Battery Tool Parameter Tags for Error-Free Machine Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

Operators face challenges in accurately setting variable operating parameters for different tools in battery component production machines and lines, leading to errors, tool damage, production loss, and scrap material due to the time-consuming and error-prone manual entry process.

Innovation Solution

A system where each tool is equipped with a tag or label containing stored data for specific operating parameters, readable by an electronic controller, automatically sets the necessary values for the machine or production line, reducing operator errors and streamlining the setup process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If an operator manually enters operating parameter values for each tool, then the machine can be set up for production, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of operating parameter entryVSAvoidsetup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses tags (RFID or data matrix) attached to tools that contain copies of the operating parameter information. Instead of manually entering data, the system reads the tag to automatically retrieve the correct parameters, eliminating manual entry errors and reducing setup time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of entering parameters with an automated electronic reading system. The electronic controller automatically reads tag data via RFID or optical scanning, substituting human operator input with machine-based data retrieval.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If an operator manually enters operating parameter values, then setup can be completed, but operator errors may occur leading to tool damage or production loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of setup processVSAvoidcorrectness of parameter setting
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The tool itself provides the necessary operating parameter information through its attached tag. The system is self-configuring in that the tool identifies its own requirements, eliminating reliance on operator knowledge and reducing errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic controller reads the tag data and automatically configures the machine parameters, creating a feedback loop where the system self-adjusts based on the tool's identity and requirements, ensuring correct parameter setting without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If manual parameter entry is used, then setup can be performed, but errors result in scrap material and production loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidscrap material
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The correct operating parameters are pre-stored on the tool's tag during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the tool is installed, the correct parameters are already available, preventing setup errors that would lead to scrap material and production loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3785171B1Battery machine tool system
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 WIRTZ MFG CO INC
  • EP3785171B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3785171B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6
  • EP3785171B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

A system for setting a specific value of a variable operating parameter of a machine usable with a plurality of different tools each requiring a different specific value of the operating parameter. The system may include a tag associated with a specific tool and containing stored data of a predetermined desired value of an operating parameter of the machine for the specific tool, a reader of the tool stored data of the desired value and a controller of the machine which uses at least some of the stored data to set the predetermined desired value of the variable operating parameter of the machine for its use of the specific tool or of a variable operating parameter of another machine which is dependent on the specific value of at least some of the stored data of the tag of the specific tool used in the machine. The machine may be one of a battery grid casting machine, a battery grid pasting machine, a battery paste making machine, a battery paste drying oven, a battery grid or plate cutting or trimming machine, a battery plate stacking machine, a robotic palletizing machine, or the like.