Automatic sequence control for reproducing apparatus

Claim 2

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means for moving said tape past a transducing head, automatic sequence control means comprising: a detector connected to said transducing head including means for detecting a control signal when the tape is moved past it; tape drive contrOl means including stop means for deenergizing said tape drive means to stop said tape in response to detection of a control signal, and means responsive to energization of said tape drive means to initiate tape movement for disabling said stop means for sufficient time period to enable the tape to move, beyond said head, a residual control signal at which movement of the tape was initiated.

Claim 3

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head, tape drive control means for said tape drive means selectively actuatable to move the tape at a constant forward speed and at a fast forward speed faster than said constant forward speed, automatic sequence control means comprising: means for actuating said tape drive control means to initiate movement of the tape at said fast forward speed; and control signal detector means connected between said transducing head and said tape drive control means effective to generate a first output signal in response to detection of a control singal at said fast forward speed, and effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said constant forward speed; said tape drive control means being effective in response to said first output signal to change movement of the tape from fast forward speed to constant forward speed, and said tape drive control means being effective in response to said second output signal to deenergize said tape drive menas and stop the tape.

Claim 4

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head, tape drive control means for said tape drive means selectively actuatable to move the tape at a constant forward speed and at a fast forward speed faster than said constant forward speed, automatic sequence control means comprising: means for actuating said tape drive control means to initiate movement of the tape at said fast forward speed; and control signal detector means connected between said transducing head and said tape drive control means effective to generate a first output signal in response to detection of a control singal at said fast forward speed, and effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said constant forward speed; said tape drive control means being effective in response to said first output signal to change movement of the tape from fast forward speed to constant forward speed, and said tape drive control means being effective in response to said second output signal to deenergize said tape drive menas and stop the tape.

Claim 5

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 2 having means operable upon initiation of fast forward movement of the tape for delaying response of said tape drive control means to a control signal for sufficient time to enable the tape to move beyond a residual control signal at which fast forward movement of the tape was initiated.

Claim 6

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 2 having means for temporarily deenergizing said tape drive means in response to said first output signal for a sufficient time to enable said tape to come to a complete stop before subsequent movement at said constant forward speed.

Claim 7

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 2 having means responsive to initiation of fast forward movement of the tape for activating said control signal detector means to generate said first output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said fast forward speed.

Claim 8

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means including a constant forward speed relay effective when energized to energize said tape drive means to move the tape at a constant forward speed, a fast forward speed relay effective when energized to energize said tape drive means to move the tape at a fast forward speed faster than said constant forward speed, fast forward switch means connecting said fast forward speed relay to an electrical power source for initiating fast forward movement of the tape, a holding circuit for said relays, and a gate connecting said holding circuit to an electrical power source; control signal detector means connected between said transducing head and said tape drive control means effective to generate a first output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said fast forward speed, and effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said constant forward speed; said tape drive control means having means responsive to said first output signal to temporarily block said gate and disconnect said holding circuit from said electrical power source to deenergize said fast forward speed relay, and to Energize said constant speed relay and lock it through said holding circuit, thereby changing tape movement from fast forward speed to constant forward speed; and said tape drive control means having means responsive to said second output signal to block said gate and disconnect said holding circuit from said electrical power source to deenergize said constant forward speed relay, thereby stopping tape movement.

Claim 9

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means including a constant forward speed relay effective when energized to energize said tape drive means to move the tape at a constant forward speed, a fast forward speed relay effective when energized to energize said tape drive means to move the tape at a fast forward speed faster than said constant forward speed, fast forward switch means connecting said fast forward speed relay to an electrical power source for initiating fast forward movement of the tape, a holding circuit for said relays, and a gate connecting said holding circuit to an electrical power source; control signal detector means connected between said transducing head and said tape drive control means effective to generate a first output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said fast forward speed, and effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal at said constant forward speed; said tape drive control means having means responsive to said first output signal to temporarily block said gate and disconnect said holding circuit from said electrical power source to deenergize said fast forward speed relay, and to Energize said constant speed relay and lock it through said holding circuit, thereby changing tape movement from fast forward speed to constant forward speed; and said tape drive control means having means responsive to said second output signal to block said gate and disconnect said holding circuit from said electrical power source to deenergize said constant forward speed relay, thereby stopping tape movement.

Claim 10

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, and electric motor powered means for moving the tape past a transducing head, automatic sequence control means comprising: a drive control circuit including a play relay effective when energized to place said apparatus in a play mode in which the motor powered means is energized by an electrical power source to drive the tape past the head at a forward play speed, a fast forward speed relay effective when energized to place said apparatus in a fast forward mode in which the motor powered means is energized by the electrical power source to drive the tape past the head at a fast forward speed faster than said forward play speed; a holding circuit for said relays connected to said electrical power source through a gate which becomes non-conductive in response to a blocking signal, either of said relays being unlocked from said holding circuit in response to energization of the other relay; a fast forward switch connected between said elecrical power source and said fast forward relay effective when actuated to energize said fast forward relay to initiate said fast forward mode; control signal detector means including a broad band detector connected between the transducing head and the drive control circuit effective to generate a first output signal, having two successive output signal components, in response to detection of a control signal during fast forward mode, means for applying the first of said successive output signal components to block said gate for a predetermined time period, to thereby automatically deenergize the holding circuit and the fast forward relay, and enable said tape to come to a complete stop within said predetermined time period; means effective after said predetermined time period for applying the second of said successive output signal components to automatically energize said play relay and restart the tape at play speed; said control signal detector means also including a relatively narrow band detector connected between the transducing head and the drive control circuit effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal during play mode, and means for applying said second output signal to block said gate to automatically deenergize the holding circuit and the play relay and stop the tape.

Claim 11

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, and electric motor powered means for moving the tape past a transducing head, automatic sequence control means comprising: a drive control circuit including a play relay effective when energized to place said apparatus in a play mode in which the motor powered means is energized by an electrical power source to drive the tape past the head at a forward play speed, a fast forward speed relay effective when energized to place said apparatus in a fast forward mode in which the motor powered means is energized by the electrical power source to drive the tape past the head at a fast forward speed faster than said forward play speed; a holding circuit for said relays connected to said electrical power source through a gate which becomes non-conductive in response to a blocking signal, either of said relays being unlocked from said holding circuit in response to energization of the other relay; a fast forward switch connected between said elecrical power source and said fast forward relay effective when actuated to energize said fast forward relay to initiate said fast forward mode; control signal detector means including a broad band detector connected between the transducing head and the drive control circuit effective to generate a first output signal, having two successive output signal components, in response to detection of a control signal during fast forward mode, means for applying the first of said successive output signal components to block said gate for a predetermined time period, to thereby automatically deenergize the holding circuit and the fast forward relay, and enable said tape to come to a complete stop within said predetermined time period; means effective after said predetermined time period for applying the second of said successive output signal components to automatically energize said play relay and restart the tape at play speed; said control signal detector means also including a relatively narrow band detector connected between the transducing head and the drive control circuit effective to generate a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal during play mode, and means for applying said second output signal to block said gate to automatically deenergize the holding circuit and the play relay and stop the tape.

Claim 12

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having an intermediate portion with at least one set of recorded program signals and at least a beginning clear leader driven by tape drive means, tape drive control means for connecting said tape drive means to an electrical power source for moving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: a play mode circuit including a play relay which when energized places said apparatus in play mode to activate said tape drive control means to energize said tape drive means and move the tape at a forward play speed; a rewind mode circuit including a rewind relay which when energized places said apparatus in rewind mode to activate said tape drive control means to energize said tape drive means and move the tape at fast rewind speed; means for initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode; means responsive to activation of said sensor by light transmitted through said beginning clear leader during tape movement at fast rewind speed to deeneRgize said rewind relay and energize said play relay, thereby automatically changing operation from rewind mode to play mode; and stop means for activating said tape drive control means to deenergize said play relay and stop the tape at a predetermined position at the beginning of the tape following such change from rewind mode to play mode; whereby said apparatus automatically returns said tape to a predetermined restart position at the beginning of the tape in response to initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode.

Claim 13

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having an intermediate portion with at least one set of recorded program signals and at least a beginning clear leader driven by tape drive means, tape drive control means for connecting said tape drive means to an electrical power source for moving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: a play mode circuit including a play relay which when energized places said apparatus in play mode to activate said tape drive control means to energize said tape drive means and move the tape at a forward play speed; a rewind mode circuit including a rewind relay which when energized places said apparatus in rewind mode to activate said tape drive control means to energize said tape drive means and move the tape at fast rewind speed; means for initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode; means responsive to activation of said sensor by light transmitted through said beginning clear leader during tape movement at fast rewind speed to deeneRgize said rewind relay and energize said play relay, thereby automatically changing operation from rewind mode to play mode; and stop means for activating said tape drive control means to deenergize said play relay and stop the tape at a predetermined position at the beginning of the tape following such change from rewind mode to play mode; whereby said apparatus automatically returns said tape to a predetermined restart position at the beginning of the tape in response to initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode.

Claim 14

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 in which said stop means includes means responsive to deactivation of said light sensor by a beginning opaque portion of the tape for activating said tape drive control means to deenergize said play relay and thereby automatically predetermine said restart position at the end of the beginning clear leader.

Claim 15

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having a control signal on said tape between the beginning clear leader and the first set of recorded program signals, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 in which said stop means includes a control signal detector connected between said transducing head means and said tape drive control means, and means responsive to detection of said control signal by said control signal detector to deenergize said play relay and thereby automatically predetermine said restart position at said control signal.

Claim 16

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having a plurality of said sets of recorded program signals and a control signal between successive sets of program signals, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 including: a play switch controlling energization of said play relay by said electrical power source; a control signal detector connected between said transducing head means and said tape drive control means; means responsive to detection of each of said control signals by said control signal detector to deenergize said play relay and stop said tape and thereby establish a start position for each successive set of program signals; whereby upon successive actuations of said play switch said apparatus automatically stops said tape at a start position established by a control signal preceeding each successive set of program signals.

Claim 17

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 11 having means responsive to initiation of a play mode by said play switch for delaying deenergization of said play relay, and consequent stopping of said tape, for a sufficient time to enable said tape to move beyond a residual control signal at which said play mode was initiated.

Claim 18

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 having: a capacitor; means for storing an electrical charge in said capacitor during energization of said rewind relay; means responsive to said activation of said light sensor at said beginning clear leader for applying the charge stored in said capacitor to energize said play relay.

Claim 19

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 in which said tape has an end clear leader and said means for initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode in responsive to activation of said sensor by light transmitted through said end clear leader.

Claim 20

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 14 having: a play capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge in said play capacitor in response to energization of the play relay, and means to apply such stored charge to energize the rewind relay in response to activation of said sensor by light transmitted through said end clear leader.

Claim 21

In reproducing apparatus for a Magnetic tape having an end-of-tape control signal thereon, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 in which said means for initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode includes an end-of-tape control signal detector connected between said head means and said tape drive control means and effective to energize said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode in response to detection of said end-of-tape control signal.

Claim 22

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having a plurality of recorded program signals and an end-of-program control signal recorded following each program signal, automatic sequence control means according to claim 8 in which said means for initiating energization of said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode includes an end-of-program control signal detector connected between said head means and said tape drive control means and effective to energize said rewind relay to place said apparatus in rewind mode in response to detection of an end-of-program control signal.

Claim 23

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape, automatic sequence control means according to claim 17 having: an end-to-program capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge in the end-of-program capacitor in response to detection of an end-of-program control signal on the tape; and means to apply such charge stored in said end-of-program capacitor to energize the rewind relay in response to termination of said end-of-program control signal.

Claim 24

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having at least one end clear leader and tape drive means for moving said tape in opposite directions between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means; means for initiating movement of said tape in one direction to move said clear leader toward said light source and sensor; a capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge in said capacitor while said tape is driven in said one direction; means responsive to activation of said light sensor on movement of said clear leader thereto, to deenergize said tape drive means and stop movement of said tape in said one direction; and means responsive to so deenergizing said tape drive means to apply the stored electrical charge from said capacitor to said tape drive control means to thereby energize said tape drive means to move said tape in the opposite direction.

Claim 25

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having at least one end clear leader and tape drive means for moving said tape in opposite directions between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means; means for initiating movement of said tape in one direction to move said clear leader toward said light source and sensor; a capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge in said capacitor while said tape is driven in said one direction; means responsive to activation of said light sensor on movement of said clear leader thereto, to deenergize said tape drive means and stop movement of said tape in said one direction; and means responsive to so deenergizing said tape drive means to apply the stored electrical charge from said capacitor to said tape drive control means to thereby energize said tape drive means to move said tape in the opposite direction.

Claim 26

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having beginning and end clear leaders and an opaque intermediate portion, tape drive means for moving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, between a pinch roller and a rotatably driven capstan, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means including play and rewind relays effective when energized to activate said tape drive means to move said tape in opposite directions respectively; a first capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge therein while said play relay is energized to move the end clear leader toward said light source and sensor; means responsive to activation of said light sensor, on movement of said end clear leader thereto, to deenergize said play relay and stop the forward movement of the tape; means responsive to so deenergizing and play relay to apply the stored electrical charge from said first capacitor to said rewind relay to thereby energize said tape drive means to move said tape in rewind direction; a second capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge therein while said rewind relay is energized to move the beginning clear leader toward said light source and sensor; means responsive to activation of said light sensor, on movement of said beginning clear leader thereto, to deenergize said rewind relay and stop the rewind movement of the tape; means responsive so deenergizing sAid rewind relay to apply the stored electrical charge from said second capacitor to said play relay to thereby reenergize said tape drive means to move said tape in forward direction; and stop means for deenergizing the play relay to deenergize the tape drive means and stop the tape at a predetermined beginning position.

Claim 27

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having beginning and end clear leaders and an opaque intermediate portion, tape drive means for moving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, between a pinch roller and a rotatably driven capstan, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: tape drive control means including play and rewind relays effective when energized to activate said tape drive means to move said tape in opposite directions respectively; a first capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge therein while said play relay is energized to move the end clear leader toward said light source and sensor; means responsive to activation of said light sensor, on movement of said end clear leader thereto, to deenergize said play relay and stop the forward movement of the tape; means responsive to so deenergizing and play relay to apply the stored electrical charge from said first capacitor to said rewind relay to thereby energize said tape drive means to move said tape in rewind direction; a second capacitor, and means for storing an electrical charge therein while said rewind relay is energized to move the beginning clear leader toward said light source and sensor; means responsive to activation of said light sensor, on movement of said beginning clear leader thereto, to deenergize said rewind relay and stop the rewind movement of the tape; means responsive so deenergizing sAid rewind relay to apply the stored electrical charge from said second capacitor to said play relay to thereby reenergize said tape drive means to move said tape in forward direction; and stop means for deenergizing the play relay to deenergize the tape drive means and stop the tape at a predetermined beginning position.

Claim 28

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means selectively energizable in fast forward mode or forward play mode to move said tape past a transducing head at constant forward speed or at fast forward speed respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: control signal detector means connected to said head; means for activating said detector means in response to initiation of fast forward movement of said tape; control means for said tape drive means effective in response to detection of said control signals by said detector means to change tape speed from fast forward speed to constant forward speed and then stop the tape.

Claim 29

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals at intervals therealong, tape drive means selectively energizable in fast forward mode or forward play mode to move said tape past a transducing head at constant forward speed or at fast forward speed respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: control signal detector means connected to said head; means for activating said detector means in response to initiation of fast forward movement of said tape; control means for said tape drive means effective in response to detection of said control signals by said detector means to change tape speed from fast forward speed to constant forward speed and then stop the tape.

Claim 30

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 21 in which said control means is effective to bring tape movement to a complete stop before changing to constant forward speed.

Claim 31

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals recorded thereon, tape drive means for moving said tape past a transducing head, and control signal detector means connected to said head, automatic sequence control means comprising: a scanning mode circuit having a fast forward switch controlling electrical energization of a fast forward relay including means responsive to continuous closure of the fast forward switch to energize the fast forward relay and thereby place the apparatus in scanning mode in which said tape drive means moves said tape at fast forward speed continuously through successive control signals; play monitoring means responsive to said continuous closure of the fast forward switch to monitor said control signals to locate programs associated therewith; and means to deenergize said fast forward relay and terminate said scanning mode in response to opening said fast forward switch.

Claim 32

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals recorded thereon, tape drive means for moving said tape past a transducing head, and control signal detector means connected to said head, automatic sequence control means comprising: a scanning mode circuit having a fast forward switch controlling electrical energization of a fast forward relay including means responsive to continuous closure of the fast forward switch to energize the fast forward relay and thereby place the apparatus in scanning mode in which said tape drive means moves said tape at fast forward speed continuously through successive control signals; play monitoring means responsive to said continuous closure of the fast forward switch to monitor said control signals to locate programs associated therewith; and means to deenergize said fast forward relay and terminate said scanning mode in response to opening said fast forward switch.

Claim 33

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 23 in which said monitoring means is an indicator lamp and means for illuminating same in response to said control signals to enable visual monitoring of said signals.

Claim 34

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 23 in which said monitoring means is an audible indicator and means for actuating same in response to said control signals to enable sound monitoring of said signals.

Claim 35

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having opposite terminal portions wound on reels driven by torque motor means, motor control means for connecting said torque motor means to an electrical power source actuatable to move said tape past a transducing head and between a pinch roller and a rotatably driven capstan, said tape having spaced, discrete program-identifying control signals, and control signal detector means for generating output signals in response to said control signals, automatic sequence control means comprising: a scanning mode circuit having a fast forward switch controlling electrical energization of a fast forward relay; means responsive to continuous closure of said fast forward switch to hold said fast forward relay energized and said apparatus in a scanning mode to thereby energize said torque motor means to move the tape at fast forward speed past said head while said fast forward switch is held closed; and means for monitoring said output signals to locate programs on said tape; and means responsive to opening said fast forward switch to thereby deenergize said torque motor means and stop said tape on detection of the next said output signal.

Claim 36

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having opposite terminal portions wound on reels driven by torque motor means, motor control means for connecting said torque motor means to an electrical power source actuatable to move said tape past a transducing head and between a pinch roller and a rotatably driven capstan, said tape having spaced, discrete program-identifying control signals, and control signal detector means for generating output signals in response to said control signals, automatic sequence control means comprising: a scanning mode circuit having a fast forward switch controlling electrical energization of a fast forward relay; means responsive to continuous closure of said fast forward switch to hold said fast forward relay energized and said apparatus in a scanning mode to thereby energize said torque motor means to move the tape at fast forward speed past said head while said fast forward switch is held closed; and means for monitoring said output signals to locate programs on said tape; and means responsive to opening said fast forward switch to thereby deenergize said torque motor means and stop said tape on detection of the next said output signal.

Claim 37

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence contRol means according to claim 26 having: a fast forward mode circuit including a holding circuit for said fast forward relay; and means responsive to momentarily closing said fast forward switch to hold said fast forward relay energized through said holding circuit and hold said apparatus in a fast forward mode to thereby energize said torque motor means to move the tape at a fast forward speed and activates said control signal detector means to automatically render said fast forward relay holding circuit non-conductive and deenergize said fast forward relay and terminate said fast forward mode in response to detection of a next succeeding control signal.

Claim 38

In reproducing apparatus, automatic sequence control means according to claim 27 having: a play mode circuit including a play relay effective when energized to move said tape at forward play speed less than said fast forward speed; means responsive to momentarily closing said fast forward switch to activate said control signal detector means to generate a first output signal in response to detection of a control signal during fast forward movement of the tape; means responsive to said first output signal to deenergize said fast forward relay and said torque motor means for a predetermined time period sufficient to enable said tape to come to a complete stop; and other means responsive to said first output signal to energize said play relay subsequent to said predetermined time period to restart said tape at forward play speed; said control signal detector means including means for generating a second output signal in response to detection of a control signal during forward play movement of the tape; and means responsive to said second output signal to deenergize said play relay and thereby deenergize said torque motor means and stop said tape.

Claim 39

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having discrete program-identifying control signals including primary and end-of-message control signals respectively preceding and following at least one recorded program, automatic sequence control means according to claim 28 in which: said control signal detector means includes a broad band detector and a relatively narrow band detector; said broad band detector when activated generating said first output signal in response to detection of either of said primary and end-of-message control signals at any operating tape speed; and said narrow band detector when activated generating said second output signal in response to detection of a primary control signal when the tape is driven at forward play speed.

Claim 40

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having a series of recorded programs respectively followed and preceded by end-of-program and primary control signals, tape drive means for moving said tape past a transducing head, means for actuating said tape drive means to move said tape selectively at constant forward speed and fast forward speed in response to energization of plaly and fast forward relays respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: means including a holding circuit for selectively connecting said play and fast forward relay through a normally-open gate to an electrical power source; broad band and narrow band detectors connected to said head; means responsive to detection of an end-of-program control signal by said broad band detector during movement of the tape at fast forward speed to generate a first output control signal having first and second time-spaced output signal components; means responsive to said first output signal component to block said gate and open said holding circuit to deenergize said fast forward relay and stop the tape; a run-to-cue relay; means for connecting said play relay to the output terminal of said gate through said holding circuit in response to energizing said run-to-cue relay to thereby energize said play relay from said electrical source under control of said gate; means respOnsive to said second output signal component to energize said run-to-cue relay to thereby energize said play relay to restart said tape at constant forward speed; and means responsive to detection of a primary control signal by said narrow band detector during movement of the tape at constant forward speed to block said gate and open said holding circuit to deenergize said play relay and restop the tape.

Claim 41

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having a series of recorded programs respectively followed and preceded by end-of-program and primary control signals, tape drive means for moving said tape past a transducing head, means for actuating said tape drive means to move said tape selectively at constant forward speed and fast forward speed in response to energization of plaly and fast forward relays respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: means including a holding circuit for selectively connecting said play and fast forward relay through a normally-open gate to an electrical power source; broad band and narrow band detectors connected to said head; means responsive to detection of an end-of-program control signal by said broad band detector during movement of the tape at fast forward speed to generate a first output control signal having first and second time-spaced output signal components; means responsive to said first output signal component to block said gate and open said holding circuit to deenergize said fast forward relay and stop the tape; a run-to-cue relay; means for connecting said play relay to the output terminal of said gate through said holding circuit in response to energizing said run-to-cue relay to thereby energize said play relay from said electrical source under control of said gate; means respOnsive to said second output signal component to energize said run-to-cue relay to thereby energize said play relay to restart said tape at constant forward speed; and means responsive to detection of a primary control signal by said narrow band detector during movement of the tape at constant forward speed to block said gate and open said holding circuit to deenergize said play relay and restop the tape.

Claim 42

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having at least a beginning clear leader and at least one central signal beyond the clear leader, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head between a light source and a light sensor, means for activating said tape drive means to move said tape selectively in forward and rewind directions in response to energization of play and rewind relays respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: a main holding circuit for connecting said play and rewind relays to an electrical power source through a normally-open gate; means for initiating energization of said rewind relay; means for storing an electricl charge in a capacitor during energization of said rewind relay; a run-to-cue relay effective when energized to energize said play relay through an auxiliary circuit connected to said electrical power source through said gate; means responsive to rewind movement of said clear leader to said light sensor to: open said main holding circuit thereby deenergizing said rewind relay and stopping said tape; apply the charge in said capacitor to said run-to-cue relay thereby initiating energization of said play relay through said auxiliary circuit; and connect said run-to-cue relay directly to said electrical power source through said run-to-cue holding circuit; means responsive to forward movement of the end of said clear leader to said light sensor to disconnect said capacitor from said run-to-cue relay, and to energize said play relay through said main holding circuit controlled by said gate; and means responsive to detection of said control signal during forward movement beyond the end of said clear leader to block said gate, deenergize and play relay, and stop said tape.

Claim 43

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having at least a beginning clear leader and at least one central signal beyond the clear leader, tape drive means for moving the tape past a transducing head between a light source and a light sensor, means for activating said tape drive means to move said tape selectively in forward and rewind directions in response to energization of play and rewind relays respectively, automatic sequence control means comprising: a main holding circuit for connecting said play and rewind relays to an electrical power source through a normally-open gate; means for initiating energization of said rewind relay; means for storing an electricl charge in a capacitor during energization of said rewind relay; a run-to-cue relay effective when energized to energize said play relay through an auxiliary circuit connected to said electrical power source through said gate; means responsive to rewind movement of said clear leader to said light sensor to: open said main holding circuit thereby deenergizing said rewind relay and stopping said tape; apply the charge in said capacitor to said run-to-cue relay thereby initiating energization of said play relay through said auxiliary circuit; and connect said run-to-cue relay directly to said electrical power source through said run-to-cue holding circuit; means responsive to forward movement of the end of said clear leader to said light sensor to disconnect said capacitor from said run-to-cue relay, and to energize said play relay through said main holding circuit controlled by said gate; and means responsive to detection of said control signal during forward movement beyond the end of said clear leader to block said gate, deenergize and play relay, and stop said tape.

Claim 44

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having beginning and end clear leaders and an opaque intermediate magnetic portion for at least one recorded program preceded and followed by primary and end-of-program control signals respectively, tape drive means for driving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: a play relay, and means for energizing the play relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at forward play speed thereby placing the apparatus in play mode; a fast forward relay, and means including a fast forward switch connected to an electrical power source for energizing the fast forward relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at foast forward speed; a rewind relay, and means for energizing the rewind relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at rewind speed, thereby placing the apparatus in rewind mode; a run-to-cue relay which, when energized, is effective to energize said play relay, thereby placing the apparatus in run-to-cue mode; an end-of-program control signal detector connected between an end-of-program relay and said transducing head means, means for energizing said end-of-program relay in response to detection of an end-of-program control signal on said tape, and means for energizing said play relay in response to energizing said end-of-program relay; a holding circuit for said play, fast forward and rewind relays connected through a normally-open gate to an electrical power source; a primary control signal detector connected between said gate and said transducing head means, means for blocking said gate to deactivate said holding circuit in response to detection of a Primary control signal on said tape to automatically deenergize any relay energized by said holding circuit; means responsive to momentary actuation of said fast forward switch to hold said fast forward relay energized by said holding circuit thereby placing said apparatus in fast forward mode until tape movement is stopped at the next primary control signal by blocking said gate and deactivating said holding circuit; means responsive to holding said fast forward switch actuated to override the blocking of said gate by primary control signals and maintain movement of said tape at fast forward speed, and means to monitor said control signals on the tape, thereby placing the apparatus in scanning mode while said fast forward switch is held actuated; means for automatically placing said apparatus in rewind mode in response to movement of the end clear leader between said light source and light sensor while in play mode; alternate means, effective when activated, to place said apparatus in rewind mode in response to detection of an end-of-program signal during play mode; means for automatically placing said apparatus in run-to-cue mode in response to movement of the beginning clear leader between said light source and light sensor while in rewind mode; means for automatically terminating said run-to-cue mode and stopping said tape at the first primary control signal on the tape, by blocking said gate; and alternate means effective when activated, for automatically terminating said run-to-cue mode and stopping said tape at the edge of the beginning clear leader, in response to deactivating said light sensor by shielding said light sensor from said light source by the beginning opaque portion of the tape.

Claim 45

In reproducing apparatus for a magnetic tape having beginning and end clear leaders and an opaque intermediate magnetic portion for at least one recorded program preceded and followed by primary and end-of-program control signals respectively, tape drive means for driving said tape at selected forward and rewind speeds past transducing head means, and between a light source and a light sensor, automatic sequence control means comprising: a play relay, and means for energizing the play relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at forward play speed thereby placing the apparatus in play mode; a fast forward relay, and means including a fast forward switch connected to an electrical power source for energizing the fast forward relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at foast forward speed; a rewind relay, and means for energizing the rewind relay to energize the tape drive means to move the tape at rewind speed, thereby placing the apparatus in rewind mode; a run-to-cue relay which, when energized, is effective to energize said play relay, thereby placing the apparatus in run-to-cue mode; an end-of-program control signal detector connected between an end-of-program relay and said transducing head means, means for energizing said end-of-program relay in response to detection of an end-of-program control signal on said tape, and means for energizing said play relay in response to energizing said end-of-program relay; a holding circuit for said play, fast forward and rewind relays connected through a normally-open gate to an electrical power source; a primary control signal detector connected between said gate and said transducing head means, means for blocking said gate to deactivate said holding circuit in response to detection of a Primary control signal on said tape to automatically deenergize any relay energized by said holding circuit; means responsive to momentary actuation of said fast forward switch to hold said fast forward relay energized by said holding circuit thereby placing said apparatus in fast forward mode until tape movement is stopped at the next primary control signal by blocking said gate and deactivating said holding circuit; means responsive to holding said fast forward switch actuated to override the blocking of said gate by primary control signals and maintain movement of said tape at fast forward speed, and means to monitor said control signals on the tape, thereby placing the apparatus in scanning mode while said fast forward switch is held actuated; means for automatically placing said apparatus in rewind mode in response to movement of the end clear leader between said light source and light sensor while in play mode; alternate means, effective when activated, to place said apparatus in rewind mode in response to detection of an end-of-program signal during play mode; means for automatically placing said apparatus in run-to-cue mode in response to movement of the beginning clear leader between said light source and light sensor while in rewind mode; means for automatically terminating said run-to-cue mode and stopping said tape at the first primary control signal on the tape, by blocking said gate; and alternate means effective when activated, for automatically terminating said run-to-cue mode and stopping said tape at the edge of the beginning clear leader, in response to deactivating said light sensor by shielding said light sensor from said light source by the beginning opaque portion of the tape.