Programmable limit switch with distributed intelligence
US6912427B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 22, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jun 28, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 10, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/25045
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A programmable limit switch includes output channels for receiving position data, each position value of the position data representing an incremental advance of a workpiece through a production field, and for producing actuation signals. The channels are connectable to respective output devices responsive to the respective actuation signals and located in the field. Each output channel has an output controller, which is individually programmable to change the state of respective actuation signals in response to reaching selected position values. Preferably, the PLS includes input connectors coupled to a respective channel and connectable to respective input devices located within the production field. Each channel operates its own inputs and outputs according to a variety of programmed functions depending upon system conditions seen by the output controller.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.