Control system for cyclic machines

Abstract

Method and apparatus for controlling a machine which is operable in cycles, the machine carrying out a plurality of functions during each cycle. Values representing the stages of the machine in its cycle are generated as the machine progresses through a cycle, the values being determined by the actual stage of the machine independently of time. Starting and stopping points in the cycle for at least one of the functions of the machine is preset in terms of the generated values. The generated values are compared with the preset starting and stopping point values. The machine function is initiated and maintained when the generated values are greater than the preset starting point value but are less than the preset stopping point value and the function is stopped when the generated values equal or are greater than the preset stopping point value. Apparatus and method for computing starting and stopping points for an eyespot window using only a single set of delay switches is also disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.