Abstract: A photoelectronic switch circuit of a pulse-modulated light system adapted to emit pulse light and conduct detecting operation by detecting only the photo-reception signal synchronized with the pulse light, and it comprises a counter control circuit for resetting or presetting the output signal from a counter if the number of pulse light successively received is less than a predetermined number to eliminate the effect, if any, of external disturbance light and facilitates to attain the integrated circuit by reducing the number of parts for the circuit constituting portion.

Abstract: A weighted event counting circuit comprises a cascade connection circuit composed of a plurality of frequency dividing circuit means and a plurality of coincidence detecting circuit means inserted between the frequency dividing circuit means, and input circuit means to supply digital data representing the occurrence of plural events to the coincidence detecting circuit means. The number of occurrence times of the plural events is counted and totalized with weighting.

Abstract: An interface receives a high and low voltage signal from a single contact or pin of an output port of a multipurpose microcomputer and uses such signal to control the electrically-powered movement or action of a robot as determined by the programming of the microcomputer. The robot has a sensor connected to the interface and detecting whether or not a preselected condition exists at the robot. The interface sends a high and low voltage input signal to a second single contact or pin of the microcomputer port to communicate the condition of the robot sensed by the sensor. The robot is designed and constructed by the user from interchangeable parts, and the user writes essentially all of the computer programming in a simplified language. By a series of experiments, the student learns computer terminology and programming and robotic technology.

Abstract: A monitoring system for verifying that an input signal is toggling at a minimum frequency includes an edge detector to provide an output signal in response to a transition in the state of an input signal. The output signal is used to reset a resettable clock. In the event that the output signal is not received during a first reset period a first signal is generated and if there is no output within a second succeeding reset period, a second signal is generated.

Abstract: A numerical control method for numerically controlling a machine tool such as a multi-spindle lathe having two or more tools (TL.sub.1, TL.sub.2, TL.sub.3). The numerical control method has steps of creating numerical control data specifying a relation between time and a position along each axis of movement (X.sub.1, X.sub.2, X.sub.3, Z), numerically controlling the position along each of the axes of movement (X.sub.1, X.sub.2, X.sub.3, Z) on the basis of the numerical control data, monitoring whether elapsed time has reached a time specified by numerical control data for each and every axis of movement (X.sub.1, X.sub.2, X.sub.3, Z), and when elapsed time has become equal to a time specified by numerical control data for a predetermined axis of movement, controlling the position along the axis of movement in accordance with succeeding numerical control data for the axis of movement.

Abstract: A system for reading, recording and transferring one or more discrete machine events to computer processing equipment for accounting and tabulation. The system is comprised of a discrete machine event counting module which records and stores a count of machine operation, and can include means for recording the time of some selected event or events. The module also stores an identification code for the particular machine. The module can be connected directly through a microprocessor to a central processing center, or it can be located at a machine or at a group of machines. When located in an individual machine or in a group of machines, and hardwiring to the central processing center is for some reason not desired, then a portable transfer unit can be provided which can be connected to the module to retrieve or to read its contents by applying a read data command signal to the module.

Abstract: A quad-state input signal decoder 100 that decodes conventional three-state signals plus a fourth state in which the input signal 40 is at the frequency of, and synchronized with, a decode clock signal 35 in the decoder. Compared to three-state techniques, this invention achieves a one-third increase in the number of exclusively-active signals that can be communicated through a single line such as a I/O pin 41 of an integrated circuit 110.

Abstract: A programmable unit for attachment to a work-station whereby power to the work-station will be shut off after a pre-set time-period, unless work-station activity occurs before the outset of the time-period, when the pre-set time-period will initiate again.

Abstract: A numerical control device in which machining operations on a plurality of different groups of workpieces can be automatically carried out. A switch section instructs data representing the required number of machining operations in a machining order for each group of workpieces. This data is stored in a first group of registers. Each time a machining operation for any group of the workpieces is performed, a value stored in a second register is incremented. A machining control section determines a machining schedule according to the contents stored in the first and second registers to thereby carry out the machining of various groups of workpieces in a specified order.

Abstract: A device for generating timing pulses for a rotary printing machine includes generators for generating synchronizing pulses and a pulse sequence corresponding to increments of angle of rotation of the machine. A pulse processing circuit includes address counters connected to the pulse generating means and being preset by an address presetting device. The output of the one address counter is connected to a PROM storing predetermined sequences of timing pulses. In order to provide for shifting of the stored timing pulse sequences in a negative direction, an inverting member is connected in the data bus between the rotary speed counter and the address presetting device of the one address counter. The inverting member can include either negators or storing means programmed with complementary values.

Abstract: A card reader located in proximity to the central point of the secured area having a crystal controlled time base clock. Entry is granted when the proper information is entered to the card reader through a keypad or identification card. The clock is adjusted under software control according to a selected offset signal. The card reader is operable to provide access control of a secured area according to a schedule operable relative to the card reader clock without external reference signals.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring vibrations of a machine tool metal-cutting tool insert and interpreting them to promptly detect the initial touch to the workpiece and signal the tool to stop advancing before marring the surface. The signal generated by a sensor such as an accelerometer is preprocessed to eliminate lower frequency machine noise and detect the energy in a higher frequency band, then sampled and analyzed by digital circuitry. In order to avoid false alarms on high amplitude spiky noise pulses generated by traverse operation of the machine tool, the tool touch alarm is delayed longer than the maximum duration of the noise pulses. Two techniques are given to ignore the noise spikes while still detecting the tool touch signal.

Abstract: A driving time alarm for a vehicle comprises a recess time setting counter for counting clock pulses during the time when the vehicle is not under running; and a driving time limit setting counter which counts during the time when said vehicle is under running and is reset by the count-up of said recess time setting counter, whereby an alarm is given when said driving time limit setting counter comes to a count-up state.

Abstract: A monitoring device for a can testing machine which provides a visual display on a cathode ray tube identifying potential can production process problems and can testing machine problems. The visual dislay provides a summary of can test data as well as analysis messages. A microcomputer is utilized in conjunction with the can testing machine and logic hardware to perform the summary and analysis functions of the preferred embodiment.

Abstract: A process controller with power outage analysis capability uses a real time clock generator powered by an uninterruptible power source for providing a real time reference which is used to measure the actual duration of a process controller disabling power outage. A non-volatile memory is also powered by the uninterruptible power source and is used to store the maximum allowable outage time limit for a particular process being controlled. The clock generator is initialized at the start of the power outage by a power outage detector which provides an early warning of an imminent power outage.

Abstract: An automatically actuated cover for the exit from a currency counter responds to activation of a counting cycle to cover the exit and responds to completion or termination of a counting cycle to open or uncover the exit.

Abstract: An oscillatory-failure monitor (101) compares a parameter of a plurality of signals (A, B) within a tolerance (TOL) to determine agreement or disparity among the signals. Each discrete miscompare occurrence (i.e., singular disparity following full agreement) is counted by incrementing (27; 54) a counter (OSCCT; CNTR). The counter is decremented (32; 62) whenever the signals compare for a predetermined time interval (29; 47). An oscillatory-failure is declared when the counter increments to a threshold (28, 21; 57, 58, 60). Both digital (FIG. 1) and dedicated hardware (FIG. 4) embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: The apparatus for measuring the length of filamentary material, such as a yarn or thread, wound-up at individual ones of a number n of winding or spinning locations in a textile machine cooperates with an electronic scanning or interrogation device. The latter monitors the thread run at the aforementioned locations by means of a number n of scanning heads. The apparatus is constituted by a series circuit comprising a shift register including a number n of parallel outputs, a number n of storage members, a number n of AND-gates, a number n of electronic counters, a comparator, a number n of electronic switches and a number n of relays, as well as a sensor detecting the number of revolutions of a drive element, and a reference or set value transmitter. When reaching a fixed number of revolutions inputted into the reference value transmitter, and thus, a distinct length of yarn or the like, the related winding or spinning unit is stopped by the relay associated therewith.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the operation of a press provides outputs indicating the total number of hits and the operating speed of the press as well as the total amount of product produced by the press.Specifically, an N-Pulser is driven by a proximity switch coupled to the press so as to fill an accumulator that maintains a running total of the amount of product produced. The N-Pulser includes a gate that has an enabling input coupled to the proximity switch and a signal input coupled to a clock. When the gate is enabled the output of the clock is permitted to pass through the gate to the input of a counter, the counter having been preset to a state determined by the amount of product produced during each cycle of the press. The gate is disabled when the counter has counted to a predetermined, ZERO, state. The output of the gate is in a parallel fashion coupled to the accumulator, so that a specified number of pulses are dumped into the accumulator as a result of each cycle of the press.

Abstract: Method of and apparatus for a continuous monitoring and analysis of spinning units operation in multiple unit open-end spinning machine. The invention permits the obtaining of reliable data about the operation of open-end spinning units in the machine, and of immediately processing them in the form of an analysis of the total performance of one or a plurality of machines. The active or inactive state of operation of the individual spinning unit is detected by a continuous monitoring of the spinning units at predetermined intervals consisting in emitting checking signals by a timing pulse generator of the monitor to those units. The signals thus obtained are used for analyzing the active state of the spinning units, the inactive state of the spinning units, the analysis of the active or inactive state of spinning units on each side of the machine, and an analysis of the production rate of the machine.

Abstract: The instrument operating time recorder (10) is attached to host instrument (12) and includes a frequency divider (14) for counting line voltage transitions during power-on time and to generate a binary output for a prescaler (20). Prescaler (20) divides by a predetermined value set to the frequency of the host instrument and generates a signal for a digital decoder (24) the output of which can be applied to the readout or display (26).

Abstract: An event counter and access controller system has a central processor unit, memory storage, and operator's keyboard, display, badge reader and key switch. The system may operate in a normal mode, wherein copy pulses from a photocopier, for example, are counted and stored in individual user accounts; and in a set-up mode, wherein accounts may be sorted and examined, may be made accessible or inaccessible, and may have their contents changed. When receiving count copy pulses from an event to be counted, the system certifies the validity of the pulses by filtering and sampling techniques. When an access card is inserted in the badge reader, the system validates and accounts for skew tolerance of the card.

Abstract: When using membrane key pads, it is often desirable to provide the user with a sense that contact has been made. In this regard, there is disclosed a 1 KHz 4-bit counter which is normally held at a count just beyond the place where "ones" appear in the third bit position. When it is desired to provide an audio click, the processor resets the counter to zero and then releases the counter. The "ones" in the third bit position, which occur in four consecutive counts, control the application of the 1 KHz frequency to the mechanical sounder. By connecting the fourth bit position to the synchronous reset input, the counter stops incrementing after the four consecutive "ones" and waits for the next reset by the processor.

Abstract: Safety device between a system for the control of a safety actuator and a logic circuit for controlling the actuator.The device comprises sequential circuit for the transmission of logic signals supplied by the control system to the logic circuit, sequential checking circuit for applying to the logic circuit actuator release signals in the case of a failure of the contol system or of the tansmission circuit, the transmission of signals between the system and the logic circuit being carried out after checking the no-failure of the transmission circuit.

Abstract: A digital system for monitoring the rotational speed of a rotating body, such as a turbine shaft, in order to indicate an overspeed or underspeed condition, features a readily variable reference speed limit. A reference pulse train is generated. The number of pulses from the reference pulse train is counted for a predetermined period of time proportional to a fixed number of rotations of the rotating body, and the resulting count is compared to a fixed reference count. The reference speed limit is adjusted by variation of the frequency of the reference pulse train.

Abstract: A system for detecting a neutral state of a transmission for an engine mounted on a vehicle comprises an engine speed detecting device for producing an engine speed output signal in proportion to the engine speed; and a vehicle speed detecting device for producing a vehicle speed output signal in proportion to the vehicle speed. An operation circuit is provided for judging whether the ratio of the engine speed output to the vehicle speed output is in a transmission ratio range dependent on the transmission. The operation circuit is so arranged as to produce at least one neutral state output when the ratio of the engine speed output to the vehicle speed output is not in the transmission ratio range.

Abstract: A usage control system for copiers and the like, adapted to connect to the copier through the existing accounting system connection. A check-operated device, such as a coin box or magnetic card reader, supplies the copier with a signal to initiate operation. When the operation has progressed, the copier supplies a signal intended to increment the counter in the accounting system. After a suitable delay, permitting completion of the copy cycle, the operate signal is reset, and the copier is disabled. As an option, power to the copier may be controlled. The system requires no internal connections or modifications to the copier.

Abstract: A height control for use in connection with punch marking a metallic plate and wherein the distance between the punch marking tool and the plate surface undesirably varies at random due to warping of the metal sheet or deviations from desired tolerance. A microprocessor counter measures the time interval during which the punch marker is in contact with the metal plate. This time interval is compared with a predetermined time range that is indicative of an "in position" condition for the punch marking tool. Detection of time intervals that do not fall within the predetermined "in position" time range results in a pulsed correction signal that activates an electric motor which in turn varies the height of the punch marking tool via a rack and pinion assembly mounted on the tool assembly.

Abstract: An electronic calculating machine includes a control circuit for receiving digital calculation information recorded in an audio tape to be applied to the machine. The control circuit comprises a circuit for forming the information to pulse signals, a circuit for counting the pulse width in a time period, a circuit for comparing the pulse width with a certain value preset therein, and a display for showing the comparison results by letter information.

Abstract: The electronic scanner serves to monitor a multitude of thread running locations in a textile machine in which a measuring head for detecting a thread rupture or breakage, a bistable controller and switching means are arranged at each thread running location. A clock pulse generator acts upon the clock pulse inputs of the bistable controllers which are series connected and which interrogate or scan the measuring heads via the switching means in a cyclical sequence. The signals obtained from the measuring heads during interrogation or scanning are delivered to a counting circuit via a signal line and a clock-pulse controlled gate. The counting circuit indicates the thread running location associated with a thread rupture.

Abstract: Device for electronically controlling pneumatic thread tensioners or other related components of looms of the kind comprising a cam, the motion of which is synchronized in relation to the rotation of the crankshaft of the loom and which produces a signal by means of an electronic detector, characterized in that it also comprises a generator of electric impulses which is excited by the aforesaid signal for emitting a train of impulses with an adjustable frequency by means of which per operational cycle, is being effected the control of the concerned components of the machine.

Abstract: A cash register with a keyboard (31), journal printer (47) and a check slip printer (32) is controlled by a microprocessor system with a CPU (102), a program ROM (105) and a RAM (106) including various registers for storing running totals of various types. The printer (32) prints till receipts and end-of-day check slips authenticating non-rigged operation of the cash register. Thus, each time such a check slip is printed a fresh bit of an EPROM memory (106) is set from 1 to 0 under control of a register (181) and a pulser circuit (191), the EPROM being fixed non-removably to the machine and shielded aginst UV erasure. The printed check slip includes the serial number thereof as represented by the EPROM contents, a special symbol identifying a non-manipulatable machine and the machine number recorded in a section (161) of the EPROM. In a modified embodiment the EPROM is replaced by a counter, e.g. a mechanical counter, which can only be incremented (and cannot be decremented or zeroized).

Abstract: A control system for an acreage counter, controllable by an electrical logic condition, includes: a flip-flop having enable logic condition output upon being set, and an inhibit logic output upon being reset; an enable counter and an inhibit counter connected respectively to the set and reset inputs of the flip-flop; an enable clock and an inhibit clock connected respectively to the enable and inhibit counters; and sensors or switches connected to the respective counters and cooperating respectively with an operating lever or operating switches of an agricultural implement to actuate the associated counters upon change in the status of the operating controls. The clocks and counters function to delay setting or resetting of the flip-flop for a selected time so that minor adjustments may be made to the working position of the implement without falsely initiating or interrupting the acreage counter.

Abstract: A test counter for testing demand recorders installed at remote field locations. A predetermined interval of time is established and pulses generated by an attached demand recorder are automatically counted for that interval of time. The counter includes multiple counting channels and an additional channel providing a visual indication of the presence of pulses at an input of that additional channel.

Abstract: The control system for periodically synchronizing in a sequential order the operation of a plurality of control elements of a printing machine comprises a control shift register having an input coupled to a fine timing device for generating synchronizing pulses corresponding to predetermined angular positions of the machine and another input connected to a sheet feeding control device. The outputs of a predetermined number of first stages in the control shift register are connected to a gating nonoperative time compensator, the control inputs of which are connected to the rotary speed detector and the output of which is connected to an assigned operation control element in the machine. A transfer shift register is connected in series with the control shift register or with the output of the dead time compensator.

Abstract: A sequence control system is disclosed which divides data entered onto a time-chart into "1" data (hereinafter referred to as "black dot") and "0" data (hereinafter referred to as "white dot"), and is capable of programming parallel-output data on 16 channels in an inner memory within 2-3 minutes by operation of black dot and white dot key switches and also provides the capability of changing the program in about 10 seconds per line of data. The data is generated by only presetting a cycle-time and putting a start switch.A simplified data storage system is disclosed which places on or off data in the memory in locations which correspond to relative times in the sequence cycle. Thus, the system of the present invention need only address respective locations in memory corresponding to the relative cycle time in order to determine the status of the various outputs.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for characterizing crimped tow for subsequent identification or quality control comprising the steps of obtaining length measurements of the individual crimps in a sample of the tow, graphically representing the measurement distribution of a sufficient quantity of the tow until a pattern is established, and using the pattern as a standard against which other tow is compared.

Abstract: A surge counter for a rotating compressor is provided which detects surging by monitoring the vibration signal from an accelerometer mounted on the shaft bearing of the compressor. The circuit detects a rapid increase in the amplitude envelope of the vibration signal, e.g., 4 dB or greater in less than one second, which is associated with a surge onset and increments a counter. The circuit is rendered non-responsive for a period of about 5 seconds following the detection which corresponds to the duration of the surge condition. This prevents multiple registration of counts during the surge period due to rapid swings in vibration amplitude during the period.

Abstract: A system for and a method of recording information concerning vehicle operation comprising a logic circuit interfacing with a microprocessor whereby accurate velocity information can be recorded to provide a precise record of operation, including acceleration and deceleration information, over a period of time.

Abstract: A system is described for indicating the appropriate time to perform preventive maintenance operations upon a machine tool. The system includes a signal generator which is to be connected to the machine tool to generate signals whenever the tool is in operation. These signals are integrated and a threshold sensitive detector responsive to the output of the integrator produces a control signal. The control signal is then applied to a audio/visual indicating means to notify operators of the advent of a particular preventive maintenance operation to be performed upon the machine tool.

Abstract: In apparatus for measuring injection speed of an injection molding machine having a piston rod reciprocated by an injection cylinder of the injection molding machine, a plunger rod having, at an end thereof, a plunger tip slidably received in a plunger sleeve connected to a die, and a plunger coupling for interconnecting the plunger rod and the piston rod, the plunger coupling is provided with a projection. A proximity switch detects the projection while the plunger coupling moves. In accordance with the output of the proximity switch, the speed of the plunger coupling is computed.