Logic control for fast-acting safety system
First Claim
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1. A woodworking machine comprising:
- a support structure;
a cutting tool adapted to move to cut a workpiece, where the cutting tool is supported by the support structure;
a motor adapted to drive the cutting tool;
a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between the cutting tool and a person, where the detection system imparts an electrical signal to the cutting tool and monitors one or more characteristics associated with the electrical signal for changes indicative of the dangerous condition;
a reaction system adapted to perform a specified action upon detection of the dangerous condition; and
a self-test system adapted to test the operability of at least a portion of the detection system and the reaction system, and to disable the motor if the tested portion of the detection system or the reaction system is inoperable.
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Abstract
Woodworking machines including cutting tools and motors adapted to drive the cutting tools are disclosed. The machines also include a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between the cutting tool and a person, and a reaction system adapted to perform a specified action upon detection of the dangerous condition. The machines further include a control system adapted to test the operability of at least a portion of the detection system and/or the reaction system. The control system is adapted to disable the motor if the tested portion is inoperable.
470 Citations
2 Claims
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1. A woodworking machine comprising:
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a support structure; a cutting tool adapted to move to cut a workpiece, where the cutting tool is supported by the support structure; a motor adapted to drive the cutting tool; a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between the cutting tool and a person, where the detection system imparts an electrical signal to the cutting tool and monitors one or more characteristics associated with the electrical signal for changes indicative of the dangerous condition; a reaction system adapted to perform a specified action upon detection of the dangerous condition; and a self-test system adapted to test the operability of at least a portion of the detection system and the reaction system, and to disable the motor if the tested portion of the detection system or the reaction system is inoperable. - View Dependent Claims (2)
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Specification