Plant Asset NFC Data Module for Offline Diagnostics Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to provide storage and access to original asset data, asset configuration data, asset historical operations data, and asset historical maintenance data for high-value plant assets, as well as real-time asset operating data and diagnostics information, especially when the assets are out of service.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a radio frequency identification (RFID) module with a near field communication (NFC) interface into plant assets, allowing for the storage and retrieval of asset data, including configuration, operational, and maintenance history, even when the asset is not in service, using a passive RFID transponder that can be read without being in line of sight and powered by the reader's magnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a passive RFID transponder is used for asset data storage and access, then ease of operation and accessibility are improved, but device complexity increases due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID transponder with the asset itself by integrating the transponder into the asset's housing or structure. This merging allows the transponder to become an inherent part of the asset, enabling automatic data access without requiring separate handheld devices or complex external systems. The transponder is electrically connected to the asset's internal circuitry, allowing seamless data retrieval when the asset is brought near a reader.
Solution Approach 2:
The passive RFID transponder enables the asset to serve itself by automatically providing identification and data information when approached by a reader. The asset's own structure housing the transponder allows it to function as both the carried object and the carrier, eliminating the need for separate data access equipment and simplifying operation.
2Loss of information
If RFID module is integrated into plant assets, then data accessibility and monitoring capability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID system is segmented into independent functional modules: the passive transponder unit that can be separately manufactured and tested, and the asset housing that provides mechanical support and electrical connections. This segmentation allows the transponder to be produced using standard RFID manufacturing processes, while the asset manufacturer integrates it into their production line, dividing the manufacturing complexity between specialized components and general assembly.
3Ease of operation
If passive RFID transponder is used without external electrical connections, then ease of operation and safety in explosive environments are improved, but power transmission requirements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical electrical connections with electromagnetic field-based power transmission. Instead of using wires or contact points to power the transponder, the system uses inductive coupling where the reader's electromagnetic field induces current in the transponder's coil, enabling wireless power transfer and data communication without physical electrical connections.
4Productivity
If RFID technology is implemented for real-time monitoring, then productivity and diagnostics capability are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The passive RFID transponder operates on a periodic activation basis rather than continuously. The transponder remains dormant until a reader's electromagnetic field is detected, at which point it is temporarily activated for data exchange. This periodic operation mode allows real-time monitoring capability when needed while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods, as the transponder draws power only from the reader's field during brief communication windows.
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
This solution enables seamless access and integration of asset data into plant control systems and business applications, simplifies installation, reduces errors, and allows for real-time monitoring and diagnostics, while being suitable for use in potentially explosive environments without the need for external electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
Electrical energy is transmitted from the reader to the transponder via magnetic coupling between the primary coil in the reader and the secondary coil in the transponder
Implementation Method 2
When a resonant transponder is placed within the magnetic alternating field of the reader's antenna (i.e. the self-resonant frequency of the transponder corresponds with the transmission frequency of the reader), the transponder draws energy from the magnetic field generated by the reader
Implementation Method 3
Switching on and off of a load resistance at the transponder's antenna therefore effects voltage changes at the reader's antenna and thus has the effect of an amplitude modulation of the antenna voltage by the remote transponder
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to various assets utilized within manufacturing and process plants for monitoring and control purposes. The asset data modules of the present disclosure include an integral near field communications (NFC) interface configured to provide access to asset data stored within memory integral to the given asset.