×

Method of and means for controlling the movement of self-propelled bodies traveling in a fixed order along a track

  • US 3,953,714 A
  • Filed: 12/05/1974
  • Issued: 04/27/1976
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/22/1972
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. In a system for controlling the movement of a plurality of self-propelled bodies, provided with propulsion means and braking means, following one another in a predetermined order on a track serving a number of stations, said system including a fixed post for the periodic emission of a timing signal and markings spacedly disposed at fixed reference points along said track, the improvement wherein each of said bodies comprises:

  • receiving means for detecting said timing signal and converting same into a series of isochronous pulses;

    first counting means connected to said receiving means for registering a count N of said isochronous pulses;

    sensing means responsive to said markings for generating a marker pulse upon movement of the body past any of said reference points;

    second counting means connected to said sensing means for registering a count n of said marker pulses;

    calculating means connected to said first and second counting means for determining the difference N-n of the counts thereof; and

    decision means connected to said calculating means for actuating said propulsion means upon said difference N-n at least equaling a certain reference value and for actuating said brake means upon said difference N-n falling short of said reference value.

View all claims
  • 0 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×