The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 08, 2001
Filed:
Jul. 20, 1998
John D. Ruff, Alexandria, VA (US);
Other;
Abstract
A simplified system using a computer to control the speed and direction of multiple stepper motors, so that a script for a sequence of operations of the motors can be prepared and edited, using ASCII characters, on the computer monitor. This script is then stored on disc, and can be played back through the parallel port to control the motors to perform the sequence of operations. Each letter of the alphabet can identify a different motor speed, and each line of the script contains one letter for each motor being controlled. On commencing play back, the first line is scanned and the required motor speeds set and activated. After about {fraction (1/20)} of a second the next line is similarly scanned and the motor speeds are again adjusted to the current script requirements. Playback then proceeds in the same manner line by line through the script. The system can also be applied to CNC (computer numerical control) of machine tools and production processes. A synchronized digital control system gives excellent positional control of motorized elements. The system includes fine and coarse feed rates in CNC operation by means of two motors selectively controlling the same axis, coupled by a differential gearing drive.