Showing papers on "Interface (computing) published in 1972"

Digital computer monitored and/or operated system or process which is structured for operation with an improved automatic programming process and system

Abstract: An industrial production or other operational system is established by connecting apparatus which implements system operations to a digital computer system using an interface system. Machine readable definitions of events, of executable jobs, and of system variables are prepared for computer entry and ultimately for configuration of the system apparatus into an entity having operational characteristics corresponding to the entered definitions. The definitions of system variables may include definitions of signals which are coupled between the system apparatus and the computer through the interface system, and such signals may be put to system monitoring or control uses or both of these uses in the structured system. Some of the definitions may be computer programs, but most are preferably definitions of the system configuration written out in a language which a systems engineer can understand and use. Generally, definitions may include designators which are names or numbers. Any definition may refer to an event, a job, or a variable by making reference to the designator that is included in the definition of the event, the job or the variable. Executable job definitions may, by referring to event designators, specify specific events which are to trigger their execution--or example, variable scanning events or variable change-of-state events--or they may specify that they are to be periodically executed at a specified frequency or rate. The definitions are processed individually by an off-line preliminary processor which converts the systems engineer's language into a numeric language intelligible to processing programs within the computer system or to the computer system itself. The definitions are then fed into the computer system. Automatic programming means within the computer system establish all the necessary linkages between each new definition and previously entered definitions and other operative portions of the computer system so as to implement each definition relative to the system apparatus as soon as the definition is received and so as automatically to establish the desired system operating configuration through the controlled operation of the computer relative to the interfaced system apparatus. Definitions may be deleted from the computer system at any time and in any order by the automatic programming means without shutting down the system, and the system operating configuration may thus be modified whenever necessary or desirable. Following such deletions, the automatic programming means eliminates linkages which are no longer required and compresses the tables in which such linkages may be stored so as to maximize the storage space which is available for additional new definitions and their associated linkages.

Human engineering the keyboard.

Abstract: The standard typewriter keyboard serves as a model for keyboards of teletypewriters, desk calculators, consoles, computer keysets, cash registers, etc. This man-machine interface should be designed...

Electrical system with programmed computer control and manually initiated control means

Abstract: An automatically controlled electrical system controls a plurality of loads in the functions of load resetting, logical control, load sequencing, overload evaluation, and load shedding with single point control. A data entry and display means provides a manual interface with the system. The system utilizes remotely controlled power switching and circuit protective devices. A small general purpose computer is used to effect control functions by, preferably, multiplexed control signals. The computer directs the control signals to and from the appropriate switching devices and it also provides capability to program for automatic control, sequencing and self-checkout functions.

Combined file and directory system for a process control digital computer system

Abstract: An industrial production or other operational system is established by connecting apparatus which implements system operations to a digital computer system using an interface system. Machine readable definitions of events, of executable jobs, and of system variables are prepared for computer entry and ultimately for configuration of the system apparatus into an entity having operational characteristics corresponding to the entered definitions. The definitions of system variables may include definitions of signals which are coupled between the system apparatus and the computer through the interface system, and such signals may be put to system monitoring or control uses or both of these uses in the structured system. Some of the definitions may be computer programs, but most are preferably definitions of the system configuration written out in a language which a systems engineer can understand and use. Generally, definitions may include designators which are names or numbers. Any definition may refer to an event, a job, or a variable by making reference to the designator that is included in the definition of the event, the job or the variable. Executable job definitions may, by referring to event designators, specify specific events which are to trigger their execution--for example, variable scanning events or variable change-of-state events--or they may specify that they are to be periodically executed at a specified frequency or rate. The definitions are processed individually by an off-line preliminary processor which converts the systems engineer's language into a numeric language intelligible to processing programs within the computer system or to the computer system itself. The definitions are then fed into the computer system. Automatic programming means within the computer system establish all the necessary linkages between each new definition and previously entered definitions and other operative portions of the computer system so as to implement each definition relative to the system apparatus as soon as the definition is received and so as automatically to establish the desired system operating configuration through the controlled operation of the computer relative to the interfaced system apparatus. Definitions may be deleted from the computer system at any time and in any order by the automatic programming means without shutting down the system, and the system operating configuration may thus be modified whenever necessary or desirable. Following such deletions, the automatic programming means eliminates linkages which are no longer required and compresses the tables in which such linkages may be stored so as to maximize the storage space which is available for additional new definitions and their associated linkages.

Adaptive voting computer system

Abstract: A computer system using adaptive voting to tolerate failures and operate in a fail-operational, fail safe manner. Each of four computers is individually connected to one of four external input/output (I/O) busses which interface with external subsystems. Each computer is connected to receive input data and commands from the other three computers and to furnish output data and commands to the other three computers.

Digital computer monitored system or process which is configured with the aid of an improved automatic programming system

Abstract: An industrial production or other operational system is established by connecting apparatus which implements system operations to a digital computer system using an interface system. Machine readable definitions of events, of executable jobs, and of system variables are prepared for computer entry and ultimately for configuration of the system apparatus into an entity having operational characteristics corresponding to the entered definitions. The definitions of system variables may include definitions of signals which are coupled between the system apparatus and the computer through the interface system, and such signals may be put to system monitoring or control uses or both of these uses in the structured system. Some of the definitions may be computer programs, but most are preferably definitions of the system configuration written out in a language which a systems engineer can understand and use. Generally, definitions may include designators which are names or numbers. Any definition may refer to an event, a job, or a variable by making reference to the designator that is included in the definition of the event, the job or the variable. Executable job definitions may, by referring to event designators, specify specific events which are to trigger their execution--for example, variable scanning events or variable change-of-state events--or they may specify that they are to be periodically executed at a specified frequency or rate. The definitions are processed individually by an off-line preliminary processor which converts the systems engineer's language into a numeric language intelligible to processing programs within the computer system or to the computer system itself. The definitions are then fed into the computer system. Automatic programming means within the computer system establish all the necessary linkages between each new definition and previously entered definitions and other operative portions of the computer system so as to implement each definition relative to the system apparatus as soon as the definition is received and so as automatically to establish the desired system operating configuration through the controlled operation of the computer relative to the interfaced system apparatus. Definitions may be deleted from the computer system at any time and in any order by the automatic programming means without shutting down the system, and the system operating configuration may thus be modified whenever necessary or desirable. Following such deletions, the automatic programming means eliminates linkages which are no longer required and compresses the tables in which such linkages may be stored so as to maximize the storage space which is available for additional new definitions and their associated linkages.

Machine tool having internally routed cryogenic fluid for cooling interface between cutting edge of tool and workpiece

Abstract: This machine tool is utilized for cutting super alloys. The tool is associated with a source of cryogenic coolant which is routed internally through the tool. The coolant is discharged from the tool at a precise angle such that the stream of the coolant at the interface between the tool cutting edge and the workpiece is such that the chip cutting from the piece does not interfere with the coolant stream. The coolant passage is insulated to prevent boiling of the coolant until it reaches the cutting edge to obtain maximum heat dissipation.

Remote-control system for intelligence-recording apparatus with control tone eliminating switching

Abstract: An interface between a telephone system and dictating equipment whereby control signals and intelligence are transmitted over the telephone system and to the dictating equipment to appropriately record the intelligence while eliminating any recordation of the control signals.

System for interfacing a computer to a machine

Abstract: A machine control system employs a general purpose digital computer to directly interact with a machine, providing increased versatility and capability with reduced system cost. Machine control operations are performed under program control by the computer in real time and communicated to the machine through a minimal interface. Machine conditions are sampled under program control by the computer in real time through a minimal interface to the computer. Special system partitioning reduces interconnections and cabling to provide an improved machine interface.

Programmable magnetics for a numerical control system

Abstract: A programmable controller connects to a numerical control system to operate the magnetics on a machine tool. An interface circuit which includes a programmable decoder connects to receive auxiliary command words generated by the numerical control and selectively set addressable storage elements. The programmable controller operates under the direction of a control program, to read the condition of the addressable storage elements, to read the condition of devices on the machine tool, and in response to these conditions operate output devices on the machine tool. A first embodiment of the invention includes a separate read only memory which performs the decoding function and a second embodiment uses a portion of the controller memory to perform this function.

Graphical data processor interface

Abstract: An improved interface adaptor unit for interconnecting a facsimile graphic communication system with a central processing unit. The interface adaptor unit includes a central controller with a control counter controlling isolated synchronization and video data transfer operations. The unit also includes control logic, a buffer operating through a shift register and control logic for monitoring the flow of data in accordance with counter control. Provision is made within the control logic for deriving specific status signals from the facsimile unit for indicating the various conditions of the facsimile unit prior to and during transmission of information between the computer and the facsimile transmission system.

Performance Measurements on the ARPA Computer Network

Abstract: An extensive measurement capability has been implemented in the interface message processors (IMP) of the ARPA network of computers. These measurement facilities were implemented by the network contractor, Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc., to meet the measurement needs of the University of California, Los Angeles, (UCLA) network measurement center, and consist of software routines within the store-and-forward IMP to accumulate statistics, periodically record snap shots, trace selected messages through the net, and to be able to generate artificial traffic. These capabilities have been augmented by routines at the Network Measurement Center to provide selective control over the data gathering functions, as well as providing data reduction, printout routines, and more extensive artificial traffic generation facilities. The purpose of the measurement effort is to provide insight into network behavior and to support the analytic and simulation modeling work being done at UCLA. In this latter role, the measurements provide a means of verifying, or correcting, models of network behavior by performing appropriate tests in the actual network environment. The result of several such efforts will be discussed.

Method of communication and/or testing of the handicapped

Abstract: Three different classes of interface means are connectable to a dual-input matrix or converter, which in turn will operate a device for purposes of communication and/or indicate student capabilities. A unique combination of designators is established for every function in a multiplicity of functions. A device is provided to print, display or perform the function. A matrix or other means transmits signals to the printing or displaying device commensurate with the unique combination of designators selected. Three classes of interfaces are selectively connected to the matrix, one having two sets of input switching means of seven keys each, another having one set of seven keys, and a third having a single input transducer. By use of the same unique designators with each class of interface, an individual will be able to print or display the very same function, regardless of the class of interface used.

Laboratory Data Analysis System: Section VI—System Summary

Abstract: A summary for the Laboratory Data Analysis System , which briefly capsulizes the important ramifications of each section of data processing, is provided. The key point is that such a system is a natural byproduct of a well-organized Medical Information System which collects and stores patient care information. This system is modular and attempts to provide a critical interface between the actual numeric finding on the laboratory instrument and the physician’s decision-making process. All analytic systems are well within our present laboratory computer capability and should extend the use and application of this machine.

On the interface between computers and data communications systems

Abstract: Future systems that combine computers, digital terminals, and communications equipment present design optimization problems that require reconsideration of the traditional functional responsibilities of the respective subsystems. Several “standard” interfaces, by means of which computers and digital terminals connect to the communications systems will be required. When specifying these interfaces, consideration must be given to problems of coordination, synchronization, error control, signaling, stream multiplexing, and switch control, in addition to minimizing the technological interdependence of specific subsystem designs. A focus on some of the problems is obtained in a discussion of a detailed specification for a paticular computer-communications system interface.

An Interactive Load Flow Program

Abstract: An interactive load flow program (ILF) differs from a conventional load flow program in its interface with the user. By means of a display device the user specifies his input and the program presents its output. Such a program could serve a number of important uses in the power industry. A step in this direction is presented in this paper.

Measurement transducer calculator interface

Abstract: A measurement transducer/calculator interface for processing output signals from one or more measurement transducers for input to an electronic calculator. The interface is coupled for receiving and shaping pulse signals at the frequency generated by a measurement transducer. The data signals are processed, then temporarily accumulated in a buffer memory effectively compressing the data signals which are thereafter sequenced through a decoder into the calculator input at the highest rate for reliable keyboard entry into the calculator.

Interface system for direct numeric control of automatic wiring machines

Abstract: An electronic system for interfacing a plurality of automatic wiring machines with a process control computer such as to permit direct numeric control of the machines. The interfacing system automatically calls up wiring machine instructions from the computer and presents the instruction data to the wiring machine in accordance with initial condition information provided via an operator control console. A provision is made for sensing the completion of a given level of wiring and interrupting operation prior to proceeding to the next wiring level.

CAMAC Multi-Microprogrammed IO Processor

Abstract: A CAMAC Branch Driver is described which provides multiple channel direct memory access to a host computer via a single DMA interface. Command lists in computer memory select micro-programmed sequences, stored in a fast-access Control Memory, which transfer data between CAMAC devices and lists in computer memory.

Large-scale computer-aided statistical mathematics

Abstract: : Some thoughts on large-scale computer-aided statistical mathematics (primarily simulation) which were presented at the 6th Annual Conference on the Computer Science/Statistics Interface conference are presented.

Process control system

Abstract: An electronic process control system including a digital computer, a computer interface that is easily replaceable in order to change computer types; a logic module for grouping the computer and controller signals and converting between digital and analog representations; and a control unit interface for generating analog signals for a control unit in response to computer commands and adapting the analog control unit to communicate with a digital computer.

A Communications Interface for Computer Networks

Abstract: The scope of this paper is to describe the architecture of a communications line protocol for computer networks. Development and implementation details will be introduced where necessary to clarify the presentation. The need for an architecture to facilitate interprocessor communications has been a requirement to the computing industry for several years. The described line protocol was derived through an experiment with a computer network designed for heterogeneous machines, and which utilized existing software. Due to the inflexibility encountered by this approach, the architecture is being reimplemented using our own software. The line interface was defined with flexibility as the foremost requirement. The protocol developed utilizes a minimum set of line-control characters. Information is passed in the header portion of the transmitted block providing the capability of identifying a wider range of line-control and user-related functions. Error recovery has been implemented based on the same type of messages and by transferring line timing responsibilities from the hardware to the software.

Electro-optic mass memory

Abstract: A metal-nitride-oxide semiconductor memory device wherein information is written into the device by the combination of an applied electric field and a source of light, and thereafter read out by reflecting light from the surface of an area of the device whose oxide-nitride interface has been previously charged with information written into the device.

Graphic systems performance evaluation

Abstract: The development of a performance evaluation technique, using simulation, for interactive graphics systems is described. The first step is the development of a simulation model for a single terminal graphic system. The model is a functional representation of the system. The functions modelled were identified by considering the activities occurring during a typical interaction. The model was used to simulate the operation of several different hardware configurations and the results of some of these simulations are presented. The simulation model developed for a multiterminal system is a more realistic representation of the logical organization and operation of an actual system. The four system components represented are hardware, users, system software, and application program loads. The events occurring in the system were identified by considering the sequence of processing activities characteristic of an interaction or batch job. The events and components are appropriately related to reflect the situation in an actual system wherein the system software is the interface between the hardware and the application program and the user interacts with the system through the hardware.

A Simple Computer‐Spectrophotometer Interface

Abstract: A modification is described which enables one to interface a Cary 14 spectrophotometer or similar instrument to a computer.

Versatile PDP-11 CAMAC Crate Controller for Nuclear Data Acquisition and Processing

Abstract: A crate system controller has been designed with the aim to offer an economical and simple interface between CAMAC Dataway and Unibus of the PDP-11. This unit has the capability of transferring commands as well as 16 or 24 bit data words between the computer and a single module in programmed, increment to memory, add to memory and block transfer mode. An interrupt vector-generator module provides fast LAM handling. In line with the purpose to provide a versatile system the software for controlling the interface was kept simple and powerful.

Modularized instrument system for turbojet engine test facilities

Abstract: A modular instrument system is being developed to handle the many data channels encountered in turbojet engine testing. Each module contains a group of transducers and all the signal conditioning multiplexing, and digitizing electronics necessary for direct interface with a digital computer. The digital interface within each module is the same for all modules; in addition, each module provides a controlled environment for its contents. A minicomputer in the control room gathers the data, performs on-line calculation and display, and interfaces with a shared recording and computing system. The advantages of this system are: (1) reduced manpower for system installation, setup, and checkout; (2) standardized equipment interfaces; (3) increased reliability through automatic system testing and minimization of manual adjustments; and (4) reduced cost through minimization of wiring and simplification of control room display.