Patent ID: 7138925

Claim:
A multi-function cable hoist system controller comprising: a housing for containing and mounting a microprocessor and input and output systems; a microprocessor having a CPU, data storage means, memory means, and I/O ports; an instruction set digitally stored in the data storage means of the microprocessor, the instruction set enabling the microprocessor to process inputs and to generate outputs to accomplish the functions of the controller, wherein the instruction set comprises a position control function for determining position of a hoist block of said hoist system within a travel range, a speed control function for determining the rate of vertical displacement of the hoist block, and a load limit function for determining an instantaneous mass load on the hoist block; an external signal input system in communication with the I/O ports of the microprocessor, the external signal input system for receiving signals from detectors and sensors external to the housing; a device input system mounted on the housing and in communication with the I/O ports of the microprocessor, the device input system for entering data and instructions into the microprocessor; a device output system mounted on the housing and in communication with the I/O ports of the microprocessor, the output system for presenting output signals from the microprocessor at the controller; and an output signal system in communication with the I/O ports of the microprocessor, the output signal system for communicating control signals to said hoist system.