Threshold fluid logic and its application to knitting machine control

Abstract

Threshold logic holds many advantages over conventional logic when applied to switching network design. The advantages are greatest when the functions are complex. In such cases threshold logic solutions result in fewer gates and interconnections than purely binary solutions. The application of threshold gates to fluid-logic systems can result in cost savings and performance improvements.

Although the logical functions are relatively simple, the use of threshold elements still results in reductions in elements over the purely boolean solution. The success of threshold logic is critically dependent upon the physical structure of the device, its cost, response speed, reliability, etc. Some tentative designs for devices are presented in this paper. Prototypes have been manufactured and during early tests some problems became apparent. Further long term tests are continuing.