Patent US 4,099,252

A programmable data processor or controller serving as the main control in a control system contains an executive program for controlling the transfer of information between the processor and system equipment, updating that information during on-line control of the equipment and modifying the executive program to change operating parameters of the system while the data processor is controlling the system equipment. Modification of the executive program and displaying of system parameters related to the executive program and the system equipment is accomplished through the use of an operator's console which communicates with the data processor and system equipment as a result of operator intervention.