Processor based pump control systems

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A software driven pump control system includes a processor programmed with control instructions that respond to a plurality of fluid level inputs.
Processor outputs control the operation of a plurality of pumps.
In one aspect, a pump control system can be implemented with a plurality of pumps whose functions such as lead pump, lag pump can be reassigned by the control program to extend pump life.
Level indicating signals from a plurality of float or pressure switches provide a basis for energizing and de-energizing the pumps.
In a pump alternator system, two pumps can be controlled with, for example, four fluid related feedback inputs.
The pumps can be alternately energized.
Alternately, lead and lag functions can be assigned and reassigned based on running time, elapsed time or the like.
The feedback signals can be generated by float switches, pressure switches or the like without limitation.
Pump drive characteristics can, if necessary, be taken into account in the control instructions.
Feedback switch fault conditions can be detected and functions such as lead, lag, control and high level can be reassigned dynamically in real time.
In such instances, the system will function substantially normally in the absence of one or more normally expected inputs.
Two different feedback signals can fail and the associated functions reassigned.
In yet another aspect, a standardized pump control module includes a processor with associated control instructions.
The instructions can be stored in rewriteable read only memory, EEPROM.
Input connectors, coupled via input interface circuitry to the processor, can be coupled to a plurality of fluid related sources such as float or pressure switches.
Output connectors, coupled via output interface circuitry to the processor, can be coupled to a plurality of pumps.
Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and the embodiments thereof, from the claims and from the accompanying drawings