Enhanced updating of control mechanisms

摘要

The invention provides for an upgrading of equipment without the potential problems in replacing the existing system. A relay mechanism is interposed between the existing remote sensor and the existing controller, and between the existing controller and the existing remote operational mechanism. The relay mechanism permits the existing system to perform as before while allowing the signals from both the existing remote sensor and the existing controller to be monitored by a new and isolated replacement controller until such time that the existing controller is isolated allowing the replacement controller assumes operational duties. In this manner, the upgrading of the system is done without the costs of down time nor the potential for catastrophic results.

主权项

1. An upgrade mechanism for an existing control system having an existing controller reacting to data from a remote sensor and directing operation of an existing remote operational mechanism, said upgrade mechanism comprising, a relay mechanism being interposed between the existing remote sensor and the existing controller, and between the existing controller and the remote operational mechanism, said relay mechanism, in response to operator input, selectively,
a) transmitting,
1) data from the remote sensor to the existing controller, and,2) control signals from the existing controller to the existing remote operational mechanism; or, b) isolating said existing controller from the remote operational mechanism.