Asset Maintenance Database Aggregating Disparate Data Sources

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current asset management systems in industries like construction often rely on outdated methods, such as pen and paper or outdated computing systems, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in tracking assets, maintenance, and operation, which can result in increased costs and reduced productivity due to unreliable location tracking and job monitoring.

Innovation Solution

A database system that aggregates information from disparate sources to generate asset reports, enabling real-time tracking of asset location and operation, scheduling, and maintenance, thereby enhancing revenue generation and reducing downtime through improved management and monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If pen and paper or outdated computing systems are used for asset management, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and information accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidasset tracking accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical pen-and-paper recording systems with electronic computing systems that automatically capture and process asset data. Sensors, GPS trackers, and software platforms substitute manual writing and calculation, dramatically improving measurement precision while managing complexity through digital integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate software systems and databases that mediate between physical assets and management personnel. These intermediaries automatically collect, validate, and process asset information, eliminating manual transcription errors and improving data accuracy without requiring complex direct intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If manual tracking methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and response time worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanagement system complexityVSAvoidasset management efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables assets to self-report their status, location, and operational data through embedded sensors and communication devices. The system automatically updates databases and generates alerts without requiring manual inspection or recording, dramatically improving productivity while keeping the user interface simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous automated monitoring of assets rather than periodic manual checks. Sensors continuously track location, operational parameters, and maintenance needs, ensuring uninterrupted data flow and enabling real-time decision-making, which significantly boosts management efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If automated tracking systems are implemented, then measurement precision and information accuracy improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocation tracking accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs multi-functional integrated systems where single platforms perform multiple tasks: tracking location, monitoring operational parameters, scheduling maintenance, and generating reports. This consolidation improves measurement precision across all functions while managing overall system complexity through unified architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the asset management system into modular components: sensing layers, communication layers, data processing layers, and user interface layers. Each module handles specific functions independently, allowing high precision in individual measurements while maintaining manageable complexity through clear separation of concerns.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Productivity

If real-time monitoring is implemented, then productivity and revenue generation improve, but use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveasset utilization efficiencyVSAvoidpower consumption of tracking devices

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic data transmission and monitoring intervals rather than truly continuous operation. Sensors collect data continuously but transmit information at optimized intervals, balancing real-time productivity needs with energy conservation. The system adjusts transmission frequency based on asset status and priority.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS9519876B2Method for providing maintenance to an asset

Publication Date: 2016.12.13 TRIMBLE INC

AI summary

A method for providing maintenance to an asset is disclosed. In one embodiment, a database having asset information from a plurality of disparate sources is accessed. Asset information in the database is utilized to generate an asset report. The asset report is utilized to track an asset including its location and operation. Scheduling information regarding the asset is utilized such that the manufacturer can provide a scheduled/unscheduled maintenance program for the asset.