Automatic range scale selection apparatus for a measuring device

Claim 2

Apparatus for measuring duration of a time period defined by initiation and termination signals compRising: a plurality of devices each responsive to the initiation of said period for generating a substantially linear analog output signal of magnitude proportional to the passage of time within said period, each said output signal increasing at a different rate and producing a nonlinear output signal after a predetermined duration; means for converting a said analog output signal to a digital value proportional thereto; circuit means responsive to said output signals for selectively applying to said converting means the output signal of the one device whose output has the greatest magnitude and still bears a linear relation to said time period duration.

Claim 3

Apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said devices each include a capacitor charged by a constant current source upon the occurrence of said initiation signal.

Claim 4

Apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of range scales for measurement of a variable quantity comprising, in combination: a plurality of devices each responsive for simultaneously producing analog output signals each having a varying value which is a function of the magnitude of a predetermined characteristic of said input signal, the value range of each said device being a different function of said input signal and having an end point value beyond which said output signal is no longer acceptable as a function of said input signal; means for converting to a digital representation an analog output signal supplied thereto; means connected with said devices and said converting means for selectively applying to said converting means the output signal of the said device whose output is closest to but not exceeding the respective end point; and detection means for rendering ineffective the output signal from one to all of said devices as each exceeds said end point value.

Claim 5

Apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of range scales for measurement of a variable quantity comprising, in combination: a plurality of devices each responsive for simultaneously producing analog output signals each having a varying value which is a function of the magnitude of a predetermined characteristic of said input signal, the value range of each said device being a different function of said input signal and having an end point value beyond which said output signal is no longer acceptable as a function of said input signal; means for converting to a digital representation an analog output signal supplied thereto; means connected with said devices and said converting means for selectively applying to said converting means the output signal of the said device whose output is closest to but not exceeding the respective end point; and detection means for rendering ineffective the output signal from one to all of said devices as each exceeds said end point value.

Claim 6

Apparatus as described in claim 3 wherein said selectively applying means includes means for blocking from said converting means the said output signals of all other said devices still below said end points while said detection means renders ineffective those devices above said end points.

Claim 7

Apparatus as described in claim 3 further including means for indicating the device having its output connected to said converting means and the condition when none of said devices are so connected.