Patent · US Expired

Microprocessor-based control/status monitoring arrangement

US4916628A · kind A · utility

48Cited by
21References
12Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateJul 8, 1988
Grant dateApr 10, 1990
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 8, 2008

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY04S10/40
  • WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

A microprocessor-based control/status monitoring arrangement allows for replacement of mechanical memory, cam-operated control board switches, such as used in controlling and monitoring the operation of a conventional electrical power generating station. The control/status monitoring arrangement includes and operator input device, such as a keyboard or "touch screen" cathode ray tube (CRT), to permit operator entries, as well as a video display to provide visual information relating to the operating system, e.g., power generating station, being monitored and controlled. The control/status monitoring arrangement not only offers the advantages of the prior art cam-operated mechanical switches in a solid state system with programming flexibility, but also provides additional equipment status indications and controls, e.g., Lockout, Tripped, Auto Started, etc., and special interlocks to ensure operating safety. The present invention is adapted for integration with existing cam-operated mechanical switches and their replacement on a step-by-step basis and makes use of software timers to mimic the period an operator previously had to hold the prior art mechanical switches in a given posi…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.