Multi-axis electronic motion generator

Abstract

Apparatus for generating synchronized multi-axis intermittent motion utilizing electronic encoding, memory and a servo controlled positioning system. A plurality of mechanically independent slave shafts are positioned in response to the position of a rotatable master shaft. An analog transducer is attached to the master shaft providing an analog output signal which is fed through an analog-to-digital converter. A digital representation of the master shaft position is provided by the analog-to-digital converter. The digital indication of master shaft position is fed to a plurality of independent digital memory devices each of which provides, in response, a digital position signal indicative of the desired position of an associated slave shaft. The output of each independent digital memory device is fed to a digital-to-analog converter which provides an analog output representative of the desired slave shaft position. A servo controller positions the associated slave shaft in response to the analog signal. A translator can be utilized for combining the digital output of each memory with an analog position signal from a position transducer connected to the associated slave shaft and providing an analog difference or error signal which can be utilized for proper positioning of the slave shaft. A tachometer can be utilized in the slave shaft servo for providing speed feedback information. Other means for speed feedback can be employed either by deriving a speed signal from other parameters, related to speed, or by utilizing the characteristics of the prime mover itself for speed feedback.