Electric saw guide rod with onboard circuit

Abstract

The electric saw comprises a guide rod. The guide rod includes a recess. A communication chip or other onboard circuit is located in the recess of the guide bar.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 386,372, filed on December 7, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a saw, and particularly to a guide bar for a saw. During use, the guide bar comes into frequent and forceful contact with the objects and materials being cut by the saw, such as wood, plant matter, concrete, etc., and thus the guide bar ages over time. Eventually, the user may wish to replace the guide bar. However, by then, due to wear on the guide bar, the product identification information (e.g., product name, brand name, serial number, size information, etc.) conventionally printed on the guide bar may have been worn off (e.g., scratched or scraped off during the use of the guide bar). Without this information, the user may have difficulty identifying the appropriate replacement guide bar, thereby hindering the maintenance and continued use of the saw.

[0003] In addition, it is difficult to determine when to replace the guide bar or other components (e.g., cutting chain) of a saw. Users of traditional guide bars lack information about the performance of the saw and other conditions related to such guide bars. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a saw including a guide bar. The guide bar includes a recess and a communication chip located in the recess of the guide bar. The communication chip is configured to cause a reading device to display information related to the guide bar.

[0005] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a guide bar. The guide bar includes a first layer including a recess, and a communication chip located in the recess. The communication chip is configured to store a message related to the guide bar and transmit the message in response to current induction in the communication chip.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for replacing a guide bar on a saw. The method includes obtaining an electronic message from a passive communication chip embedded in the guide bar by bringing a reader device close to the passive communication chip, obtaining a replacement guide bar based on the electronic information, and installing the replacement guide bar on the saw. Brief Description of the Drawings

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

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a saw having a guide bar with a communication chip according to some embodiments.

[0009] Figure 2 A set of views of a guide rod with a communication chip according to some embodiments.

[0010] Figure 3A A top view sectional view of a communication chip installed in a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0011] Figure 3B Another top view sectional view of a communication chip installed in a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 4A Yet another top view sectional view of a communication chip installed in a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 4B Yet another top view sectional view of a communication chip installed in a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 5 A storyboard - type schematic diagram of a communication chip related to a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 6 An illustration of a saw with a communication chip according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a multi - piece guide rod with a communication chip according to some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 8 Includes additional schematic diagrams of a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0018] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a guide rod with an on - board circuit according to some embodiments.

[0019] Figure 10 A block diagram of the on - board circuit of a guide rod according to some embodiments.

[0020] Figure 11 A block diagram of a system including sensors on - board a guide rod according to some embodiments. Detailed implementation

[0021] Generally referring to the drawings, views are shown of a guide bar including a communication chip and a saw including such a guide bar, according to various embodiments. As described in further detail below, the teachings herein relate to a guide bar including on-board circuitry (such as a communication chip), where the communication chip is configured to cause an external device (such as a smart phone) to display product information related to the guide bar and / or processing and storage components configured to process data from at least one sensor on the guide bar. The on-board circuitry is mounted on the guide bar in a manner that promotes the continued availability of the on-board circuitry on the guide bar, even if various markings, labels, etc. on the guide bar may have worn and become difficult to read after frequent use of the guide bar. By providing user-friendly access to replacement part information, ordering systems, and other instructions, content, etc. that support the proper maintenance and use of the guide bar and the saw, and / or by providing insights based on measurements of the conditions experienced by the guide bar, the teachings herein thus support the maintenance and continued use of the saw.

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

[0023] The saw chain 106 includes cutting links, sharp portions, etc. such that when driven to rotate around the guide bar 104, the saw chain can cut into, pass through, etc. external objects, materials, etc. During a cutting process when using the saw 100, part or all of the guide bar 104 will be placed inside the object being cut (such as a log, etc.), and thus, the guide bar 104 will typically be scratched, scuffed, abraded, etc. by interaction with the object being cut.

[0024] The guide bar 104 and the saw chain 106 are detachable from the body 102 of the electric saw 100. Accordingly, the guide bar 104 and the saw chain 106 can be selectively removed from the body 102 of the electric saw and replaced with new guide bars 104 and / or saw chains 106. Since the guide bar 104 and the saw chain 106 are worn significantly more than the body 102, the service life of the electric saw 100 can be significantly extended by periodically removing the guide bar 104 and / or the saw chain 106 and replacing them with new guide bars and / or new saw chains (simultaneously, at different times, etc.). The body 102 is compatible with a limited set of guide bar sizes, configurations, types, etc., such that the successful replacement of the guide bar 104 and / or the saw chain 106 benefits from product information regarding the guide bar 104, such as the guide bar 104 initially installed and sold by the manufacturer of the electric saw 106 and / or the guide bar 104 previously installed and / or used by a user of the electric saw 106.

[0025] The guide bar 104 preferably includes a communication chip 108. As Figure 1 shown, the position of the communication chip 108 is set along the guide bar 104 such that the chip position is separated from the body 102. In other embodiments, when the guide bar 104 is attached to the body 102, the position of the communication chip 108 is blocked by the body 102 and cannot be accessed from the outside. The communication chip 108 is provided as an on-board circuit included in the guide bar 104.

[0026] The communication chip 108 is configured to cause a compatible reader device (such as a smartphone) to display product information related to the guide bar 104. The communication chip 108 can be a passive communication chip, such as a near field communication (NFC) tag including an antenna, which is inductively powered by the reader device when the reader device is in proximity to the communication chip 108 (e.g., within two inches, within one inch, etc.). The communication chip 108 stores messages for communicating with the reader device and, when powered by the reader device, provides the messages to the reader device wirelessly (such as using radio frequency communication). As described in further detail below, for example, the messages can include product information about the guide bar 104 and / or the address of a web page or other electronic / digital source related to the content of the guide bar 104. In some embodiments, in addition to or as an alternative to the communication function attributed to the communication chip 108 herein, the communication chip 108 can also be provided as an on-board circuit configured to perform sensing, processing, storage, etc. functions, such as as described below with reference to Figures 9 - 11 described.

[0027] One aspect of the present disclosure is to experimentally determine that the communication chip 108 (e.g., NFC tag) can withstand the harsh environmental conditions that the guide bar 104 is expected to experience during the use and storage (including improper storage) of the electric saw 100, while maintaining the ability to store messages and transmitting the message to the reader device when the reader device powers it. For example, the present disclosure includes experimentally determining that the communication chips within the scope of the present disclosure can withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., the estimated temperature of the guide bar 104 during frequent use). The tests also show that the communication 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. Therefore, the present disclosure includes determining that the communication chip 108 (e.g., NFC tag) can be installed in the guide bar 104 and maintain performance throughout the typical life cycle of the guide bar 104.

[0028] Figure 1 It is shown that the communication chip 108 is located in positions such as the channels, holes, recesses, window parts, etc. of the guide bar 104. For example, this is beneficial to keep the electromagnetic signal path unobstructed between the communication chip 108 and the reader device (otherwise it may be blocked due to the conductivity and / or magnetism of the material of the guide bar 104).

[0029] Now referring to Figure 2 , an exemplary embodiment of the guide bar 104 according to some embodiments is shown. Specifically, Figure 2 A first guide bar 104a with a first communication chip 108a and a second guide bar 104b with a second communication chip 108b are shown. The first guide bar 104a includes a slot 200a and a hole 202a for facilitating the connection of the first guide bar 104a to the body 102 of the electric saw 100. The second guide bar 104b includes a slot 200b and a hole 202b for facilitating the connection of the second guide bar 104b to the body 102 of the electric saw 100.

[0030] As Figure 2 shown, the first communication chip 108a is spaced apart from the slot 200a and the hole 202a such that most 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 close to the slot 200b such that most of the length of the second guide bar 104b is not between the second communication chip 108b and the slot 200b. Each position where the communication chips are spaced along the length of the guide bar is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] As Figure 2As shown, the first guide rod 104a and the second guide rod 104b include a coating (such as paint, silk screen, printing, etc.). For example, the coating can be silver or other metallic colors. On the first guide rod 104a, the first communication chip 108a is covered by the coating, making the first communication chip 108a visually blend in with the rest of the first guide rod 104a. The first guide rod 104a appears to continuously extend through the location where the first communication chip 108a is located. On the second guide rod 104b, the coating does not cover the second communication chip 108b, such that the second communication chip 108b can be seen on the second guide rod 104b (e.g., its surface, housing, covering layer, etc. in various embodiments). As shown by the second communication chip 108b, instructions presented in text form (such as "Scan me", "Scan here", "Place device here", etc.) or in icon form (such as the common symbol for an NFC device) can be printed or otherwise visually presented on the guide rod 104 and / or the communication chip 108 (e.g., on the second communication chip 108b), indicating to the user how to initiate communication with the communication chip 108.

[0032] Now refer to Figure 3A , a top cutaway view of the guide rod 104 according to some embodiments is shown. The top view of the guide rod 104 shows the narrow side of the guide rod 104, and the cutaway view shows the horizontal plane of the guide rod 104 that includes the communication chip 108. In the example shown, the guide rod 104 is a laminated guide rod and includes at least a first layer 300 and a second layer 302 joined together to form the guide rod 104. The guide rod 104 is further shown to include a third layer 303 that is joined to the first layer 300 and the second layer 302, with the second layer 302 located between the first layer 300 and the third layer 303. For example, the first layer 300, the second layer 302, and the third layer 303 can be made of steel.

[0033] As Figure 3AAs shown, the first layer 300 includes a stepped recess 304 having a narrower portion 306 and a wider portion 308 (the narrower portion 306 is narrower than the wider portion 308). The communication chip 108 is located in the stepped recess 304, where the narrowest portion of the recess is adjacent to the outer surface of the first layer 300. In particular, as shown, the communication chip 108 includes a stepped housing 310 and circuit components 312 of the communication chip 108 included in the stepped housing 310. The stepped housing 310 is substantially complementary to the negative space of the stepped recess 304 for a tight fit with the stepped recess 304, where the outer surface of the stepped housing 310 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the first layer 300. In some embodiments, the stepped recess 304 also extends into the second layer 302 such that the second layer 302 is recessed therein, and the stepped housing 310 is partially disposed in the first layer 300 and the second layer 302. The stepped housing 310 may be made of a material (such as plastic) that allows electromagnetic communication to pass through. The stepped housing 310 may be a structure including an open lumen that contains the circuit components 312, or may be a solid body (such as a sphere) that contains the circuit components 312 (such as injection molding with the circuit components 312 included).

[0034] During manufacturing, the stepped recess 304 may be formed (such as by punching) in the first layer 300. Then, the stepped housing 310 may be positioned in the stepped recess 304. Then the second layer 302 is joined (such as by laminating) to the first layer 300, thereby fixing the stepped housing 310 (and thus the communication chip 108) in the guide bar 104. The stepped recess 304 provides a communication channel to the communication chip 108.

[0035] Now referring Figure 3B , a top cutaway view of another embodiment of the guide bar 104 according to some embodiments is shown. As Figure 3A shown, the guide bar 104 is a laminated guide bar including at least a first layer 300 and a second layer 302 joined together to form the guide bar 104. The guide bar 104 is also shown to include a third layer 303 that is joined to the first layer 300 and the second layer 302, and the second layer 302 is located between the first layer 300 and the third layer 303. For example, the first layer 300, the second layer 302, and the third layer 303 may be made of steel.

[0036] In Figure 3BIn [the figure], a conical recess 350 is provided in the first layer 300. A conical housing 352 may then be disposed in the conical recess 310. The conical housing 352 includes a communication chip 108, and the shape of the conical housing 352 is substantially complementary to that of the conical recess 310. The conical recess 350 is narrowest at the outer surface of the first layer 300 and gradually widens as the conical recess 350 extends deeper into the first layer 300 (e.g., such that the conical recess 350 can be described as a countersunk recess 350). Similar to the above Figure 3A embodiment, the conical housing 352 is fixed in the conical recess 350 by a taper (e.g., the outer opening of the conical recess 350 is smaller than the conical housing 352) and by the second layer 302. The communication chip 108 is shown in a manner suitable for the illustrated diagram and may be considered to be generally oriented in a plane parallel to the first layer 300, the second layer 302, and the third layer 303.

[0037] Now referring to Figure 4A , another top-down sectional view of the guide rod 104 according to some embodiments (e.g., embodiments different from Figure 3A and 3B ) is shown. As Figure 3A shown, the guide rod 104 includes a first layer 400 and a second layer 402 coupled to the first layer 400 (e.g., laminated together). For example, the first layer 400 and the second layer 402 may be made of steel. Figure 4A The example of may also include a third layer, consistent with the above Figure 3A -B.

[0038] As Figure 4A shown, the first layer 400 includes a hole (recess, channel, opening, etc.) 404 (e.g., drilled in the first layer 400 during the manufacturing process). The communication chip 108 is located in the hole 404. The communication chip 108 may be fixed in the hole 404 using glue, adhesive, epoxy resin, etc. Examples of glue, adhesive, and epoxy resin suitable for various embodiments include 3M DP100, LOCTITE EA E-120HP, Resinlab EP1200, and Lord 201 / 4. Figure 4A A protective layer 406 disposed on the communication chip 108 is further shown to protect the communication chip 108 during the use of the guide rod 104 and to provide a flush, continuous surface above the hole 404 along the outer side of the first layer 400 (e.g., to prevent an object from getting stuck in the hole during the use of the guide rod). The protective layer 406 may be made of, for example, adhesive, epoxy resin, etc. as described above, and may also be ceramic, polymer, composite material, etc. in different embodiments.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first layer 400 and the second layer 402 are formed as solid steel plates (rather than separate layers that are joined together later). In such embodiments, the guide rod 104 can be referred to as a solid guide rod. In such embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, recesses, openings, etc. 404 can be machined on the guide rod 104 to provide space for the communication chip 108 positioned on, embedded in, coupled to, etc. the guide rod 104. For example, recesses adapted to the embodiments of Figure 3A -B can also be provided on the solid rod.

[0040] Reference Figure 4B shows another top cross-sectional view of the guide rod 104 according to some embodiments. As Figure 4B shown, the guide rod 104 includes a first layer 400, a second layer 402, and a third layer 403 coupled to the second layer 402 such that the second layer 402 is located between the first layer 400 and the third layer 403. As shown, the holes 404 in the first layer 400 are completely filled with a protective layer 406, i.e., filled with a material (such as a non-conductive and / or non-ferrous material) that allows wireless electronic communication to pass through. The second layer 402 is shown to include recesses 450 that are aligned with the holes 404 and the protective layer 406. The communication chip 108 is located in the recesses 450. For example, the communication chip 108 is formed as a flat disc body (e.g., a solid body, a block mainly injection-molded from plastic, etc.) or a housing that includes an antenna, electronic devices, etc. of the communication chip 108. When the first layer 400 and the second layer 402 are joined together (e.g., welded, laminated) as Figure 4B shown, the communication chip 108 is held in the guide rod 104, for example, through the protective layer 406 and / or by the relative dimensions of the communication chip 108 and the holes 404 in the first layer 400. Thus, Figure 4B shows that the communication chip 108 can be disposed in the middle layer of the laminated guide rod, and window portions (shown as holes 404) are provided in one or more surrounding outer layers, which enable wireless communication with the communication chip 108.

[0041] Now referring to Figure 5 shows a storyboard-type schematic diagram 500 of a process of using the communication chip 108 to access information related to the guide rod 104 according to some embodiments. The storyboard-type schematic diagram 500 includes a first frame 502, a second frame 504, and a third frame 506.

[0042] The first frame 502 shows a portion of the saw 100, including the body 102, the guide bar 104, the saw chain 106, and the communication chip 108. In the first frame 502, the user can locate the communication chip 108 based on color differences in areas including the communication chip 108, etc., such as according to text or symbols (such as "Scan here") printed on the guide bar 104 (such as on the communication chip 108). In the first frame 502, the communication chip 108 is passive, non-powered, non-communicating, etc.

[0043] The second frame 504 shows a reader device (shown as the smartphone 508) in close proximity to the communication chip 108 (e.g., in contact with the surface of the communication chip 108 / guide bar 104, within one inch, within two inches, etc.). As shown in the second frame 504, the smartphone 508 emits an electromagnetic signal that generates an induced current in the communication chip 108, thereby powering the communication chip 108 and causing the communication chip 108 to send a message to the smartphone 508. In some embodiments, the smartphone 508 continuously emits such signals and searches for a responsive message. In other embodiments, the user can interact with the smartphone 508 to request the smartphone to initiate power transfer and communication with the communication chip 108.

[0044] In the second frame 504, the smartphone 508 receives a message from the communication chip 108. A notification 510 is displayed on the smartphone 508 to indicate to the user that the message has been received. The user can select the notification 510 to enter the third frame 506.

[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 the message from the communication chip 108. In some embodiments, the graphical user interface 512 includes text, images, documents stored on the communication 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 communication chip 108 (e.g., during the manufacturing process of the guide bar 104).

[0046] In some embodiments, the graphical user interface 512 is provided as a website (e.g., accessible via the Internet), and the communication chip 108 provides an Internet address (e.g., a URL) to the smartphone 508 so that the smartphone 508 can access the website and display the graphical user interface 512. In such embodiments, the Internet address is stored, programmed, etc. onto the communication chip 108 (e.g., during the manufacture of the guide bar 104), and the web page is remotely hosted (e.g., on a server associated with the seller or manufacturer of the guide bar 104), such that the content of the graphical user interface 512 can be updated after the sale of the guide bar 104 to provide up-to-date information. In some embodiments, the smartphone 508 provides a mobile application related to a saw, a guide bar, forestry, etc. (e.g., a mobile application provided by the seller or manufacturer of the guide bar 104), and the communication chip 108 provides code, instructions, commands, etc. for the mobile application to cause the mobile application to display the graphical user interface. The mobile application can be updated at any time to display the latest information.

[0047] As Figure 5 shown, the graphical user interface 512 displays product information, such as the model number of the guide bar 104. The product information displayed by the graphical user interface 512 related to the guide bar 104 can additionally or alternatively include a model name, a serial number, product dimensions, a brand name, a product production date, a production location, a product lot number, etc.

[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 communication chip 108 can provide a security code (e.g., a password, a passphrase) or a token to the smartphone 508, and the smartphone 508 can exchange these codes, tokens, etc. with the server hosting the graphical user interface 512. In such embodiments, the server is configured to verify whether the codes, tokens, etc. conform to what is expected for a guide bar manufactured by an authorized manufacturer (e.g., a non-counterfeit guide bar) and display an indication of such verification in the graphical user interface. Such an indication can reassure the user that the guide bar 104 is original and has the performance advantages expected of an original product as opposed to a counterfeit product.

[0049] The graphical user interface 512 is also shown as providing access to additional content related to the guide bar 104, such as content accessible via a hyperlink provided in the graphical user interface 512. For example, Figure 5 a graphical user interface 512 is shown that includes a link to order a replacement guide bar, e.g., a list of selectable navigations to an online shopping interface to purchase a copy of the guide bar 104 and / or a link to selectably browse a curated list of compatible guide bars. Figure 5A graphical user interface 512 is also shown, which includes a link pointing to information on compatible saw chains. For example, the user can optionally navigate to an online shopping interface that displays selected saw chains compatible with the guide bar 104. In such examples, the communication chip 108 can be understood to guide the user to conveniently purchase compatible replacement parts, thereby enabling maintenance and update operations of the electric saw 100.

[0050] As another example, Figure 5 A graphical user interface 512 is shown, which includes a link pointing to disposal information of the guide bar 104. For example, the guide bar 104 may be suitable for a specific type of metal recycling program, and the graphical user interface 512 can provide relevant information on finding such recycling programs near the user's location (e.g., based on location information collected by the smartphone 508) in response to the selection of the relevant link. Therefore, the communication chip 108 can facilitate waste diversion from landfills, promote recycling, etc., to achieve environmental benefits.

[0051] As another example, Figure 5 A graphical user interface 512 is shown, which includes a link to frequently asked questions and a link to contact information for the support center of the guide bar 104. Thus, the graphical user interface 512 provides a way to access information that can answer users' questions related to the guide bar 104. In various embodiments, various other contents related to the guide bar 104 can also be provided through the graphical user interface 512. For example, in different embodiments, training information, user guides, demonstration videos, forestry-related entertainment content, promotional activities, customer loyalty program information, etc. can be provided.

[0052] The communication chip 108 can be programmable and reprogrammable. For example, the information stored thereon can be updated during the product life cycle. For example, the communication chip 108 can store updatable fields, flags, etc., which are updated as manufacturing and / or distribution process steps are completed, for facilitating manufacturing tracking, supply chain management, etc. As another example, the communication chip 108 can provide editable fields accessible to the end user, so that the end user can add information (e.g., username, user contact information, user asset tracking number, etc.) to the communication chip 108.

[0053] Now referring to Figure 6 , a perspective view of an electric saw 100 with a communication label 600 is shown according to some embodiments. The communication label 600 is shown as being pasted on the body 102 of the electric saw 100. The communication label 600 includes a communication chip that provides similar functions to the communication chip 108 described in detail above, including, for example, accessing product information according to a process consistent with the illustration 500 of Figure 5 .

[0054] In some embodiments, the communication label 600 is distributed together with the saw chain 106 (or other components or accessories) and is configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the saw chain 106 (or other components or accessories). Since the saw chain 106 does not have a surface area suitable for directly attaching the communication label 600, the communication label 600 is provided for the user to attach to the body 102 of the electric saw 100. The communication label 600 can be adhered to the body 102 and remain in place throughout the use of the saw chain 106, such that when the user is interested in replacing the saw chain 106, the communication label 600 is still accessible. Then, the communication label 600 can guide the user (e.g., according to the process referred to in Figure 5 to access a compatible replacement saw chain and install the replacement saw chain to continue operating the electric saw 100.

[0055] Reference is now made to Figure 7 , which shows a guide bar 700 according to some embodiments. The guide bar 700 is a multi-part guide bar that includes a body 702 and a nose 704. As Figure 7 is arranged, the nose 704 is coupled to the body 702. The nose 704 is configured to be easily detached from the body 702, such that the body 702 and the nose 704 can be separated. Thus, Figure 7 the guide bar 700 in

[0056] can be disassembled and the nose 704 replaced (e.g., for damage, wear, etc. on the nose 704) without having to discard and replace the body 702 at the same time. Figure 7 As Figure 7 shown, the guide bar 700 includes a first communication chip 706 disposed (e.g., coupled to, integrated into, embedded in) on the body 702 and a second communication chip 708 disposed (e.g., coupled to, integrated into, embedded in) on the nose 704. In other embodiments, one of the first communication chip 706 or the second communication chip 708 is included while the other is omitted. The first communication chip 706 can provide information to cause a reader device to display information related to the body 702, while the second communication chip 708 can provide information to cause a reader device to display information related to the nose, e.g., according to the teachings described in detail above. Thus, the teachings herein can facilitate the identification, replacement, support, etc. of multiple parts of a multi-part guide bar (such as the guide bar 700 shown in

[0057] Reference is now made to Figure 8 , which shows two embodiments of a guide bar 104 according to some embodiments. Figure 8In various embodiments, the communication chip 108 can have various shapes. 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 communication chip 108 that is generally hexagonal, such as including indentations 804 that ensure the communication chip 108 is oriented in a desired direction within the guide bar 104.

[0058] Reference is now made to Figure 9 , which shows a guide bar 900 according to some embodiments. In different embodiments, the guide bar 900 can include various features of the guide bar 104 described above. The guide bar 900 is configured to collect data related to the environment the guide bar experiences and determine performance characteristics of the guide bar 900, as detailed below.

[0059] As Figure 9 shown, the guide bar 900 includes a slat 902 of the guide bar 900, a nose 904 coupled to the slat 902 and defining the nose of the guide bar 900, sprocket teeth 906 included with the nose 904, and a mounting seat 910 disposed on the slat 902 and opposite the other end of the guide bar 900 that is the nose tip 904. The mounting seat 910 is used to connect the guide bar 900 to the body of the saw 102.

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

[0061] The on-board circuit 910 may include various sensors, processors, memories, power supplies, and communication components. For example, this will be described in further detail below with reference to Figure 10 For example, the circuit board 914 may include a power supply, a microprocessor, a memory, and a communication chip. The circuit board 914 may also include one or more sensors, such as an accelerometer or a temperature sensor (or any other type of sensor, including those described elsewhere herein).

[0062] As shown, the on-board circuit 910 includes sensors disposed in the valleys. The first sensor 934 is located in the first valley 916 and near the first corner 918, where a wire or other conductive path runs along the first valley 916 (inside thereof) from the first sensor 934 to the circuit board 914. The second sensor 936 is located in the second valley 920 and near the second corner 922, where a wire or other conductive path runs along the second valley 920 from the second sensor 936 to the circuit board 914. The third sensor 938 is located in the third valley 924 and near the first side 926 of the slat 902, where a wire or other conductive path runs along the third valley 924 from the third sensor 938 to the circuit board 914. The fourth sensor 940 is located in the fourth valley 928 and near the second side 930 of the slat 902, where a wire or other conductive path runs from the fourth sensor 340 to the circuit board 914. The fifth sensor 942 is located in the fifth valley 932 near the nose tip 904 and the sprocket tooth 908, where a wire or other conductive path runs from the fifth sensor 942 to the circuit board 914. Any number of additional sensors may be positioned along any of the valleys. In different embodiments, different numbers of valleys, sensors, etc. may be provided. Thus, the sensors can be arranged at different positions on the slat 902 and conductively coupled to the circuit board 914 without laterally protruding from the slat 902 (e.g., so as to prevent the sensors, wires, circuit boards, etc. from interfering with the performance of the guide bar 900 during cutting).

[0063] The circuit board 914 is shown as including a light source 944, such as a light-emitting diode. The light source 944 may be controlled by the microprocessor of the circuit board 914 to be lit under certain conditions, such as to indicate an event detected by the sensors of the circuit board 914, to indicate the communication status with the circuit board 914, to indicate the power level of the power supply of the circuit board 914, etc.

[0064] The circuit board 914 is also shown as including a contact pad 946. The contact pad 946 is configured to provide communication of electronic signals, data, etc. between the circuit board 914 and an external device. For example, an external computing device (such as a smartphone, laptop, tablet, desktop computer, virtual reality headset) can be equipped with a cable configured to interface with the contact pad 946 to provide communication between the circuit board 914 and the external computing device. Data can be transmitted from the circuit board 914 to the external computing device through the contact pad. In various embodiments, programming, instructions, commands, machine learning models, pattern recognition algorithms, etc. can all be transmitted to the circuit board 914 through the contact pad. In some embodiments, the contact pad 946 is additionally or alternatively disposed near the mount 908 (e.g., wire-connected to other component conductors along a valley such as the first valley 916), and is configured to be directly connected to a complementary electronic component on the body 102 of a saw or other device used with the guide bar 900.

[0065] Reference is now made Figure 10 , a block diagram of a guide bar 900 according to some embodiments is shown. The guide bar 900 includes an on-board circuit 910. The on-board circuit 910 includes at least one sensor 1000, a microprocessor unit 1002, a long-term memory 1004, a communication module 1006, and a power supply 1008.

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

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

[0068] As another example, 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, such as strain generated in one or more directions using the guide bar 900 during a cutting operation. The strain gauge may be provided as part of the circuit board 914 and / or may be disposed along a valley, such as Figure 9 the fifth valley 932 shown in

[0069] As another example, at least one sensor 100 may include a motion sensor, such as an accelerometer or an inertial measurement unit, configured to provide motion measurements (such as acceleration, vibration, translation, rotation, orientation) of the guide bar 900 to the microprocessor unit 1002. The motion sensor may be included in the Figure 9 circuit board 914 shown in

[0070] As another example, 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 (such as a laser triangulation sensor), configured to provide proximity measurements to the microprocessor unit 1002. In some embodiments, the fifth sensor 942 is a proximity sensor positioned near the sprocket tooth 906 and configured to measure the proximity of the sprocket tooth 906 to the fifth sensor 942. The outer periphery of the sprocket tooth is a toothed pattern that extends radially from the sprocket tooth, so when the sprocket tooth rotates in use, the distance between the outer periphery of the sprocket tooth and the proximity sensor changes. The proximity sensor can detect this distance (or otherwise detect the presence of the sprocket tooth) to collect data indicating the rotational speed of the sprocket tooth. Thus, at least one proximity sensor can be used to measure the speed of the sprocket tooth and, correspondingly, the chain speed of the cutting chain engaged by the sprocket tooth.

[0071] As another example, at least one sensor 1000 may measure environmental conditions of the environment around the guide bar 900 and provide environmental condition measurements to the microprocessor unit 1002. For example, 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 around the guide bar 900 and provide the measurement results to the microprocessor unit 1002. In different embodiments, at least one sensor 1000 may also sense various other gases, particulates, etc. At least one sensor 1000 may measure the air pressure of the guide bar 900 and provide the air pressure measurement to the microprocessor unit 1002.

[0072] As another example, at least one sensor 1000 can include an imaging or light sensor, such as a camera or a photodetector, which is configured to provide image data to the microprocessor unit 1002. For example, the light sensor can be arranged in the fifth valley 932 and can be detected when the reception of ambient light (such as daylight) by the light sensor is blocked, which may indicate that the guide bar 900 is performing cutting. In some embodiments, a camera is also included, and the camera provides a still image or video of the guide bar 900 in use.

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

[0074] The microprocessor unit 1002 is configured to receive data from at least one sensor 1010 and determine at least one performance characteristic based on the data. The at least one performance characteristic can include chain speed, number of cuts, amount of material cut, chain state (such as replacement time, sharpness), detected bar state (such as remaining life, stiffness) events, etc. The microprocessor unit 1002 can execute algorithms based on rules and / or artificial intelligence (such as machine learning) to determine the performance characteristic. The microprocessor unit 1002 can be implemented as various types of processing circuits in different embodiments.

[0075] In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit 1002 executes a rule-based program for determining performance characteristics based on sensor data. For example, the microprocessor can compare the sensor measurements with predefined thresholds (e.g., measured temperature with the upper end of the normal temperature range, measured acceleration greater than a threshold acceleration, detected strain greater than a threshold strain) and generate an indication of the occurrence of an event, which indication responds to the sensor measurements exceeding the predefined thresholds. As another example, the microprocessor unit 1002 can include and execute programming for calculating the chain speed based on measurements of the sprocket tooth rotation by a proximity sensor (e.g., calculating the product based on the measured sprocket tooth rotation rate and the sprocket tooth radius). Such rules can involve different values measured by different sensors (e.g., if both the strain and acceleration measurements meet the specified conditions, record the occurrence of a cutting event). There can be various examples in different embodiments.

[0076] In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit 1002 uses a machine learning (ML) model, such as a neural network configured to classify sensor data into classes related to performance characteristics. For example, the ML model can be configured to receive sensor measurements as inputs, and in some embodiments, generate a feature vector from the raw sensor data through preprocessing for input into the ML model. The sensor data input into the ML model can be a batch of sensor data for one or more measurement conditions over a period of time (e.g., an acceleration value time series, a strain value time series, a temperature measurement time series). The ML model can be trained to output an indication of the event represented by the sensor data based on such sensor data, e.g., classify the data as corresponding to a normal cutting event (e.g., an instance of the guide bar 900 for successful cutting), an adverse cutting event (e.g., an instance of the guide bar 900 for unsuccessful use), a cutting event with reduced performance (e.g., indicating that the chain should be replaced or lubricated, the chainsaw motor should be lubricated, the guide bar should be replaced, etc.), a downtime period (e.g., the guide bar 900 is not used for cutting, the time interval between two cuts, etc.). Thus, the microprocessor unit 1002 can use the ML model to solve such classification problems based on sensor data trends.

[0077] In some such embodiments, the ML model is trained on a computing system independent of the guide bar, suitable for local execution on the on-board circuit 910 of the guide bar, and then provided to the on-board circuit 910 through the communication module 1006. For example, the ML model can be trained on sensor data sets that are manually encoded to include performance characteristics, events, etc. Such manually encoded data can be used for ML model training for supervised model training using various techniques.

[0078] The microprocessor unit 1002 is configured to provide the determined performance characteristics to the long-term memory 1004. In different embodiments, the long-term memory 1004 can include one or more storage devices. The long-term memory 1004 can store a log of the performance characteristics without also storing the raw sensor data in the long-term memory 1004. The long-term memory 1004 can store an indication of the performance characteristics and a timestamp related to the time point at which these performance characteristics occurred. In some embodiments, the microprocessor discards the raw sensor data after determining the performance conditions stored thereon, thereby reducing memory requirements and power demands that might otherwise be associated with storing all the raw sensor data long-term. In some embodiments, at least a subset of the raw sensor data is stored in the long-term memory (e.g., when an event of interest is detected).

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

[0080] The power supply 1008 is configured to supply power (electricity, voltage, current, etc.) to the microprocessor unit 1002, the long-term memory 1004, the communication module 1006, and the sensor 1000. The power supply 1008 can include a battery, such as a battery that can be charged by an input power received from an external source (e.g., via contact pads 946). The power supply 1008 can include a generator device, such as a vibration-powered generator, such as a piezoelectric generator, that is configured to generate electricity from kinetic energy experienced by the power supply 1008 during use of the guide bar 900. In some embodiments, the power supply 1008 includes a connection to the body 102 of the saw 100 or to other devices used with the guide bar 900 in order to receive power from these devices. Now referring Figure 11 , a block diagram of a system 1100 including a guide bar 1102 and an external computing device 1104 is shown in accordance with some embodiments. As Figure 11 shown, the guide bar 1102 includes at least one sensor 1000, and the external computing device 1104 includes a microprocessor unit 1002, a long-term memory 1004, a communication module 1006, and a power supply 1008. In these embodiments, the sensor 1000 remains embedded in the guide bar 1102, embedded on a board, etc., while the other components are located in the external computing device 1104. The external computing device 1104 can be coupled to Figure 1 shown in the body 102 of the saw 100, positioned on the body 102, etc., and / or provided in some other way as a device element for use with the guide bar 1102. The sensor 1000 can provide data to the microprocessor unit 1002 via a conduction 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, wires to the external computing device 1104; wireless communication). In such embodiments, the external computing device 1104 and the guide bar 1102 can be combined to provide the same functionality as the on-board circuitry 910 described above (refer to Figure 10)Substantially the same functions.

[0081] Generally referring to the drawings, the teachings herein can be applied to other components of the device, such as other forestry, landscaping, or agricultural equipment. For example, a mower blade (such as a blade for a lawn mower, rotary cutter) can be installed with a communication chip and / or other on-board circuitry in its recess according to the teachings herein.

[0082] The teachings herein relate to an electronic data collection system embedded in a saw chain, including one or more of the following: an external indicator (such as a light source) for announcing the status, one or more sensors for measuring the system status, a processor configured to perform one or more software operations on the sensor data, a memory for storing data related to the software operations, and a wired or wireless communication module for external connection. The processor can include machine learning logic configured to apply a trained model to the sensor data, and the model is configured to make judgments, classifications, etc. related to the sensor data.

[0083] The present invention relates to a method for operating an electronic data collection system embedded in a saw chain. The method includes receiving a physical input through on-board and integrated sensors, performing software operations related to the physical input, and further based on events, machine inputs, machine learning operations, and / or user inputs; storing data related to the performed software operations in a solid-state memory, and transmitting and receiving data using a wired or wireless communication module.

[0084] The present invention also relates to an electronic data collection system capable of processing sensor data from sensors embedded in a rod. The system includes a device independent of the rod, and the device is used as a dedicated device for processing data from sensors embedded in the rod. The device can provide processing including signal conditioning, data storage, machine learning, classification using machine learning algorithms, etc., where the processing and communication are provided outside the rod.

[0085] The present invention also relates to a saw including a guide bar, the guide bar including a recess and a communication chip disposed in the recess of the guide bar. The communication chip is configured to cause a reader device to display information related to the guide bar.

[0086] The guide bar can include a first layer, the first layer including a recess and a communication chip disposed in the recess. The communication chip can be configured to store information related to the guide bar and transmit the information in response to an induced current in the communication chip. In some embodiments, the guide bar includes a second layer coupled to the first layer, and the communication chip is mechanically fixed in the recess by the first layer and the second layer.

[0087] In some embodiments, the guide bar further includes a second layer coupled to the first layer, the second layer including a window portion aligned with the recess and the communication chip. The window portion is configured to permit electronic communication to be transmitted across the second layer. The guide bar may further include a third layer coupled to the first layer, with the first layer positioned between the second layer and the third layer. The first, second, and third layers may be at least partially made of steel.

[0088] The guide bar may include an adhesive that secures the communication chip within the recess. The communication chip may be a passive near-field communication tag. The information may be a website URL that includes content related to the guide bar.

[0089] This disclosure also relates to a method of replacing a guide bar on a saw. The method includes obtaining electronic information 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 information, and installing the replacement guide bar onto the saw. The method may include the reader device providing a graphical user interface based on the electronic information, the graphical user interface being configured to permit a user to order a replacement guide bar.

[0090] This disclosure also relates to a kit for use with a saw, including a cutting chain and a sticker including a communication chip. The sticker may be adhered to the saw, and the communication chip may enable a reader device to display information related to the cutting chain.

[0091] This disclosure also relates to forestry, landscaping, or agricultural equipment, including a replaceable component configured to interact with environmental objects during operation of the equipment, and a communication chip integrated into the replaceable component, wherein the communication chip is configured to enable a reader device to display information related to the replaceable component.

[0092] Generally speaking, with reference to the disclosure herein, although the drawings and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, unless otherwise stated above, the order of these steps may be different from that described and illustrated. Additionally, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously, unless otherwise stated above. For example, such variations may depend on the software and hardware systems selected and the choices of the designer. All such variations fall within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, the software implementation of the method may also employ standard programming techniques and be accomplished through rule-based logic and other logic for performing various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0093] The hardware and data processing components for implementing the various processes, operations, illustrative logics, circuits, etc. described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or execute the functions described herein using a general single-chip or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, specific processes and methods can be performed by circuits with specific functions. Memory (such as memory, storage unit, storage device) can include one or more devices (such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code to complete or facilitate the various processes, layers, and modules described in this disclosure. The memory can be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in this disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicatively connected to the processor through a processing circuit and includes computer code for performing (e.g., by the processing circuit or the processor) one or more processes described herein.

[0094] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products for accomplishing various operations on any machine-readable medium. Embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special-purpose computer processor of a suitable system (integrated for this or other purposes), or by a hard-wired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include a program product comprising a machine-readable medium for carrying or storing machine-executable instructions or data structures. Such a machine-readable medium can be any available medium accessible by a general or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such a machine-readable medium can include 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 the desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. For example, machine-executable instructions include instructions and data that cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processor to perform a certain function or a certain set of functions.

Claims

1. A guide bar for a saw chain saw, the guide bar comprising: Slats, the slats including a channel and a recess; A sensor located in the channel; A processing circuit located in the recess and configured to receive a measurement value from the sensor; Wherein the processing circuit is programmed to determine a performance characteristic of the guide bar based on the measurement value from the sensor.

2. The guide bar according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit is programmed to determine the performance characteristic by providing the measurement value as an input to a machine learning model, wherein the machine learning model is configured to output the performance characteristic.

3. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor is a temperature sensor.

4. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor is a strain gauge.

5. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the measurement represents the speed of the chain.

6. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a plurality of additional channels extending from the recess and a plurality of additional sensors located within the plurality of additional channels.

7. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a motion sensor located within the recess.

8. The guide bar according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a power source configured to generate electricity from the vibration of the guide bar and provide the electricity to the processing circuit.

9. A method, the method comprising: Collecting sensor data representing the physical state of a saw chain saw bar through a sensor embedded in the saw chain saw bar; Determining the occurrence of an event based on the sensor data by a microprocessor unit embedded in the saw chain saw bar; Storing a log in a memory embedded in the saw chain saw bar, the log representing the occurrence of the event while discarding the sensor data.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising communicating the log with an external computing device through a communication circuit embedded in the saw chain saw bar.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising illuminating through a light source coupled to the microprocessor unit in response to an event.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising transmitting the sensor data from the sensor to the microprocessor unit via a valley defined in a slat of the saw chain saw bar.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein determining the occurrence of the event based on the sensor data by the microprocessor circuit embedded in the saw chain saw bar comprises applying a machine learning model to the sensor data.

14. A guide bar, the guide bar comprising: A first layer, the first layer including a recess; and A communication chip located in the recess, wherein the communication chip is configured to: Store a message related to the guide bar; And Transmit the message in response to current induction in the communication chip.

15. The guide rod according to claim 14, further comprising a second layer coupled to the first layer, wherein the communication chip is mechanically held in the recess through the first layer and the second layer.

16. The guide rod according to claim 14, further comprising a second layer coupled to the first layer, wherein the second layer includes a window portion aligned with the recess and the communication chip, and the window portion is configured to allow electronic communication to be transmitted on the second layer.

17. The guide rod according to claim 16, further comprising a third layer coupled to the first layer such that the first layer is between the second layer and the third layer, wherein the first layer, the second layer, and the second layer include steel.

18. The guide rod according to claim 14, further comprising an adhesive for fixing the communication chip in the recess.

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

20. The guide rod according to any one of claims 14-18, wherein the message is a website URL containing content related to the guide rod.

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