Showing papers on "Timer published in 1978"

Automatic periodic drug dispensing system

Abstract: An automatic periodic pharmaceutical preparation dispenser, for alerting patients under medication when specific drugs are to be taken. The device provides orderly storage of a plurality of drugs to be taken in a given time period with a coding associated with each pill. The device further provides a timer having a signal device responsive thereto to indicate when a specific medicament is to be taken and at a predetermined time interval relative to previously administered drugs. In the several embodiments shown, the timer comprises a clock mechanism; a time chip totalizer; and a signal responsive paging device all of which are arranged to indicate when and which pharmaceutical preparation is to be taken.

Circuit for reducing power consumption in battery operated microprocessor based systems

Abstract: In a microprocessor based system, wherein at least one microprocessor is battery powered, a power strobe circuit includes an analog switch for connecting the battery to the microprocessor only during programmed task performance. Upon completion of task performance, the microprocessor generates signals which trigger the analog switch to open, thereby deenergizing the microprocessor and to enable an external timer. After a predetermined period of time, which may be fixed in the timer or programmed, the timer causes the switch to reclose, thereby energizing the microprocessor for performance of another programmed task.

Programmable electronic starting device for autos and the like with means selectable to actuate accessories

Abstract: A programmable electronic 24 hours/7 days timer is operatively connected to various circuits which, in one mode, start or attempt to start the engine at any pre-determined intervals, let it run for a pre-determined time and then switch it off. A thermoswitch arrangement can be incorporated with the timer so that this function may be controlled by temperature rather than timed intervals and can eliminate any day or days, if desired. Further circuitry is provided which enables equipment such as engines, block heaters, interior car warmers, and the like, connected to main voltage, to be switched on and off at pre-determined intervals, if desired.

Autocycling control circuit for heating and/or air conditioning systems

Abstract: An autocycling control circuit unit is provided for controlling heating and/or airconditioning systems to provide controlled comfort and fuel savings. The unit contains a night thermostat which is continually coupled to the system for maintaining a minimum temperature level. A programmable timer enables and disables a day thermostat during settable, predetermined time intervals. The timer includes a feedback circuit for varying the on-off cycling of the day thermostat, after initial warm-up, in accordance with the rate at which the day thermostat calls for heat. The unit contains a backup battery and charger to insure the proper timing sequence in the event of system power outages.

Multifunction dynamoelectric protection system

Abstract: A protection system for a dynamoelectric machine providing a plurality of protective functions comprises a module having as a first function over temperature protection including thermal sensors adapted to be placed in heat transfer relation with the windings of the machine. The sensors which may be connected in series or in parallel are connected to a sensing circuit provided with shorted sensor protection. When connected in parallel a channel is provided for each sensor and is isolated from one another. Other functions include a minimum off delay timer which prevents rapid cycling of the machine. An oil pressure timer particularly useful with a compressor motor to sense oil pressure between the output of the oil pump and the crankcase in order to deenergize the motor should there be inadequate oil pressure for a selected period of time, a low voltage cut out network in the event of the occurrence of low voltage conditions, and a circuit to facilitate use of controls in the output side of the system if desired while permitting operation of the system only on the condition of output current flow. The minimum off delay timer can be modified to provide a manual reset circuit which will lock out or prevent energization of the machine each time the protection circuit is tripped. Reset can be accomplished only by removing power to the module and reapplying said power.

Start aid for combustion engine

Abstract: The disclosure describes an improvement to facilitate the start of an internal combustion engine, more particularly during wet weather and at low temperatures. The improvement comprises heating means associated with the spark plugs and/or with the engine distributor, a switch or a timer and lead connecting the heating means through the switch or timer, to the vehicle battery.

Ink jet printing apparatus

Abstract: An ink jet printing apparatus is disclosed which includes a printing head having a plurality of ink ejection nozzles and adapted to be moved relatively to a recording medium for effecting printing or characters of figures in accordance with print instruction signals, the printing head being periodically displaced, in accordance with a timing signal from a timer, to a fixed position at which an ink failure preventive ejection is performed from the nozzles in response to a detecting signal delivered from a detector upon detecting the positioning of the head at the fixed position.

Peripheral processor multifunction timer for data processing systems

Abstract: A peripheral processor (13) and associated memory (21) cooperate with a main processor (10) in a data processing system to provide for the main processor multiple parallel timing channels (7) for timing functions of various durations in an extensive range of duration magnitudes. The main processor initiates the timing of an event by interrupting the peripheral processor to specify a device and the duration of its function to be timed for each such function as the need for each timing operation arises. The peripheral processor administers all of the timing channels are queues (8) time-outs as they occur and pending notification of the main processor of the time-out by an interrupt request. Such interrupt requests are generated in a predetermined order with respect to factors such as the order of occurrence of the time-out and the relative interrupt priority of the timed function.

Auxiliary power supply and timer arrangement for time registering multifunctional electric energy meters

Abstract: A time based measuring system for electric energy meters includes a non-volatile data memory for processing time related data. The system further includes a main DC supply energized from an AC source and an auxiliary DC supply energized by a primary battery source. The data memory and a low power secondary timer circuit are energized from the auxiliary DC supply in response to failure of the main DC supply. A low power circuit arrangement including the secondary circuit continues current time and calendar registrations during a power outage.

Patient ventilator disconnect alarm

Abstract: Normal breathing cycles of a ventilator cause an alarm controller circuit to emit a periodic pulse which resets a timer circuit thereby maintaining an alarm device in an "off" condition. Patient disconnect is sensed by an alarm trigger circuit which sends an inhibit pulse to the controller circuit inhibiting the timer circuit reset pulse. This causes the timer to "time out" thereby turning on an alarm actuator circuit which causes an audible and/or visual alarm condition.

Energy management system

Abstract: An energy management system for reducing the power consumption of a plurality of loads and including a seven-day timer, a 24-hour timer and a fractional day timer such as a 30-minute timer, each controlling a plurality of subcircuits such that each subcircuit is operative to interrupt the flow of energy to it's associative load at selected times on weekends, in the evening and at synchronized periods throughout the day, the latter periods being synchronized with the other subcircuits, so as to reduce the peak energy demand and to improve the efficiency of the loads. The energy management system further includes circuitry for sequentially shutting down selected loads when the peak energy demand exceeds predetermined levels and circuitry for sequentially energizing the loads following a power failure.

Battery operated thermostat timer with battery charging circuits

Abstract: A space thermostat for switching electrically operated space conditioning apparatus includes an electrically operated timer functioning to periodically change the temperature "set point" of the thermostat, a small rechargeable storage battery for operating the timer, and circuit means all contained within the thermostat casing for charging the battery when the thermostat contacts are closed. In a second form, circuit means all contained within the thermostat casing is provided for continuously charging the battery when the thermostat contacts are open or closed.

Real time capture registers for data processor

Abstract: A microprocessor is disclosed which includes a timer and one or more capture registers. The timer is a counter which is incremented continuously at a fixed clock rate for providing a real time reference. Each capture register is loaded directly from the timer output when a triggering signal appears on a specific input pin, thus recording the time of the occurrence of the triggering signal without interrupt or software intervention.

Photodetector timer network

Abstract: A photodetector timer network for controlling the timing of application of electrical power to an electrical load responsive to ambient light conditions and including photodetector means for detecting the ambient light and generating a detector signal responsive thereto, means responsive to the detector signal for controlling electrical power from an external electrical source to an external electrical load and means for interrupting the electrical power to the electrical load at certain time intervals.

Solid state ignition control

Abstract: A control arrangement for a fuel ignition system having pilot and main valves in which the energization of the operate windings of the pilot and main valves, which are connected in series, is controlled by a silicon controlled rectifier. The SCR is enabled at the start of each ignition cycle by trigger pulses provided by a pulse generating circuit and when enabled, the SCR provides a shunt circuit path around the main valve winding permitting the pilot valve winding to be energized at its operating level effecting pilot valve operation and preventing the main valve from operating. When a pilot flame is provided, a capacitor of a flame sensing network is charged by flame rectified current, generating an inhibit signal for the pulse generating circuit which causes the SCR to be cut off, interrupting the shunt path to allow the main valve winding to be energized, effecting main valve operation. A trial for ignition timer diactivates the pilot valve and locks out the system if the pilot fuel fails to be lit before the end of a trial for ignition interval, the ignition timer being rendered ineffective in response to disabling of the SCR when a pilot flame is sensed. In one embodiment, the ignition timer comprises a time delay relay which is resettable by cycling the thermostat contacts open and closed. In another embodiment, the ignition timer comprises a thermal cutout switch mounted on the pilot valve and heated by the pilot valve operate winding.

Method and apparatus for signalling motorists and pedestrians when the direction of traffic will change

Abstract: An apparatus of electromechanical or solid-state character is provided for intermittently blinking the traffic control signals at street and road intersections to inform motorists and pedestrians at intervals during each period the lights are red or green as to the time remaining before the lights are changed to green or red to indicate a change in direction of traffic. The apparatus includes an interrupter switch in the power line of the traffic lights and a timer for the interrupter switch cycled by a pulse from the controller of the traffic lights each time the lights are changed. During each cycle of the timer the interrupter switch is operated at intervals to provide distinguishing signals each differing by one blink from the other. For example, the traffic lights may be blinked once when 30 seconds remain before the lights will change and twice at a rate of 3 to 6 per second when 15 seconds remain. By this signalling, motorists are enabled to gauge their speed as they approach street and road intersections to save gasoline and to drive with maximum safety, and pedestrians can know in advance when they have sufficient time to walk across at an intersection with safety.

Air conditioner control system

Abstract: An air conditioning control system for an automotive vehicle including a timer circuit connecting the ignition circuit to a compressor switch means, functioning to turn off the air conditioner compressor for a predetermined timing period after the ignition switch is turned on. The system also includes an inertial switch, such as a mercury switch, which is rendered conductive when the forward acceleration and/or grade of the vehicle attains a predetermined value. The conduction of the inertial switch immediately de-actuates the air conditioner compressor, and the air conditioner compressor remains inoperative as long as the inertial switch is conductive and for the predetermined timing period of the timer circuit after the inertial switch is rendered non-conductive.

Electronic appliance controller with flexible program and step duration capability

Abstract: An electronic sequence type controller structure having a high degree of flexibility in programming the time durations of particular steps in the program. The controller which includes a digital program sequence counter capable of stepping from one state to the next in response to inputted clock pulses, each state representing a particular program step. A programmable digital counter, programmed by a timer setting control, is operable to count inputted clock pulses and to output a signal when the number of clock pulses corresponding to a programmed time duration have been inputted. A program memory is responsive to the state of the program sequence counter for directing the timer setting control to program a time duration desired for any particular program step into the programmable timer. To direct the overall operation to effect periodic program advancing operations there is provided a control logic means. In operation, the control logic means is operable to direct a clock pulse to the programmable timer for each program advancing operation in the event a signal has not been received from the programmable timer and a program step is therefore in progress. When a program step is completed, a signal is received from the programmable timer and the control logic means is then operable to direct a clock pulse to the program sequence counter to cause stepping to the next program step, whereupon the program memory directs the timer setting control to program a new time duration into the programmable timer.

Adjustable DC pulse circuit for variation over a predetermined range using two timer networks

Abstract: A circuit for providing a dc pulse, such as to a gated semiconductor for at least partial bypass of a ballast element connected to an HID lamp, the pulse being developed within a time range of an associated ac voltage. A first timer operably connected to the ac voltage produces a first dc output pulse and a second timer connected to the output of the first timer produces the circuit dc pulse output. Reduction of a threshold control voltage of the first timer permits a time constant network connected thereto to advance the conclusion of the output of the first timer forward within its operational range. A time constant network connected to the second timer has charge current added to it from the first timer control voltage, the amount of such current decreasing with an advance positioning of the output of the first timer, thereby increasing the slope of the charge-up voltage of the second time constant network and shortening of the related square wave or dc pulse output from the second timer.

Failsafe primary power control apparatus for systems using computer controlled power sequencing

Abstract: Failsafe primary power control apparatus is provided which includes a backside contact of a control relay in series with the power relay which is held open until the initial program load and latch reset is finished. The system also includes a timer which is initiated by a power fault condition signal which is simultaneously applied to the processor. If the processor is capable of handling the fault condition, it puts out a signal which stops the timer. If the processor is not capable of handling the fault, the signal to the timer is not produced and, accordingly, the timer runs the full interval. This causes the backside contact of the control relay to open thus deenergizing the power relay and removing the power from the entire system.

Arrangement for program interruption

Abstract: In a microprogram controlled processor a master mask signal, generated selectively under microprogram control, synchronizes the handling of asynchronously generated interruption requests to desired sequence stages in the interpretation of program instructions. A programmed interrupt request (PIRR) associated with the interruption priority level of the program currently in control of the processor is maintained effective for a limited period of time after the associated program assumes control. This period is determined by the presence of a PIRR (-bit) which is interruptable by any higher priority level interrupt request. If a PIRR bit representing an interrupted program is still on when servicing of a higher priority level interrupt request is concluding control is returned to the interrupted program. In order to avoid possibly locking out programs which are not associated with asynchronously generated interrupt requests--e.g., supervisor programs--a pre-settable interval timer is provided for operating after a predetermined time interval to force the setting of a PIRR bit and thereby force control to be transferred eventually to such programs.

Dishwasher water temperature control system

Abstract: A domestic dishwasher is provided with a control system having circuitry including timer switch means adapted to insure automatic wash water at a normal set temperature for all cycles with the user having an option to preselect an elevated wash water temperature. During wash periods, power for the heater is provided through timer switch means connected through a first thermostat whereby if the water in the chamber is below its set temperature, the first thermostat will energize a heater to provide auxiliary heat to the wash water. The timer switch means is operative to stop the timer motor until the water is heated to said set temperature. Once the water reaches the minimum set temperature, or if the water supply is initially above said minimum setting the first thermostat will switch, deenergizing the heater. If an extra hot wash option is selected by an Options Selector Switch, and the water temperature is below a second thermostat's elevated set point, the timer switch means will stop the timer motor providing extended heating until the second thermostat closes upon the water reaching the elevated temperature.

Timer circuit for vending machine

Abstract: The circuit includes a switch array for setting two conditions, one for defining the length of the vend period and the other for defining the coinage necessary to initiate the vend period. A binary counter is coupled by the switch array to a decoder circuit, and the binary counter is first counted incrementally in response to coinage insertion until the correct coinage has been received at which time the counter is enabled to continue counting through a timing cycle defining the vend period. At the end of the vend period the circuit is reset for future usage.

Anti-stall device in a diesel engine

Abstract: An anti-stall device for an internal combustion engine provided with a fuel injection pump having a fuel control rack and a governor mechanism connected to the fuel control rack and which has a speed control lever, comprising: a circuit for generating a dc voltage in proportion to the rotational speed of the engine; a circuit for comparing and amplifying an output voltage of the dc voltage generating circuit and a reference voltage corresponding to the idling speed of the engine; a timer circuit for receiving outputs of the comparing and amplifying circuit as inputs to generate outputs for a predetermined period of time; and an electromagnetic actuator for utilizing the outputs of the timer circuit to drive said fuel control rack in a fuel quantity increasing direction.

NRZ/Biphase microcomputer serial communication logic

Abstract: A single-chip microcomputer comprises a CPU (1), a RAM (2), a ROM (3), a timer (4), serial I/O communication logic (5), and four I/O ports (11-14). The serial I/O communication logic is capable of handling serial communications in either the NRZ or Manchester (biphase) format. The result is more versatile and more reliable serial communications.

Time interval measurement apparatus

Abstract: A triggerable oscilloscope having a digital clock selectably connected to two digital counters accurately measures a time interval between two recurring events. The first digital counter is connected to the digital clock to count clock pulses during a timer interval between the initiation of a horizontal sweep signal and the occurrence of the first recurring event. A second digital counter is connected to the digital clock to count clock pulses during a time interval between the initiation of a sequent horizontal sweep signal and the occurrence of the second recurring event. A subtractor circuit coupled to the first and second digital counters subtracts the count of the first digital counter from the count of the second digital counter and determines the time interval between the first and second recurring events. Time averaging techniques increase the accuracy of the time interval measurements for high speed recurring events by accumulating counts during a plurality of horizontal sweep signals. Predivide techniques are used for low speed recurring events to limit the number of counts accumulated during a horizontal sweep signal to a number compatible with the capacity of the digital counters.

Protector for arc welding

Abstract: PURPOSE: To enable the perfect protection of the eyes from weld arc by controlling the start and end of welding as well as the modulation of the transparency of liquid crystal cell shield spectacles at fixed timings and letting light be shielded when a flash is detected. CONSTITUTION: When a power source switch S and torch switch TS are turned on, a relay CR1 operates to open its normally closed contact CR1' to cause the signal to a liquid crystal cell LCD to become nonconducting, due to which the applied transparent type LCD is de-energized and its transparency begins to decrease. On the other hand, the operation of a timer TR1 causes the time-limiting operation contact TR1' to be closed with a delay for a fixed time and therefore at the time when the shield filter has sufficiently decreased of its transparency, the welding flash of the welding machine AM is generated. Next, when ordinary welding is suspended and crater welding is started, the switch TS opens but the contact of the photo detecting means PH having been opened through detection of the flash is in a nonconducting state as far as the flash exits. Hence, the LCD maintains the non-transparent state. When the flash extinguishes, the time-limiting operation contact TR2' of the timer TR2 closes with a delay for a fixed time and the LCD becomes transparent. COPYRIGHT: (C)1980,JPO&Japio

Automotive self-starting device

Abstract: An automotive self-starting apparatus including a timer adapted to activate and deactivate a circuit designed to start the motor with an oil pressure sensor switch and a thermal circuit breaker adapted to stop the starter motor once the engine has started or if the engine has failed to start, to allow cranking of the starter motor only for a preselected time with rest intervals therebetween during the period of activation of the circuit by the timer.

Digital controller for fuel injection with microcomputer

Abstract: A digital controller for fuel injection of internal combustion engines comprising a logic signal shaping circuit; an analog data acquisition circuit; a microcomputer incorporating a clock and memories; a circuit controlling injector opening timer and a second control circuit for accessories.