Anthony P Moceri

US Patent:

20030178893, Sep 25, 2003

Filed:

Mar 19, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/101674

Inventors:

Richard Landis - Sterling Heights MI, US
Anthony Moceri - Washington Township MI, US

International Classification:

H01H003/00
G06F001/26

US Classification:

307/139000

Abstract:

An improved electrical panel design provides a modular, power-reliable, buss-lockout and true emergency-stop capabilities. Through the use of an interface, the approach eliminates numerous outdated, if not antiquated, parts, including safety locks, mechanical disconnect switches, E-stop safety relays, and safety Programmable controllers. The modular panel design saves interior panel space, permitting the use of single-door access, in some cases. Panel doors cannot be opened with live electricity without some form of electronic authorization, and a record of access is stored for future reference. Power may not then be reactivated with the doors opened, thereby virtually eliminating disconnect related accidents. Automatic shut down further occurs with a plant network emergency, ground-fault interruption, or panel door violation. Other benefits of the approach include the capability of local programming through an RS-232 or other plant network, visual (color) display of system status and diagnostic display in conjunction with card/code lock-out access. The invention may be deployed in any number of environments, including a wide variety of industrial applications, such as factory lines, loading docks, and so forth.