Bolt Sorting Labels With Color-Shape Codes for Distant Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing classification and identification systems for hardware pieces like bolts, bars, and screws are inadequate for distant identification, especially in environments where surface markings become obscured by grease, oil, or dust, and require costly machining for visual coding systems, which are not practical for structural construction industries dealing with a wide range of bolt lengths.
Innovation Solution
A color and shape code system using a chart with unique graphical combinations for diameter and length, along with identification labels on containers, allowing easy distant identification of hardware pieces by correlating colors, numerals, and symbols, facilitating sorting and installation on worksites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If stamped size information is used on tool surfaces, then identification is provided, but the markings become obscured by grease, oil and dust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by transferring size identification information from the tool surface to a separate color chart. Instead of relying on stamped markings on the tool that become obscured, the invention creates a color-coded chart that serves as a copy or representation of the size information, which can be viewed remotely without being affected by contamination on the tool surface.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If color bands are added to tools for identification, then distant identification is improved, but machining is required which increases cost and may deteriorate the tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the identification function from the tool itself. Instead of adding color bands directly to the tool (which would require machining), the invention divides the identification system into two parts: the tool with its size specifications, and a separate color chart that provides visual identification. This segmentation eliminates the need for machining the tool while maintaining distant identification capability.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a color chart system is implemented, then distant identification is enabled, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using a color-coded chart where different colors represent different size specifications. This visual coding system allows workers to quickly identify tool sizes from a distance without requiring complex markings or modifications to the tools themselves. The color chart serves as a simple, intuitive reference that reduces the complexity of the overall identification system compared to alternative approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for sorting hardware pieces having first and second characteristics. The system comprises: a chart displaying first values associated with the first characteristic, each first value associated to a unique first graphical combination comprising a first-characteristic background motif and a first-characteristic indicium overlaid thereon; and second values associated with the second characteristic, each second value associated to a unique second graphical combination comprising a second-characteristic background motif and a second-characteristic indicium overlaid thereon; an identification label indicative of the first and second characteristics and comprising: a first section covered with a first graphical composition comprising the first graphical combination; and a second section covered with a second graphical composition comprising the second graphical combination; and a container affixed with the identification label for containing the hardware piece corresponding to the first and second characteristics.