Showing papers on "Timer published in 1986"

System with software usage timer and counter for allowing limited use but preventing continued unauthorized use of protected software

Abstract: A method is provided to prevent continued unauthorized use of protected software and to maintain control of sites where software is installed. The method allows unauthorized copies of the protected software to be installed and to operate for a limited time. However, if the user does not register the software within a prescribed period of time, the protected software will be disabled. Prior to disabling, the software will operate for a period of time during which messages are provided to the user, warning that the software should be registered. Both a counter for counting the number of times that the protected software is used, and a timer for measuring the elapsed time since installation of the software, are used in determining how long the protected software will be permitted to operate before either registration or disabling.

Internal performance monitoring by event sampling

Abstract: The disclosure provides event-controlled operations for an internal hardware/softward monitor for a processor in a data processing system. It embeds and distributes in each processor at least one instrumentation table unit (ITU) and event detection circuitry to detect events and conditions for collecting event-sampled hardware signals provided in the processor hardware in which the respective ITU is embedded. Instrumentation measurement is controlled centrally in the system. Sampling of the CPU signals for recording in the ITU is done at (or a sub-multiple of) the occurrence rate of the selected event(s) in the processor. The sampled signals are recorded in the ITU. The ITUs of plural processors are asynchronously operated in a system. The event-driven monitoring circuitry may be solely provided in an ITU, or it may be superimposed on a timer-driven internal instrumentation system of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,590,550 in which the ITU is shared between event and timer driven modes of operation. Branch-taken event monitoring is also included in the disclosure.

Why TCP timers don't work well

Abstract: Repeated observation of TCP retransmission timer problems stimulated investigation into the roles and limitations of timers. Timers are indispensable tools in building up reliable distributed systems. However, as the experience with the TCP retransmission timer has shown, timers have intrinsic limitations in offering optimal performance. Any timeout based action is a guess based on incomplete information, and as such is bound to be non-optimal. We conclude that, if we aim at high performance, we should use external events as a first line of defense against failures, and depend on timers only in cases where external notification has failed.

High precision tens apparatus and method of use

Abstract: A transcutaneous electrical nerve-stimulation therapy apparatus and method having absolute protection for the patient from shock and automatic operation. The apparatus may operate in three modes, either controlled by timer, operating continuously or put in an automatic mode where the timer is automatically reset when the probe is removed from the patient and then recontacted. A circuit is provided for checking the continuity between the patient and the probes before each and every stimulation pulse. These pulses are generated at the same frequency and with a constant phase shift from the stimulation pulses. At the start of each set of stimulation pulses, the pulses are slowly ramped up over a 4-5 second interval so as to prevent any initial jolt to the patient. The device may also be used to locate appropriate application points on the patient's body. The pulses applied are variable current pulses having a fixed voltage.

Remote mailbox alarm system

Abstract: A remote mailbox alarm system comprising a mailbox unit (10) and a house module (14) is disclosed. The mailbox unit (10) comprises a position-sensitive door switch (22) which activates timer circuit (54), a mail sensing circuit (37), and a transmitter (56) located on an insert board (24) insertable inside mailbox (12). When activated, mail sensing circuit (37) energizes a light-emitting diode (34) to emit infrared light waves that reflect off mail placed inside mailbox (12) and onto phototransistor (36) which thereby causes the transmitter switch (49) to energize transmitter (56). When door switch (22) is opened, the timer circuit (54) allows the transmitter (56) to continue transmitting for a predetermined period of time. Signals from transmitter (56) are received by receiver circuit (58) which activates a speaker (60) and a lamp (48). When the timer circuit (54) times out, the speaker (60) is deactivated while lamp (48) continues lit until deenergized by the pushing of reset switch (62).

Toilet-flushing control apparatus

Abstract: A toilet-flushing control apparatus comprising a detector, a delay circuit, a judging circuit, a first timer, a second timer, and a flush valve. The detector detects that a person is using a toilet, and outputs a signal. This signal is input to the delay circuit. Upon lapse of a predetermined time after receiving this signal, the delay circuit outputs a signal. The output signal of the delay circuit is supplied to the judging circuit. When the output signal of the detector lasts shorter than a reference time, the judging circuit determines that the toilet user has urinated. Conversely, when this signal lasts for the reference time or a longer time, the judging circuit determines that the toilet user has defecated. In the first case, the first timer is operated, and the flush valve opens for the time set to the first timer, thereby flushing the toilet. In the second case, the second timer is operated, and the flush valve opens for the time set to the second timer, thus flushing the toilet. The time set to the first timer is shorter than that set to the second timer. Hence, the toilet is flushed with a small amount of water after each urination, and with a large amount of water after each defecation.

Programmable fluid detector

Abstract: A plurality of probes for sensing their fluid environment are electrically connected to a controller. The controller includes an alarm transducer, relays, a keyboard, and a display connected to a microprocessor and associated memories. Under keyboard control and software direction the microprocessor is operable in a monitor mode in which it monitors the probes and activates the transducer, relays, and display in response to probe signals corresponding to selected alarm conditions, and in a program mode in which the alarm conditions, relay latching conditions, and probe to relay assignments may be selected via the keyboard. A hardware timer interrupts the microprocessor periodically to clock a software timer which provides six second and six minute timers. When monitor mode is exited, the six second timer is reset and if a security code is not entered in six seconds the timer elapses and the system returns to monitor mode. Similarly, when program mode is entered, the six minute timer is reset and if no program entries are made in six minutes, the system returns to monitor mode. The six minute timer is reset each time a program entry is made and is delayed so long as probe to relay assignments are being made.

System for summoning service personnel and monitoring their response time

Abstract: System for summoning service personnel to a particular table in a restaurant or similar facility and for monitoring service personnel response time. Each table includes a transmitter selectively activated by a switch at the table operated by a customer requiring service. When activated, each transmitter generates a signal unique to its table. A central station includes a display panel having a plurality of individual sections each relating to one of the tables. Each individual section includes a visual indicator, an audible annunciator, and a digital timer. The central station also includes a plurality of receivers, each responsive to one of the table transmitters. When a transmitter is activated by a customer, the corresponding receiver activates the appropriate visual indicator to alert service personnel that service is required at that table. Simultaneously the receiver causes the digital timer to count at one count per second. If the count reaches a predetermined amount, indicating the customer has waited too long, the audible annunciator is activated to alert service personnel of their failure to respond to the customer. When service personnel respond to the customer's signal at the table, the transmitter is de-activated, thus de-activating the visual indicator, audible annunciator, and timer. The number contained in the digital timer at that time represents the total response time to the customer's signal. A microprocessor connected to each visual indicator, audible annunciator, and time, stores the data generated for compiling a record of the performance of service personnel for each table.

Manifold analog/digital facsimile apparatus

Abstract: A manifold facsmile apparatus capable of selectively communication with a G3 analog facsimile apparatus and a G4 digital facsimile apparatus. The manifold apparatus includes an analog interface adapted for connection with an analog communication network and a digital interface adapted for connection with a digital communication network. The two interfaces are selectively connected to a communication control unit so that the apparatus is connectable to the analog network or the digital network. When called at the same time over the analog and the digital networks, the control unit gives priority to the digital network, Further, the control unit is capable of selectively performing data link control necessary for communication with the G3 analog terminal and data link control necessary for communication with the G4 digital terminal. The control unit is allowed to enter into G4 digital facsimile data link contol within a predetermined period of time after the generation of a call and, upon the lapse of that period of time, starts on G3 analog facsimile data link control, thereby performing either one of the two data link controls,. That particular period of time is short enough to prevent timer overflow in a G3 analog terminal.

Method and apparatus for monitoring fluid flow

Abstract: In a fluid flow supply system, monitoring a fluid supply system to accurately determine whether an abnormal flow condition or a catastrophic flow condition exists in such supply system. A parameter of fluid flow in the supply system is measured and a first signal is produced corresponding to such parameter. A first timer, adapted to be reset by the first signal, produces a signal upon expiration of a preselected time period. A second timer, adapted to be reset by the signal produced by the first timer, produces an output signal upon expiration of a preselected time period substantially greater in duration than the preselected time period of the first timer. Accordingly if the time period of the first timer is not exceeded (i.e., it is continuously reset by first signals measuring the fluid flow parameter), then the time period for the second timer will be exceeded whereby an abnormal flow condition is determined to exist. Additionally, an accumulated running total of the first signal is compared to a second signal representative of a preselected fluid flow parameter, and an output signal is produced when the first signal exceeds the second signal, whereby a catastrophic flow condition is determined to exist. A control signal for the supply system is produced in response to the production of an output signal from the second timer or the comparator. The control signal can be used to restrict the fluid supply system and/or provide a perceivable indication that an abnormal or catastrophic flow condition exists.

Automatic animal feeder and water dispenser

Abstract: A device for automatically dispensing animal food at predetermined times and in variable quantities comprises a hopper having a motorized feed auger that is actuated by a timer. The auger dispenses feed to a chute which terminates in a feed bin integral with the device. A water distributor also activated by the timer is used for wetting the food. A water drink-dispenser is also mounted above the feed bin.

Timed auxiliary power adapter

Abstract: A power adapter for timed control of auxiliary electrical loads is provided for connection between a streetlight fixture or the like and a control module of the fixture. The adapter has a weather-resistant housing and an electrical jumper in the housing extending a power source connection to an input of the module, another jumper returning a control output from the module to a main load of the fixture. An auxiliary socket at the side of the housing powers the auxiliary load, which can be a holiday lighting display. In one version, the adapter has a clock timer for controlling the auxiliary load independently of the main load. In another version, a programmable delay timer, synchronized with commencement of main load operation, terminates operation of the auxiliary load following a predetermined interval of main load operation.

Temperature control apparatus for detecting an abnormality in a heater in a copying machine or the like

Abstract: A temperature control apparatus for controlling, e.g., a fixing heater of a copying machine has a fuse resistor connected to the fixing heater through a power relay, a thermistor for detecting the surface temperature of a fixing roller heated by the fixing heater, abnormality timers for counting the ON time of the fixing heater and having different preset counts corresponding to different modes of the copying machine, and a control circuit for disconnecting the fuse resistor when the output from the thermistor indicates overheating or the ON time of the heater exceeds the preset count of the timer. Overheating of the heater is prevented with high reliability.

Video tape reproducing apparatus with a processor that time-shares different operations

Abstract: A reproducing apparatus wherein control of rotation of a rotary head, control of tape transportation and a control of the tracking of the head adjusting actuator are processed in a time-share fashion by a data processing device. The control is carried out by using a timer circuit, which has a period of one or several integer times the period of rotation of the rotary head. Computing processes for the above controls are selectively carried out on a time-shared basis. By using a DC component of the tracking error signal, a track transporting system capable of noiseless playback, and which has a wide range of tracking control.

Performance of Single Access Classes on the IEEE 802.4 Token Bus

Abstract: The IEEE 802.4 token bus defines both synchronous and asynchronous message access classes. Their performance is compared for networks implementing a single message class. Throughput bounds are derived from the access class timer. It is shown that for some configurations, the asynchronous class yields lower observable message delays. Mean observable delay is minimized by allowing each medium access controller unrestricted service.

Umbrella top timer

Abstract: A poultry or meat cooking timer has a hollow barrel with an open top slidably receiving a stem with an inner end immersed in a fusible holding material in the barrel to normally hold the stem within the barrel against the force of a spring in the barrel urging the stem outwardly therefrom. The stem has an integral tapered flange thereabout that is force fitted through an inner barrel ridge near the top of the barrel bore and the stem has a large top with a substantially flat surface for engaging a barrel flange for positively sealing the stem and barrel in normal retracted stem position to prevent intrusion of foreign substances into the barrel bore prior to stem release by the fusible material at a predetermined temperature.

Controlled access programmable event timer system

Abstract: A control system is disclosed which can be attached to equipment such as appliances or automobiles, or built in as a part thereof. The control system includes an enabling/disabling device such as a relay in a circuit in the equipment. A time setting device is used to program a microprocessor with the times when the relay will open and close--thereby disabling and enabling the equipment. The time setting device can only be used to set the times by a person having an authentic authorization device such as a card or a key. The card is read by a card reader and the information obtained is compared by the microprocessor with the authentic information. In the case where a key is the authorization device, it is used to close a circuit to the microprocessor. A liquid crystal display is provided to display time information, and a rechargeable battery is included to prevent changing the time by unplugging the equipment.

Electronic postage meter having an infinite loop lockout arrangement

Abstract: A microcomputerized postage meter has a programmable clock for generating an interrupt output to the microcomputer in the event that it times out before it is stopped or reprogrammed. The timer is suitably programmed for the anticipated duration of the routine to enable swift recovery from the postage meter microcomputer being locked into operation in an infinite loop.

Digital phase synchronizer

Abstract: A method and apparatus for digital phase synchronization to an AC power line is disclosed, having an analog-to-digital conversion providing a digital phase error signal which is processed by an inverting proportional plus integral transfer function and compared to a digital timer to determine the time for the next analog-to-digital conversion.

Handgrip, with light and timer

Abstract: A pair of handles mounted individually on the ends of a coil spring, the ends of the coil spring extending longitudinally into the ends of the handles, and the coil spring thereby being positioned beyond the handles. A battery is positioned on one handle, and a light bulb and timer in the other handle. A circuit includes conductors, one of which is the coil spring, connecting the battery and the light bulb and timer, and contacts in the ends of the handles that are remote from the coil spring, and upon interengagement of the contacts they complete the circuit and turn on the light bulb and the timer. In squeezing the handles, in exercising the hand, illumination of the light signals the interengagement of the handles. The light bulb also illuminates the timer.

Satellite receiver and acquisiton system

Abstract: The invention provides a master controller to store and call up on command a plurality of setups for numerous satellites. An antenna is directed to a desired satellite, the polarization of the feed horn is changed to that of the signal to be received and a receiver or receivers are switched to the proper band, C or Ku. A transponder is selected as are audio and/or video frequencies, half or full transponder modes in the Ku band, and video reverse. The setup is recalled by an operator or by a timer which can call or set up at prescribed periodic intervals or on a one-time basis. An operator can change one or more parameters of a specific setup. The controller can institute an antenna search routine for developing a new setup to maximize the signal strength by looking at a narrow band AGC signal whereby to permit an operator to acquire a new satellite and store all of the necessary parameters for the setup or to use a frequency controller of the receiver to define the audio and video frequencies to be employed while using the antenna control to acquire the satellite and peak the signals and then store a setup from the information generated by the two controlling elements.

Low-flow pump-off control

Abstract: A low-flow pump-off control device for deactivating a motor for a pump during conditions when a rate of supply of a source of fluid to be pumped by the pump is insufficient includes: a pipe section having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being connectable to the source of fluid to be pumped through the pipe section; a plurality of plates disposed substantially perpendicularly in the pipe section, each of the plates defining at least one orifice through which the fluid is caused to pass; a differential pressure switch for sensing a differential pressure between a pressure upstream of a first one of the plates and a pressure downstream of a last one of the plates that is at or below a set point indicative of a predetermined low flow rate of the liquid; a first timer in communication with the switch for accumulating periods of time at which the switch senses the differential pressure; a motor activation and deactivation relay in communication with the timer for deactivating the motor when the accumulated periods of time total a predetermined amount; and a second timer in communication with the first timer which is activated when the accumulated periods of time total the predetermined amount, wherein the motor activation and deactivation relay is in communication with the second timer and activates the motor when the second timer times a second predetermined amount of time.

Timer controlled multipole circuit breaker

Abstract: A timer controlled multipole circuit breaker has a pair of breaker contacts in each pole which are connected to load and line terminals respectively provided in the current path of each pole Incorporated in the breaker is electric timer for controlling to open and close the breaker contacts according to a predetermined timing schedule The electric timer has its input end connected across the line terminals of the adjacent poles so as to be energized by the common power on the line terminals of the breaker without requiring any additional external wiring The circuit breaker incorporating the electric timer of the present invention further provides a safeguard which inhibits the automatic reclosing of the contacts by the timer operation until the fault current condition is cleared

Long time timer

Abstract: PURPOSE:To simplify the constitution of the long-time timer and vary a set value by providing a display means which decides on the rotational state of the speed reduction shaft of a small-sized synchronous electric motor to the speed reduction gear. CONSTITUTION:An AC power source 1 supplies electric power and a power source synchronizing signal to a switching circuit 2, and electric power having an accurate number of cycles is applied to the small-sized synchronous electric motor 3 on the basis of the power source synchronizing signal. In this case, the circuit 2 sums a signal on the basis of the power source synchronizing signal to generate a reference time interval. Then, the electric motor 3 rotates gradually and its rotation is reduced in speed by a speed reduction gear 4 and transmitted to the speed reduction shaft 5 and a display disk 6. The timer of this constitution is fitted to an equipment part 10 and the rotational state of the display disk 14 is observed through a display window 16. The set value of timer time is easily varied by turning forcibly a know fitted to the shaft 13.

Microcomputer with abnormality sensing function

Abstract: A microcomputer includes an interrupt signal generator for supplying a CPU with an interrupt signal at predetermined time intervals, and a monitoring timer reset by a reset signal generated by the CPU in response to the interrupt signal. An abnormality is sensed on the basis of expiration of time in the monitoring timer. A flag for resetting the monitoring timer during a first processing started by the interrupt signal is stored in a memory device connected to the CPU, and the CPU generates the reset signal in response to the stored flag during a second processing having a priority lower than that of the first processing.

Image forming apparatus having a control means for effecting control of a preliminary processing of image formation

Abstract: An apparatus for forming images is disclosed, in which a replaceable unit at least including a developing section is replaceably mounted in said apparatus body. Preliminary processing, such as developer agitation in said replaceable unit, is performed when a power source is connected and when the replaceable unit is mounted prior to an image formation operation. A timer started at the time of the connection of a power source is provided. A controller is provided to detect the output of the timer at the time of connection of the power source or at the time of the start of such an image formation operation for varying said preliminary processing according to the result of detection.

Security system with interference detection

Abstract: A security system having one or more sending units for transmitting an electromagnetic signal representative of a condition such as fire, smoke, intrusion, battery condition, an emergency or other condition to a central receiving unit. Upon reception of an electromagnetic signal, the receiving unit provides an electromagnetic carrier detect signal to a microprocessor. A software timer within the microprocessor keeps track of the time over which the carrier is detected. If the carrier detection continues for a time longer than about 20 seconds, then a jamming indication signal is provided to one or more outputs. While the system is being jammed, alarms are ignored thus avoiding false alarms due to interference.

Transport refrigeration unit defrost control system

Abstract: A solid-state defrost timer control for a transport refrigeration unit includes an oscillator 68, counter 66, flip-flop 74, and termination timer 88 which are provided with temperature reference signals from comparator U1, sensor failure condition signals from comparators U2 and U3, manual defrost and air switch defrost signals from switches S1 and S2, temperature set point signals from temperature set point device 42 and unit drive signals from line 64. Among the operating features are that the device will accumulate time only when the evaporator coil temperature is less than a pre-established temperature and will retain and hold time when the coil temperature is above the pre-established temperature.

Automatic fire prevention system

Abstract: A fire prevention system useful for controlling actuation of equipment such as combustion or heating devices used in food preparation. The system according to this invention includes a fire alarm circuit and a timer circuit which automatically shuts down energy supplies to such equipment either in response to the detection of a fire, or during preselected periods of scheduled inoperation of the equipment. The system, therefore, in addition to operating as a fire alarm, reduces the likelihood that a fire will be started when equipment is unattended. The fire prevention system according to this invention further includes a manually operated override circuit which restores energy supplies to the controlled equipment irrespective of the control signals provided by the fire alarm circuit and timer.