Man-machine interface for a virtual lockout/tagout panel display

• Main Authors: Thomas, Robert P, Vandevanter, John S, Butland, Geoff
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 02.04.2002

The present invention relates generally to a power management control system and in particular, to software that automates the implementation of a virtual 3D lockout/tagout display with database links which allow installing and tracking of virtual Danger and Ground Tags and tag symbols on graphical one-line diagrams, 3D Faceplate Power Wizard graphics, and Tabular Data Power Wizard Graphics. A three dimensional power management control system provides control and graphical representation of a plurality of electrical devices and components of an electrical distribution system. The PMCS includes a graphical representation of tagout/lockout displays (i.e., Danger and Ground Tags) representative of a physical lockout/tagout tag attached locally to a device of the electrical distribution system. The graphical displays include a large bit map representative of a Danger tag and a Ground Tag installed on a device, and representative symbols displayed at other graphical and tabular data displays associated with the tagged device. The implementation of the virtual lockout/tagout displays is automated using software, namely a Tagging Wizard. The Tagging Wizard provides automated configuration of the lockout/tagout graphic and the ability to install and remove virtual tagout displays associated with the graphical representation of the device of the distribution system. The Tagging Wizard logically links a one-line wizard associated with each graphical and/or tabular representation a common device to a common discrete memory tag for storing the tagged condition of a device. A "Tag Menu" window includes an install and remove button for each lockout/tagout tag that when selected stores data in the memory tag.