Building BIOS Architecture

Interlocks prevent actions until required physical, digital, procedural, or safety conditions are satisfied.

Interlock types include:

physical interlock;

mechanical interlock;

electrical interlock;

software interlock;

configuration interlock;

state interlock;

dependency interlock;

authorization interlock;

procedural hold point.

Examples include:

preventing release of a loaded structural Interface;

preventing energization before grounding and locking are verified;

preventing fluid connection release before depressurization;

preventing software update during emergency operation;

preventing robotic movement while a human occupies the exclusion zone;

preventing activation of an uncommissioned Cartridge.

Each interlock shall define:

Interlock ID;

protected hazard or condition;

blocked action;

required release conditions;

input sources;

verification method;

override authority;

fail-safe behavior;

test procedure.

A software interlock shall not replace an independent physical interlock where physical independence is required by risk or regulation.

Permission checks shall evaluate identity, role, scope, state, location, time, operating mode, and active restrictions.

Interlock override shall require explicit authorization, justification, duration, compensating measures, visible indication, and audit recording.

Loss of the input used by a safety-relevant interlock shall place the interlock into its defined conservative state.