Virtual operating unit for microprocessor-controlled devices
First Claim
1. A system for programming and operating a stored program control device for a machine, the system comprising:
- a non-programmable operating unit having connection means for connecting with the control device for operating the control device, the operating unit including keys in a keypad arrangement;
a programming unit adapted to be connected with the control device when the operating unit is not operatively connected with the control device, the programming unit functioning selectively in a programming mode and an operating mode wherein the programming unit mimics the operating unit;
a keyboard coupled to the programming unit;
a visual screen coupled to the programming unit;
program switching means for switching between the programming mode and the operating mode;
the programming unit including, in the programming mode, means for programming the control device;
the programming unit including, in the operating mode, means for displaying on the screen a keypad image representing the keys in the keypad arrangement; and
the keyboard selectively activating the control device according to the keypad arrangement.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A personal computer or equivalent is programmed to create a virtual operating unit for a robotic device (eg., a micro-processor controlled machine, conveyor, etc.). The actual operating unit, which plugs into the robotic device and controls it, includes a keypad and a display. When reprogramming the machine, the operating unit is unplugged and the computer is plugged in. The computer can be switched between two modes. In a programming mode, the computer is used to modify the program in the robotic device microprocessor. In an operating mode, the computer mimics the operating unit to test the newly-entered program. On the computer screen are generated a virtual display (the image of the actual display of the operating unit) and a map of the operating unit keypad. The technician observes the virtual display on the computer screen and enters commands, indirectly, through the computer'"'"'s keyboard instead of through the actual operating unit keypad. The virtual operating unit allows the robotic device program to be tested without disconnecting the personal computer and re-connecting the actual operating unit. The virtual keys may be highlighted, as by flashing, when the corresponding keys of the computer keyboard are touched.
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Citations
9 Claims
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1. A system for programming and operating a stored program control device for a machine, the system comprising:
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a non-programmable operating unit having connection means for connecting with the control device for operating the control device, the operating unit including keys in a keypad arrangement; a programming unit adapted to be connected with the control device when the operating unit is not operatively connected with the control device, the programming unit functioning selectively in a programming mode and an operating mode wherein the programming unit mimics the operating unit; a keyboard coupled to the programming unit; a visual screen coupled to the programming unit; program switching means for switching between the programming mode and the operating mode; the programming unit including, in the programming mode, means for programming the control device; the programming unit including, in the operating mode, means for displaying on the screen a keypad image representing the keys in the keypad arrangement; and the keyboard selectively activating the control device according to the keypad arrangement. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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Specification