Glossary · System coordination, integration and orchestration
Operating-mode management
Also known as: Mode management
German: Betriebsartenverwaltung
In industrial automation, operating-mode management is the function of a control system that handles the selection, authorization, indication and transitions of operating modes, and enables or disables machine functions according to the active mode.
- System integration
In one sentence
Operating-mode management handles selecting, authorizing, indicating and changing operating modes and enables functions per mode.
Example
The mode manager of a packaging machine accepts setup mode only with an authorized key card, shows the active mode on the HMI and blocks automatic start commands while in setup.
Explained in context
Context cards connect this term with others to answer one question. Also in British English and German.
How it applies
- Engineering: Implement mode management as one clearly structured module that other functions query, rather than mode checks spread through the program. Modes that change safety functions (for example setup with reduced speed) need a safety-rated mode selector.
- Commissioning: Test all modes and transitions, authorization and the reaction to invalid requests.
- Operation: The active mode must be unambiguous at every control location.
- Documentation: The operating instructions should describe each Operating mode, who may select it, how it is selected, which functions are available and which protective measures apply. The descriptions must match the HMI labels and the mode selector markings.
Operating-mode management vs. mode coordination
Operating-mode management is local to one machine or system. Mode coordination aligns the modes of several machines. In a line, the mode manager of each machine reports its mode to the coordinating level and accepts or rejects mode requests from it.