Acoustic and Vibration Monitoring for Guided Assembly Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light-guided assembly systems are inadequate for monitoring and guiding operational steps, especially in situations where visual indicators cannot reach or be applied, leading to potential errors and increased costs due to inefficiencies and bottlenecks in manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
An acoustic and vibration detection system using sensors and processors to analyze non-visual sensory signals, such as acoustic and vibrational signatures, to confirm proper performance of operational steps, complemented by a directional light device for visual guidance and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a light-guided assembly system is used to guide and monitor operational steps, then visual guidance can be provided to operators, but the system cannot adequately monitor performance in areas where light indicators cannot reach or be applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines light-guided visual guidance with acoustic and vibration-based monitoring systems into a unified assembly monitoring system. The light guide provides visual instructions to operators, while acoustic sensors and vibration sensors simultaneously monitor the assembly process in areas where light cannot reach, creating a comprehensive system that addresses both guidance and monitoring needs across all work areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic signals and vibration signals as intermediary mediators to transmit information about assembly operations in areas where direct visual monitoring is impossible. These non-visual sensory signals act as intermediaries between the physical assembly actions and the monitoring system, enabling reliable detection and verification of operational steps in locations inaccessible to light-based systems.
2Ease of operation
If conventional light-guided systems are used, then visual indicators can guide operators, but errors and bottlenecks occur due to inadequate monitoring of operational steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where acoustic sensors and vibration sensors continuously monitor assembly operations and provide real-time feedback about the completion and quality of operational steps. This feedback loop enables immediate detection of errors or deviations from standard procedures, allowing for corrective action before bottlenecks develop, thereby maintaining manufacturing efficiency while preserving operator guidance capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If light indicators are used for monitoring, then visual feedback is provided, but non-visual operational steps cannot be adequately detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal monitoring system that integrates multiple detection modalities: light-based visual monitoring for visible operations, acoustic sensing for audible operational steps, and vibration sensing for mechanical assembly actions. This multi-functional system can detect and monitor diverse operational steps across different work areas, adapting to various assembly tasks regardless of whether they are visually accessible, audible, or produce detectable vibrations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the accuracy and efficiency of operational step performance monitoring, reducing errors and costs by providing real-time confirmation of correct actions even in areas inaccessible to conventional light-guided systems, thereby improving manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
An acoustic and/or vibration detection system is adapted to provide monitoring of non-visual sensory signals, such as acoustic signals or vibration signals, produced during the performance of operational steps
Implementation Method 2
An acoustic and/or vibration detection system is adapted to provide monitoring of non-visual sensory signals, such as acoustic signals or vibration signals, produced during the performance of operational steps
Data Source
AI summary
A monitoring and inspection system for a work area includes a non-visual sensory detection sensor, such as a microphone or vibration detection sensor, and a processor. The sensor is configured to sense sounds or vibrations generated in the work area during the performance of an action that are then received by the processor. The processor analyzes the received acoustic and/or vibrational signals and compares the received signals to an expected signal to verify that the identified acoustic and/or vibration signature of the detected signal is an acoustic and/or vibration signature associated with the operational step that was performed to confirm that the operational step has been performed, and that it has been performed properly.