U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
2000 ARCHIVE COPY
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
the subclass number
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( please note that patents for some subclasses may not be available )
For classification search strategies, please refer to the
Classification Index
Explanation of Data web page.
(definitions have been obtained from the
Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which
is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 388
ELECTRICITY: MOTOR CONTROL SYSTEMS
Class Definition:
STATEMENT OF CLASS SUBJECT MATTER
This class and Class 318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems
are the generic loci for systems of electrical control of
electric motors. See Lines With Other Classes, below, for a
further explanation of this line.
Note: This class is being developed in stages from old Class
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems. As other sections of
Class 318 are reclassified, they will be added hereto.
TYPES OF MOTORS
Note: At the present stage of development of this class, only
the following types of motor are included.
1. Direct Current (DC) Commutating Motor: An electric motor
designed to operate on direct current and having a commutator
electrically connected to a winding of the motor.
MODES OF MOTOR CONTROL
Note: At the present stage of development of this class, only
the following modes of motor control are included.
1. Acceleration Control: Controlling the rate of change of
speed of an electric motor either (a) from zero speed to some
running speed, or vice versa, or (b) from one running speed
to another running speed by variation of the electric power
input to the motor. Acceleration control includes
deceleration control.
2. Deceleration Control: Controlling the rate of change of
speed of an electric motor from a first running speed to a
second (lower) running speed, including zero speed, by
variation of the electric power input to the motor.
3. Running Speed Control: Controlling an electric motor so as
to maintain a particular substantially constant running
speed.
CLASS ORGANIZATION AND SEARCH PHILOSOPHY
This class has been structured according to a new
classification philosophy known as "Concept Capture
Classification" (CCC or 3C). This type of classification
facilitates a new computer-based search method while
continuing to support all traditional uses of the
classification of patents.
Organizational Structure - The class consists of two
complementary classification schedules:
1. A hierarchical schedule of subclasses (numbered from 800
to 860). The hierarchy of these subclasses follows all the
rules that apply throughout the Manual of Classification.
These subclasses are designed to accommodate, in general, the
claimed subject matter in the patents. They differ from
subclasses elsewhere in the Manual only in that they are
somewhat broader and tend to contain fewer disclosure-based
cross-reference copies.
2. A "term list," or schedule of Art Collections. This list
is an indexing scheme with little hierarchy. These Art
Collections are much like other Art Collections throughout
the Manual of Classification except that care has been taken
to place copies of each patent in Class 388 into each and
every Art Collection for which that patent has a significant
disclosure. In other words, the "concepts" disclosed in each
patent are "captured" for later reference by placing cross
reference copies into all the appropriate art collections,
thus the name "Concept Capture Classification."
METHOD OF CLASSIFYING NEWLY ISSUED PATENTS
When a new patent is issued in this class, copies should be
placed in all appropriate subclasses of the hierarchical
schedule as required by the claims. Further copies should be
placed in all appropriate (according to disclosure) art
collections in order to capture as much information about the
patent as possible for future reference. Although cross
references based on the disclosure but not the claims may be
placed in the regular subclasses, they should be limited as
much as possible to the Art Collections.
SUGGESTED SEARCH STRATEGIES
A traditional search of paper copies may be conducted in the
same way as with any other class by selecting subclasses from
among those numbered subclasses 800-860, and then looking at
each patent in each subclass chosen. This approach may also
be used on the "Automated Patent System" (APS) with
limitation that only those patents more recent than 1975 are
available for text display.
A computer-aided search (or "CCC Search") may be conducted by
searching a collection of subclasses and Art Collections
combined using the logical operations of the APS or of the
"Classification and Search Support Information System"
(CASSIS), CD/ROM version. In either of these systems one
would compose a search statement that says, for example,
"Give me a list of all patents which are in subclass 811 and
art collections (902 and 903 and 917)." To appear on the
output list a patent would have to have a copy in all of the
subclasses chosen. A somewhat less restrictive search
statement might be used, as for example, "Give me a list of
all patents which are in subclass 811 and art collections
(902 or 903 or 917).
In each of the search examples (811 and 902 and 903 and 917;
and 811 and 902 or 903 or 917) note that the art collections
(902, 903 and 917) are used as tools to search the subclass
(811). In other words the subclass 811 is the true location
of the patent but it resides there with many other patents of
the same proximate function. Traditionally, it has been
necessary to look at all patents in subclass 811 during a
search and make judgments "on the spot" as to their relevancy
to a given search condition. With a CCC search, one enters
the search condition into the computer in terms of which art
collections are chosen, then the computer selects from
subclass 811 only those which are relevant to the given
conditions. In this way the searcher, hopefully, views fewer
patents which are more relevant to his search and he does not
miss "hidden" or "implicit" disclosures.
An experimental computer-aided "CCC search" with specialized
output is available on the CASSIS CD/ROM machines in many
Patent Depository Libraries. These machines are programmed to
give a search of up to three subclasses using up to six art
collections. e.g., Search (811 or 819 or 831) and (902 or 903
or ... or 937)
Note. This search treats the three subclasses as separate
searches and prints the lists of "hits" separately for each.
The output is in the form of a graph with patent number as
vertical axis and art collections as horizontal axis. For
each patent found as a "hit" a line is printed giving the
patent number, which subclass it is in, and which art
collections (of those entered) it is in. If the patent is in
one subclass and one art collection (only) it is considered a
"2-way hit", if it is in one (or more) subclass(es) and all
six art collections it is considered a "7-way hit" and is
flagged accordingly. Obviously, "7-way" hits share more
features with the search statement than "2-way" hits. This
special output offers the important advantage of not only
identifying relevant patents, but of indicating just what is
relevant about each included patent.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
Where an electric motor control system is claimed in
combination with a load device and the load device is claimed
either (1) in general terms only (e.g., "load device",
"variable load", "means actuated by motor", etc.) or (2) in
specific terms, but by name only (e.g., "vehicle", "rolling
mill", "gearing", etc.), classification is in this class
(388) or in Class 318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems.
Where significant structure of a load device is claimed in
combination with a motor control system, classification is
with the load device.
Examples of classes which provide for the combination of
significant load device structure and motor control include:
Class 62, Refrigeration; Class 180, Motor Vehicles; Class
187, Elevator, Industrial Lift Truck, or Stationary Lift for
Vehicle; Class 219, Electric Heating; Class 244, Aeronautics;
Class 250, Radiant Energy; Class 290, Prime-Mover Dynamo
Plants; Class 322, Electricity: Single Generator Systems;
Class 360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval;
Class 414, Material or Article Handling; and Class 417,
Pumps.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
62, Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses, particularly 228.1
for motor driven refrigerant compressors.
180, Motor Vehicles, appropriate subclasses for electric
motor driven vehicles or vehicle subsystems.
187, Elevator, Industrial Lift Truck, or Stationary Lift for
Vehicle, 289 for an elevator with an electric drive motor
controlled by means having an electric component.
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, appropriate
subclasses for generic structure of circuit making and
breaking devices.
219, Electric Heating, appropriate subclasses for electric
heating apparatus including electric motors.
236, Automatic Temperature and Humidity Regulation,
appropriate subclasses for temperature and humidity
regulating systems which include an electric motor,
particularly 74 for electric motor actuated systems.
244, Aeronautics, appropriate subclasses for aeronautical
subsystems which include electric motors.
250, Radiant Energy, appropriate subclasses for radiant
energy responsive apparatus which include motors.
290, Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants, 9 for prime-mover dynamo
plants including electric traction motors; subclasses 10+,
22+, 30, 31, 36+, 38, 46, 47 and 48 for electric motor
starters for prime-mover dynamo plants.
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems, 401
for generic saturable reactor systems.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, appropriate
subclasses for generic structure of electric motors,
particularly subclass 189 for variable length or tapped
windings.
322, Electricity: Single Generator Systems, electric motor
systems are found throughout the class both as driving means
for a generator and as a control therefor. See particularly
subclass 16 for electric motor driven generator systems
having simultaneous control of motor and generator; subclass
39 for electric motor driven generator systems having
electric motor control; subclasses 70, 71, 80 and 84 for
generator control systems employing electric motor systems
therein. See section IV of the class definition of Class
322.
323, Electricity: Power Supply or Regulation Systems,
subclass 340 for electric motor systems which control
transformer tap changing; subclass 364 for electric motor
systems controlled impedance selection systems; and
appropriate subclasses throughout the class for electric
motor actuated or controlled phase control systems.
327, Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices,
Circuits, and Systems, 518 for miscellaneous control
systems.
331, Oscillators, appropriate subclasses for oscillators, per
se, particularly 1 for tunable oscillators of the automatic
frequency stabilizing type; and subclasses 48, 90 and 177+
for oscillators having means for setting or controlling the
frequency of a generated wave of the oscillator by varying a
frequency determining element of the oscillator.
332, Modulators, 106 for generic pulse modulation control
systems.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
appropriate subclasses for control of motors used in dynamic
recording apparatus.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 23 for
motor protection circuits which cause shut-down of the motor
when predetermined conditions are met or exceeded; and
subclasses 139+ for control circuits for relays and other
electromagnetic-magnetic devices.
363, Electric Power Conversion Systems, 157 for frequency
conversion systems for controlling the frequency applied to
load circuits in general.
377, Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or Shift
Registers: Circuits and Systems, 27 for generic pulse
counting systems.
414, Material of Article Handling, appropriate subclasses for
control of motors used in materials or article handling
apparatus.
417, Pumps, 1 for condition responsive control of a pump
driver motor.
700, Data Processing: Generic Control Systems or Specific
Applications, subclasses 1-89 for generic digital data
processing control systems.
GLOSSARY:
ANALOG
Of or pertaining to the general class of devices or circuits
in which the output varies as a continuous function of the
input (cf., "digital" below).
ANALOG CONTROL
A control circuit utilizing analog, as opposed to digital,
signals.
ARMATURE
The moving element in an electromechanical device such as the
rotating part of a generator or motor, the movable part of a
relay, or the spring mounted portion of a bell or buzzer.
BRUSH
A piece of conductive material, usually carbon or graphite,
which rides on the commutator of a motor and forms the
electrical connection between the motor and a power source.
CLOSED LOOP CONTROL
A method of control in which the power input of a motor is
adjusted by a control circuit which compares a reference
signal with a feedback signal proportional to an output
parameter (e.g., speed) of the motor to modify the power
input of the motor so as to achieve or maintain some desired
operating condition of the motor (e.g., constant running
speed).
COMMUTATOR
The part of a motor armature to which the armature windings
are connected. It consists of a set of conductors arranged
about the rotation axis of the armature and insulated from
the axis and from one another. A set of stationary contacts,
called "brushes" ride on the outer face of the conductors and
thereby connect the armature windings to a power source.
COUNTER EMF
A voltage developed in an inductive circuit (e.g., in an
armature winding) by an alternating or pulsating current. The
polarity of this voltage is at every instant opposite that of
the applied voltage.
DIGITAL
Of or pertaining to the general class of devices or circuits
in which the output varies in discrete steps (cf., "analog"
above).
DIGITAL CONTROL
A control circuit utilizing digital, as opposed to analog,
signals.
ELECTRIC MOTOR
A machine which transforms electrical energy into mechanical
work. Note: For a description of each of the several types of
electric motor, see section IA above.
FEEDBACK
The return of energy from the output of a motor to the input
for the purpose of controlling the input so as to achieve or
maintain a desired output condition.
FIELD WINDING
A coil of insulated wire which produces a magnetic field in
the space occupied by the motor armature.
LOAD
That device, or system, which is the recipient of the
mechanical work output of an electric motor.
MICROPROCESSOR
A circuit which can be programmed with stored instructions to
perform a variety of functions, which functions may include,
for example, one or more modes of motor control.
MOTOR CONTROL
A system or device (usually an electrical circuit) which
causes one or more of the operating parameters of a motor to
be held constant or to be changed in a predetermined way.
Note: For a description of each of the several modes of motor
control, see the class definition above.
OPEN LOOP CONTROL
A method of control in which the power input to a motor is
varied so as to achieve a desired running condition (e.g.,
constant running speed) without the use of feedback.
PHASE LOCKED LOOP
A closed loop circuit in which the output signal is compared
to a reference signal and any phase difference between the
two signals is used to adjust the output signal to "lock" it
to the phase of the reference signal.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
800
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
CLOSED LOOP SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DC MOTOR WITH
COMMUTATOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a signal proportional to the running
speed of a DC commutating motor (i.e., a feedback signal) is
used to regulate the input to the motor to maintain a
constant running speed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
825 for open loop (i.e., without feedback) speed control
systems for commutating DC motors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, 59 and 66+ for speed
control in plural, diverse, or diversely controlled DC
motors; subclasses 772+, 799+ and 823+ for speed control in
AC Induction motors; and subclasses 138 and 254 for speed
control in brushless (i.e., noncommutating) motors.
Subclass:
801
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Field control, or field and armature control, by digital or
combined analog and digital circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 800. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by digital, or a combination of analog and digital,
circuitry which controls the energizing of, (1) a field
winding of the motor, or (2) both a field winding and an
armature winding.
(1) Note. See the Glossary in the class definition for the
terms "digital" and "analog".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
803 for analog (only) closed loop running speed control of
field windings or of both field and armature windings.
809 for digital or combined analog and digital closed loop
running speed control systems which control an armature
winding only.
Subclass:
803
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Field control, or field and armature control, by analog
(only) circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 800. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by analog circuitry which controls the energizing
of, (1) a field winding of the motor, or (2) both a field
winding and an armature winding.
(1) Note. See the Glossary in the class definition for
"analog."
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
816 for analog closed loop running speed control systems
which control an armature winding only.
Subclass:
804
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By pulse width or duty cycle modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 803. Subject matter
wherein energy is applied to the motor in the form of a
series of pulses and the running speed of the motor is
controlled by varying the width of the pulses or by periodic
interruption of the pulses.
Subclass:
805
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By phase or frequency modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 803. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
phase or frequency relationship between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
806
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage or current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 803. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
voltage or current relationship between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
807
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With variable impedance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 806. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit includes a variable impedance
device.
(1) Note. Variable impedance devices include potentiometers,
variable inductors, and variable capacitors.
Subclass:
808
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By selection of windings:
This subclass is indented under subclass 803. Subject matter
wherein running speed is controlled by selecting the windings
of the motor field, or armature, or both, which receive
energization.
Subclass:
809
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Armature control by digital or combined analog and digital
circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 800. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by digital, or a combination of analog and digital,
circuitry which controls the energization of an armature
winding only.
(1) Note. See the Glossary in the class definition the terms
"digital" and "analog".
Subclass:
811
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By pulse width or duty cycle modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter
wherein energy is applied to the motor in the form of a
series of pulses and the running speed of the motor is
controlled by varying the width of the pulses or by periodic
interruption of the pulses.
Subclass:
812
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By phase and frequency modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining both the
phase and the frequency relationships between a reference
signal and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment,
based on this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
813
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By phase modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
phase relationship between a reference signal and a feedback
signal and by applying an adjustment, based on this
relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
814
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By frequency modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
frequency relationship between a reference signal and a
feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on this
relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
815
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage or current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
voltage or current relationship between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
816
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Analog armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 800. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by analog (only) circuitry which controls the
energization of an armature winding only.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
803 for analog closed loop running speed control systems
which control a field winding or both a field and an armature
winding.
Subclass:
819
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By pulse width or duty cycle modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein energy is applied to the motor in the form of a
series of pulses and the running speed of the motor is
controlled by varying the width of the pulses or by periodic
interruption of the pulses.
Subclass:
820
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By phase of frequency modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
phase or frequency relationship between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
821
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage and current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining both the
voltage and current relationships between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
822
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
voltage relationship between a reference signal and a
feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on this
relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
823
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
current relationship between a reference signal and a
feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on this
relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
824
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By variable impedance (e.g., potentiometer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 816. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit includes a variable impedance
device.
(1) Note. Variable impedance devices include potentiometers,
variable inductors, and variable capacitors.
Subclass:
825
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
OPEN LOOP SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DC MOTOR WITH COMMUTATOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a derived reference signal is applied
to the input circuit of a commutating DC electric motor to
regulate the running speed of the motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
800 for closed loop speed control systems for commutating DC
motors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, 59 and 66+ for speed
control in plural, diverse, or diversely controlled DC
motors; subclasses 772+, 799+ and 823+ for speed control in
AC induction motors; and subclasses 138 and 254 for speed
control in brushless (i.e., noncommutating) motors.
Subclass:
826
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Field control, or field and armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 825. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by circuitry which controls the energization of, (1)
a field winding of the motor, or (2) both a field winding and
an armature winding.
(1) Note. In this subclass, and the subclasses indented
hereunder, the control circuitry may function in either a
digital mode or an analog mode or a combination of digital
and analog modes. See the Glossary in the class definition
for the terms "digital" and "analog."
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
828 for digital or combined analog and digital open loop
running speed control system which control an armature
winding only.
830 for analog (only) open loop running speed control of
armature (only) windings.
Subclass:
827
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With plural selectable speeds (e.g., manual switch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 826. Subject matter
including means for selection of two or more preset speeds.
Subclass:
828
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Armature control by digital or combined analog and digital
circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 825. Subject matter
in which regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by digital, or a combination of analog and digital,
circuitry which controls the energization of an armature
winding only.
(1) Note. See the Glossary in the class definition for the
terms "digital" and "analog."
Subclass:
829
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By pulse width or duty cycle modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 828. Subject matter
wherein energy is applied to the motor in the form of a
series of pulses and the running speed of the motor is
controlled by varying the width of the pulses or by periodic
interruption of the pulses.
Subclass:
830
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Analog armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 825. Subject matter
in which the regulation of the running speed of the motor is
effected by analog (only) circuitry which controls the
energization of an armature winding only.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
826 for analog open loop running speed control systems which
control a field winding or both a field and an armature
winding.
Subclass:
831
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By pulse width or duty cycle modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein energy is applied to the motor in the form of a
series of pulses and the running speed of the motor is
controlled by varying the width of the pulses or by periodic
interruption of the pulses.
Subclass:
832
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By frequency modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by adjusting the
frequency of DC power pulses applied to the motor input.
Subclass:
833
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage or current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein the control circuitry functions by adjusting the
amplitude of the voltage or current which is applied to the
input circuit of a motor.
Subclass:
834
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By selection of windings:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein running speed is controlled by selecting the windings
of the armature which receive energization.
Subclass:
835
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By control of motor structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein running speed is controlled by altering the
structural relationship of motor components.
Subclass:
836
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Position or number of brushes:
This subclass is indented under subclass 835. Subject matter
wherein the structure is altered by (a) repositioning one or
more commutator brushes or, (b) changing the number of
brushes in use.
Subclass:
837
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By periodic mechanical switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
wherein running speed is controlled by means of a mechanical
switch which operates repetitiously at a predetermined rate.
Subclass:
838
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With plural selectable speeds (e.g., with manual switch,
potentiometer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 830. Subject matter
including means for selecting two or more speeds.
(1) Note. Speed selection may be either (1) continuous
(e.g., using a potentiometer), or (2) discontinuous (e.g.,
using a multi-position mechanical switch).
Subclass:
839
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By selecting impedance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter
wherein running speed is controlled by insertion of an
impedance device and provision is made for selecting a device
from among several having different impedance values.
(1) Note. Impedance devices include resistors, capacitors,
and inductors.
Subclass:
840
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Resistive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 839. Subject matter
wherein the impedance device is a resistor.
Subclass:
841
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Inductive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 839. Subject matter
wherein the impedance device is an inductor.
Subclass:
842
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
CLOSED LOOP ACCELERATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DC MOTOR WITH
COMMUTATOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a signal proportional to the running
speed of a DC commutating motor (i.e., a feedback signal) is
used to regulate the input to the motor to control the rate
of change of speed (i.e., acceleration of deceleration) or
the motor.
(1) Note. In this subclass, and the subclasses indented
hereunder, the control circuitry may function in either a
digital mode or an analog mode or a combination of digital
and analog modes. See the Glossary in the class definition
for "digital" and "analog."
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
848 for open loop (i.e., without feedback) acceleration
control systems for commutating DC motors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, subclass 64 and 90+
for acceleration control in plural, diverse, or diversely
controlled DC motors; and subclasses 138 and 254 for
acceleration control in brushless (i.e., noncommutating)
motors.
Subclass:
843
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Field control, or field and armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 842. Subject matter
in which regulation of the acceleration of the motor is
effected by circuitry which controls the energization of, (1)
a field winding of the motor, or (2) both a field winding and
an armature winding.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
844 for closed loop acceleration control systems which
control an armature winding only.
Subclass:
844
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 842. Subject matter
in which regulation of the acceleration of the motor is
effected by circuitry which controls the energization of an
armature winding only.
Subclass:
847
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage or current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 844. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit functions by determining the
voltage or current relationship between a reference signal
and a feedback signal and by applying an adjustment, based on
this relationship, to the motor input.
Subclass:
848
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
OPEN LOOP ACCELERATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DC MOTOR WITH
COMMUTATOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a derived reference signal is applied
to the input circuit of a commutating DC electric motor to
regulate acceleration or deceleration of the motor.
(1) Note. In this subclass, and the subclasses indented
hereunder, the control circuitry may function in either a
digital mode or an analog mode or a combination of digital
and analog modes. See the Glossary in the class definition
for "digital" and "analog."
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
842 for closed loop acceleration control systems for
commutating DC motors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, subclass 64 and 90+
for acceleration control in plural, diverse, or diversely
controlled DC motors and subclasses 138 and 254 for
acceleration control in brushless (i.e., noncommutating)
motors.
Subclass:
849
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Field control, or field and armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 848. Subject matter
in which regulation of the acceleration of the motor is
effected by circuitry which controls the energization of, (1)
a field winding of the motor, or (2) both a field winding and
an armature winding.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
853 for open loop acceleration control systems which control
an armature winding only.
Subclass:
850
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By transformer or inductive device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 849. Subject matter
wherein acceleration of the motor is controlled by a
transformer or other inductor.
Subclass:
851
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By patterned switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 849. Subject matter
wherein acceleration of the motor is controlled by a
mechanical device which makes and breaks the motor circuit
according to a predetermined pattern.
Subclass:
852
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By insertion of resistance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 849. Subject matter
wherein acceleration of the motor is controlled by increasing
or decreasing the amount of resistance in the motor circuit.
Subclass:
853
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Armature control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 848. Subject matter
in which regulation of the acceleration of the motor is
effected by circuitry which controls the energization of an
armature winding only.
Subclass:
854
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By voltage or current modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 853. Subject matter
wherein the control circuitry functions by adjusting the
amplitude of the voltage or current applied to the input
circuit of the motor.
Subclass:
855
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By selectable or variable impedance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 853. Subject matter
wherein the control circuit includes a variable impedance
device or a set of fixed impedance devices which are
selectable by switches, or other means.
(1) Note. Variable impedance devices include potentiometers,
variable inductors, and variable capacitors.
Subclass:
856
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
By insertion of resistance or shorting of circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 855. Subject matter
wherein the impedance device is a variable resistor, or a set
of fixed resistors of different values - including zero
resistance (short circuit).
Subclass:
857
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With relay:
This subclass is indented under subclass 856. Subject matter
including a relay.
Subclass:
858
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Time delay relay:
This subclass is indented under subclass 857. Subject matter
including a time-delayed relay.
Subclass:
859
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With patterned switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 856. Subject matter
wherein resistance are inserted by a mechanical device which
functions according to a predetermined pattern.
Subclass:
860
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Manual:
This subclass is indented under subclass 855. Subject matter
wherein the impedance value of the motor circuit is selected
or varied manually.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
NOTE: No paper files exist for these art collections. They
are to be used for APS searching. An effective way to use
them is to cross search an art collection with a range of
subclasses in the schedule of this class, (e.g., Use the
search statement "S 388820/CCLS AND 388902/CCLS" to find
closed loop analog speed control by frequency modification
combined with compensation for voltage fluctuations).
Subclass:
900
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SPECIFIC SYSTEM OPERATIONAL FEATURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Electronic cross-reference art collection including
miscellaneous aspects of motor control.
(1) Note. This art collection is intended to serve as a
repository for art which an examiner wishes to collect as he
would do in creating an "unofficial digest". When sufficient
art embodying a given creative concept is assembled here, an
official art collection will be established for that
concept.
Subclass:
901
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Sample and hold:
Art collection of systems which periodically sample an output
parameter and generate a feedback signal based on the
periodic sample.
(1) Note. Systems which continuously monitor an output
parameter, and which generate a continuously varying feedback
signal therefrom, are not cross-referenced here.
Subclass:
902
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Compensation:
Art collection of systems which apply one or more corrective
signals to a motor input drive signal in order to compensate
for operational irregularities.
(1) Note. "Operational irregularities" include, but are not
limited to: temperature changes, frequency drift, voltage
fluctuations, friction, structural changes.
Subclass:
903
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Protective (e.g., voltage or current limit):
Art collection of systems which act to prevent damage to a
motor or to circuitry associated with a motor.
Subclass:
904
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Stored velocity profile:
Art collection of systems which include means for storing and
using a predetermined velocity profile or pattern of
velocities and changes of velocity.
Subclass:
905
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Armature and field windings connected in series (i.e., series
motor):
Art collection of systems which control electric motors
wherein the armature and field windings of the motor are
connected in series relationship.
Subclass:
906
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Proportional-integral system:
Art collection of systems with means to correct both
instantaneous (i.e., proportional) errors and long term
average (i.e., integral) errors.
Subclass:
907
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SPECIFIC CONTROL CIRCUIT ELEMENT OR DEVICE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Electronic cross-reference art collection including
miscellaneous circuit subsystems or devices used in control
systems throughout this class.
(1) Note. This art collection is intended to serve as a
repository for art which an examiner wishes to collect as he
would do in creating an "unofficial digest". When sufficient
art embodying a given creative concept is assembled here, an
official art collection will be established for that
concept.
Subclass:
907.2
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Bridge circuit:
Art collection of systems which include one or more of the
several types of circuit known as "bridge" circuits, e.g.,
"H" type, Wheatstone type, etc.
Subclass:
907.5
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Computer or microprocessor:
Art collection of systems which include digital logic
circuitry operating under the control of a stored set of
instructions, i.e., a program.
Subclass:
908
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Frequency to voltage converter:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element or
subsystem whose function is to convert the frequency of an
electrical signal to a voltage.
Subclass:
909
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Monitoring means:
Art collection of systems with means to monitor one or more
parameters and warn of abnormal conditions.
Subclass:
910
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Operational/differential amplifier:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element or
subsystem comprised of an operational or differential
amplifier.
Subclass:
911
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Phase locked loop:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element or
subsystem which exhibits the property of securing and
maintaining a given phase relationship between two electrical
signals.
Subclass:
912
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Pulse or frequency counter:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element or
subsystem which counts electrical pulses or frequencies.
Subclass:
913
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Saturable reactor, space discharge device, or magnetic
amplifier:
Art collection of systems which include one or more of the
devices known as saturable reactors, space discharge devices,
or magnetic amplifiers.
Subclass:
914
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Thyratron or ignitron:
Subject matter under art collection 913 wherein the device is
specifically a thyratron or an ignitron.
Subclass:
915
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Sawtooth or ramp waveform generator:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element
whose function is to generate a repetitious wave with linear
rising, or falling, slope.
Subclass:
916
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Threshold circuit:
Art collection of systems which include circuit elements
which conduct only at voltages above a predetermined minimum
value.
Subclass:
917
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Thyristor or SCR:
Art collection of systems which include a bistable circuit
element whose function is to reverse the polarity of an
electrical signal.
Subclass:
918
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Triggered by unijunction transistor:
Subject matter under art collection 917 in which the
operation of the thyristor or SCR is initiated by a signal
from a unijunction transistor.
Subclass:
919
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Triggered by resistor or capacitor:
Subject matter under art collection 917 in which the
operation of the thyristor or SCR is initiated by a signal
from a resistor or a capacitor.
Subclass:
920
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Chopper:
Subject matter under art collection 917 in which rhyristor or
SCR is used to periodically interrupt conduction of a
current.
Subclass:
921
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Timer or time delay means:
Art collection of systems which include a circuit element or
subsystem whose function is to measure time intervals or to
determine start or stop times for electrical signals.
Subclass:
922
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Tuned or resonant circuit:
Art collection of systems which include an oscillating
circuit which can be set to oscillate at a predetermined
frequency.
Subclass:
923
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SPECIFIC FEEDBACK CONDITION OR DEVICE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Electronic cross-reference art collection including
miscellaneous devices for generating signals responsive to
specific conditions at the output of the motor.
(1) Note. This art collection is intended to serve as a
repository for art which an examiner wishes to collect as he
would do in creating an "unofficial digest". When sufficient
art embodying a given creative concept is assembled here, an
official art collection will be established for that
concept.
Subclass:
924
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Centrifugal device (e.g., governor):
Art collection of systems wherein feedback is provided by a
rotary mechanical device which senses the speed of the motor
by sensing the position of weights which are subject to
centrifugal forces due to the rotation of the motor.
Subclass:
925
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Including contacts which open and close motor circuit:
Subject matter under art collection 924 wherein the rotary
device includes electrical contacts which function to open or
close the motor circuit at different positions of the
weights.
Subclass:
926
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Which controls a vacuum tube or solid-state device in motor
circuit:
Subject matter under art collection 924 wherein a signal from
the rotary mechanical device is applied to a vacuum tube, or
a solid state device, which is a part of a motor control
circuit.
Subclass:
927
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Which varies resistance of motor circuit:
Subject matter under art collection 924 wherein the rotary
mechanical device varies the amount of resistance in a motor
control circuit.
Subclass:
928
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Which controls position of commutator brushes:
Subject matter under art collection 924 wherein the rotary
mechanical device controls the relative position of motor
commutator brushes.
Subclass:
928.1
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Counter or back EMF (CEMF):
Art collection of systems in which an opposing voltage, i.e.,
counter electromotive force or CEMF, induced in an armature
winding, by virtue of the armature's motion within the
magnetic field of a field winding is used as a feedback
signal in controlling a motor.
Subclass:
929
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Fluid/granular material flow rate, pressure, or level:
Art collection of systems in which the running speed of a
motor is controlled in accordance with a feedback signal
which is proportional to the flow rate, the pressure, or the
level of a fluid or granular (i.e., particulate) material.
Subclass:
930
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Load or torque:
Art collection of systems in which the running speed of a
motor is controlled in accordance with a feedback signal
which is proportional to a load or counter torque applied at
the motor output.
Subclass:
931
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Electric generator or magnet as auxiliary load:
Subject matter under art collection 930 wherein the counter
torque is applied to the motor output by a magnet, or by
driving an electric generator.
Subclass:
932
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With reverse torque (e.g., braking):
Subject matter under art collection 930 wherein the torque is
applied to the motor output by a mechanical or
electromagnetic brake.
Subclass:
933
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Radiant energy responsive device:
Art collection of systems wherein a feedback signal is
generated by a device which is sensitive to radiant energy.
Subclass:
934
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Thermal condition:
Art collection of systems in which the running speed of the
motor is controlled in accordance with a signal which is
proportional to the temperature of the motor or of another
component of the system.
Subclass:
935
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SPECIFIC APPLICATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Electronic cross-reference art collection including
miscellaneous specific applications of motor controls.
(1) Note. This art collections is intended to serve as a
repository for art which an examiner wishes to collect as he
would do in creating an "unofficial digest". When sufficient
art embodying a given creative concept is assembled here, an
official art collection will be established for that
concept.
Subclass:
936
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Food preparation equipment:
Art collection of systems of motor control applied in the
context of a tool for the preparation of food (e.g., electric
mixer, food processor, blender, etc.).
Subclass:
937
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Hand tool:
Art collection of systems of motor control applied in the
context of a portable tool (e.g., electric drill,
screwdriver, saw, etc.).
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000