CA2133965A1 - Valve position indicator - Google Patents

Abstract

An actuator shaft (43) couples to a shaft (14) projecting from a valve or valve actuator (12) and to a drum (41) carrying graphics. As the actuator shaft (43) rotates, the graphics also rotate past a window (110) in a window member (42), the graphics indicating the valves position. The window member (42) couples to an alignment ring (78) keyed to receive the window member (42). Rotating the alignment ring (78) orients the window member (42) so the graphics are viewable from a preferred perspective. Each component is keyed to be constrained in a cartridge assembly (40, 41, 42) for quickly removal as a unit to access internal switches and circuitry (40), and quick reattachment while avoiding incorrect reassembly. An electronic display (49 of figure 1) provides a visual signal cooperating with the viewable graphic, and a visual error signal when the valve is in an abnormal position. Processing means (142 of Figure 13) intelligently control internal control elements (122) responsive to sensed parameters.

Description

. W~ ~3/~27~3 ~ 1 3 3 3 ~ ~ PCI/US~3/03~85 VAL~ PO~ ION I~IcATo~a BAC:RG~3~ND OF T~E: INVENTION
I. ~iel~l of the Inv~tiorl ~
The present invention relates generally to an 5 apparatus for providing signals indic~ti~e of the rotation position of a rotary shaft, such a the shaft on a control valve, and more particularly to an improved rotary shaft position indicating mechanism incorporating a ~isual display of the shaft position and having self-centering parts.
II. Discu~ ion of the Prior Art : U.S. Patent No. ~,9~2,290 which is assigned to the present applicant discloses a rotary shaft position indicating switch assembly adapted to be mounted on a ~alve ; 15 or a pneumatic valve actuator having a rotary shaft projecting therefrom. The assembly includes a frusto- -conical member which is selectiYely secured to the underside of the base ~y a set screw, and which is downwardly an~ outwardly flared. A rotatabl~ second frusto-conical member is concentrically disposed within the confines o~ the first frusto-conical me~ber and includes graphics infor~ation thereon viewable through a window area. -~
Automax, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio manufactures and . ., : 25 sells a rotary ~shaft position indicator in which a cam shaft passes through the base portion thereof and is journale~ for rotation therein. ~ shaft passes upward through the housing cover and into a plastic dome having an j f inner member containing printed graphics info~mation secured to the cam shaft. T~e outer member of the dome is ~ generally opa~ue except for a transparent window through : which the graphics information can be read.
: The Automax d~vice include~ only a single window through which the grap~icC info~mation can b~ observed and thus is only viewabla when ~he observer is positioned in ~ the limited zone. Further, the dome can only be removed by : using a tool such as a screwdriver to facilitate access to W093~2~753 2 1 3 3 9 ~ ~i P~T/~S93/03585~

the internal cams and switches. Thus, the dome has to be visually and carefully oriented every time it is snapped back onto the cover~ This r~quires the operat~r to pay careful attention to what p~rcenta~e of the "open" or "closed" indicia should ~e obse~vable through the window :when the dome is eventually reassembled to the cover.
Thus, a careless operator or serviceman could inadvertently reassemble the graphics information of the dome at an orientation gO degrees from the intended position, thus indicating an inaccurate valve position.
~ Another company, Proximity Controls, Inc., of Fergus : Falls, Minnesota, manufactures and sells a line of valve position indicators including a~mecha~ical display. In the Proximity Controls, Inc.'s devices, the visual i~dicator is mounted to the switch enclosure at a location between the : :valve b ing monitored and the switches. The indicator is made of two plas:tic drums, one inside the other, where the inner drum includes words, symbols or other graphiss which may be ~iewed through a window formed in the outer drum.
However, this indicator suffers ~rom the drawback that the visual indicator is physicàlly located between the ~alve being monitored and the switches and~ thus, is not observable ~rom a position 360 degrees arollnd the indicator. Moreover, the entire switch enclosurP needs to be removed from :t~e valve being monitored to make adjustments to~ the indicator. Finally, there is only one window designed ln this indicator and there is no teaching that the window can be~rotated such that it can be viewed from~more than one perspective.
30The design of the Proximity Controls rotary shaft position indicator suf~ers from the draw :back that the visual indicator is viewable from only ~ne perspective.
: Furtherj~ each window must be carefully aligned each time the respective window drums are reassembled to the housing, which is time consuming and pr~ne to alignment errors.
~ Both indicators require the user to use a separate tool to :~ disassemb1e the indicator which can be both frustrating and . W~93/22753 2 ~ 3 ~ 5 PCT/US93tO3585 clumsy~ Finally, neither of the devices includes an electronic display.
Westlock Control Corporation of Moonachie, N.J., also manufactures and sells a line of valve position indicators as disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,494,566. The device includes an inner drum having colored sections coordinating with the colored housing. This patent teaches only a mechanical display arrangement/ and fails to teach any keying arrang ment or an electrical display, or any color coordination with an electrical display.
~ alve Conversions Limited of the United Kingdom is the owner of patent GB 2,229,254 which is similar to the Westlock device. It teaches v~rious mechanical . .
arrangements for color coordinating an inner drum with a 15 housing. Again, t~is de~ice fails to teach a keying ... -arrangeme~t, and also fails to teach an electronic display.
II~. Ob~Qcts . ~ .
:~ It is accordingly a principle object of the present ~: invention to provide an improved ~rotary shaft position ~: 20 indicating display appara~us.
: ~ yet further object of the present invention is to : provide a rotary sha~t indicator wherein the indicator can be qui~kly disassembled to provide access to internal ~; :switches de~ined along a shaft defined therein, wherein a ~: ~ 2~ drum having the graphics information and a drum defining a : : window are both keyed such that each can be quickly reassembled without paying particular attention to their correct orientation.
; Yet ano~her object of the present invention is to ~provide a rotary shaft indicator having a display device~
which can be readily adjusted in the field such that the graphics information can ~e viswed from any desirabIe prospective 360 degrees around the indicator, and abuve the indicator.
~nother object o~ the present invention is to provide a rotary shaft position indicator and display that is easy to ins~all in the field.

W0~3~22753 '? 13 3 f` ~

A yet further objec~ of the present invention is to provide a rotary ~haft indicator having more than one viewing window and corresponding graphics information : viewable therethrough.
5A yet f~rther object of the present invent.ion is to provide a rotary shaft indicator which can be readily : adjusted in the:field to allow adaption to a wide variety of devices e~bodying shafts whose position is to be monitored.
loA yet further object of the present invention is to provide a cam which can be precisely positioned about an : actuator shaft such that a corresponding sens~r is responsive ~o the cam when the actuator shaft is in a precise radial position.
15A yet further object of the present invention is to provide a rotary sha~t indi ator having an electronic display ~coordinated with the mechanical display bo~h ` indicatiYe. of the valve position. Further, the electronic ~ display can be functionat standing alone without the ;~ : 20 ~mechanical display to provide a totally electronic ~ ~ indic~tor asse~ ly~
:~ ~ A yet further object of the present invention is to : provide a rotary shaft indicator having a cartridge comprising a:window drumj a display:drum, and a wire shield such that they are:removable as:a unit to access internal ~ ~ : switches thus simplifying the disassembly/assembly :: : procedure, wherein the display d~um does ~not rotate with respect to the window drum when the car~ridge is removed , l from the actuato~ sha~t.
: 30IV. ~ummary of the I~e~tio~
The foregoing features and obje~ts are ~chieved by ~ pr~viding a rotary shaf~ position indicating and display ;~ ;apparatus having an alignment ring positioned within a chamber~o~ a housing ~or orienting a position of a window member which is visible through the coYer. The window member is keyed to the alignment ring such that the window : ~ member can be removed to access ~nd adjust internal ~: :

~.~0~3/~27S3 2 1 3 3 9 6 ~.1 PCT/US93/03585 switches, and where the window member can be quickly reassembled to the housing in a correct orientation without visually looking at the apparat~s by aligning the keys of the window member and the alignment ring.
The rotary shaft position indic~ting and display apparatus is adapted to be used with a device having a rotatable shaft and planer mounting surface, such as a control valve. The display apparatus comprises a housing .-. ~., having a base with a transparent cover secured to the base ~. .
10 ~and defining a hollow sealed chamber therein. An actuator -.-~
:shaft is journaled for rotation in the base and extends -.
through the base into the seale~ chamber. A window member . :
having a first key is disposed within the chamber and has -an opaque and an open portion. A display member is ...
`15 selectively coupled to the actuator shaft and includes ~:raphics information which is viewable through openings in : -the window member and the transparent co~er~ The graphics ~. :
information could comprise of words such as "open" and "closed" which is indicative of the position of the 20rotatable shaft of the device the apparatus is attached to. :
A coupling member such as a yoke is secured to the actuator .~
sha~t for coupling the actuator shaft ~o the rotatable -~-sha~t of the devicè. An alignment member is disposed within the chamber ancl is selectively adjustable about an

2 5axis of the actuator shaf~ . The alignment member has a ~ ~;econd key adapted t o couple to the first key of the window .:
- : `: member for orienting the window member with the alignment me~ber. By rotating the alignment member within the base, the ~opening of ~he window member . is ori ented with respect ~o the ba~e membar. While~the window member and the cover :~ are ~isclosed as ~wo separate pieces, one~of ordinary skill :~ : in the art will appreciate~that the co~er and the window .member could be combined to into one piece including a covPr with a windl~w portion and keyed to b~ oriented with 35 the alignment member. Hence, limitation to two separate ~: pie~::e~ is not to be inferred. ~:
' - ~.

W093/~27~3 ~1 3 3 9 ~ ) ~C~,US93/03~85~-The display apparatus further preferably includes at least onP electromechanical actuating element mounted on the aotuator shaft. An actuatable device, such as a proximity switch, is fastened to the base within th~
chamber and is responsi~e to at least one of the electromechanical actuating elements. These electromechanical actuating el ments can be easily and quic~ly accessed and adjusted by removing the cover of the display apparatus. Purely electrical switches, such as optical swi~ches, could be implemented as well.
A further improvement of the present invention includes the alignment member comprising a ring having at least one aperture preferably comprising an arcuate slot defined therethrough, wher~in a first fastener is disposed through the slot: ~o engage the base to secure the ring to : the base. Thus,~:by loosening the fastener, the ring can be ~: r~tated within the base to re-orient the window member relative to the base.
~ :A furthe~ improvement of the present inven~ion :: 20 includes a coupling member for seouring the actua~or shaft to the display:member. The~ coupling member includes a : ~ third key wherein the display member includes a fourth key : adapted~ to couple to the third key for orienting the actuator shaft wi~h the display member. Thus, the display member lS keyed to be adapted to the actuator shaft in only ~ one~ position.~ Fasteners~ such as scre~s, are used to : : : attach the coupling member to the actua~or shaft, wherein the coupling member has an :upper portion shaped in a : ~ trapezoid which i5 ~eceived in a conforming trapezoidal :; 30 sha~ed boss de~ined on an upper inner wall of the display :: member~ : ~
The display app~ratus is preferably orient d such that `: th~ actuator shaft, the display member, the alignment memb r and the window mPmber are all axially aligne~ with one another. Further, the cover, the window member a~d the ~: display member each preferably comprise of drums, one : stacked within the other.

~W093/2~7~3 h 1 3 3 3 ~ PCT/US93/0358~

The window member preferably includes more than one open portions extending from a side wall to a top wall with adjacent opa~ue ~ides wherein the graphics information of the display mem~er can be viewed through each of these openings. The same indicium i~ observed through each openin~, for example the word "open~', such that the position of the shaft of a valve can be visu~lly ascertained from more than one viewing ~ngle. Further, the opening is observable from above and 360 degrees about the display apparatus such that there are no l'blind" viewing an~les.
A wire-shield drum is received within the display member an~ protects internal wires from being pinched or chaffed by the moving display member. Further, the wire shield drum extends under the ~isplay drum and engages the window member such that the three pieces are removable as a unit or "cartridge". The display drum includes spring : fingers for restr~ining rotation with respect to the window member in response to the cartridge being removed from the Z0 shaft~ The car~ridge a~rangement allows the mechanical : drums to be quickly and conveniently removed as a unit such that internal switches responsive to the actuator shaft can :
: be accessed.
The particular:orientation of each of the components : 25 as a cartridge~:provides:for a display apparatus which is easily disassembled to access and~adjust the internal cams and:switches,:and~which can be ~uickly reassemblied due to the keying of the components by feeling for the alignment of the keys without looking at the app~ratus. This keying also prevents a person from incorrectly reassembling the display apparatus ~such that th window exposing the :~ graphics:information i5 misoriented such that the incorrect graphics is ~bserved for a given valve posi~ion. Finally, the graphics in~ormation is viewable from a~ove and a : 35 perspective 360 degrees about the apparatus~ wh rein the graphics in~ormation i~ not obstructed by the valve.

W093/2~753 PCT/US93/03585 ---,~133.9G:-~

A cam with an internally positioned set screw allows a lobe of the cam to be precisely adjusted in the radial direction about an actuator shaft such that a corresponding sensor is responsive to the cam when the actuator shaft is in a precise position.
A further improvement of the presen~ invention includes an electrical visual display device, such as a digital display, connected to the base of the housing and which is responsi~e to the position of the actuator shaft.
The electrical display provides an electrical visual output which is indicative of the position of the rotatabie shaft of th2 de~ice the apparatus is oupled to, and further, is coordinated wlth the indicia viewable through the window member. The display can also comprise of one red LED which is illuminate~ when the val~e is in the closed position, one green LED which can be illuminated when the valve is in the open position and a yellow LED which is illuminated : when the valYe is in a position therebe~ween. Further yet, : the electrical display ~evice provides a visual error signal when the device is operating in an abnormal state, such ~s a slow val~e or a valve stuck in a particular position.
Briaf ~e~riptio~ of th~ Drawi~g~
: Figure 1 illustrates a ~rontal view of a rotary shaft : 25 position indicating assemhly ac ording to ~he present ~; ~ in~ention mounted: upon a Yalve and coupled to a rotary :~ shaft projecting therefrom.
Figure 2- shows a pro~ile sectional Vi2W 2-2 shown in ~ Figure 1 illustrating the alignment of each of th c~m~onents;
: Figure 3 illustrates an exploded perspective ~iew of the present invention ~o illustrate ~he keying arrangement of each of the components;
: Fisure 4 illustrat~s a bottom view of a window member or cover insert which forms the basis of a cartridge asse~bly, and whiGh is keyed to be oriented with respect to the alignment ring shown in Figure 3.

-~093/227~3 ~13 ~` 3 ~ PCT/US93/0358~

Figure S is a sectional view 5-5 shown in Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a sectional view 6-6 shown in Figure 4; -:.
Figure 7 is a top view of the wire-shield drum shown -~-in Figure 3 illustrating the four pro~ections defined about ~he flar,ge;
Figure 8 is a sectional view 8-8 shown in Figure 7;
Figure 9 is a top view of the display d~um illustrating the four raised dome-shaped surfaces extending from web portions defined by a pair of elongated openings;
lQ Figure 10 is a sectional view 10-10 shown in Figure 9;
Figur~ 11 is a top view of a cam illustrating a fine selection embodiment;
Figure 12 is a sectional view 12-12 shown in Figure 11, Figure 13 illustrat~s a block diagram o an alectronic control circult responsive to the proximity sensors shown in Figr 2 ~or generating an electronic visual output indicative of a position of the actuator shaft; --Fiyures: 14-16 illustrate various alternative e~bodiments of the electronic visual d~splay shown in Fig.

The for~going features, objects, and advan~ages of the :: invention will :become apparent to those skilled in the art from the follc~wing detail d description of a preferred 2 5 embodiment, especially when considered in conjunction witX :-:
: the accomp~nylng drawings in which like numer~ls in :tha several views refer to c:orresponding parts. ~ ~
DE~AIhED`D~CRIPTION OF ~E~ PR~F~RED ~NBODINEN~ ~.
Ref rring first to ~igure 1, the preferred e~bodiment -~
of the present invention is i~dicated generally by numeral ; 10 and~ ~s a:rotary ~shaft position indicating swi ch asse~bly moun~ed on a valve, or a hydraulic or pneumatlc ~ valve actua~or 12 having a rotary shaf~ 14 projecting :~: therefrom whose position is to be teIemetered to a remote ~ .
~; 35 location. The valve actuator }2, while generally cylindrical or irregular in shapa, is pro~lded with a planer mounting surface lndicated by the numeral l6.

W093/2~753 ~1 3 3 9 ~ 5 P~T/~S93/03585~-~

The rota~y shaft position indicating and display assem~ly 10 is seen to include a C-shapeid mounting bracket 18, which may be fabricated from a suitable metal or plastic material. Bracket 1~ is securingly attached upon moun~ing surface 16 by two or m~rP screw-type fasteners (not shown) extending through appropriately spaced holes formed in bracket 18 in combination with several bolts 2G.
Mounting bracket 18 extends upwardly above surface 16 and supports a housing thereabove i~ ding a cylindrically sh~ped base member 2~, which may be molded from a suitable metal or plastic material. Assembly 10 also includes a plastic transparent circular drum-like cover 26 axially aligned with and secured to base 24 by conforming threadPd portions 34 defined on each. Base 24 and cover 26 together lS de~ine a hollow sealed chamber 28 (Figure 2). Base 24 includes two threaded openings 30 extending into chamber 28, such as 1/2 NPT couplings fsr receiYing a suitable fitting (not shown~ on the end of an electric conduit in which wiring eOr in~ernal components of assembly 10 passes.
. 20 An annular recess or groove 37 defined about an uppeir perimeter of b~se 24 re~eiveis an elastic O-ring 38 to provide an air-tight seial between cover 26 and base 24 when ~hreadably sacured to each other. Co~eri 26 includes several ver~ical rectangular notches 3~ ~see Fig. 3) de~ined at uniformly spaced inter~als about an outer surface ~o provid~i a grip for hands during assembly, or for : receiving a tool, such as a wrench, to facilitate loosening of cover 26 from base member 24.
' An inner~display drum 41 includes indicia such as words or gr phics defined on a surface thereof which are visible through ~oth transparent cover 26 and an open portion or window~of a cover insert drum 42~ The indicia, : . such as the words "opén" or 'tclosed9', provide an indira~ion : of the status of that p~rticular valve 12 at any given time, as will be discussed in gre~ter detail below r The word "open" is defined with black letters on a green background, and the word "closed'l is defined with black .

W~93/22753 2 ~ 3 3 ~ PC~/US93/0358~

--îl--letters on a red bacXground. A wire-shield drum 40 is received within cover insert 42 and protects internal wiring from being pinched or chaffed by display drum 41.
Display member 41, cover insert 42 and wire-shield 40 - 5 together are constrained within one another to form a cartridge assembly which is conveniently removed and replaced within the sealed chamber 28 as will be discussed shortly.
Referring to Figure 2, a sectional profile view of assembly 10 illustrated in ~igure 1 is shown wherein an ~elongated actuator shaft 43 is journaled for rotation in a bore 44 w~ich is integrally formed in a die-cast aluminum and rigid lower plate 47 of base me~ber 24. Plate 47 is positioned upon the bo~tom of base 26 in chamber 28 and is 15 50nic welded thereto. Plate 47 provides structural support ~; for mounting assembly 10 upon bracket 18, and provides a : ~ ground path for internal wiring to shaft 43 via base 44, wherein sha~t 43 is journaled for rotation in base 44 such that bushings are not necessary. Actuator shaft ~3 projects upwardly~through bore 44 into the chamber ~8. A
pair of O-ring as at 45 reside in shoul~ered recesses of ~ plate 47 about shaft 43 and provide a shaft seal preventing : the ingress of dust or moisture into chamber 28.
: Secured to the midsecti~n of actuator shaft 43 are one or more electrom~chanical actuating elemen~s 4~ which are ;~ designed to cooperate with a correspon~ing sensor 48, such as a~ proximity switch~ or an analog:, electronics or mechanical sensorj for producing a variable electrical signal. For example/ the actuator elements 46 may ~e cams w~i h are adapted ~o engage an ac~uator arm (not shown) of : the corresponding proximiky~and nap action switches 4 : ~ mounted in a stacked relation upon a bottom inner ~urfa~e 50 of plate 47. Cams 46 are secured to actuators shaft 43 - such tha~ as actuator shaf~ ~3 rotates~ different ones of the switches 48 will be actuated at different points in the rotational travel of that shaft. When sensor 48 is an analog sensor, sensor 48 provides a varying output signal W093/2~7~3 ~1 3 3 9 ~ S PCT/US93/0358~ -.

proportional to the position of actuator shaft 43. Sensor 48 could also comprise an optical sensor, and thus, a variety of sensors providing an output indicative of the relative position of shaft 43 from an open to a closed position are rontemplated by the ~reser.t invention.
Control and transmitter circuitry (see Fig. 13) is connected to and responsive to the ~ensors 48 and may provide a 4-20 MA or other analog signal indicative of the true position of shaft 43, and to control an electrical illuminating display 49 (see Fig. 1). Display 4~ is : ~ coordinated with the mechanical display including inner drum 41 in combination with cover insert 42, wherein display 49 is ideally positioned below the transparent window of drum 41. Display 49 is ideal for ascertaining position of valve 12 in darkness, and for providing a ~: redundant output. Display 49 also provides a visual error signal when valve 12 is operating abnormally, as will be discussed shortly.
Each cam 46 is biased away from one another by a spring 54 which is axially disposed about actuator shaft 43 between each cam.. Each cam 46 has a recess adapted to ~: ~ receive and secuxingly engage a respec~ive spline 56 which are~each securingly positioned about a mid-section of shaft 43. By urging either of cams 46 away from the respective spline 56, that cam can be selectively adjusted or : positioned such:that the corresponding switch or sensor 48 :~: : is activated when~actuator~shaft 14 is at a desired angular position. Cam 46 will be discussed in greater detail ` shortly in raference to Figures 11-12.
Actuat~r shaft 43 extends upwardly into an opening :~ defin~d by a centrally located first boss 60 defined on ~n inner upper surface o~ drum ~1 in a friction fit manner.
The c~ver insert 42 (Figure 1) is axially defined about an upper portion of actuator shaft 43. Cover insert 42 is divided into four 90 degree quadrants wherein two are opaque, and the other two are openings. The opaque and open portions are alternately defined with respect to one W093/22753 7 1 3 c3~ ~ PCT/US93/03~85 another such that the open portions serve as windows.
~Figure 3)0 In an alternative embodiment, cover inser~ 42 could be integrated into cover 26 such th~t cover 26 has alternating transparent and opaque portions such that cover insert 42 is eliminated.
Still referring to Figure 2, indicator drum 41 is also axially disposed about an upper portion of actuator shaft 43 wherein indicator or window drum 41 includes graphics information on an outside surface thereof which is visible through both cover ~6 and open portions of cover insert 42.
Indicator drum 41 extends closely proximate an inner surface of cover insert 42 and includes four dome shaped protrusions 62 defined on an upper outer surface as shown.
The low~profile protrusions 62 are defined on a flexible web or finger defined by a pair of openings in indicator drum such that protrusions 62 are flexible with : respect to drum 42. Protrusions 62 are deflected inward toward chamber 2~ slightly when assembled~ Protrusio~s 62 ensure display d ~ 41 is closely proximate cover insert ~; 20 42, where drum 41 contacts cover insert 42 if four equally paced places thus providing a low friction arrangement a~
~ ~ indicator drum 4i rotates with respect to cover insert 42.
; ~See Figures 9-10). These protrusions 62 will be discussed in~:gr~ater detail shortly.
Wire-shield drum 40 ~see also:Fi~ures 7-8~ comprises : ~ ~ a plastic material and includes a central opening 63 for ~: ~` allowing actuator:shaft ~3 ~o pass therethrough. Wire shield 40 includes a con~inuous flange 64 extending outwardly from the rim, beneath and clo~ely spaced from the rim of indicator drum 41~ and engages a flared inner wall of the rim of window insert 42 in a friction fit to con~t~ain indicator:drum ~1 therebetween where wire-shield 40 does not rotate with ~espec~ ~o cover in~ert 4~. Wire ~: shield 40~ includes: four regularly spaced protrusions ~5 defined on flange 6~ each ha~ing a triangularly shaped tip extending upwardly forming a rece s beneath drum 41.
Window insert 42 ~l~cludes four irregul~rly spaced i ~

W~93/2~753 PCT/US93/03~85 - ~
2133~G ~

protrusions 66 extending inward (see Figure~ 4-6) from the rim and under flange 64 of wire shield 40 such that wire-shield drum 40 rests upon protrusions 66. Upon removing cover 26, when window insert 42 is removed, the spring action of deflected protrusions 62 each urge display drum 41 downward to engage flange 64 of wire shield 40 in the :recesses formed between protrusions 65 and the side wall of wire shield 40 such that all three pieces are removed as a sinylè unit from actuator shaft 43, referred now to as a cartridge assembly. Due to friction and the spring ~ction : of protrusions 62 which :serve as a means for restricting rotation of display drum 41 when the cartridge is removed, display drum 4~ does not freely rotate ~etween wire shield 40 and cover insert 42 when the cartridge is removed from : 15 actuator shaft 43, thus keeping boss 76 and cover insert 42 .
~ ~ ~ aligned with one another. This dual-function cartridge ~
, a~sembly~feature is very desirable since the three pieces can be removed and replaced as a unit without losing alignment of the members when accessiny switches 48. In Z0 darkness, :ar when time is limited, this key feature is especially desirable. I~ is noted that spring finge~s could~be~similarly designed in cover insert 42 to bias display :drum :41 ~downward in a similar manner, and mitation to `the precise method of responsively 25 : restric~ing rotation of display drum 41 when the cartridge : i5 removed is not to be inferred.
trapezoid-shaped collar drive or key mçmber 70 (Figure 3) is positioned about an upper portion of shaft 43 i~ :' and~is securingly attached thereto by one screw 72 which is received in one of threaded openings 74 ~Figur~ 33 defined atJ for example,~90 degree spacings. As actuator shaft 43 ro~ates:, key ~member 70 also rotate~. Key member 70 is :~:adapted to be received within a conforming boss 76 de~ined on an upper inner surface of indicator drum 41, which in ~: :35 turn rotates as actuator shaft 43 rotates~
n alignment ring 78 is coaxially r2ceived within base 24 and rests upon ~an annular shoulder 79 which is :

wo g3/2~7s3 , 1 ~ 3 9 ~: ~ PCT/US93/~3585 integrally formed therein. Ring 7~ is selectively rotatable upon shoulder 79 and is keyed to receive and align cover insert 42 as will be discussed shor~ly. By selectively rotating ring 78, the openings of cover insert 42 are rotated to permit the window to be positioned such that the indicium on display drum 41 is viewablP from a desired perspectiveO Ring 78 is selectively secured to an inner wall of base 24 by a pair of threaded fasteners 82.
Fasteners 82 are each inserted through a respective conforming opening 83 defined in base 24 and through an elongated slot 81 (Figure 3) of ring 78, and into threaded sliding nuts 80. Nuts 80 comprise of a plastic insulating material and which have recessed shoulders adapted to fit into shouldered recesses about slots 81. Nuts 80 are non-c..~ductive to prevent a conductive path from beingestablished from outside into chamber 28.
~;: A U-shaped coupllng member 84 is affixed to a lower : end of actuator shaft 43 and a coupling spacer di~c 85 and :
: a coupling reinforcer 87 by a fastening screw 88. Screw ~8 ::~
: 20 is received through coupling 84, spacer disc 85 and ~ reinforcer 87 into a threaded counter-bore (not shown~ ;~.:
de~ined in actuator shaft 43~ Spacer 85 has a square recess adap~ed and conforming to a square protrusion 89 of shaft 43 (see Figure 3) such that they rotate together.
:: 25 Coupling: spacer 85 also has a pair of pins 90 protruding downward into: respective openings to accept reinforcer 87 and coupling 84. The legs:of the coupling 84 are arranged to ~traddle flats formed on the valve sha~t 14 so that when ' the shaft 14 rotates, actuator shaft 43 rotates with it.
Thus, actua~or ~haft 43 is securingly coupled to shaft 14.
As shownr: a:pair of bolts 91 extend through appropriately : ::spaced holes~formed in brac~et 18 into a pair of thr~aded counter bores defined în an outer surface of the bottom plate of body 24 such that body 24 is securingly fastened

3~ upon bracket 18.
: Thus:, as valve shaft 14 rotatecl actuator shaft 43 will cause graphics drum ~1 to rotate as well such that the ~ :.
: ~

:. ~

W093/~2753 ~31 3 3 9 6 ~ PC~/US93/03585,i--.

graphics information defined on an outer surface thereof, such as the words "open" and "closed", will be rotated behind the window defined between the open quadrants of cover insert 42. An observer can visually ascertain the position o~ valve 12 by observing ~h~ graphics indicia visible through the transparent cover 26. Further, the rotary shaft position indicating switch assembly 10 includes a second opening de*ined between t~e adjacent opaque quadrants opposite the first opening such tha~ the indicia of drum 41 are also observable through the opposite side of assembly 10 and also from above. Thus, an observer can visually ascertain the valve position from more than one perspective. More than two windows can be defined about cover insert 42 such that the indicia can be observed ;: 15 easily 360 degrees about apparatus 10, and limitation to w~ window~ is:not to be inferred. It is particularly noted that since assembly 10 resides upon val~e 12, valve 12 does not obskruct the view to the graphics information.
Now referring to Figure 3; a de~ailed description o~
~20~ an exploded view:of the preferred embodiment of the present in~ention will be ~iscussed to further illustrate khe ::coaxial arran~ement of parts including graphics drum 41, cover insert 42, and coYer 2~, as well as the keying arrangement of each of the other parts to provide for a 25 ~ quick and simple a~sembly and disassembly, Actuator shaft ~3 is coaxially positioned in bore 44 and ex~nds ~hrough an opening 92 defined in an alignment plate 94 extending horizontally from the uppermost one of the stacked switches 48. Actuator sha~t 43 extends through a ~re 96 defined t~roug~ a mid~s ction of kay member 70 : and continues through an ~opening 63 defined in wire-drum 40, an opening 100 defined in drum 41, and finally terminates proximate~a boss 103 de~ined on the upper inner : urface of cover insert 42, as shown in Figure 2.
-35 Align~aent and lateral stal:~ilization of actuator shaft 43 isaccomplished by the close tolerances between the shaft 43 and the collar drive 70. The collar drive 70 fits closely ..W093/~7~3 ~1 3 3 9 ~ 5 PCT/US93/03585 with boss 60 oP display drum 41, which in turn rotates about boss 102 of cover insert 42, which in turn has a recess conforming to a boss 103 defined on the control inner surface of cover 26. All fits are very closely toleranced, ~nd parts ~hat must rub against one another are : compatible in the area of friction and bearing data.
Key me~ber 70, which is seated in boss 76 defined on :the inner surface o~ drum 41, is securingly fastened to : . actuator shaft 43 by one ~crew 72. Screw 72 extends through openings 74 defined in a lower stem portion of key member 70 and into one of corresponding openings 108 which are defined in an upper portion of actuator shaft 43.
Openings 74 are defined every 90 degrees about key member 70, and openings 108 are defined every 180 degrees about actuator shaft 43, however, limitation to these spacings are not to be inferred. By loosening screw 72 such that : they are ~removed from correspondi~g openings 108, key me~ber 70 can :be adjusted about actuator shaft 43 in 90 degree increments.
: : 20Referring to Figures 4-6, co~Pr insart 42, which may be molded of o~plastic material, has an outer wall defined into~four quadrants, wherein the:quadrants are alternately opaqu~e as at~l09, and open~as at 110, Thus, as shown, the open:portions ll0 serve as a window and permit the obsexver 5::~to ::view ~he words~:"open" or l'closed" which are defined .
:about~:drum 4~. By adjusting key 70 and consequently drum 41~about sha~t 43, ~he~correat~indicium which corresp~nds to:the present position of actuator shaft`14 of Yalve 12 can~ be positioned behind open window de~ined in cover 30~ insert 42. : ~
: : Cover insert 4:2 has a r ctangular keying tab 111 extending downward from the rim~of cover insert 42. Kèying ~: ~ tab lll is aligned wi~h conforming keying recess 120 which is de~ined in the ~upper rim oP alig~ment ring 78 ~se : 35 Figur~ 3). Thus, cover insert 42 is adapted to be keyed to a~lig~ment ring 78 in only one po5ition, wherein alignment :ring 78 is adapted to be received intQ base 24 upon W0~3/227~3 2 1 ~3~ ~5 PCT~US93/0358~

shoulder 79 defined about an inner portion of base 24.
Alignment ring 7g is selectably rotatable upon shoulder 79 within base 24 such that by rotating ring 78, cover insert - 42 can be precisely positioned about actuator shaft 43. As shown in Figure 3j the pair of openings 83 are defined in the inner wall of base 24 above shoulder 79 and opposite one another in the sides of base 24, and are each adapted to conform to a~d receive the pair of screws 82 which are inserted through the pair of corresponding elongated slots 81 which are defined along a midsection of ring 78. Slots 81 each extend approximately 120 degrees, wherein a : shoulder (not shown) is defined in the inner surface of ring 78 about each slot 81 to receive the heads of each sliding nut 80. When each nut 80 is loosened, ring 78 can be rotated as previously discussed. When screw 82 is rotated clockwiset the nut 80 urges alignment ring 78 securi~gly toward the inner wall of base 24. Since : alignment ring 78 can be rotated to any desired position, the open portion of drum 42 can be precis21y positioned such that: the indicia of co~er insert 41 is visible from a selected perspective~ ~:
As shown, key 70 has a trapezoidal-shaped upper portion which is adapted to be received into the trapezo1dal-shaped boss 76 defined on the inner surface of 25 drum 41. There~ore, key 70 can be adapted to drum 41 in only one orientation. Th~s featur~ insures that drum 41 : cannot be~ adapted to key 70 in:an incorrect orientation.
Base 24 has flats de~ined in the bottom plate ~or ~ ! mounting vther control elements, such as a solenoid 122 -30 (see Figure 2) which controls external pneumatic valYe actuators. The control el~ments can communicate with other :: :
componen~s external:to assembly 10, and can be responsive to the control circui~ (Flgure 13). A terminal block connector is securingly attached to the base plate at base : ~5 24 and pro~ides a connector terminal for inter connecting : componentsj such as display 49, solenoids 122 the control and transmitter circuit (Fig. 13~, and switches 48 to ~.
'-~
`,.

W093/~2753 PCT/US93/03585 ~ ~ 3 3 9 6 5 --19-- ~, wiring routed into chamber 28 via openings 30. All components of assembly 10 are scaled such that the need for bushings is eliminated.
Referring to Figures 7-8, a top and sectional view of S wire shield drum 40 is shown. The four ~riangular protrusions 65 are defined equidistantly and 90 degrees from one another, and Pach define a recess the~ebetween with respect to the side wall as discussed. The top surface is contoured with a bent surface to conform the display member 41 for structural rigidity, as well as : aesthetic ~alve.
: Rsferring to Figures 9-10, a bo~tom and sectional view of display member 41 is shown. A first elongated opening 124 and a second U-shaped opening 126 together define a pair of web or:finger portions 127 each extending from a central portion o~ member 41 to the dome-shaped pro~rusions 62. Thus, protru5ions 62 are flexible and d~flectable with respect to the top surface of member 41, which provides a :spring action when each protru5ion 62 engages the inner surface of cover insert 42. The height of protrusions 62 is only suf~icien~ to ensure:the top surface o:f display member 41::does~not rub:excessively during rotation. ~ince protrusions 62 and cover ins~rt 42 are both comprised of a : compati~le plastic ~material, a low friction contac~ is ~.
25 established.
~ ~ As shown in Figure 2, ::over ~6 cover insert 42, display member ~41 and: wire :shield 40 eac:b have an upper surface contoured:~ to c:onf(?rm to one ~ànother :in a non~
inte~erence design. The contours provids both structural 3 0 rigidity and aesthe~ic value .
Referring now t o Figure 11, a top view of plastic and ~:~ pliable cam ~6 is:shown. Cam 46 is generally circular and : inclu~es: a lobe portion 130 protruding: from a periphery : thereof.~ Lobe 130 may be used to trip mechanical switches, :: : 35:~ ~drilled ~o accept one or more magnets 132 for Reeds, or to accept metal or~other objects and:sensed by corresponding :
~ sensor 48, as shown in ~Figure 2. Cam 46 includes an wo g3,22753 2 1 ~ 3 g i~ ~ PCT/US93/03585,--elongated arcuate aperture 133 continuously extending from a top surface to a bottom surface of cam 46 defining a web portion between the periphery of cam 46. Aperture 133 extends approximately 270 degrees, but could vary between 180 to 330 degrees and is defined midway between a shouldered rece~s 134, which conforms to and is adapted to receive the respective~spline 56, and a periphery of cam 46. Cam 46 includes a notched portion 135 defined in a perimeter thereof approximately 90 degrees from lobe 130.
An arcuate~y shorter web portion 136 of cam 46 defined : between notch 135 and lobe 130 is thicker in the radial direction than the remaining web portion defined between aperture 133 and the periphery of cam 46 such that this thicker web portion 136 is stiffer than the remaining wall portion. Defined through k~icker portion 136 is a threaded bore }37 for rec~i~ing:a threaded set screw 138. Set screw 138 has~ a head 139 abutting actuator shaft 43, an unthreaded middle portion, and a threaded portion at an opposite end threadably engaging threaded bore 137. A
20 counterbore is axially defined in the threaded end of screw 138 having a hexagonal shape ~or recei~ing an Allen wrench or similar adjusting device. This hexagonal socket can be : accessed~by inserting an ~llen wrench through bore 137 from ~a periphery of cam 46. :~ .
2S ~ By rotating screw 138, the thicker web portion 136 will be extended ou~wal:d or inward from sha~ 43, depending :: on the direction of rota~ion, since head 139 of screw 138 is leveraging against either shaft 4 3 or a bottom shoulder ~ 128 d:efined by a recess 129 (see Figure 12). As khicker 30~ web portion 136 is biased oul:ward or iT~ard from shaft 43, : ~ ~ thic:ker portion 136 defle::ts slightly ab~ut the thinner web portion both proximate notc:h 13 5 and point 131 adj acent lc:)be 130. As ~he portion 136 exten~s outward, thicker portion ;13~ essentially ~ ~orms ~a parallelogram such that : i5 lobe I30 is: adjusted sligh~ly ~n a direction tangent to actua or shaft 43 as sho~. An arcuate adjustm rlt of lobe :: :: 130 about actuator shaft ~3 up to approximately 6 degrees -.~

~093/227~3 .. ~ PCT/US93/035~5 2.13~3~ ~

in either direction is possible by rotating screw 138 in a corresponding direction. The serrations of spline 56 are typically separated 6 degrees in the radial directlon such that cam 46 can be coarsely adjusted about shaft 43, wherein the adjustment of set screw 138 allows lobe 130 of ~am 46 to be finely adjusted from 0 up to 6 degrees in ei~her arcuate direction from the coarse adjustment. Head 139 of screw 138 is always abutting shaft 43 and shoulder 128 defined in an unders~de o~ cam 46 such that the adjustment of thicker portion 136 radia}ly inward or outward from Shaft 43 always results from the rotation of screw 138 due to threaded portions~th~eadably enyaging bore 137 as shown. ~
Referring to Figure 12, a sectional Yiew 12~12 shown }5 in Figure 11 is illustrated. Recess 129 is defined from the underside of cam 46 between aperture 137 and the : central bore defined axially therethrough receiving actuator shaft 43. Prior to assembling cam 46 about shaft : 43, set screw 138 is inserted into recess 129 and thxeaded into aperture 138. Subsequently, cam 46 is adapted about shaft 43 such that spline 56 i5 received in shouldered recess 134. Head 139 of screw 138 abuts actuator shaft 43 and shoulder 128 as shOwna Once cam 46 is adapted about actuator shaft 43, set:scraw 138 cannot be removed from cam 46. Again, axially ro~ating screw 138 causes thickened : portion 13~ to exte~d radially outward or inward from actua~or shaft 43 since screw 138 is leveraged against the perimeter surface of actua~or shaft 43 or shoulder 128.
This uni~ue feature in combina~ion with the coarse adju~tment provided by splines 56 and shouldered recess 134 ~:~ of cam 46 provides a fine tuning arrangement such that sensors 48 are responsive~ o cam 46 when shaft 43 is in a . ~pecific position.
A first key fea~ure of the present invention is the arrangem2nt of the various keying tabs and r cesses, as well as the arrangemen~ of alignment ring 78 adapted to position cover insert 42. Assembly 10 can be easily and W0~3/22753 PCT/U~93/03~85 ~-~ ~ 3 3 .~

quickly disassembled, and subsequently reassembled without requiring signi~icant attention to the correct alignment of each of the key elements since the parts are all designed to be self~centering. Thus, cover 26 can be removed such that cover insert 42 and dr~m 41 can be removed so that cams 46 can be finely adjusted about actuator shaft 43 such that they actuate switches 48 when valve stem 14 is at a particular position. Subsequently, drum 41 can be quickly readapted to:key member 70, and cover insert 42 can be quickly realigned with alignment ring 78 without having to visually orient the elements~ The simplicity of the components, along with the capability to precisely orient the components:about actuator shaft ~3 within base member 24 such that the correct indicium will be read through the transparent window and will ~e visible from a particular perspective, is readily appreciated.
A second key feature is:the arrangement of wire shield 40~ display member 41 and cover insert 42 as a cartridge ~ :such~ ~hat the cartridge is re~vable and replaceable as a : 20 sing1e asse~bly.
A third key feature of this invention is the : : ~incorporation of the electronic:display member 49 shown in Figure 1.: Display 49 provides:two functions. First, it ; provides: an electrical illuminating display pro~iding a :: : 25 vIsua~lly :ascertainable output in response to sénsors 48.
This electrical ~isual output is consis ent with and cooperates with the indicia of drum 41 viewable through the transparent: window o~ ~drum 42. Because the display illumina~es,~:the position~of valve 12 can ~e ascertained in darkness. Secondly, redundancy is provided.
:~ : 5econd; display 49 provide a Yisual error signal when device 12 is operating in~an abnormal s~ate, e.g. if the valve is stuck in a position, or if valve 12 has a slow ~:response time. The~key feature of display ~9 will now be described in ~etail. ~ :
Referring to Figure 13, a block diayram of a control and transmitter oirCuit 140 is shown. Circuit 140 ~ . :
: '.

W~93/227~3 ,~ ~ 3 3 ~ ~ ~ PCT/US93~0358~

comprises a microproc~ssor based circuit based around a microprocPssnr 142, however, it is recognized that discrete circuitry could also provide the equivalent of microprocessor 1420 Microprocessor 142 is coupled to and respon~ e to each of s~nsors 48. In response to electronic signals provided on lines 144 from sensors 48, microprocessor 142 provides electronic signals via line 146 to electronic display member 49. For instance, if sensors 48 such as proximity switches indicate that valve 12 is in the closed position by sensing cams 46 on shaft 43, microprocessor 142 commands display member 49 digitally display the word "closed". If microprocessor 142 determines via an analog ~ensor 48 that device 12 is in a position between an open and a closed position, it will - 15 ins ruct display member 49 to provide a digital output indicative of the percentage that the valve 12 is open, such as "20%i'o Thus, display 49 provides a visual output corresponding to the relative position of device 12 from open to closed and any position therebetween, which visual ; 2~ output :cooperates wi~h and corresponds to the indicia ~iewable through the transparent window of cover insert 42.
Control circuit 140 also includes a memory circult, such as a RAM integrated circuit or EEPROM 150. Control : circui~ 140 : includes a communications link 152 25 ~interàctively extending be~ween microprocessor 142 and an external control or pxocess control center (not shown).
Control cixcuit I4 0 is : sensed and/or controlled by the remote process control cPnter, such as an F~ or di~ital ;i signal trans~erred over the power lines, the process which i~ all well known in the art. Link 15~ could also comprise ~: : of an RF link, and limitation ~o a hard-wire lin~ is not to , ~: ~ be inferred. ~ ~
Memory 10 provides proper operating parameters of the ~:
assvciated device 12. For instance, memory 150 can ~e selectively programmed to s~ore which positions are proper : and which positions are improper for the associated device : 12. If the proper; positions are only open, 50%, and , ~ .

W093/2~753 ~1 3 3 ~ ~ 5 P~T/US93/03~85 closPd, any other positions sensed by proximity switches 48 will be determined by a microprocessor to be abnormal states, and microprocessor 142 will provide a signal via line 146 to displa~ 49 indicative thereof. For instance, display 49 c~n display "error", or it ~ay flash the display, such as flashing "40%" indicating that 40% is the relative open position of de~ice 12, and indicating that 4Q% is not a proper position for the associated device 12.
Memory 150 can ~lso be programmed to store parameters such as the proper response times for the particular device 12. For ins~ance, when microprocessor 142 senses via proximity switches 48, or other continuous analog sensors such a~ a potentiometer, linear variable differential transfer ~L~DT), or an encoder~ that the device 12 has left a "closed position", if microprocessor 142 does not sense another proper position as stored in memory 150 within a predetermined amount of time stored in memory 150 such as 15 seconds, as sensed in-conjunction with a free running clo~k 154, microprocess~r }42 will provide an error signal on line 14~ to display 49. Microprocessor 142 can also determine based on clock 154 and the variable output of an analog ensor 48 that the rate of change over time of the output p~ovided by sensor 48 is too slow, where again, display 49:will be instructed to display "slow", or simply ~25 flash the~display. For ins~ance, display 49 can provide a digital outpu~ l'slow'l~ -FinalIy, if microproce~sor 142 ~: senses via~sensor~48 that device 12 has held a particular position beyond~ a predetermin~d amount of time, thus ~'indicating that the val;ve may be stuck, microprocessor 142 can again send an error signal via line 1~6 to display 49 : to display the~word "stuck", or~to again flash display 49 thus pro~iding a ~isual output that valve 12 is operating . in an: improper :~or abnormal state~ Alternati~ely, micropro~essor 142 could provide an error signal via line 156 to an audio annunciator 158 to provide an audio alarm that ~alvs or device 12 is operating in an abnormal state~
Thus, control circuit 140 provides both visual and audio ~ ~ wo g3,227~3 ~ ~ ~ 3 s~ ~ ~ PCT/~S93/0358~

-~5-error signals indicative of the operating status of device 12.
Control clrc~it 140 can be continuously updated and monitored via communications link 152 by a remote process control station to custom design the appropriate operating parameters of the associated device 12. The entire control circuit except for sensors 48 could also be located external t~ apparatus 10 for remote operation, such as on an interface circuit card proximate the process control station, and thus, limitation to control circuit 140 being de~ined internal to the chamber defined by base 2~ and covex 26 is not to be inferred.
Microprocessor 142 can also respsnsively control internal or external control elements 122 via line 159 such as solenoids, which in turn control pneumatic valves.
Thus, apparatus 10 can sen~e operating parameters of valve 14 and intelligently control other control elements in response to a posit~ion or the operating characteristics as ~: sensed~ by mi~roprocessor ~2 of valve 14. For instance, - 20microprocessor 142 can enable a solenoid 122 to open a relief valve if microprocessor 142 determines tha~ the sensed valve 12 is operating a~normally, or normally but within a:predetermined operating range as stored in memory ~ ~ 15~. Control elements 122 can also be controlled from a : ~ 25 main process control station via communications link 152 : and microprocessor 1420 This unique arrangement provides numerous~design possibilities.
Control and transmitter circuit 140 in combination with display 4g can also be integrated into assembly 10 standing alone:without the mechanical display fe~ture as :~well. The unique display and progra~ming functions provide operating status and~error information as described which renders a totally eletronic apparatus.
Referring to; Figure 14-15, display 49 can also comprise a simple arrangement of t~o or three LEDs, wherein ~ a first LED:150 is green,: a second LED 162 lS red, and a : thîrd optional LED 16~ is:yellow. LED 160 is illuminated :: ~
~:

PCT/US93/03585 ? i ,~1339 :ia when the valve is in the open position and corresponds to the green background of display drum 41 viewable through the window of cover insert 42. LED 164 is illuminated when the valve is in an intermediate position and corresponds to ~hP re~/green porkions both being viewable throu~h the window of cover insert 42. LED 162 is illuminated when the v~lve is in a closed position and corresponds to the red : background of display drum 41 viewable through the window : of cov~r insert 42. Referring to Fiyure 16, display 49 can : : 10 comprise of an analog or linear display, such as ten LEDs.
A first green LED 170 and a second red LED 172 are positioned on opposite ends, wherein eight yellow LEDs 174 are linearly positioned therebetween. Each LED can correspond to a discrete interval such as 10%, wherein if ~: : 15 the valve is~40% opened, LED 170 is illuminated and the first three adjacent yellow LEDs are illuminated as well.
`~ :
Figure lS actually is a hybrid digital/analog display. If ; an error signal:is det~rmined, any predetermined number or arra~gement of ~the LEDs shown in Figures 14-16 can be ~ ~ 20 flashed,~ or:all LEDs can be ~lashed to indica~e an Prror :~ status:vf de~ice 12.
In summary, display 49 provides an electronic ~isua1 output.~indicative :of the: actual position of the rotary shaft of device 12, wherein: the illuminated output 25~ corresponds~to~ and has the same color as the indicia of : ;dxum 41 ~iewable through the transparent ~indow of cover insert 42. Secondly, display 4g pro~ides i~lumina~ed er~or signals thus:indic~ting the operating status of valve 12.
:i ~ ' If:valve 12 is de~ermined to be operating in an abnormal 5tate, ~various~:error signals can be provided~ Digital display 49 can~comprise of an LED or LC~ display, and the ~ :display can be displayed in a color cor~esponding to the :~: : operating:status of device 12 shown by the indicia of drum 41 through the openings o~ cover insert 42. For instance,: ~ 35 the digitally displayed~word ~Iclosed~ can be displayed in red, wherein the ~digital representation "open" can be : di~splayed in;green. Any other intermediate position, such :

~93/~2753 2 1 .~, ~ 9 ~ ~ PCT/US93/03585 as 20, 30 or 40%, can be displayed in yellow. An error signal could be displayed in blue. Thus, the operating status of device 12 is coordinated by color as well.
This invention has been described in this application in considerable detail in order to comply with the Patent Statutes and to provide those skilled in the art with the . information needed to apply the novel principles and to construct and use such specialized components as are required. However, it is to be further understood that the invention can be carried out by specifically different : equipment and devices and that various modifications, both as to equipment details and operating procedures, can be accomplished without departing from the scope of the invention itself.

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Claims (38)

I claim:

1. Rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft and a planar mounting surface, comprising:
(a) a housing having a base with a transparent cover secured to said base and defining a hollow chamber;
(b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said sealed chamber;
(c) a window member disposed within said chamber having both an opaque portion and an open portion, wherein said window member has a first keying means;
(d) a display member selectively coupled to said actuator shaft and including graphics information viewable through said open portion of said window member and said cover;
(e) coupling means secured to said actuator shaft for coupling said actuator shaft to said rotatable shaft of said device; and (f) an alignment member disposed within said chamber and selectively adjustable about an axis of said actuator shaft, said alignment member having a second keying means adapted to couple to said first keying means of said window member for orienting said window member with said alignment member.

2. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 1 further comprising:
(a) at least one electromechanical actuating element mounted on said actuator shaft; and (b) means coupled to said base within said chamber for actuation by at least one said electromechanical actuating element.

3. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 1 wherein said alignment member comprises a ring axially disposed about said actuator shaft, and further including a first fastening means for selectively securing said ring to said base.

4. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 3 wherein said ring includes at least one aperture and said first fastening means is disposed through said aperture to engage said base.

5. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 1 further including an electrical visual display means coupled to said base of said housing and responsive to a position of said actuator shaft such that said display means provides a visual output corresponding to the graphics information viewable through said open portion of said window member.

6. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 5 wherein said display means comprises a digital display.

7. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 1 further comprising a coupling member for securing said actuator shaft to said display member and having a third keying means, wherein said display member includes a fourth keying means adapted to couple to said third keying means of said coupling member for orienting said actuator shaft with said display member.

8. The display apparatus as specified in Claim wherein said actuator shaft, said display member, said alignment member and said window member are all axially aligned with one another.

9. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 8 wherein said cover, said window member and said display member each comprise of drums.

10. Rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft and a planar mounting surface, comprising:
(a) a housing having a base with a transparent cover secured to said base and defining a hollow chamber;
(b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said chamber;

(c) a window member disposed within said chamber having both an opaque portion and an open portion;
(d) a display member selectively coupled to said actuator shaft and including graphics information viewable through said open portion of said window member and said cover;
(e) coupling means secured to said actuator shaft for coupling said actuator shaft to said rotatable shaft of said device, and (f) electronic means responsive to a relative position of said actuator shaft for electronically providing a visual output indicative of a relative position of said rotatable shaft, wherein said visual output is indicative of whether said rotatable shaft is in a first position, a second position, or a position therebetween relative to said first position.

11. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 wherein said electronic means further provides an error signal when said device is operating in an abnormal condition.

12. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 wherein said window member includes a first keying means, said apparatus further comprising an alignment member disposed within said chamber and selectively adjustable about an axis of said actuator shaft, said alignment member having a second keying means adapted to couple to said first keying means of said window member for orienting said window member with said alignment member.

13. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 11 wherein said error signal comprises a visually ascertainable signal.

14. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 13 wherein said error signal comprises flashing said visual output,

15. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 11 wherein said error signal comprises an audio signal.

16. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 wherein said electronic means comprises a digital display.

17. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 wherein said visual output comprises an analog display.

18. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 13 wherein said error signal comprises a color corresponding to a operating state of said device.

19. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 further comprising memory means coupled to said electronic means for storing a set of operating parameters of said device for use by said electronic means.

20. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 wherein said electronic means includes communicating means for communicating with a remote processing device.

21. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 5 further comprising control means within a position of said actuation shaft for controlling an external device.

22. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 10 further comprising control means within said chamber responsive to said electronic means for controlling an external device.

23. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 21 wherein said control means comprises a solenoid.

24. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 22 wherein said control means comprises a solenoid.

25. Rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft and a planar mounting surface, comprising:
(a) a housing having a base with a transparent cover secured to said base and defining a hollow chamber;
(b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said chamber;
(c) a window member disposed within said chamber having both an opaque portion and an open portion;
(d) a display member selectively coupled to said actuator shaft and having a first portion having a first color and a second portion having a second color, said first and second portions being viewable through said open portion of said window member and said cover;
(e) coupling means secured to said actuator shaft for coupling said actuator shaft to said rotatable shaft of said device; and (f) electronic means responsive to a position of said actuator shaft for electronically providing a visual output indicative of a position of said rotatable shaft, wherein said visual output comprises the same first or second color of the corresponding first or second portion viewable through said open portion of said window member.

26. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 25 wherein said visual output comprises a third color when both said first and second portions axe viewable through said open portion of said window member.

27. Rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft and a planar mounting surface, comprising:
(a) a housing having a base with a transparent cover secured to said base and defining a hollow chamber;
(b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said chamber;
(c) coupling means secured to said actuator shaft for coupling said actuator shaft to said rotatable shaft of said device; and (d) cartridge means selectively coupled to said actuator shaft in said chamber comprising a window member having both an opaque portion and an open portion, said cartridge means further comprising a display member selectively coupled to said actuator shaft and including graphics information viewable through said open portion of said window member, said cartridge means further comprising means for constraining said display member with respect to said window member such that both said display and said window member are together removable as a unit.

28. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 27 wherein said means for constraining comprises a wire guard disposed within said chamber for protecting other components within said chamber from contact with said display member.

29. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 28 wherein said wire guard is selectively constrained with respect to said window member such that said display member is movable therebetween.

30. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 28 wherein each said display member, said window member and said wire guard comprise of drums each concentrically aligned with one another.

31. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 27 further comprising means for restricting rotation of said display member relative to said window member when said cartridge means is removed from said actuator shaft.

32. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 31 wherein said restricting means comprises spring means coupled to said display member.

33. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 32 wherein said spring means comprises spring fingers integrally defined in said display member.

34. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 33 wherein said spring fingers leverage against said window member to urge said display member torward said wire guard means.

35. Rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft and a planar mounting surface, comprising:
(a) a housing having a base with a transparent cover secured to said base and defining a hollow chamber;
(b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said chamber;

(c) coupling means secured to said actuator shaft for coupling said actuator shaft to said rotatable shaft of said device;
(d) actuation means disposed within said chamber; and (e) an actuating element mounted on said actuator shaft for actuating said actuation means and having an adjustment means disposed therein for precisely positioning said actuating element in an arcuate direction.

36. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 35 wherein said actuating element comprises a cam having a periphery and wherein said adjustment means comprises a set screw for selectively offsetting said periphery in response to rotating said set screw.

37. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 36 wherein said cam has an elongated aperture defined between an inner portion thereof and said periphery, wherein said set screw extends in a radial direction across said aperture and abuts said actuator shaft such that rotating said set screw in a first direction urges said periphery of said cam proximate said set screw away from said actuator shaft.

38. The display apparatus as specified in Claim 37 wherein said set screw abuts a shouldered recess defined in said cam such that rotating said set screw in a second direction urges said periphery of said cam proximate said set screw toward said actuator shaft.