Cellular Device Machine Data Collection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote telemetry and health monitoring systems for machines face challenges with high costs and weather-related impairments of satellite communication, and limited functionality in transferring large amounts of machine health, status, and productivity data using cellular devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for collecting and distributing machine data via a cellular communication device, utilizing an electronic control module (ECM) to monitor, package, and transmit data to a cellular communication device, which then uploads it to a condition monitoring system via a cellular network, leveraging personal area network (PAN) communication and existing cellular infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite communication equipment is used for remote data transmission, then data can be transmitted from remote machines, but the equipment becomes expensive and unreliable during inclement weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive satellite communication equipment with inexpensive cellular telephones that can be readily replaced or upgraded. The cellular phone serves as a temporary, affordable communication device that eliminates the need for costly satellite equipment while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the communication parameter from satellite-based high-frequency radio waves to cellular network radio waves, which operate on different frequencies and are less susceptible to weather interference. This parameter change improves reliability during inclement weather while reducing equipment cost.
2Reliability
If manual data transfer techniques are used, then the system is less susceptible to inclement weather, but the technique becomes impractical for remote or hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service data collection where the machine's electronic control module automatically transmits data to the cellular phone without requiring manual intervention. The operator simply needs to be present with the phone, eliminating the need for physical data offloading while maintaining weather reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cellular phone acts as an intermediary device between the machine's electronic control module and the operator. It receives data automatically from the machine and relays it to the operator, combining automated data collection with weather-resistant communication capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing cellular communication systems are used for multimedia control, then basic functions are achieved, but the system cannot transmit vehicle health and diagnostic data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the cellular phone a multi-functional device that not only handles basic multimedia control but also transmits vehicle health data, diagnostic information, and operational status. The same cellular phone used for calls and media playback is utilized for comprehensive data transmission, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multimedia control and diagnostic data transmission into a single cellular communication system. The electronic control module and cellular phone work together to combine both operational control and health monitoring capabilities in one integrated system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A data collection and distribution system associated with a machine (110) comprises an electronic control module (125) located on a machine. The electronic control module is configured to collect operation data associated with the machine. The system also comprises a personal area network (PAN) control module (126) communicatively coupled to the electronic control module. The PAN control module is configured to detect a PAN-compatible cellular communication device (129) proximate the PAN control module. The PAN control module is also configured to transmit the operation data to the PAN- compatible cellular communication device using a PAN connection between the PAN control module and the PAN-compatible cellular device, wherein the PAN- compatible cellular communication device is configured to transmit the operation data to a condition monitoring system (140) via a cellular network (130).