Glossary · Systems engineering and MBSE
Operating mode
Also known as: Mode of operation, Control mode
German: Betriebsart
In machine safety, an operating mode is a defined mode that determines permitted functions, controls, access and protective behavior. Examples are automatic mode, setting mode and maintenance mode, each with its own safety measures.
- Functional safety
- Systems engineering
- German source term
In one sentence
An operating mode such as automatic, setting or maintenance determines which functions, controls, access and protective measures are active.
Example
A robot cell has an automatic mode with closed guards and a manual reduced-speed mode in which a trained person may enter using an enabling device and hold-to-run control.
Explained in context
Context cards connect this term with others to answer one question. Also in British English and German.
- Mental models and concept information: why readers need to know how it works before they actTransitional topicHow does research on mental models support placing concept information before task information in technical documentation?UKDeutsch
- Operating modes in technical documentationWhy do operating modes change what the documentation of a machine has to say?UKDeutsch
How it applies
- Machine safety: EU machinery law contains requirements for the selection of control or operating modes. Each mode needs its own risk assessment and protective measures, for example an enabling device and reduced speed in setting mode.
- Functional safety: Mode selection is itself safety-relevant. The selector and the switching logic must prevent unintended mode changes and an unsafe mix of modes.
- Technical documentation: Describe each mode in the operating manual: purpose, who may use it, what is active and inactive, and how to enter and leave it.
- Integrated systems: In a line, one machine's mode affects its neighbors. Define which mode combinations are allowed.
Operating mode vs. system mode
An operating mode governs what people and controls may do on a machine. A system mode describes the technical configuration or overall condition of an integrated system. The system mode may constrain which operating modes are available.