Patent attributes
An equipment lockout control system and method which provides a lockout function that inhibits one or more functions of the equipment being operated under predetermined operating conditions. The system includes at least one receiver, including an equipment inhibitor for disabling at least one function performed by the equipment. At least one portable transmitter operable by an operator is associated with the equipment and includes circuitry for generating a substantially continuous radio signal receivable by the receiver. The control system includes a means for rendering the equipment inhibitor ineffective, so long as the radio signal continues to be received by the receiver. The portable transmitter includes a means for broadcasting a stop signal upon actuation of an operator actuatable stop member forming part of the transmitter. In a more preferred embodiment, the system includes a second set of portable transmitters located at a remote location with each of the transmitters generating a continuous radio signal that is receivable by a relay/transmitter station. The relay/transmitter station in turn issues a continuous radio signal receivable by the receiver, so long as each of the remote portable transmitters maintains radio communication with the relay/transmitter unit. Each portable transmitter issues a continuous signal with embedded data related to the transmitter's address and its unique lockout status.
