Abstract:
A machine control system including a programmable machine function controller comprised of a logic processor and a data processor. The logic processor is responsive to first devices on a machine, e.g. limit switches and push buttons, for controlling second devices on the machine, e.g. motor starters and solenoids, in accordance with a program representing a desired machine operation. The data processor operates asynchronously with the logic processor but responds thereto for selecting programs of arithmetic instructions relating to the machine operation. The system includes a panel of push buttons, lights and read-outs located remotely from the controller. Signals are transmitted between the controller and the panel using asynchronously operating receiver/transmitters which multiplex and transfer the signals on a serial basis. The machine includes at least one movable member in mechanical communication with a driving mechanism. The controller employs circuits which are responsive to the data processor and logic processor for producing signals to the driving mechanism to control the motion of the movable element.
Abstract:
An improved system for processing data from an incremental or other type of positional encoder in which positional data for a plurality of axes is computed relative to two or more independent reference locations. The invention allows display of "absolute" position of the encoder or "relative" position of the encoder with respect to independently settable datum points.
Abstract:
A computer-controlled hydraulic press brake includes an actuator and control system which automatically provides variable pre-programmable ram opening and closing strokes. A microprocessor within the control system responds to stroke parameters entered by the operator and an encoder-generated signal indicative of ram position to generate a velocity command signal defining a velocity profile for positioning the ram to the stroke limits. Closed-loop servo systems associated with each ram cylinder respond to the velocity command signal to cause movement of the ram in accordance with the velocity profile. A ram leveling circuit responsive to individual position sensors associated with respective sides of the ram compensates for ram tilt by simultaneously applying complimentary correction signals to the respective servo systems. A second velocity profile may be generated in response to stored parameters to position a back gauge concurrently with ram movement by means of a second motor drive servo system.
Abstract:
Apparatus for converting displacement command pulses in an N/C system from Metric to English systems of measurement. The apparatus is entirely external to the N/C machine and employs relatively simple arithmetic units to effect the multiplication of both positive and negative displacement pulse quantities by a fractional conversion factor.
Abstract:
A system and method for initializing a plurality of mechanical elements of a machine includes a plurality of housings and an uncoordinated motion controller. The housings are coupled to the mechanical elements and include at least a motor controller electrically connected to a motor. Each of the motor controllers have an associated position sensing component for sensing the position of the associated mechanical element along one axis. The uncoordinated motion controller instructs the motor controllers to operate its associated motor until the associated mechanical element reaches an initialization position. The velocity and acceleration profile of the respective motors are independent of each other, such that each of the motors moves its associated mechanical element in uncoordinated motion until each mechanical element reaches its initialization position. A multi-node daisy chained data bus electrically connects the uncoordinated motion controlling means and the motor controllers in series.
Abstract:
A microprocessor numerical control for a milling machine including means for programming part features by the machine operator at the machine location. The control apparatus includes a CRT display which provides an inquiry system, and a keyboard for entry of data by the machine operator. The control system further includes a tape cassette deck operable to read or write data or program material into or out of the processor memory. The control system regulates motion in the X, Y and Z directions for the milling machine and also includes an external feed rate adjustment for either the XY plane or the Z axis direction which may be utilized by the machine operator to affect the programmed feed rates. There is further provided automatic tool length calibration and cutter diameter compensation for milling operations.
Abstract:
A system for processing data from an incremental or other type of positional encoder and for displaying positional information in which individual digits are sequentially processd to provide the positional data. The invention results in simple circuitry, allows the number of axes served by the display/processor to be increased with minimal changes in processor hardware; and allows encoder movements to be displayed in different units of measurement, selectable by an operator.
Abstract:
A computer numeric control for metal forming which allows the automatic selecting of gauge position and ram position allowing both variables to act to produce bends in forming materials with different flange lengths and angles. The system also offers programming and calibration features comprising significant improvements over prior art apparatus and methods. The system integrates the press control circuitry and all precise control of flange length which can be programmed and offers precise control of the bend angle which can be programmed. Multiple programs can be stored and later retrieved. The apparatus can be calibrated in either English or metric units. Magnetic cassettes and printers can be utilized for permanent storage of programs and to produce permanent records on paper.
Abstract:
A method of stitching a buttonhole in an electronically controlled sewing machine having the capability to generate a mirror image of a pattern. A first half of a buttonhole pattern is implemented which includes steps therein to return the work material to its starting position. Thereafter, a mirror image of the first half of the buttonhole pattern is implemented to provide a second half of the buttonhole which is perfectly symmetrical to the first half thereof. Additional reinforcing stitches about the cutting space of the buttonhole may be provided by the steps to return the work material to its starting position.
Abstract:
This invention relates to a computer numerical control (CNC) machine tool system having a novel terminal controller and system therefor to control a machine tool generally with at least two axes and more probably three, with stepping motor controls for point-to-point positioning of the machine tool to an almost infinite variety of steps (generally not more than 200). The novelty resides in the ease of programming directly on the terminal controller of the CNC machine tool system. Generally at least some editing and offsets will be programmed from the machine tool.The terminal controller consists of a microprocessor with some RAM and ROM, together with address and data bus plus I/O for magnetic tape handling and display for 6 to 8 digits in each of the X and Y positions, together with numeric keyboard for data input to the program steps and functional keys to control operation-automatic, manual and step-by-step, as well as controls for program input from tape to memory and memory to tape.Particular features include the ease of inputting a program and preparing a tape and then editing the tape while in operation. Further features include circular and linear interpolation. For circular interpolation there are no quadrant limitations and a full or partial circle may be cut.