Sequence controller with microprocessor
First Claim
1. For use with program controlled apparatus having storage means for storing program data and modifiable storage means for storing data including timing data used by the program controlled apparatus, a service module comprising a hand-held unit, said unit containing display means for displaying said data, and switch means for permanently modifying only said timing data, and an electrical connector connected with said switch means and display means, said connector being releasably connectable with said storage means, whereby the data content of said storage means may be displayed by said display means and modified by said switch means only while said service module is connected with said storage means by said connector, said program data other than said time data being unmodifiable by said service module.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A microprocessor based sequence controller for a vending machine performs sequences of functions required for the vending machine operation. The microprocessor unit has two separate storage sections, one of which is not alterable and contains the basic program for the vending machine. The other section is alterable and contains adjustable timing modifications of the basic program. The alterable storage section is modifiable through the use of a separate, selectively connectable service module, which is not normally connected with the sequenced controller during normal vending operations. The start and stop times of each function of the sequence of functions are independently modifiable, and an interlock is provided to assure against unintentional modification of the start and stop times.
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Citations
8 Claims
- 1. For use with program controlled apparatus having storage means for storing program data and modifiable storage means for storing data including timing data used by the program controlled apparatus, a service module comprising a hand-held unit, said unit containing display means for displaying said data, and switch means for permanently modifying only said timing data, and an electrical connector connected with said switch means and display means, said connector being releasably connectable with said storage means, whereby the data content of said storage means may be displayed by said display means and modified by said switch means only while said service module is connected with said storage means by said connector, said program data other than said time data being unmodifiable by said service module.
- 7. For use with program controlled apparatus having means for storing program data and modifiable storage means for storing data including timing data used by the program controlled apparatus, a service module comprising a hand-held unit, said unit containing first switch means for selecting timing data to be modified and second switch means for modifying only said timing data, said first and second switch means being releasably connectable to said program controlled apparatus by an electrical connector, whereby selected timing data within said storage means may be modified by operation of said second switch means, said program data other than said timing data being unmodifiable by said service module.
Specification