Actuator RFID Integration for Emergency Switch Traceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator and switching devices for emergency off switches suffer from wear and tear or soiling, leading to reduced functional reliability and safety, as visual markings become illegible over time.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an RFID element with storage capabilities, using NFC protocols, on the actuator or switching device components for traceability, authentication, and data storage, eliminating the need for visible markings and enhancing security against counterfeiting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual markings (engravings, printing, stickers) are used on actuator and switching device, then component identification is enabled, but the markings become illegible due to wear and tear or soiling during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual markings (mechanical/optical identification method) with an RFID element (electromagnetic field-based identification system). The RFID element stores information about the command or signaling device and can be read without physical contact, eliminating wear and soiling issues associated with surface markings while maintaining component identification capability.
2Reliability
If RFID element is integrated on actuator component, then traceability and authentication are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID element is merged with an existing component of the actuator (such as the button or housing), combining identification functionality with structural elements already present in the device. This integration approach adds traceability capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity by reusing existing components rather than adding separate identification modules.
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
The RFID element ensures improved traceability and authentication, enabling early identification and replacement of defective components, simplifying logistics and warehousing, and maintaining operational safety without visible markings that can wear off.
Implementation Method 1
An RFID element is provided on a component of the actuator, having storage means in which information about the command or signaling device and/or individual parts of the command or signaling device is stored so that it can be read out.
Implementation Method 2
An RFID element means a module which has a so-called radio frequency identification device which has at least one function of a transponder.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator (1) and/or switch apparatus (8) of a command or signalling device (7), wherein the actuator is provided for cooperating with a switch apparatus, wherein the switch apparatus is provided for cooperating with an actuator, and wherein the switch apparatus is configured in such a way that an electrically conductive connection can be established via switching and/or touching. The actuator and/or the switch apparatus are characterised in that an RFID element (4a - 4c, 5a - 5c) is provided on a component (2, 3) of the actuator and/or switch apparatus, wherein the RFID element has storage means in which information which relates to the command or signalling device and/or which can be read by individual parts of the command or signalling device is stored.