Chainsaw guide bar with on-board circuitry

Abstract

The chainsaw includes a guide bar. The guide bar includes a recess. A communications chip or other on-board circuitry is positioned within the recess in the guide bar.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] (Cross-reference to related applications) This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 386,372, filed December 7, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to chainsaws, and more particularly, to guide bars for chainsaws. During use, guide bars are subjected to extensive and forceful contact with objects and materials (e.g., wood, vegetation, concrete, etc.) being cut by the chainsaw, which causes the guide bar to gradually deteriorate. A user may eventually desire to replace the guide bar. However, over time and as a result of wear on the guide bar, conventionally printed product identification information (e.g., product name, brand name, serial number, size information, etc.) on the guide bar may gradually disappear (e.g., be scraped off / scraped away during use of the guide bar). Without such information, a user may have difficulty identifying the appropriate replacement guide bar, thereby hindering maintenance and continued use of the chainsaw.

[0003] Additionally, determining when to replace a chainsaw's guide bar or other components (e.g., cutting chain) can be difficult, as users of conventional guide bars lack information regarding chainsaw performance and other conditions associated with such guide bars. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One implementation of the present disclosure is a chainsaw including a guide bar. The guide bar includes a recess, and a communications chip is positioned within the recess of the guide bar. The communications chip is configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the guide bar.

[0005] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a guide bar. The guide bar includes a first layer having a recess and a communications chip positioned within the recess. The communications chip is configured to store a message associated with the guide bar and to transmit the message in response to an induction of a current in the communications chip.

[0006] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for replacing a guide bar on a chainsaw, the method including obtaining an electronic message from a passive communication chip embedded in the guide bar by bringing a reader device into proximity with the passive communication chip, obtaining a replacement guide bar based on the electronic message, and installing the replacement guide bar on the chainsaw.

[0007]

[0007] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1]

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a chainsaw having a guide bar with a communications chip according to some embodiments. [Figure 2]

[0009] 1 is a set of diagrams of a guide bar with a communications chip, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3]

[0010] FIG. 3A is a top cutaway view of a communications chip installed in a guide bar, according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 3B is another top cutaway view of a communications chip installed in a guide bar, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4]

[0012] FIG. 4A is yet another top cutaway view of a communications chip installed in a guide bar, according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 4B is yet another top cutaway view of a communications chip installed in a guide bar, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5]

[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates a storyboard-style illustration of the process of engaging a communication chip in a guide bar, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6]

[0015] 1 is an image of a chainsaw with a communications chip, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7]

[0016] 1A-1C illustrate an example of a multi-piece guide bar with a communication chip, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8]

[0017] 10A-10C illustrate further examples of guide bars, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9]

[0018] 1A-1C illustrate illustrations of guide bars with on-board circuitry, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10]

[0019] 1 is a block diagram of the on-board circuitry of a guide bar, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11]

[0020] 1 is a block diagram of a system including an on-board sensor on a guide bar, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009]

[0021] Referring generally to the figures, diagrams of a guide bar including a communications chip and a chainsaw including such a guide bar are shown, according to various embodiments. As described in further detail below, the teachings herein relate to guide bars including on-board circuitry, such as a communications chip, configured to cause an external device (e.g., a smartphone) to display product information related to the guide bar and / or processing and memory components configured to process data from at least one sensor on the guide bar. The on-board circuitry is located within the guide bar in a manner that facilitates continued availability of the on-board circuitry on the guide bar, even after the guide bar has undergone heavy use and various markings, labels, etc. on the guide bar appear to have worn off or become illegible. The teachings herein can thereby support the maintenance and continued use of the chainsaw by providing replacement part information, user-friendly access to ordering systems, and other instructions, content, etc. that support proper maintenance and use of the guide bar and chainsaw, and / or by providing insights based on measurements of conditions experienced by the guide bar.

[0010]

[0022] 1, a chainsaw 100 is shown according to some embodiments. The chainsaw 100 includes a body 102, a guide bar 104 coupled to and extending from the body 102, and a saw chain coupled to the guide bar 104 and extending (e.g., in a closed loop) around the circumference of the guide bar 104. The body 102 includes a motor (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor) operable to drive a saw chain 106 along the guide bar 104, such that the saw chain 106 rotates around the guide bar 104 during operation of the chainsaw 100.

[0011]

[0023] The saw chain 106 includes cutting links, sharpened portions, etc., which when driven to rotate about the guide bar 104, enable the saw chain to cut into, cut through, etc., external objects, materials, etc. During the performance of a cut using the chainsaw 100, some or all of the guide bar 104 will be disposed within the object being cut (e.g., a log, etc.), and as a result, the guide bar 104 will typically be scraped, scraped, worn down, etc., by its interaction with the object being cut.

[0012]

[0024] The guide bar 104 and saw chain 106 are removable from the body 102 of the chainsaw 100. As such, the guide bar 104 and saw chain 106 may be selectively removed from the chainsaw body 102 and replaced with new instances of the guide bar 104 and / or saw chain 106. Because the guide bar 104 and saw chain 106 experience significantly greater wear than the body 102, the life of the chainsaw 100 may be significantly extended by periodically (concurrently, on a different schedule, etc.) removing the guide bar 104 and / or saw chain 106 and replacing it with a new guide bar and / or saw chain. The body 102 is compatible with a limited set of guide bar sizes, configurations, types, etc., such that successful replacement of the guide bar 104 and / or saw chain 106 benefits from product information regarding the guide bar 104, e.g., the guide bar 104 originally installed and sold by the manufacturer of the saw chain 106 and / or previously installed and / or used by a user of the saw chain 106.

[0013]

[0025] The guide bar 104 preferably includes a communications chip 108. As shown in Figure 1, the communications chip 108 has a location along the guide bar 104 such that the chip location is spaced apart from the body 102. In other embodiments, the communications chip 108 is positioned such that it is shielded from external access by the body 102 when the guide bar 104 is attached to the body 102. The communications chip 108 is provided as on-board circuitry included in the guide bar 104.

[0014]

[0026] The communication chip 108 is configured to cause a compatible reader device (e.g., a smartphone) to display product information associated with the guide bar 104. The communication chip 108 may be a passive communication chip, such as a near-field communication (NFC) tag including an antenna that is inductively powered by a reader device when the reader device is brought into close proximity (e.g., within 2 inches, within 1 inch, etc.) to the communication chip 108. The communication chip 108 stores messages for communication to the reader device and, when powered by the reader device, provides the messages to the reader device wirelessly (e.g., using radio frequency communication). As described in further detail below, the messages may include, for example, product information associated with the guide bar 104 and / or an address to a website or other electronic / digital source of content associated with the guide bar 104. In some embodiments, the communications chip 108 may also be provided as on-board circuitry configured to perform functions such as sensing, processing, memory, etc., as described below with reference to Figures 9-11, in addition to or as an alternative to the communication functions attributed to the communications chip 108 in the description herein.

[0015]

[0027] One aspect of the present disclosure is the experimental determination that the communications chip 108 (e.g., NFC tag) can withstand the harsh environmental conditions expected to be experienced by the guide bar 104 during use and storage (including improper storage) of the chainsaw 100 while retaining the ability to store messages and communicate those messages to the reader device when powered by said reader device. For example, the present disclosure includes the experimental determination that communications chips within the scope of the present disclosure can withstand temperatures of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., the estimated temperature of the guide bar 104 during heavy use). Testing has also shown that communications chips within the scope of the present disclosure can withstand immersion in liquids (e.g., water, gas, liquid) and exposure to electric shock and at least some magnetic fields. As such, the present disclosure includes the determination that the communications chip 108 (e.g., NFC tag) can be installed within the guide bar 104 and remain functional throughout the typical life cycle of the guide bar 104.

[0016]

[0028] The communications chip 108 is shown in FIG. 1 as being positioned in a channel, hole, recess, window, etc. in the guide bar 104, which, for example, advantageously allows a clear path for electromagnetic signals between the communications chip 108 and the reader device (which may otherwise be blocked by the conductive and / or magnetic properties of the material of the guide bar 104).

[0017]

[0029] Referring now to Figure 2, an exemplary embodiment of a guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments. In particular, Figure 2 shows a first guide bar 104a having a first communications chip 108a and a second guide bar 104b having a second communications chip 108b. The first guide bar 104a includes a slot 200a and a hole 202a configured to facilitate coupling of the first guide bar 104a to the body 102 of the chainsaw 100. The second guide bar 104b includes a slot 200b and a hole 202b configured to facilitate coupling of the second guide bar 104b to the body 102 of the chainsaw 100.

[0018]

[0030] 2, the first communication chip 108a is spaced apart from the slot 200a and the hole 202a, such that the majority of the length of the first guide bar 104a is between the first communication chip 108a and the slot 200a and the hole 202a. On the second guide bar 104b, the second communication chip 108b is positioned proximate to the slot 200b, such that the majority of the length of the second guide bar 104b is not between the second communication chip 108b and the slot 200b. Various positions of the communication chips spaced apart along the length of the guide bar are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0019]

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2 , the first guide bar 104a and the second guide bar 104b include a coating (e.g., paint, silkscreen, print, etc.). For example, the coating may have a silver or other metallic color. On the first guide bar 104a, the first communication chip 108a is covered by the coating, causing the first communication chip 108a to visually blend in with the rest of the first guide bar 104a. The first guide bar 104a may appear to extend continuously through the location of the first communication chip 108a. On the second guide bar 104b, the coating does not cover the second communication chip 108b, causing the second communication chip 108b (e.g., in various embodiments, its surface, housing, covering, etc.) to be visible on the second guide bar 104b. As shown for the second communication chip 108b, textual instructions (e.g., "Scan Me," "Scan Here," "Place Device Here," etc.) or iconic instructions (e.g., commonly used symbols for NFC-enabled devices) that may be printed or otherwise visually presented on the guide bar 104 and / or on the communication chip 108 (e.g., on the second communication chip 108b) instruct the user on how to initiate communication with the communication chip 108.

[0020]

[0032] 3A, a cutaway top view of guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments. The top view of guide bar 104 looks at the narrow side of guide bar 104, with the cutaway view shown at the height of guide bar 104, including communications chip 108. In the example shown, guide bar 104 is a laminated guide bar including at least first layer 300 and second layer 302 bonded together to form guide bar 104. Guide bar 104 is further shown as including third layer 303, where third layer 300 is bonded to first layer 300 and second layer 302, and second layer 302 is between first layer 300 and third layer 303. First layer 300, second layer 302, and third layer 303 may be made of, for example, steel.

[0021]

[0033] 3A , first layer 300 includes a stepped recess 304 having a narrower portion 306 and a wider portion 308 (narrower portion 306 is narrower than wider portion 308). Communications chip 108 is positioned within stepped recess 304, with the narrowest portion of the recess adjacent the exterior surface of first layer 300. As particularly shown, communications chip 108 includes a stepped housing 310 that substantially complements the negative space of stepped recess 304 and fits snugly within stepped recess 304 with the exterior surface of stepped housing 310 being substantially flush with the exterior surface of first layer 300 and circuitry components 312 of communications chip 108 included in stepped housing 310. In some embodiments, the stepped recess 304 also extends into the second layer 302, such that the second layer 302 is a recess and the stepped housing 310 is partially disposed in both the first layer 300 and the second layer 302. The stepped housing 310 may be made of a material (e.g., plastic) that allows electromagnetic communication therethrough. The stepped housing 310 may be a structure that includes an open interior volume within which the circuitry component 312 is contained, or may be a substantially solid mass (e.g., a puck) that contains the circuitry component 312 (e.g., injection molded with the circuitry component 312 therein).

[0022]

[0034] During manufacturing, the stepped recess 304 may be formed (e.g., punched) in the first layer 300. The stepped housing 310 may then be positioned in the stepped recess 304. The second layer 302 may then be bonded (e.g., laminated) to the first layer 300, thereby retaining the stepped housing 310 (and thus the communications chip 108) within the guide bar 104. The stepped recess 304 provides a communication channel to / from the communications chip 108.

[0023]

[0035] 3B, a cutaway top view of another embodiment of a guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments. As in FIG. 3A, the guide bar 104 is a laminated guide bar including at least a first layer 300 and a second layer 302 bonded together to form the guide bar 104. The guide bar 104 is further shown as including a third layer 303, where the third layer is bonded to the first layer 300 and the second layer 302, and the second layer 302 is between the first layer 300 and the third layer 303. The first layer 300, the second layer 302, and the third layer 303 may be made of, for example, steel.

[0024]

[0036] 3B, a tapered recess 350 is provided in the first layer 300. A tapered housing 352 may then be positioned within the tapered recess 350, with the tapered housing 352 containing the communications chip 108, the tapered housing 352 being substantially complementary in shape to the tapered recess 350. The tapered recess 350 is narrowest at the exterior surface of the first layer 300 and becomes wider as the tapered recess 350 extends deeper into the first layer 300 (e.g., the tapered recess 350 may thereby be characterized as a countersunk recess 350). 3A embodiment, tapered housing 352 is held within tapered recess 350 by the tapering (e.g., because the external opening of tapered recess 350 is smaller than tapered housing 352) and by second layer 302. Communications chip 108 is shown in a manner appropriate to the diagram shown and is intended to be substantially oriented in a plane parallel to first layer 300, second layer 302, and third layer 303.

[0025]

[0037] Referring now to FIG. 4A, another cutaway top view of guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments (e.g., an embodiment different from FIGS. 3A and 3B). As in FIG. 3A, guide bar 104 includes a first layer 400 and a second layer 402 bonded to first layer 400, e.g., laminated together. First layer 400 and second layer 402 may be made of steel, for example. The example of FIG. 4A may include a third layer, as described above, consistent with FIGS. 3A-3B.

[0026]

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4A , holes (recesses, channels, openings, etc.) 404 are included in the first layer 400 (e.g., punched into the first layer 400 during manufacturing). The communications chip 108 is positioned in the holes 404. A glue, adhesive, epoxy, etc. may be included to hold the communications chip 108 in the holes 404. Examples of suitable glues, adhesives, and epoxies for various embodiments include 3M DP100, LOCTITE EA E-120HP, Resinlab EP1200, and Lord 201 / 4. FIG. 4A also shows a protective layer 406 positioned over the communications chip 108 to protect the communications chip 108 during use of the guide bar 104 and to provide a flat, continuous surface along the exterior side of the first layer 400 across the holes 404 (e.g., to prevent objects from becoming trapped in the holes during use of the guide bar). The protective layer 406 may be made of adhesive, epoxy, etc., as described above, or may be ceramic, polymer, composite, etc., in various embodiments.

[0027]

[0039] In some embodiments, the first layer 400 and the second layer 402 are formed as a solid piece of steel (rather than separate layers that are later bonded together). In such embodiments, the guide bar 104 may be referred to as a solid guide bar. In such embodiments, a recess, opening, etc. 404 may be machined into the guide bar 104 to provide space for the communications chip 108 to be positioned within, embedded in, bonded to, etc., the guide bar 104, as shown in FIG. 4. The solid bar may be provided with a recess adapted from the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3B, for example.

[0028]

[0040] 4B, yet another cutaway top view of guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 4B, guide bar 104 includes a first layer 400, a second layer 402, and a third layer 403 coupled to second layer 402, such that second layer 402 is between first layer 400 and third layer 403. As shown, hole 404 in first layer 400 is completely filled with protective layer 406, i.e., a material (e.g., a non-conductive and / or non-ferrous material) that enables wireless electronic communication through hole 404. Second layer 402 is shown as including a recess 450 aligned with hole 404 and protective layer 406. The communications chip 108 is positioned within the recess 450, for example, where the communications chip 108 is formed as a puck (e.g., a solid injection-molded mass made primarily of plastic or the like) or housing containing the communications chip 108's antenna, electronics, etc. When the first layer 400 and the second layer 402 are joined (e.g., welded, laminated) together as shown in FIG. 4B , the communications chip 108 is retained within the guide bar 104, for example, by the protective layer 406 and / or by the relative sizes of the communications chip 108 and holes 404 within the first layer 400. FIG. 4B thereby illustrates that the communications chip 108 may be provided in a central layer of a laminated guide bar with windows (shown as holes 404) in one or more surrounding outer layers that allow wireless communication to / from the communications chip 108.

[0029]

[0041] 5, a storyboard-style example 500 of a process of using the communications chip 108 to access information related to the guide bar 104 is shown, according to some embodiments. The storyboard-style example 500 includes a first frame 502, a second frame 504, and a third frame 506.

[0030]

[0042] First frame 502 shows a portion of chainsaw 100 including body 102, guide bar 104, saw chain 106, and communication chip 108. In first frame 502, a user may locate communication chip 108 based on, for example, a color identification of an area including communication chip 108, based on text or a symbol (e.g., "scan here") printed on guide bar 104 (e.g., on communication chip 108), etc. Communication chip 108 is passive, unpowered, non-communicating, etc. within first frame 502.

[0031]

[0043] The second frame 504 shows a reader device (shown as a smartphone 508) brought into close proximity with the communications chip 108 (e.g., within 1 inch, within 2 inches, etc., touching the surface of the communications chip 108 / guide bar 104). As shown in the second frame 504, the smartphone 508 emits an electromagnetic signal that induces a current in the communications chip 108, thereby powering the communications chip 108 and causing it to transmit messages to the smartphone 508. In some embodiments, the smartphone 508 continuously emits such a signal and searches for a response message. In other embodiments, a user may interact with the smartphone 508 to request that the smartphone initiate power transfer and communication with the communications chip 108.

[0032]

[0044] In the second frame 504, a message is received at the smartphone 508 from the communications chip 108. A notification 510 displays on the smartphone 508 indicating to the user that a message has been received. The notification 510 is selectable by the user to proceed to the third frame 506.

[0033]

[0045] The third frame 506 shows the smartphone 508 presenting a graphical user interface 512 that is caused to be presented on the smartphone 508 by a message from the communications chip 108. In some embodiments, the graphical user interface 512 includes text, images, documents that are stored on the communications chip 108 and provided directly to the smartphone 508, such that the content displayed in the graphical user interface 512 is stored, programmed, etc., on the communications chip 108 (e.g., during manufacture of the guide bar 104).

[0034]

[0046] In some embodiments, the graphical user interface 512 is provided as a website (e.g., accessible via the Internet), and the communications chip 108 provides an internet address (e.g., a URL) to the smartphone 508, causing the smartphone 508 to access the website and display the graphical user interface 512. In such embodiments, the internet address is stored, programmed, etc. on the communications chip 108 (e.g., during manufacture of the guide bar 104), and the web page is hosted remotely (e.g., on a server associated with the dealer or the manufacture of the guide bar 104), so that the content of the graphical user interface 512 can be updated after the sale of the guide bar 104 to provide the most current information. In some embodiments, the smartphone 508 provides a mobile application related to chainsaws, guide bars, forestry, etc. (a mobile application provided by the dealer or the manufacture of the guide bar 104), and the communications chip 108 provides code, instructions, commands, etc. for the mobile application that causes the mobile application to display the graphical user interface. The mobile application can be updated over time to allow the display of the most current information.

[0035]

[0047] 5, the graphical user interface 512 displays product information, such as the model number of the guide bar 104. The product information associated with the guide bar 104 and displayed by the graphical user interface 512 may additionally or alternatively include the model name, serial number, product size, brand name, product manufacturing date, manufacturing location, product lot number, etc.

[0036]

[0048] The graphical user interface 512 is also shown as indicating that the guide bar 104 is a verified product (e.g., not a counterfeit product). In some embodiments, the communications chip 108 may provide a security code (e.g., a passcode, a password) or token to the smartphone 508, which can exchange such code, token, etc. with a server hosting the graphical user interface 512. In such embodiments, the server is configured to verify that the code, token, etc. matches expectations for a guide bar produced by an authorized manufacturer (e.g., a non-counterfeit product) and cause an indication of such verification to be displayed in the graphical user interface. Such indication reassures the user that the guide bar 104 is authentic and has the expected performance benefits of an authentic product over a counterfeit product.

[0037]

[0049] Graphical user interface 512 is also shown as providing access to additional content related to guide bar 104, such as content accessible through hyperlinks provided in graphical user interface 512. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates graphical user interface 512 as including links for ordering a replacement guide bar, e.g., a link selectable to purchase a replica of guide bar 104 and / or navigate to a listing in an online shopping interface to browse a selection of compatible guide bars. FIG. 5 also illustrates graphical user interface 512 as including links to information regarding compatible saw chains, selectable to navigate to an online shopping interface showing a selection of saw chains compatible with guide bar 104. In such an example, communications chip 108 may be understood to guide a user to facilitate the acquisition of a compatible replacement part, thereby enabling maintenance and renewed operation of chainsaw 100.

[0038]

[0050] 5 illustrates the graphical user interface 512 as including links to waste information for the guide bar 104. For example, the guide bar 104 may be suited to a particular type of metal recycling program, and the graphical user interface 512 may, in response to selection of the associated link, provide information related to finding such recycling programs near the user's location (e.g., based on location information collected by the smartphone 508). The communications chip 108 may thereby contribute to waste diversion from landfills, increased recycling, etc., to achieve environmental benefits.

[0039]

[0051] 5 illustrates graphical user interface 512 as including links to frequently asked questions and contact information for a support center for guide bar 104. Graphical user interface 512 thereby provides access to information that can answer a user's questions related to guide bar 104. In various embodiments, various other content related to guide bar 104 may be provided via graphical user interface 512. For example, training information, user guides, demonstration videos, forestry-related entertainment content, promotions, customer loyalty program information, etc. may be provided in various embodiments.

[0040]

[0052] The communications chip 108 can be programmable and reprogrammable, e.g., where information stored on the communications chip 108 is updated throughout the product's lifetime. As one example, the communications chip 108 can store updatable fields, flags, etc., that are updated as steps in the manufacturing and / or distribution process are completed to facilitate production tracking, supply chain management, etc. As another example, the communications chip 108 may provide editable fields accessible to an end user, allowing the end user to add information within the communications chip 108 (e.g., username, user contact information, user asset tracking number, etc.).

[0041]

[0053] 6, a perspective view of a chainsaw 100 having a communication sticker 600 is shown, according to some embodiments. The communication sticker 600 is shown as being affixed to the body 102 of the chainsaw 100. The communication sticker 600 includes a communication chip that provides functionality similar to the communication chip 108 described in detail above, including, for example, providing access to product information following a process consistent with example 500 of FIG.

[0042]

[0054] In some embodiments, the communication sticker 600 is distributed with the saw chain 106 (or other component or accessory) and is configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the saw chain 106 (or other component or accessory). Because the saw chain 106 does not have a surface area suitable for inclusion of the communication sticker 600 directly thereon, the communication sticker 600 is provided for a user to place on the body 102 of the chainsaw 100. The communication sticker 600 adheres to the body 102 and can remain in place throughout the use of the saw chain 106, so that the communication sticker 600 remains accessible when the user is interested in replacing the saw chain 106. The communication sticker 600 can then guide the user (e.g., following the process described with reference to FIG. 5 ) to access and install a compatible replacement saw chain to enable continued operation of the chainsaw 100.

[0043]

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 7, a guide bar 700 is shown, according to some embodiments. Guide bar 700 is a multi-part guide bar including a body 702 and a nose 704. As arranged in FIG. 7, nose 704 is coupled to body 702. Nose 704 is configured to be easily detached from body 702 such that body 702 and nose 704 are separated. Guide bar 700 of FIG. 7 thereby allows nose 704 to be removed and replaced (e.g., in response to damage, wear, etc. to nose 704) without requiring body 702 to also be discarded and replaced.

[0044]

[0056] As shown in FIG. 7 , guide bar 700 includes a first communication chip 706 positioned on body 702 (e.g., coupled to, integrated into, embedded in body 702) and a second communication chip 708 positioned on nose 704 (e.g., coupled to, integrated into, embedded in nose 704). In other embodiments, either the first communication chip 706 or the second communication chip 708 is included, and the other communication chip is omitted. For example, in accordance with the teachings described in detail above, first communication chip 706 can provide messages that cause a reader device to display information related to body 702, while second communication chip 708 can provide messages that cause a reader device to display information related to the nose. The teachings herein can thereby facilitate identification, replacement, support, etc., of multiple parts of a multi-part guide bar, such as guide bar 700 shown in FIG. 7 .

[0045]

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 8, two illustrations of embodiments of a guide bar 104 are shown, according to some embodiments. FIG. 8 illustrates that the communication chip 108 can have various shapes in various embodiments. In the first illustration 800, the guide bar 104 includes a circular communication chip 108. In the second illustration 802, the guide bar 104 includes a substantially hexagonal communication chip 108, including, for example, an indentation 804 that ensures that the communication chip 108 is oriented in a desired orientation within the guide bar 104.

[0046]

[0058] 9, a guide bar 900 is shown, according to some embodiments. The guide bar 900 can, in various embodiments, include various features described above for the guide bar 104. The guide bar 900 is configured to collect data related to conditions experienced by the guide bar and determine performance characteristics of the guide bar 900, as described in further detail below.

[0047]

[0059] 9, the guide bar 900 includes a plate 902 of the guide bar 900, a nose tip 904 coupled to the plate 902 and defining the nose of the guide bar 900, a sprocket 906 included in the nose tip 904, and a mount 910 positioned on the plate 902 at the opposite end of the guide bar 900 from the nose tip 904. The mount 910 is configured to facilitate coupling of the guide bar 900 to the body of the chainsaw 102.

[0048]

[0060] Guide bar 900 is also shown as including on-board circuitry 910 coupled to plate 902 and positioned so as not to protrude from plate 902 (e.g., to be flush with the surface of the plate). In particular, plate 902 is shown as including a recess 912 in which a circuit board 914 of on-board circuitry 910 is positioned and a plurality of valleys (channels, grooves) extending from recess 912. The valleys include a first valley 916 extending from recess 912 and circuit board 914 to a first corner 918 of plate 902 (above mount 908 from the perspective view of FIG. 9 ) and a second valley 920 extending from recess 912 and circuit board 914 to a second corner 922 of plate 902 (below mount 908 from the perspective view of FIG. 9 ). The valleys also include a third valley 924 that extends upward (in the perspective view of FIG. 9 ) from the recess 912 to a first side 926 of the plate 902, and a fourth valley 928 that extends downward (in the perspective view of FIG. 9 ) from the plate 902 to a second side 930 of the plate 902. The valleys are also shown to include a fifth valley 932 that extends forward from the recess 912 and circuit board 914 to the nose tip 904 (e.g., to the sprocket 906).

[0049]

[0061] On-board circuitry 910 may include various sensor, processing, memory, power, and communication components, as described in further detail below, e.g., with reference to Figure 10. For example, circuit board 914 may include a power source, a microprocessor, memory, and a communication chip. Circuit board 914 may also include one or more sensor(s), such as an accelerometer or temperature sensor (or any other type of sensor, including the sensors described elsewhere herein).

[0050]

[0062] As shown, the on-board circuitry 910 includes sensors positioned within the valleys. A first sensor 934 is positioned within the first valley 916 and proximate a first corner 918, with a wire or other conductive path extending along (into) the first valley 916 from the first sensor 934 to the circuit board 914. A second sensor 936 is positioned within the second valley 920 and proximate a second corner 922, with a wire or other conductive path extending along the second valley 920 from the second sensor 936 to the circuit board 914. A third sensor 938 is positioned within the third valley 924 and proximate a first side 926 of the plate 902, with a wire or other conductive path extending along the third valley 924 from the third sensor 938 to the circuit board 914. A fourth sensor 940 is positioned within fourth valley 928 and proximate second side 930 of plate 902, with a wire or other conductive path extending from fourth sensor 940 to circuit board 914. A fifth sensor 942 is positioned within fifth valley 932 proximate nose tip 904 and sprocket 908, with a wire or other conductive path extending from fifth sensor 942 to circuit board 914. Any number of additional sensors may be positioned along any of the valleys. In various embodiments, a different number of valleys, sensors, etc. may be provided, thereby allowing sensors to be positioned at various locations on plate 902 and conductively coupled to circuit board 914 without protruding laterally from plate 902 (e.g., thereby preventing sensors, wiring, circuit board, etc. from interfering with the performance of guide bar 900 when in use for cutting).

[0051]

[0063] Circuit board 914 is shown as including a light source 944, e.g., a light emitting diode, that can be controlled by the microprocessor of circuit board 914 to illuminate under certain conditions, for example, to indicate an event detected by a sensor on circuit board 914, to indicate the status of communications with circuit board 914, to indicate the power level of a power source on circuit board 914, etc.

[0052]

[0064] Circuit board 914 is also shown as including contact pads 946. Contact pads 946 are configured to provide communication of electronic signals, data, etc., between circuit board 914 and an external device. For example, an external computing device (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, tablet, desktop computer, virtual reality headset) may include a cable configured to interface with contact pads 946 to provide communication between circuit board 914 and the external computing device. Data may be transferred from circuit board 914 to the external computing device via the contact pads. Programming, instructions, commands, machine learning models, pattern recognition algorithms, etc. may be transferred to circuit board 914 via the contact pads in various embodiments. In some embodiments, contact pads 946 are additionally or alternatively positioned proximate mount 908 (e.g., routed to other components along a valley such as first valley 916) and configured to directly interface with complementary components on chainsaw body 102 or other equipment used with guide bar 900.

[0053]

[0065] 10, a block diagram of a guide bar 900 is shown, according to some embodiments. The guide bar 900 includes on-board circuitry 910. The on-board circuitry 910 includes at least one sensor 1000, a microprocessor unit 1002, long-term storage 1004, a communication module 1006, and a power source 1008.

[0054]

[0066] The at least one sensor 1000 is configured to measure at least one physical condition of the guide bar 900, such as temperature (bar temperature, ambient temperature), strain, force, motion (acceleration, vibration), proximity (e.g., to an external object to determine sprocket rotation or chain movement along the guide bar 900), carbon dioxide concentration, atmospheric pressure, humidity level, light exposure, etc. The at least one sensor 1000 can provide the at least one physical sensor measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002.

[0055]

[0067] For example, the at least one sensor 100 can include a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, thermocouple, or infrared thermometer, configured to measure the temperature at the temperature sensor location and provide the temperature measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002. Multiple temperature sensors can be positioned on the guide bar 900 to measure a temperature difference across the guide bar. For example, in some embodiments, each of the first sensor 934, second sensor 936, third sensor 938, and fourth sensor 940 shown in FIG. 9 is a temperature sensor that enables the on-board circuitry 910 to measure the temperature at a first corner 918, a second corner 922, a first side 926, and a second side 930 of the plate 902.

[0056]

[0068] As another example, the at least one sensor 100 may include at least one strain gauge, such as a full bridge, half bridge, or 90-degree rosette strain gauge, configured to provide strain measurements to the microprocessor unit 1002. The strain gauge may measure strain on the guide bar 900 in one or more directions, such as strain on the guide bar 900 generated by use of the guide bar 900 in a cutting operation. The strain gauge may be provided as part of the circuit board 914 and / or may be positioned along a valley, for example, in the fifth valley 932 shown in FIG. 9 .

[0057]

[0069] As another example, the at least one sensor 100 may include a motion sensor, such as an accelerometer or an inertial measurement unit, configured to provide measurements of movement (e.g., acceleration, vibration, translation, rotation, orientation) of the guide bar 900 to the microprocessor unit 1002. The motion sensor may be included on the circuit board 914 shown in FIG.

[0058]

[0070] As another example, the at least one sensor 1000 may include a proximity sensor, such as a Hall Effect sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a time-of-flight laser sensor (e.g., a laser triangulation sensor), configured to provide a proximity measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002. In some embodiments, the fifth sensor 942 is a proximity sensor positioned proximate to the sprocket 906 and configured to measure the proximity of the sprocket 906 relative to the fifth sensor 942. The outer periphery of the sprocket 906 is a pattern of teeth extending radially from the sprocket, such that the outer periphery of the sprocket changes distance from the proximity sensor as the sprocket rotates in use. The proximity sensor may detect such distance (or otherwise detect the presence of teeth on the sprocket) to gather data indicative of the rotational speed of the sprocket. The at least one proximity sensor may thereby be used to measure the speed of the sprocket, and therefore the chain speed of a cutting chain engaged by the sprocket.

[0059]

[0071] As another example, the at least one sensor 1000 can measure an environmental condition in the environment surrounding the guide bar 900 and provide the environmental condition measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002. For example, the at least one sensor 1000 may be a carbon dioxide sensor or a carbon monoxide sensor configured to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide in the air surrounding the guide bar 900 and provide such measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002. Various other gases, particulate matter, etc. may be sensed by the at least one sensor 1000 in various embodiments. The at least one sensor 1000 may measure the atmospheric pressure at the guide bar 900 and provide the atmospheric pressure measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002.

[0060]

[0072] As another example, the at least one sensor 1000 can include an imaging or light sensor, such as a camera or photodetector, configured to provide image data to the microprocessor unit 1002. For example, the light sensor can be positioned within the fifth valley 932 and can detect when the light sensor is blocked from receiving ambient light (e.g., sunlight), which may indicate a cut being made by the guide bar 900. In some embodiments, a camera is included to provide still images or video of the use of the guide bar 900.

[0061]

[0073] Various types of sensors for measuring any physical condition of the guide bar or the surrounding environment may be included in the at least one sensor 1000 in various embodiments, and the at least one sensor 1010 may include any combination of different types of sensors disclosed herein in various embodiments.

[0062]

[0074] The microprocessor unit 1002 is configured to receive data from the at least one sensor 1000 and determine at least one performance characteristic based on the data. The at least one performance characteristic may include chain speed, count of cuts made, volume of material cut, chain status (e.g., replacement time, sharpness), bar status (e.g., remaining life, stiffness), detected events, etc. The microprocessor unit 1002 may execute rule-based and / or artificial intelligence (e.g., machine learning) algorithms to determine the performance characteristic(s). The microprocessor unit 1002 may be implemented as various types of processing circuitry in various embodiments.

[0063]

[0075] In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit 1002 executes a rule-based program to determine performance characteristics based on the sensor data. For example, the microprocessor may compare sensor measurements to predefined thresholds (e.g., a measured temperature at the high end of a normal temperature range, a measured acceleration greater than a threshold acceleration, or a detected strain greater than a threshold strain) and generate an indication that an event has occurred in response to the sensor measurements exceeding the predefined thresholds. As another example, the microprocessor unit 1002 may include and execute programming to calculate chain speed based on measurements of sprocket rotation by a proximity sensor (e.g., calculating a product based on the measured rate of sprocket rotation and the radius of the sprocket). Such rules may include different values ​​measured by different sensors (e.g., recording that a cutting event has occurred if both strain and acceleration measurements satisfy a specified condition). Various examples are possible in various embodiments.

[0064]

[0076] In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit 1002 uses a machine learning (ML) model, such as a neural network, configured to classify the sensor data into categories associated with performance characteristics. For example, the ML model may be configured to receive sensor measurements as input and, in some embodiments, have preprocessing to generate feature vectors from the raw sensor data for input to the ML model. The sensor data input to the ML model may be a batch of sensor data over a period of time for one or more measurement conditions (e.g., a time series of acceleration values, a time series of strain values, a time series of temperature measurements). The ML model can be trained to output an indication of an event indicated by such sensor data based on such sensor data, for example, in various embodiments to classify data as corresponding to a normal cutting event (e.g., an instance of the guide bar 900 being used to make a successful cut), an adverse cutting event (e.g., an instance of the guide bar 900 being used unsuccessfully; an aborted cut, etc.), a degraded performance cutting event (e.g., indicating that the chain should be replaced or lubricated, the chainsaw motor should be lubricated, the guide bar should be replaced, etc.), an out-of-use period (e.g., the guide bar 900 is not being used to make a cut, time between cuts, etc.), etc. The microprocessor unit 1002 can thereby use the ML model to solve such classification problems based on trends in the sensor data.

[0065]

[0077] In some such embodiments, an ML model adapted to run locally on the guide bar's on-board circuitry 910 is trained on a computing system remote from the guide bar and then provided to the on-board circuitry 910 via communications module 1006. For example, the ML model may be trained on a set of hand-coded sensor data of performance characteristics, events, etc. This hand-coded data may be used for ML model training using various techniques for supervised model training.

[0066]

[0078] The microprocessor unit 1002 is configured to provide the determined performance characteristics to long-term storage 1004, which, in various embodiments, may include one or more memory devices. The long-term storage 1004 may store a log of the performance characteristics without requiring that the raw sensor data also be stored in the long-term storage 1004. The long-term storage 1004 may store an indication of the performance characteristics and a timestamp associated with when such performance characteristics occurred. In some embodiments, the microprocessor discards the raw sensor data following the determination of the performance condition stored on the microprocessor, thereby reducing memory and power requirements that might otherwise accompany long-term storage of all raw sensor data. In some embodiments, at least a subset of the raw sensor data is stored in long-term storage (e.g., in response to detection of an event of interest).

[0067]

[0079] The communications module 1006 is configured to facilitate communications between the microprocessor unit 1002 and an external computing device. The communications module 1006 can provide wireless communications (e.g., via near-field communications, Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) and / or wired communications (e.g., via the contact pad 946). The communications module 1006 can include various network circuitry (antennas, transceivers, etc.) and processing capabilities for providing and receiving data via various communication protocols. The communications module 1006 enables logs of performance characteristics stored in the long-term storage 1004 to be communicated from the on-board circuitry 910 to an external computing device for presentation to a user. The communications module 1006 also enables information, such as one or more models or algorithms used by the microprocessor unit 1002, user inputs (commands, settings, etc.), or other information or programs, to be communicated from the external computing device to the on-board circuitry 910.

[0068]

[0080] The power source 1008 is configured to provide power (electricity, voltage, current, etc.) for the microprocessor unit 1002, the long-term storage 1004, the communication module 1006, and the sensor(s) 1000. The power source 1008 may include a battery, for example, a battery that is rechargeable via input power received from an external source (e.g., via contact pads 946). The power source 1008 may include a generator device, for example, a vibration-powered generator such as a piezoelectric generator, configured to generate electricity from kinetic energy experienced by the power source 1008 during use of the guide bar 900. In some embodiments, the power source 1008 includes a connection to the body 102 of the chainsaw 100 or other equipment used with the guide bar 900 to receive power from such equipment. Referring now to FIG. 11 , a block diagram of a system 1100 including a guide bar 1102 and an external computing device 1104 is shown, according to some embodiments. 11 , the guide bar 1102 includes at least one sensor 1000, while the external computing device 1104 includes a microprocessor unit 1002, long-term storage 1004, a communications module 1006, and a power source 1008. In such an embodiment, the sensor(s) 1000 are embedded in, on-board, etc., the guide bar 1102, while the other components are located within the external computing device 1104. The external computing device 1104 may be coupled to, positioned within, positionable on, etc., the body 102 of the chainsaw 100 shown in FIG. 1 and / or may otherwise be provided as an element of equipment used with the guide bar 1102. The sensor(s) 1000 can provide data to the microprocessor unit 1002 via a conductive path between the guide bar 1102 and the external computing device 1104 (e.g., input / output ports, contact pads, etc. on the guide bar 1102 with wiring to the external computing device 1104; wireless communication).The external computing device 1104 and guide bar 1102 can combine in such an embodiment to provide substantially the same features as described above for the on-board circuitry 910 with reference to FIG.

[0069]

[0081] Generally, with reference to the figures, the teachings herein may be adapted for other components of equipment, such as other forestry, landscaping, or agricultural equipment. For example, a lawn mower blade (e.g., for a lawn mower, rotary cutter) may have a communications chip and / or other on-board circuitry recessed therein in accordance with the teachings herein.

[0070]

[0082] The teachings herein relate to an electronic data collection system embedded in a saw chain bar, the electronic data collection system including one or more of: an external indicator (e.g., a light source) for declaring status; one or more sensors for measuring a state of the system; a processor configured to perform one or more software operations on the sensor data; a memory for storing data associated with the software operations; and a wired or wireless communication module for external connectivity. The processor may include machine learning logic configured to apply a trained model to the sensor data, which is configured to make decisions, classifications, etc. related to the sensor data.

[0071]

[0083] The teachings herein relate to a method for operating an electronic data collection system embedded in a saw chain bar, the method including receiving physical inputs through on-board and integrated sensors, executing software operations associated with the physical inputs, and further storing data associated with the executed software operations based on events, machine inputs, machine learning operations, and / or user inputs in solid-state memory and transmitting and receiving data using a wired or wireless communication module.

[0072]

[0084] The teachings herein also relate to an electronic data acquisition system capable of processing sensor data from sensors embedded in the bar. The system includes a device built as a dedicated device, separate from the bar, for processing data from the sensors embedded in the bar. The device can provide processing including signal conditioning, data storage, machine learning, classification using machine-learned algorithms, etc., with processing and communication provided external to the bar.

[0073]

[0085] The teachings herein also relate to a chainsaw including a guide bar including a recess and a communications chip positioned within the recess of the guide bar, the communications chip configured to cause a reader device to display information associated with the guide bar.

[0074]

[0086] The guide bar can include a first layer including a recess and a communications chip positioned within the recess. The communications chip can be configured to store a message associated with the guide bar and transmit the message in response to an induction of a current in the communications chip. In some embodiments, the guide bar includes a second layer coupled to the first layer, wherein the communications chip is mechanically held within the recess by the first layer and the second layer.

[0075]

[0087] In some embodiments, the guide bar also includes a second layer coupled to the first layer, where the second layer includes a window aligned with the recess and the communication chip. The window is configured to allow transmission of electronic communications across the second layer. The guide bar can also include a third layer coupled to the first layer, whereby the first layer is between the second and third layers. The first, second, and third layers can be at least partially made of steel, for example.

[0076]

[0088] The guide bar may include an adhesive that holds the communication chip within the recess. The communication chip may be a passive near-field communication tag. The message may be an address for a website containing content related to the guide bar.

[0077]

[0089] The teachings herein also relate to a method for replacing a guide bar on a chainsaw. The method includes obtaining an electronic message from a passive communication chip embedded in the guide bar by bringing a reader device into proximity with the passive communication chip, obtaining a replacement guide bar based on the electronic message, and installing the replacement guide bar on the chainsaw. The method can include providing, by the reader device, a graphical user interface based on the electronic message, the graphical user interface configured to allow a user to order the replacement guide bar.

[0078]

[0090] The present disclosure also relates to a kit for use with a chainsaw that includes a cutting chain and a sticker including a communication chip, the sticker configured to be attached to the chainsaw, and the communication chip configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the cutting chain.

[0079]

[0091] The present disclosure also relates to forestry, horticultural, or agricultural equipment including a replaceable component configured to interact with environmental objects during operation of the equipment, and a communications chip integrated within the replaceable component, the communications chip configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the replaceable component.

[0080]

[0092] With reference to the disclosure herein as a whole, while the figures and descriptions may indicate a particular order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from that shown and described unless otherwise specified above. Similarly, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence unless otherwise specified above. Such variations may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems selected and designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, software implementation aspects of the described methods may be achieved by standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connecting, processing, comparing, and determining steps.

[0081]

[0093] The hardware and data processing used to implement the various processes, operations, exemplary logic, circuits, etc. described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed by general-purpose single or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, particular processes and methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function. Memory (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk drive) for storing data and / or computer code to complete or facilitate the various processes, layers, and modules described in this disclosure. Memory may be or include volatile or non-volatile memory and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure to support the various activities and information structures described in this disclosure.According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is commercially connected to the processor via processing circuitry and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuitry or processor) one or more processes described herein.

[0082]

[0094] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for accomplishing various operations. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using an existing computer processor, or by a dedicated computer processor for a suitable system incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.

Claims

1. A guide bar for a chainsaw, a plate having channels and recesses; a sensor positioned within the channel; processing circuitry positioned within the recess and configured to receive measurements from the sensor; Equipped with The processing circuitry is programmed to determine a performance characteristic of the guide bar based on the measurements from the sensor.

2. the processing circuitry is programmed to determine the performance characteristics by applying the measurements as inputs to a machine learning model; the machine learning model is configured to output the performance characteristics.

2. The guide bar of claim 1.

3. the sensor is a temperature sensor; 3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the sensor is a strain gauge; 3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The measurement indicates the chain speed.

3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

6. further comprising a plurality of additional channels extending from the recess and a plurality of additional sensors positioned within the plurality of additional channels.

3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

7. further comprising a motion sensor positioned within the recess.

3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

8. Electricity is generated from the vibration of the guide bar and the electricity is provided to the processing circuit unit. and a power source configured to:

3. A guide bar according to claim 1 or 2.

9. collecting, via a sensor embedded in the chainsaw bar, sensor data indicative of a physical condition associated with the chainsaw bar; determining, by a microprocessor unit embedded in the chainsaw bar, the occurrence of an event based on the sensor data; storing a log indicating the occurrence of the event in a memory embedded in the chainsaw bar while discarding the sensor data; A method comprising:

10. and communicating the log to an external computing device via communications circuitry embedded in the chainsaw bar.

10. The method of claim 9.

11. further comprising illuminating with a light source coupled to the microprocessor unit in response to the event.

10. The method of claim 9.

12. communicating the sensor data from the sensor to the microprocessor unit via a valley defined in a plate of the chainsaw bar. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. and determining, by the microprocessor unit embedded in the chainsaw bar, the occurrence of the event based on the sensor data, includes applying a machine learning model to the sensor data. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

14. A guide bar, a first layer having a recess; a communications chip positioned within the recess; The communication chip includes: storing a message associated with the guide bar; configured to transmit the message in response to inducing a current in the communications chip; Guide bar.

15. further comprising a second layer bonded to the first layer; the communications chip is mechanically held in the recess by the first layer and the second layer; 15. A guide bar according to claim 14.

16. further comprising a second layer bonded to the first layer; the second layer includes a window aligned with the recess and the communications chip; the window is configured to allow transmission of electronic communications across the second layer; 15. A guide bar according to claim 14.

17. further comprising a third layer coupled to the first layer; whereby the first layer is between the second layer and the third layer; the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer comprise steel; 17. A guide bar according to claim 16.

18. further comprising an adhesive that holds the communications chip in the recess.

15. A guide bar according to claim 14.

19. The guide bar according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the communication chip is a passive near-field communication tag.

20. the message is an address for a website containing content related to the guide bar. A guide bar according to any one of claims 14 to 18.

Images