Systems and methods for quality control

Abstract

A system for controlling the de-coating quality of a coating system on the surface of an insulating glass panel is disclosed. The system comprises an emitter configured to emit an ultra-wideband signal having a frequency range between 13 MHz and 80 GHz, a receiver positioned on the opposite side of the insulating glass panel from the emitter configured to receive the UWB signal emitted by the emitter after passing through the insulating glass panel, and a power measurement unit configured to measure a parameter, preferably the power, of the received UWB signal. Associated methods and uses are disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for controlling the quality of a coating removal process applied to a coating system present on the surface of an inlaid glass panel. The coating removal process is performed to improve the electromagnetic (EM) transparency of the inlaid glass panel. More specifically, the invention utilizes a transmitter and receiver to evaluate the effectiveness of the coating removal process by measuring the attenuation of an ultra-wideband (UWB) signal transmitted through the inlaid glass panel. The UWB signal has a frequency range between 13 MHz and 80 GHz.

[0002] This invention is particularly applicable to the field of mounted glass panels used in various industries, such as automotive, construction, and aerospace, where the quality of the decoating process is crucial for achieving the desired electromagnetic (EM) transparency.

[0003] Therefore, the present invention relates to multiple fields, particularly to the field of mounting glass panels on such stationary objects (e.g., buildings, etc.) or moving objects (e.g., vehicles, trains, airplanes, etc.). Background Technology

[0004] In the manufacture of inlaid glass panels, a coating system is typically applied to the panel surface to enhance its properties, such as solar control, thermal insulation, or privacy. However, in some applications, it is necessary to remove or partially remove the coating system to improve the EM (Electromagnetic transparency) of the inlaid glass panel. This process, known as decoating, involves selectively removing the coating system while maintaining the integrity of the underlying glass substrate.

[0005] Traditionally, quality control in the stripping process has relied on visual inspection, where each stripping line is visually inspected to ensure the desired stripping level is achieved. This manual inspection method is time-consuming, subjective, and prone to human error. Furthermore, it does not provide a quantitative assessment of stripping quality and EM transparency, making it difficult to establish consistent standards and ensure uniformity between production batches.

[0006] While visual inspection is widely used in quality control of the coating removal process, this method has several inherent limitations. First, visual inspection relies heavily on human judgment, making it subjective and prone to inconsistencies. Different inspectors may have different understandings of what level of coating removal is acceptable, leading to discrepancies in coating removal quality assessments. This subjectivity poses a significant challenge in establishing consistent standards and ensuring uniformity between production batches.

[0007] Furthermore, visual inspection is a time-consuming process, especially when handling large quantities of installed glass panels. Each decoating line must be inspected individually, increasing overall production time and potentially creating bottlenecks in the manufacturing process. Additionally, the manual nature of visual inspection makes it labor-intensive, requiring skilled personnel for assessment. This reliance on human resources further increases costs and the likelihood of errors.

[0008] Existing solutions attempting to address these limitations focus on using specialized equipment, such as spectrophotometers or optical sensors, to quantitatively measure the EM transparency of mounted glass panels. While these solutions provide more objective measurements compared to visual inspection, they still have certain drawbacks. For example, spectrophotometers require direct contact with the mounted glass panel, which can be impractical and time-consuming, especially in large-scale production environments. On the other hand, optical sensors may be limited in their ability to accurately capture the full range of decoating variations, particularly in complex coating systems.

[0009] Furthermore, these existing solutions typically fail to provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of the coating removal process. They primarily focus on measuring the overall transparency (optical properties) of the mounted glass panel, without considering the specific EM transmission gain achieved through the coating removal process. This limitation hinders the ability to accurately assess the effectiveness of the coating removal treatment and may result in suboptimal EM transparency levels.

[0010] As the demand for high-quality mounted glass panels with improved EM transparency continues to grow, the limitations of current technologies become more apparent. A reliable and efficient system and method are needed to objectively assess the quality of the decoating process, thereby ensuring consistent and accurate results.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for controlling the quality of the decoating process of a coating system applied to an inlaid glass panel. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The object of various aspects of the present invention is to alleviate the above-mentioned problems by providing a system and method for controlling the quality of the decoating process of a coating system applied to an inlaid glass panel, and in particular to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0013] This invention introduces a novel method that utilizes a transmitter and a receiver to evaluate the EM transmission gain achieved through decoating treatment.

[0014] Then, in a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for controlling the decoating quality of a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel.

[0015] The solution as defined in the first aspect of the invention is based on the following: the system includes a transmitter configured to transmit ultra-wideband (UWB) signals in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz.

[0016] The solution as defined in the first aspect of the invention is further based on the following: the system further includes a receiver positioned on the side of the mounting glass panel opposite to the transmitter, configured to receive a UWB signal emitted by the transmitter after passing through the mounting glass panel. The receiver acquires the UWB signal transmitted through the mounting glass panel.

[0017] The solution as defined in the first aspect of the invention is also based on the following: the system further includes a power measurement unit configured to measure parameters of the received UWB signal.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a measurement method. This measurement method is a method for measuring a UWB signal passing through an embedded glass panel using a system according to a first aspect of the invention; the method comprises the following steps in sequence: A1. Use a transmitter to transmit a UWB signal from one side of the embedded glass panel; A2. Use a receiver to receive UWB signals on the other side of the embedded glass panel; A3. Use a power measurement unit to measure the parameters of the received UWB signal received by the receiver.

[0019] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a control method. This control method is used to control the quality of a coating removal process on a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel using a system according to a first aspect of the invention; the method comprises the following steps in sequence: B1. Before the coating removal process, the UWB signal is measured using the measurement method according to the second aspect of the invention; B2. The UWB signal is measured using the measurement method according to the second aspect of the invention during or after the coating removal process; B3. The EM transmission gain is calculated using a calculator unit based on a comparison of the parameters, preferably the power, of the UWB signals received at steps B1 and B2. B4. Determine the quality of the coating removal process based on the calculated EM transmission gain.

[0020] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a transmitter, a receiver, a power measurement unit, and a calculator unit for controlling the quality of a coating removal process on a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel, the transmitter being configured to transmit an ultra-wideband signal in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz; the receiver being positioned on the side of the inlaid glass panel opposite to the transmitter and configured to receive the UWB signal transmitted by the transmitter after passing through the inlaid glass panel; the power measurement unit being configured to measure parameters of the received UWB signal; and the calculator unit being configured to calculate an EM transmission gain based on a comparison of the parameters, preferably the power, of the received UWB signal before and after the coating removal process.

[0021] Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned shortcomings, this invention proposes a novel system and method to overcome the limitations of the prior art. Evaluating the decoating quality of low-E windows using cellular networks faces significant challenges due to several factors. Cellular signals are susceptible to temporal variations caused by fluctuations in network conditions, traffic, and environmental factors, leading to inconsistent measurement results. Furthermore, narrowband technologies (such as cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi) suffer from significant multipath reflection problems; particularly from metallic or coated surfaces such as low-E windows. These reflections distort signal paths and lead to inaccurate data, making reliable quality assessments difficult.

[0022] To address these limitations, this invention proposes the use of UWB signals, which offer several advantages over narrowband techniques. UWB operates over a much wider spectrum, providing high temporal resolution and accurate time-of-flight measurements. This wide bandwidth reduces the impact of multipath interference because UWB signals are better able to distinguish between direct and reflected paths. Furthermore, the short-duration pulses of UWB minimize susceptibility to signal distortion, enabling more reliable and accurate assessment of the decoating process. Overall, UWB transmission provides a robust and highly accurate solution for evaluating the decoating quality of low-E windows.

[0023] Furthermore, by utilizing UWB signals and comparing the parameters of UWB signals before and after the coating removal process, this invention enables a quantitative assessment of the EM transmission gain achieved through the coating removal process. This method offers significant advantages over traditional visual inspection methods, providing a more objective, efficient, and reliable means of evaluating the quality of the coating removal process while minimizing production time and costs, ensuring consistent and accurate results.

[0024] Different aspects of the present invention provide a reliable and efficient means of evaluating transmission gain achieved through a decoating process.

[0025] It should be noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features referenced in the claims or the embodiments described.

[0026] The following description relates to train applications, but it should be understood that the invention can be applied to other fields, such as buildings, cities, streets, urban public facilities, automobiles, or transportation applications. Attached Figure Description

[0027] This and other aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the invention by way of illustration rather than limitation. These drawings are schematic and not to scale. These drawings do not limit the invention in any way. Further advantages will be explained by example.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic 3D view of a system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic top view of a system with different receiver positions according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic 3D cross-sectional view of the system according to the invention when used on a train.

[0031] Figure 4 This represents a typical waveform of the signal received by the receiver according to the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 A measurement method according to the second aspect of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 6 A control method according to a third aspect of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0034] This document includes various modifications, equivalents, and / or substitutions for specific embodiments and corresponding embodiments. In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same or identical parts.

[0035] As used herein, spatial or directional terms such as “inner,” “outer,” “above,” “below,” “top,” and “bottom,” etc., are relevant to the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the invention can take various alternative orientations, and therefore these terms are not to be considered limiting. Furthermore, all figures used in the specification and claims to indicate dimensions, physical properties, processing parameters, amounts of components, reaction conditions, etc., should in all cases be understood to be modified by the term “approximately.” Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical values ​​listed in the following specification and claims are approximate values ​​that can be modified to obtain the desired properties according to the invention. In the following description, unless otherwise stated, the expression “substantially” means within 10%, preferably within 5%.

[0036] Furthermore, all ranges disclosed herein should be understood to include both the starting and ending range values, and to encompass any and all subranges contained therein. For example, the stated range “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges between the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10 (and including the endpoints); that is, all subranges begin with a minimum value of 1 or greater, such as 1 to 6.1, and end with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as 5.5 to 10. Further, as used herein, the terms “deposited on” or “set on” mean deposited or set on but not necessarily in surface contact with. For example, a coating “deposited on a substrate” does not exclude the presence of one or more other coating films of the same or different composition between the deposited coating and the substrate.

[0037] As used in this specification and claims, the term "transparent" indicates a property describing an average TL (transmittance) of at least 1% of visible light transmitted through the material in the visible spectrum. Preferably, transparency refers to a TL of at least 10%. More preferably, transparency is indicated by a TL of at least 50%. Ideally, transparency is indicated by a TL of at least 70%.

[0038] The use of the term "comprising" in this specification and claims does not exclude other elements or steps. When referring to singular nouns, the use of indefinite or definite articles, such as "a" or "an," or "the," includes the plural form of that noun unless otherwise specified. In this document, "configured to" (or set to) may be used interchangeably in hardware and software with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "modified to," "manufactured to," "capable of," or "designed to." In any case, the statement "the apparatus is configured to do..." can mean "the apparatus can do..." in conjunction with another apparatus or component.

[0039] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe an order in time, space, ranking, or any other manner. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in orders other than those described or illustrated herein. When a component (e.g., a first component) is described as "(functionally or communicatively) coupled to" or "connected to" another component (e.g., a second component), it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to that other component or connected to it via another component (e.g., a third component).

[0040] The purpose of this invention is to alleviate the above-mentioned problems by proposing an efficient system for controlling the coating quality of a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel.

[0041] In particular, according to such Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first aspect of the invention shown relates to a system 1. This system is designed to control the decoating quality of a coating system present on the surface of an inlaid glass panel. <Inlaid glass panel>

[0042] The fitted glass panel can be any fitted glass panel, such as a window used to close an opening in a building or vehicle.

[0043] Typically, such embedded glass panels include at least a dielectric panel. A dielectric panel is a panel that is not conductive itself.

[0044] The dielectric panel can be made of a plastic-based composition or, for example, a glass panel containing at least 50% by weight of SiO2, such as soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, or borosilicate glass. The plastic-based composition can be PET, polycarbonate, PVC, or any other transparent dielectric plastic-based composition that can be used as the panel.

[0045] The embedded glass panel can be made of several panels, such as laminated embedded glass panels and / or multiple embedded glass panels, such as IGU, VIG, etc.

[0046] The composition and quantity of the panel do not limit the manufacturing method or shape of the inlaid glass panel of the present invention.

[0047] The glass panel has two outer surfaces facing outwards.

[0048] In the case of multiple embedded glass panels, in addition to the outer surface, there are several inner surfaces, which are the interfaces between the layers that constitute the multiple embedded glass panels.

[0049] Typically, multi-layered glass is at least partially transparent. Coating System

[0050] In the context of this invention, a coating system is a layer or combination of layers applied to a surface to provide protection, improve appearance, or enhance functionality. Coating systems can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including glass, plastics, and intermediate layers.

[0051] Coating systems typically consist of one or more thin films or coatings applied to the surface of an embedded glass panel using various deposition techniques, such as sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, or physical vapor deposition. Depending on the desired properties and performance requirements, these coatings can be made of different materials, such as metal oxides.

[0052] Typically, coating systems aim to alter the optical, thermal, or mechanical properties of fitted glass panels. For example, low-e coatings can reduce heat transfer through fitted glass panels, thereby improving energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. Similarly, solar control coatings can selectively block or reflect certain wavelengths of solar radiation, thereby reducing heat and glare entering the building while allowing visible light to pass through.

[0053] The problem of reduced EM transparency is mainly due to the conductive layer of the coating system. <Remove Coating>

[0054] In the context of this invention, decoating is the process of removing or reducing the coating material of a coating system from a portion of a surface (such as a window) to create a decoated area that allows more electromagnetic signals to pass through. This is necessary to maintain the high transparency of fitted glass to radio frequency waves in a specified frequency range, which has become crucial in modern life, especially with the massive penetration of cellular smartphones, tablets, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices that require electromagnetic fields to penetrate deep into buildings or cars for indoor coverage, even at high spectral frequencies up to 70 GHz.

[0055] Coating removal can be performed using various methods, such as laser ablation, chemical etching, and mechanical scraping. Chemical etching may require multiple steps, including applying and removing the etching solution, rinsing and drying the surface. Mechanical scraping can damage or create defects in the substrate or coating material, such as cracks, scratches, or chipping. Laser ablation is a more precise method. This type of coating removal allows for the creation of frequency-selective surfaces (FSS) or similar structures. Typically, coating removal involves marking non-conductive or substantially non-conductive segments within the coating system, such as mesh structures, periodic or aperiodic structures, or any other structure that allows EM waves to pass through.

[0056] The invention also includes a transmitter 2 and a receiver 3 to enable the measurement of parameters of signals passing through an inlaid glass panel. The transmitter is configured to transmit ultra-wideband (UWB) signals in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz. This allows for high-resolution measurements, enabling the system to capture detailed information about the transmission characteristics of the inlaid glass panel, including attenuation caused by the coating system before and after the decoating process. It also allows for good penetration, enabling UWB signals to pass through the inlaid glass panel and reach the receiver on the other side. They can propagate through various materials, including glass, without significant signal degradation. Furthermore, it allows for good interference immunity, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of measurements, as the system can utilize UWB signals without being affected by unwanted electromagnetic noise in the vicinity. It also allows for mitigation of the effects of multipath propagation in the environment, resulting in more accurate and robust measurements of the power of the received signal. <Transmitter>

[0057] In some preferred embodiments, the transmitter transmits UWB signals in the frequency range of 3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz, thereby providing accurate, reliable and high-resolution measurements for controlling the coating quality of the coating system on the mounted glass panel.

[0058] In some preferred embodiments, the transmitter may include a modem that generates a UWB signal and at least one antenna that transmits the UWB signal. In such embodiments, the modem functions to generate a UWB signal with desired characteristics, such as frequency range. The modem may also apply modulation techniques, encoding, and synchronization to the UWB signal to ensure that the signal carries the necessary information and is compatible with the receiver. The antenna, on the other hand, is responsible for transmitting the UWB signal into the mounting glass panel. The antenna converts the electrical signal from the modem into electromagnetic waves that propagate through space and penetrate the mounting glass panel. The design and characteristics of the antenna, such as its radiation pattern and gain, determine the directionality and efficiency of the signal transmission. By combining the modem and antenna in the transmitter, the system allows for precise control over the characteristics of the UWB signal and its transmission through the mounting glass panel. This allows for accurate measurement of signal parameters (such as power) before and after a decoating process, thereby facilitating the evaluation of the EM transmission gain achieved by decoating the coating system on the mounting glass panel.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the transmitter can utilize a pulse-based modulation scheme to improve the efficiency and accuracy of signal transmission. In such embodiments, the transmitter further includes a pulse generator configured to generate pulses for use by a pulse-based modulation scheme for transmitting UWB signals.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the pulse generator may be adjustable to change the pulse repetition rate of the generated pulses, and / or adjustable to change the pulse duration of the generated pulses, and / or adjustable to change the pulse shape of the generated pulses, and / or adjustable to change the pulse amplitude of the generated pulses. Preferably, the pulse generator is synchronized with the receiver to ensure the correct timing of signal transmission and reception.

[0061] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the transmitter may further include a signal processing unit configured to preprocess the UWB signal prior to transmission. The signal processing unit may include filters for shaping the spectrum of the UWB signal and / or amplifiers for increasing the power of the UWB signal and / or modulators for applying modulation techniques to the UWB signal and / or encoding units for encoding information onto the UWB signal and / or synchronization units for synchronizing the UWB signal with the receiver.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the transmitter has an omnidirectional antenna that provides a nearly uniform signal distribution in its surrounding space and has advantages such as easy installation, improved measurement accuracy, flexibility, adaptability and cost-effectiveness.

[0063] According to some other embodiments, the transmitter has a directional antenna that provides targeted signal transmission, increased signal strength, reduced interference, improved spatial resolution, customizable coverage, and compatibility with existing systems. These advantages can help improve the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of coating removal quality control systems on mounted glass panels. <Receiver>

[0064] According to the invention, the system further includes a receiver 3 positioned on the side of the mounting glass panel opposite to the transmitter. The receiver is configured to receive a UWB signal emitted by the transmitter after passing through the mounting glass panel.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the receiver may include at least an antenna for receiving UWB signals and a modem for measuring parameters of the UWB signals (such as shape, amplitude, noise level, and time of flight), thereby allowing efficient capture and analysis of UWB signals. This provides valuable information for evaluating the quality of the decoating process on the mounting glass panel, enabling quality control, process optimization, and data analysis. The antenna captures the electromagnetic waves carrying the UWB signal and converts them into a signal that can be processed by the receiver. By adjusting the design and characteristics of the antenna, such as its gain and radiation pattern, its sensitivity and ability to effectively capture UWB signals can be determined. The modem is responsible for measuring various parameters of the received UWB signal. It performs signal processing and analysis to extract valuable information from the received signal. The modem may measure parameters such as signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, frequency content, time of arrival, and other relevant characteristics of the UWB signal. Such embodiments allow for accurate capture and analysis of the characteristics of the received UWB signal. The antenna receives the UWB signal transmitted by the transmitter to convert it into a signal for processing. The modem measures various parameters of the received UWB signal, such as signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, frequency content, and time of arrival. This analysis enables the assessment of the quality of the coating removal process on mounted glass panels, thus aiding in quality control, process optimization, and data analysis. The receiver's measurements provide valuable feedback for monitoring and adjusting the coating removal process, ensuring consistent and reliable results. Furthermore, the recorded data can be used for historical data analysis, trend analysis, and performance evaluation, contributing to the continuous improvement of the coating removal process.

[0066] In some embodiments, the receiver may include a demodulator configured to extract transmitted information from the received UWB signal. The demodulator may employ coherent demodulation techniques to recover modulation information from the received UWB signal, and / or employ error correction coding to improve the reliability of the recovered information. The demodulator may include a synchronization unit to synchronize the demodulation process with the UWB signal.

[0067] In some embodiments, the receiver may further include a signal processing unit configured to preprocess the received UWB signal. The signal processing unit may include a filter for removing noise and interference from the received UWB signal and / or an amplifier for increasing the power of the received UWB signal and / or a demodulator for extracting transmitted information from the received UWB signal and / or a decoding unit for decoding encoded information from the received UWB signal and / or a synchronization unit for synchronizing the received UWB signal with the transmitter.

[0068] According to some embodiments, the receiver may further include an antenna array configured to receive UWB signals using beamforming capabilities. The antenna array may include multiple antenna elements and / or a beamforming controller, which can be individually controlled to adjust the direction and shape of the received UWB signal, and the beamforming controller is used to optimize the beamforming parameters of the received UWB signal.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the receiver may further include multiple spatially separated antennas configured to receive multiple copies of the UWB signal. This allows for improved system quality and reliability and / or determination of the angle of arrival of the incoming UWB signal.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the receiver may further include a power measurement unit configured to measure parameters of the received UWB signal. The power measurement unit may include a calibrated power sensor to provide accurate power measurement results. The power measurement unit may include a digital signal processing unit for analyzing and processing the power measurement results and / or a data recording unit for recording and storing the power measurement results for further analysis.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the receiver may have an omnidirectional antenna, which allows for simplified setup, comprehensive signal reception, increased flexibility, reduced complexity, improved reliability and cost-effectiveness, and helps to accurately and efficiently evaluate the decoating quality of the coating system on the mounted glass panel.

[0072] In some other embodiments, the receiver may have a directional antenna, which allows for targeted signal reception, improved signal-to-noise ratio, enhanced spatial resolution, reduced interference, customizable coverage, and compatibility with existing systems. These advantages facilitate accurate and precise evaluation of the decoating quality of the coating system on the mounted glass panel, particularly in specific areas of interest. This also allows for the avoidance of reflections from supports or the environment surrounding the receiver.

[0073] According to some embodiments, the receiver can be configured to generate a quality control map based on a detected change in first path power, which indicates the decoating quality across the entire surface of the mounted glass panel. <Power Measurement Unit>

[0074] According to the present invention, the system further includes a power measurement unit 4 configured to measure parameters of the received UWB signal, preferably the power of the received UWB signal, and parameters for evaluating and correcting the reliability of the measurement results. This allows for accurate measurement, real-time monitoring, quality control, process optimization, alarms and notifications, data analysis and recording, communication and integration, a user-friendly interface, and power control capabilities. These advantages facilitate the efficient and effective assessment and control of power levels during the coating removal process on mounted glass panels.

[0075] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a calibration module configured to calibrate the power measurement results to obtain accurate and reliable results. The calibration module may utilize a known reference signal or power standard to calibrate the power measurement unit.

[0076] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a data analysis unit configured to analyze the power measurement results and provide statistical information about the coating removal process. The data analysis unit may calculate metrics such as average power, power distribution, or power variation to assess the quality and consistency of the coating removal process.

[0077] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a communication interface configured to transmit power measurement results to a central control system or a remote monitoring station. The communication interface may utilize wired or wireless communication protocols to transmit the power measurement results in real time or periodically.

[0078] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a threshold detection module configured to compare the power measurement result with a predefined threshold and generate an alarm or notification when a deviation occurs. The threshold detection module may allow adjustable threshold settings to accommodate different decoating process requirements or quality standards.

[0079] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a power recording unit configured to record and store power measurement results for historical tracing and analysis. The power recording unit may include a memory or storage device for storing the power measurement results in a structured and retrievable format.

[0080] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a power display unit configured to provide a visual or digital representation of the power measurement results for real-time monitoring and analysis. The power display unit includes a graphical user interface (GUI) or a digital display to present the power measurement results in a user-friendly and intuitive manner.

[0081] In some embodiments, the power measurement unit may further include a power control unit configured to adjust the power level of the UWB signal transmitted by the transmitter based on the measured power. The power control unit can utilize feedback from the power measurement results to dynamically adjust the transmitter's power output and maintain a consistent signal strength during the decoating process. <Calculator Unit>

[0082] According to some embodiments, the system may further include a calculator unit 5 configured to calculate the EM transmission gain based on a comparison of parameters (such as power) of the UWB signals received before and after the decoating process, thereby enabling quantitative assessment, objective evaluation, process optimization, quality control, performance monitoring, data analysis, and documentation / reporting capabilities. These advantages help to efficiently and effectively assess and optimize the impact of the decoating process on signal transmission.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include a calibration module configured to calibrate the EM transmission gain calculation to obtain accurate and reliable results. The calibration module may utilize a known reference signal or power standard to calibrate the EM transmission gain calculation.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include a data analysis module configured to analyze the calculated EM transmission gain and provide statistical information about the performance of the coating removal process. The data analysis module can calculate metrics such as average transmission gain, gain distribution, or gain variation to evaluate the consistency and effectiveness of the coating removal process.

[0085] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include a communication interface configured to transmit the calculated EM transmission gain to a central control system or a remote monitoring station. The communication interface may utilize wired or wireless communication protocols to transmit the calculated EM transmission gain in real time or periodically.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include a threshold detection module configured to compare the calculated EM transmission gain with a predefined threshold and generate an alarm or notification when a deviation occurs. The threshold detection module may allow adjustable threshold settings to accommodate different decoating process requirements or quality standards.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include an EM transmission gain recording unit configured to record and store the calculated EM transmission gain for historical tracing and analysis. The EM transmission gain recording unit may include a memory or storage device for storing the calculated EM transmission gain in a structured and retrievable format.

[0088] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include an EM transmission gain display unit configured to provide a visual or digital representation of the calculated EM transmission gain for real-time monitoring and analysis. The EM transmission gain display unit may include a graphical user interface (GUI) or a digital display to present the calculated transmission gain in a user-friendly and intuitive manner.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the calculator unit may further include an EM transmission gain control unit configured to adjust the decoating process parameters based on the calculated EM transmission gain. The EM transmission gain control unit can utilize feedback from the calculated EM transmission gain to dynamically adjust the decoating process and maintain the desired EM transmission gain.

[0090] The calculator unit offers several advantages for controlling the quality of the coating removal process on mounted glass panels. It provides a quantitative assessment of electromagnetic (EM) transmission gain by comparing parameters, preferably power, of the ultra-wideband (UWB) signals received before and after the coating removal process. This objective assessment is more reliable and consistent than traditional visual inspection methods, which are subjective and prone to human error. By automating the assessment process, the calculator unit reduces the time and labor required for quality control. This efficiency minimizes production time and costs, making the process more streamlined and cost-effective. The calculator unit ensures accurate results by providing a detailed analysis of the EM transmission gain. This accuracy is crucial for maintaining high standards and consistency across production batches. The system relies on UWB signals with good penetration and interference immunity, enhancing the reliability of the measurement results. This reliability ensures a robust and reliable quality control process. Unlike existing solutions that primarily focus on measuring overall transparency, the calculator unit provides a comprehensive assessment of the coating removal quality by specifically evaluating the EM transmission gain. This comprehensive approach ensures that the coating removal process achieves the desired level of EM transparency.

[0091] According to some embodiments, the system may include a reflective element configured to reflect UWB signals and positioned behind the receiver away from the transmitter; preferably, the reflective element comprises a metal-based material.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the system may further include a display unit 6 configured to display the calculated EM transmission gain.

[0093] like Figure 2 As shown, the system may include a movable device 33 configured to move the receiver from position 3a to position 3b. Preferably, the transmitter is fixed in a defined position when the receiver can be moved. The movement is preferably performed along the mounting glass panel.

[0094] In some other embodiments, the system may include a movable device configured to move the transmitter from a first position to a second position. Preferably, the receiver is fixed in a defined position when the transmitter can be moved. The movement is preferably performed along the mounting glass panel.

[0095] According to some embodiments, in order to achieve signal fidelity, reduce reflection, improve signal-to-noise ratio, avoid signal degradation, and improve measurement accuracy, the receiver is positioned at a minimum distance Dr from the mounted glass panel, wherein Where λ is the minimum wavelength of the UWB signal, and Lr is the length of the receiver's antenna; and the transmitter is positioned at a minimum distance De from the embedded glass panel, where Where λ is the minimum wavelength of the UWB signal, and Le is the length of the transmitter's antenna. These advantages help the system accurately assess the properties of the mounted glass panel and evaluate the effectiveness of the coating removal process.

[0096] According to some preferred embodiments, the defined location of the transmitter is determined based on optimal signal transmission and reception characteristics.

[0097] According to some preferred embodiments, the receiver is configured to move substantially parallel to the surface of the mounted glass panel during the quality control process.

[0098] Figure 3 Several embodiments are shown in which the system of the present invention is used in situ, meaning that the system is used when the mounting glass unit is installed on an object rather than in a factory. In this illustration, object 100 is a train carriage.

[0099] In this embodiment, the transmitter 2 is fixed in a defined position by means of element 21. The receiver 3 can be moved by displacement device 111. This allows for the analysis of several windows without changing the position of the transmitter.

[0100] In some embodiments, the transmitter 2 and / or receiver 3 may be detachably attached to a window, window frame, or wall in which a window is mounted, via a detachable element. Such a detachable element may be a fixed detachable element, such as an suction pad, suction cup, or any other element that allows the transmitter and / or receiver to be detachably attached to the window, window frame, or wall in which a window is mounted. Such a detachable element may also be a movable detachable element capable of displacement along a plane substantially parallel to the window surface.

[0101] In such an embodiment, the detachable element is designed to hold the transmitter and / or receiver at a defined distance from the corresponding surface of the window (which faces directly towards the transmitter and / or receiver), thereby allowing for the setting of flight time and / or filtering of the flight time. Such an embodiment allows for improved measurement results, particularly for windows comprising at least three panes of glass.

[0102] In such an embodiment, the distance between the corresponding surface and the transmitter and / or the distance between the corresponding surface and the receiver is greater than or equal to zero, which means that the transmitter and / or receiver can abut against the corresponding surface of the window.

[0103] In some preferred embodiments, the displacement device may also be part of a coating removal apparatus for the coating removal process. In such embodiments, the coating removal apparatus includes a laser device designed to perform coating removal and a receiver 3 located adjacent to the laser device. The laser device and the receiver may be connected by means of a hinged arm (e.g., Figure 3 (as shown) to be shifted, or shifted in any other way that moves the laser unit along the window to remove the coating from such a window.

[0104] In some embodiments, the receiver displacement can be stored. Spatial positioning (x, y, z positions) and potential defects in the decoating process can also be stored. In such embodiments, if the positioning and defects are stored, the decoating process can use the positions to perform decoating with the same or different parameters to ensure proper decoating and avoid areas 93 with unacceptable EM transparency.

[0105] According to some embodiments, the system may further include a motorized mechanism coupled to the receiver to enable controlled movement along the surface of the mounted glass panel.

[0106] According to some embodiments, the receiver is configured to move across the entire surface of the mounted glass panel in a linear scan mode, a raster scan mode, a spiral scan mode, or any other known scan mode.

[0107] According to some embodiments, the receiver is further configured to detect changes in power along a first path along the surface of the mounted glass panel.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the system may further include a feedback mechanism for adjusting the movement of the receiver based on a detected change in the first path power.

[0109] Figure 4 The typical waveform 403a (curve with squares) represents the signal received by the receiver before the coating process (i.e., before the coating system is touched). Figure 4 It also represents the typical waveform 403b (curve with triangles) of the signal received by the receiver after the decoating process is performed correctly (thus generating the FSS).

[0110] The first spike in curve 403b is the pulse received from the first path. The other spikes are reflections of the pulse from components such as seats, the ground, and walls.

[0111] exist Figure 4 In this example, the first three points (times = 101, 102, and 103) are used to calculate the first path power. Therefore, the calculated value is -98.4 dBm before the decoating process and -85.3 dBm after the decoating process. Then, in this embodiment, the gain in terms of EM transparency can be calculated as 13 dB.

[0112] It is also possible to measure the overall signal power, which means taking into account the first path and reflections. This value is less significant, but it can still determine whether there is gain if there are problems with the first path measurement results.

[0113] This invention allows for the isolation of power measurement results from reflections. Reflections can be filtered using time gating. Reflections at least 90 cm longer than the first path will not affect the measurement results.

[0114] According to some embodiments, the frequency (channel) of the UWB signal can be changed or selected based on the composition of the mounting glass panel to maximize the power difference between the received signals before and after the decoating process. This results in improved signal sensitivity, improved signal transmission, minimized signal interference, customization for different mounting glass panels, improved measurement accuracy, process optimization, flexibility and adaptability, and regulatory compliance. These advantages help the system accurately assess the power difference before and after the decoating process, thereby improving process control and optimization. The change or selection of the UWB signal frequency (channel) can be determined by analyzing the EM transmission characteristics of the mounting glass panel, including its material composition, thickness, and other relevant parameters. The change or selection of the UWB signal frequency (channel) can be performed by a frequency control module within the power measurement unit, which adjusts the UWB signal generator to transmit the signal at an optimized frequency. The change or selection of the UWB signal frequency (channel) can be based on a predetermined frequency range or a set of predefined frequencies specifically customized for different types of mounting glass panels. The change or selection of the UWB signal frequency (channel) can be dynamically adjusted during the decoating process based on real-time measurement and analysis of the power difference between the received signals. The frequency (channel) selection of the UWB signal can be optimized to maximize the power difference between the received signals, thereby improving the accuracy and sensitivity of transmission gain calculations. This frequency (channel) selection can be performed automatically by the system based on predefined algorithms or machine learning techniques that analyze the composition of the mounting glass panel and determine the optimal frequency for power measurement. The frequency (channel) selection can be accompanied by adjustments to the power level or waveform characteristics of the UWB signal to further optimize the power difference between the received signals. The frequency (channel) selection can be coordinated with the positioning of the receiver and transmitter relative to the mounting glass panel, maintaining a specified minimum distance, to maximize the power difference and minimize signal distortion or reflection. The frequency (channel) selection can be adaptive and can be reconfigured or updated based on changes in the composition of the mounting glass panel or other factors affecting the power difference between the received signals.

[0115] It should be understood that, according to the present invention, in some embodiments, the transmitter and receiver can be interchanged.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the transmitter and receiver units can be designed to have identical or compatible interfaces, allowing for seamless interchangeability without modification or adjustment of system components. The transmitter and receiver units are physically detachable and can be easily disconnected and reconnected without compromising system functionality or measurement accuracy. The transmitter and receiver units can be electronically configurable to switch between transmitting and receiving signals, enabling the system to adapt to different measurement scenarios or configurations. The transmitter and receiver units can be equipped with identification mechanisms or unique identifiers recognized by the system to ensure proper identification and tracking of unit roles and prevent unauthorized swapping or tampering. The transmitter and receiver units can be protected by encryption or authentication mechanisms to ensure secure and authorized unit swapping while preventing unauthorized access to or copying of system configurations. The transmitter and receiver units can be physically or electronically sealed or tamper-proof.

[0117] In some embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may communicate prior to measurement to find an ideal signal power level suitable for operation. The transmitter and receiver units may communicate before the measurement process to determine the ideal signal power level to be used, thereby optimizing measurement accuracy and ensuring reliable power level assessment. Communication between the transmitter and receiver units may include exchanging control signals, calibration data, or test signals to establish a suitable power level for UWB signal transmission. The transmitter unit may transmit test signals to the receiver unit, and the receiver unit may provide feedback or measurement data to the transmitter unit, enabling the determination of the optimal power level for subsequent measurements. Communication between the transmitter and receiver units may involve iteratively adjusting the signal power level based on the received feedback, allowing fine-tuning and convergence to the ideal power level. Communication between the transmitter and receiver units may be facilitated by a control module or algorithm within the system that analyzes the feedback data and adjusts the power level accordingly.

[0118] According to some embodiments of the present invention, communication between the transmitter unit and the receiver unit occurs via a wired or wireless connection, thereby enabling efficient exchange of information and coordinating the power level determination process. Communication between the transmitter unit and the receiver unit can be performed automatically without manual intervention, ensuring that the power level determination for each measurement is consistent and standardized. Communication between the transmitter unit and the receiver unit may include evaluating signal quality, signal-to-noise ratio, or other relevant parameters to assess the suitability of the power level and make adjustments as necessary. Communication between the transmitter unit and the receiver unit can be initiated during system startup or initialization, ensuring that an optimal power level is established before the actual measurement process begins. Communication between the transmitter unit and the receiver unit can be protected by encryption or authentication mechanisms to ensure secure and authorized information exchange and prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

[0119] The present invention also provides a method 400 for measuring UWB signals through an inlaid glass panel using a system according to the first aspect of the invention, such as... Figure 5 As shown. This method allows for the accurate measurement and characterization of UWB signals transmitted through an inlaid glass panel. The method includes capturing the signal's power, frequency, waveform, and other relevant parameters. By measuring the signal, this method provides valuable information about the signal's properties and characteristics.

[0120] The method for measurement includes step A1: transmitting a 401 UWB signal from one side of the mounted glass panel using a transmitter. Then, the method includes step A2: receiving a 402 UWB signal from the other side of the mounted glass panel using a receiver, followed by step A3: measuring 403 parameters (e.g., power) of the received UWB signal received by the receiver using a power measurement unit.

[0121] like Figure 6 As shown, the present invention provides a method for controlling the quality of the coating removal process of a coating system on the surface of an embedded glass panel.

[0122] The control method allows for the assessment of the effectiveness of the stripping process by measuring signals before and after processing. By comparing signal measurement results, the method evaluates the impact of the stripping process on signal transmission, thereby enabling accurate characterization of UWB signals, evaluation of the stripping process, ensuring quality control, process optimization, performance monitoring, data analysis, and compliance with standards. These objectives collectively contribute to the efficient and effective evaluation and control of signal transmission during the stripping process on mounted glass panels and allow for the determination of the achieved transmission gain.

[0123] The control method includes step B1: measuring a 400 UWB signal using a measurement method prior to the coating removal process.

[0124] Then, the method includes step B2: measuring a 400 UWB signal during or after the decoating process 500.

[0125] Then, the control method includes step B3: using a calculator unit to calculate a 600 transmission gain based on a comparison of parameters (such as power) of the UWB signals received at steps B1 and B2.

[0126] Following step B3, the control method includes step B4: determining the quality of the 700 decoating process based on the calculated transmission gain.

[0127] The control method acts as a quality control mechanism by monitoring and measuring signals during the coating removal process. It ensures that the signals meet desired power levels, frequency ranges, and other specifications. Deviations from expected signal parameters can trigger alarms or notifications, indicating potential problems or anomalies in the coating removal process.

[0128] The control method provides data for process optimization by measuring signals and analyzing their characteristics. The measurement results can be used to fine-tune process parameters, optimize equipment settings, and improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the coating removal process.

[0129] The control method enables real-time or periodic monitoring of signals during the coating removal process. Continuous signal measurement allows for the detection of any potential changes, fluctuations, or anomalies. This facilitates timely intervention or adjustments to maintain consistent and reliable signal transmission.

[0130] The control method generates data that can be analyzed to gain deeper insights into the signal's behavior and performance. By analyzing signal measurement results, statistical indicators can be calculated, trends can be identified, and correlations with other process variables can be established. This data analysis helps to understand the factors affecting signal transmission and optimize the coating removal process.

[0131] In some embodiments, the control method may include the step of displaying the calculated transmission gain.

[0132] In some embodiments, the control method may further include a step of adjusting the decoating process in real time based on the calculated transmission gain to ensure proper decoating.

[0133] To implement this method, an embedded glass panel is positioned between the transmitter and receiver, allowing the UWB signal to be transmitted through the panel. The system further includes a calculator unit that calculates the power of a first path, providing a reference value for comparison. By comparing the power values ​​obtained before and after the decoating process, the effectiveness of the decoating process can be determined.

[0134] The control method may further include the step of storing the values ​​obtained before and after the decoating process in a memory unit.

[0135] The control method may further include the step of comparing the stored value with historical values ​​stored in the memory cell.

[0136] The control method may further include a step of adjusting the coating removal process based on a comparison of values ​​obtained before and after the coating removal process.

[0137] Back Figure 1 This invention allows for the identification of problems, such as defective decoating areas 93, that have occurred during the decoating process. In some preferred embodiments, the system is capable of locating such areas 93. If necessary, a second decoating process can be performed on such areas using a previous decoating process to ensure proper decoating. The control method may include a step of decoating the area after step B4.

[0138] The embodiments provide the use of a transmitter, receiver, power measurement unit, and calculator unit for controlling the quality of a coating removal process on a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel. The transmitter is configured to transmit an ultra-wideband signal in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz; the receiver is positioned on the side of the inlaid glass panel opposite to the transmitter and is configured to receive the UWB signal transmitted by the transmitter after passing through the inlaid glass panel; the power measurement unit is configured to measure the power of the received UWB signal; and the calculator unit is configured to calculate the transmission gain based on a comparison of the power of the received UWB signal before and after the coating removal process.

[0139] This invention allows for accurate and reliable measurement of the power levels of UWB signals before and after the decoating process, in these different aspects. This accuracy is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of the process and determining the achieved transmission gain.

[0140] This invention allows for real-time monitoring of power levels and signal characteristics during the decoating process in these different aspects. This enables immediate feedback and adjustments to maintain optimal power levels, signal quality, and consistent decoating performance.

[0141] This invention allows for the calculation of transmission gain based on a comparison of the power of the UWB signals received before and after the decoating process, in these different aspects. This provides a quantitative measure of the improvement in signal transmission, thereby allowing for objective evaluation and optimization of the decoating process.

[0142] This invention allows for process optimization by providing in-depth understanding of power distribution, signal characteristics, and transmission gain in these different aspects. It helps identify the most efficient decoating techniques, parameters, and equipment settings, thereby improving process efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

[0143] This invention allows for quality control by monitoring power levels and signal characteristics against predefined thresholds and generating alarms or notifications when deviations occur. This helps ensure consistent and reliable signal transmission and guarantees compliance with quality standards and regulations.

[0144] This invention allows for the generation of data in these different aspects, which can be analyzed to gain insights into the decoating process, signal behavior, and performance. Statistical indicators, trends, and correlations can be derived from this data, enabling further process optimization, troubleshooting, and decision-making.

[0145] This invention allows for the inclusion of communication interfaces in these various aspects to transmit power measurement results, transmission gain, and other relevant data to a central control system or remote monitoring station. This enables centralized data collection, analysis, and integration with other systems or processes.

[0146] This invention, in these different aspects, can facilitate process traceability and documentation by recording and storing power measurements, transmission gain, and other relevant data. This allows for historical tracking, performance evaluation, and reporting to stakeholders, regulatory bodies, or customers.

[0147] Therefore, according to embodiments, the present invention allows for accurate measurement results, real-time monitoring and control, quantitative assessment of transmission gain, process optimization and efficiency, quality control and compliance, data analysis and insights, communication and integration, user-friendly interfaces and visualization, and / or process traceability and documentation. These advantages facilitate the efficient and effective evaluation, optimization, and control of the coating removal process and signal transmission on mounted glass panels.

[0148] Compared to existing solutions (in which the incident angle based on the EM signal is measured to correctly position the receiver at a specific point (i.e., the focal point) after the decoating process), the present invention ensures that the decoating process is performed correctly throughout the entire decoating area, and if the decoating process is not performed correctly and uniformly, a portion of the decoating step can be performed again at a specific location.

Claims

1. A system (1) for controlling the quality of decoating (92) of a coating system (91) on the surface of an inlaid glass panel (9), said system comprising: - Transmitter (2), the transmitter being configured to transmit ultra-wideband (UWB) signals in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz; - Receiver (3), which is positioned on the side of the embedded glass panel opposite to the transmitter and is configured to receive the UWB signal emitted by the transmitter after passing through the embedded glass panel; - Power measurement unit (4), the power measurement unit is configured to measure the parameters of the received UWB signal, preferably the power of the received UWB signal. -The system further includes a calculator unit (5) configured to calculate the transmission gain based on a comparison of the power of the UWB signals received before and after the decoating process (500).

2. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The transmitter includes a modem that generates the UWB signal and an antenna that transmits the UWB signal.

3. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The receiver includes an antenna for receiving the UWB signal and a modem for measuring parameters of the UWB signal.

4. The system according to claims 1 to 3, wherein, The receiver is positioned at a minimum distance Dr from the mounted glass panel, wherein Where λ is the wavelength of the UWB signal, and Lr is the length of the receiver's antenna, and the transmitter is positioned at a minimum distance De from the mounted glass panel, wherein... , where λ is the wavelength of the UWB signal and Le is the length of the transmitter's antenna.

5. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The system includes a movable device configured to shift the receiver.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The transmitter is an omnidirectional transmitter.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The transmitter is a directional transmitter.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The receiver is an omnidirectional receiver.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The receiver is a directional receiver.

10. The system according to any of the preceding claims further includes a display unit (6) configured to display the calculated transmission gain.

11. A method for measuring (400) a UWB signal passing through an embedded glass panel using a system according to any of the preceding claims; the method comprising the following steps in sequence: A1. Using a transmitter, transmit (401) the UWB signal from one side of the embedded glass panel; A2. Receive the UWB signal (402) using a receiver on the other side of the embedded glass panel; A3. Measure (403) the parameters of the received UWB signal received by the receiver using a power measurement unit, preferably the power.

12. A method for controlling the quality of a coating removal process on a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel using the system according to any of the preceding claims; the method comprising the following steps in sequence: B1. Prior to the coating removal process, the UWB signal is measured (400) using the method of claim 12; B2. During or after the coating removal process, the UWB signal is measured (400) using the method of claim 12; B3. The calculator unit is used to calculate the (600)EM transmission gain based on a comparison of the parameters, preferably the power, of the UWB signals received at steps B1 and B2. B4. Determine the quality of the (700) decoating process based on the calculated EM transmission gain.

13. A transmitter, receiver, power measurement unit, and calculator unit are used for controlling the quality of a coating removal process on a coating system on the surface of an inlaid glass panel, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit an ultra-wideband signal in the frequency range of 13 MHz to 80 GHz; the receiver is positioned on the side of the inlaid glass panel opposite to the transmitter and is configured to receive the UWB signal transmitted by the transmitter after passing through the inlaid glass panel; the power measurement unit is configured to measure parameters, preferably power, of the received UWB signal; and the calculator unit is configured to calculate transmission gain based on a comparison of the parameters, preferably power, of the received UWB signal before and after the coating removal process.

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