Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A device for determining the state of an apparatus capable of existing in a first state and a second state. The apparatus is provided with auxiliary contacts (CAO1, . . . , CAF1, . . . ) which provide binary state signals that depend on the current state of the apparatus. The device includes at least one first state auxiliary contact CAO1), that provides a '1' state signal when the apparatus is in its first state, and at least one second state auxiliary contact CAS1) providing a '1' state signal when the apparatus is in its second state. The device also has a programmed microcontroller (MP) having inputs on which it receives the state signals from the auxiliary contacts (CAO1, . . . , CAF1, . . . ) and also instructions (OO, OF) requesting the apparatus to switch from one state to the other. In particular, the programmed microcontroller provides output signals representative of the state (PO, PF) and/or of the availability (MFP) of the apparatus, and of the state and/or the availability (MACAO, MACAF, MFCA) of the auxiliary contacts. The output signals are generated by a program that implements a strategy for continuity of service and safety of utilization for the apparatus.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim