Acf Industries, Incorporated

Ams Controls, Inc.

Richard D Allman

Paul M Meyer

James E Burton

Andrew J Allman

Mark A Jefferis

Robert H Beckwith

The invention is a system and method for automatically determining a resolution of an encoder, automatically calibrating the encoder resolution, and automatically determining a length of a workpiece from the encoder resolution and encoder count. The system comprises an encoder for generating an encoder signal indicative of linear movement of a moving workpiece traveling along a path. The system also comprises a first sensor positioned along the path traveled by the workpiece, the first sensor generating a first sensor signal in response to sensing an identifying characteristic of the workpiece. The system further comprises a second sensor positioned along the path traveled by the workpiece, the second sensor generating a second sensor signal in response to sensing the identifying characteristic of the workpiece, said second sensor being positioned a known distance from the first sensor along the path traveled by the workpiece. The system also comprises a processor for determining the encoder resolution as a function of the encoder signal, the first sensor signal, the second sensor signal, and the known distance between the first and second sensors.

Automatic encoder resolution calibration and length measurement system and method

Apparatus for use in developing and testing a control system for an internal combustion automobile engine. A housing is located in the automobile where it can be visually observed by an operator of the automobile. Electrical circuitry is installed in the housing. A wiring harness interconnects sensors and electromechanical devices with the circuitry. A programmable memory has a plurality of addresses which are selectably accessible, different addresses in the memory containing information relating to different aspects of the system. Information stored in a selected memory address is changeable thereby changing the operating characteristics of the system. The contents stored in a selected address are visually displayed so an operator can visually verify the information stored therein. Operation of the system while the engine is running is visually monitored to determine system performance during road tests, performance of the system thus being observable under actual driving conditions.

Fuel control system development apparatus

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Bridgeton, MO, United States of America

Richard D Allman