Coordinating system for interdependent machines - compares machine operation rate with centrally set control time

摘要

The central control unit transmits to each machine data including a control time for use with the machine system. This time need not be the same as real time. Each machine is programmed to carry out a sequence of operations. The operation sequence is synchronised with the passage of the control time. The rate of passage of this control time is affected by any time difference between the effective operation rate of the machines and their desired operation rate. The time difference data is transmitted by each of the machines to the central unit, which adjusts the control time accordingly.