabinet, a door to the cabinet, a source of ice pieces located in the cabinet, means located in the door for dispensing the ice pieces, a power source having a supply terminal and a ground, a motor and means responsive to operation of the motor for delivering the ice pieces from the source of the ice pieces to the dispensing means, the motor control comprising means for energizing the motor, an actuable ice command switch generating an ice command signal for requesting delivery of the ice pieces from the source to the dispensing means, a processor having an input terminal coupled to the ice command switch and an output terminal, the processor generating a transistor command signal in response to the ice command signal, and a transistor having a control electrode coupled to the output terminal and first and second main current electrodes, wherein the processor output terminal is coupled to the transistor control electrode, and the motor energizing means, t

Abstract: A turbine-driven apparatus and method for generating and linearly controlling periodic bipolar drive signals to drive an electromechanical device, such as a DC motor, in response to an input command signal. The apparatus comprises a rotatable cylindrical commutator driven by a gas turbine, the commutator having two matched half-cylinder conductive sections separated by insulation at the common joints. The turbine also drives an alternator to produce AC power which in turn is rectified to produce DC power. Two pairs of diametrically opposing brushes are held in contact with the rotating commutator. The first pair of brushes connected to the DC power source, is fixed in position. The second pair, connected across the electromechanical load, is adjustable in rotational position relative to the first pair through coupling to a stepper motor.

Abstract: A control apparatus for an automotive power-operated convertible roof includes means for detecting movement of a vehicle, drive means for opening and closing the automotive convertible roof, a relay for preventing the opening and closing of the convertible roof and roof opening/closing controlling means for controlling the relay to inhibit the opening and closing of the convertible roof when the velocity of the vehicle detected by the movement state detecting means is not below a predetermined speed level. As a result, is unlikely that the convertible roof will be opened or closed erroneously during movement of the vehicle, nor is there the possibility of damage to the roof caused by an excessive wind pressure during opening or closing of the roof. In addition, no special consideration is needed about the possibility of floating or vibration of the vehicle body caused by wind pressure acting on the roof, and vehicle stability is enhanced.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of generating and linearly controlling periodic bipolar drive signals to drive an electromechanical device, such as a DC motor. The apparatus comprises side-by-side coaxial primary and secondary cylindrical commutators electrically connected together by a pair of diametrically opposed motor-driven brushes riding on the exterior surface of the commutators, each commutator having matched half-cylinder conductive sections separated by insulation at the common joints. The rotational position of the secondary commutator is adjustable relative to the primary commutator by a stepper motor mechanically coupled to it. A DC source is connected across the primary commutator and the electromechanical load is connected across the secondary commutator. Power of adjustable polarity duty cycle is commutated from the DC source to the load by the pair of rotating brushes.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an electric motor control designed for attachment to a support wall or to a pressure switch. The control comprises a support having a base portion and a mounting portion. The base portion has a plurality of electrical terminals attached thereto and has at least one lead opening formed therein for electrical leads. The mounting portion has a lead opening formed therein. A motor control switch including a plurality of electrical terminals is connected to the terminals of said base portion. The mounting portion includes first means for attaching the support to a pressure switch and second means for attaching the mounting portion to a support wall. A cover is removably attached to the base portion, and the control switch is mounted in the cover.

Abstract: A motor drive assembly includes a stationary housing, a shaft rotatably carried by the housing for driving a load, a gear box rotatably carried by the shaft, and an electric motor in the gear box having a rotor coupled by a gear train to the shaft. A switch in the housing near the gear box is operated when the gear box rotates against a spring bias in response to the rotor's exerting an increased predetermined torque. The motor may have an auxiliary winding in circuit with the switch to reduce power consumed by the motor when the switch is operated. Alternatively, a solenoid may be connected to the switch to hold the rotor stationary when the motor stops. The motor may have a main drive winding which is de-energized by the switch.

Abstract: In a rotating mirror scanner, a polygonal mirror is fixed between a pair of journals of a spindle. A rotor is fixed on the spindle, and a rotor magnet constituting a magnetic thrust bearing is fixed to one end of the spindle. One bearing of a dynamic pressure type and a ring-shaped stator magnet which constitutes the magnetic thrust bearing are both fixed in a hollow housing having an opening. The spindle is inserted into the housing through the opening thereof so that the outer peripheral surface of the rotor magnet faces the inner peripheral surface of the stator magnet, and that one journal is fitted in the one bearing. Thus, the spindle is set in the housing. A cover having the other bearing is fitted in the opening of the housing so that the other journal is supported by the other bearing.

Abstract: An assembly which is to be used for generating adjustment movements on automobile ventilation devices driven by electric motors. The assembly is especially designed for use on roof openings or sunroofs closeable by a lid. The assembly is characterized in that a generator is coupled to a component of the automobile which revolves during traveling and the rotational speed of which is directly proportional to the speed of travel. A control signal directly proportional to the speed of travel is obtained from the generator by means of which the adjustment drive for the ventilation device can be switched on according to the speed of travel. The adjustment drive can be switched on in the direction of closing the ventilation device at a higher speed and in the direction of opening at a lower speed.

Abstract: These circuits produce light, sound and similar effects in models or toys by taking advantage of current modulation produced in a commutator circuit of a two-pole motor which may be used to provide motion for at least a part of the model or toy incorporating one of the circuits. At least one additional effect-producing circuit element in addition to the motor is electrically connected to the commutator circuit. A battery or other means for applying sufficient electromotive force to the commutator for operation of the motor is electrically connected to the commutator circuit. When the additional effect-producing element is parallel to the commutator circuit, the battery supplies an insufficient amount of electromotive force to allow both the motor and the additional effect-producing circuit element to operate in their maximum current-drawing condition at the same time. A sufficient amount of electromotive force is supplied to allow either alone to operate in its maximum current-drawing condition.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the movement of a phonograph arm, pivoted for movement in horizontal and vertical planes, so as to maintain a desired stylus pressure. Displacement of the stylus resulting, for example, from passages of heavy modulation is used to generate electrical signals. A feedback system utilizes these signals to control the operation of horizontal and vertical rotational control devices.

Abstract: A protective device for preventing a machine, such as a reversing roll stand, from receiving a new workpiece unless the machine has been reset after the previous workpiece leaves. The device includes an electronic circuit which is set automatically when the previous workpiece leaves and is reset when the machine is reset. In the example of a roll stand, the circuit permits a reverse pass and another forward pass even though the stand is not reset.

Abstract: These circuits produce light, sound and similar effects in models or toys by taking advantage of current modulation produced in a commutator circuit of a two-pole motor which may be used to provide motion for at least a part of the model or toy incorporating one of the circuits. At least one additional effect-producing circuit element in addition to the motor is electrically connected to the commutator circuit. A battery or other means for applying sufficient electromotive force to the commutator for operation of the motor is electrically connected to the commutator circuit. When the additional effect-producing element is parallel to the commutator circuit, the battery supplies an insufficient amount of electromotive force to allow both the motor and the additional effect-producing circuit element to operate in their maximum current-drawing condition at the same time. A sufficient amount of electromotive force is supplied to allow either alone to operate in its maximum current-drawing condition.