Clamp Release Tool Using Vibration-Based Closure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
POPP clamps often fail to successfully release from the open position, leading to incomplete clamping and potential leaks, and manual inspection is time-consuming and unreliable, lacking traceability in production lines.
Innovation Solution
A smart clamp release tool that measures and analyzes the movement of the tool head using inertial sensors and signal processing to detect characteristic vibrations, determining successful clamp release through frequency analysis and machine learning algorithms, providing automated recording and traceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection of clamp release is used, then operator can detect clamp status, but inspection is time-consuming and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated sensor-based detection system. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) and force sensors automatically detect clamp release by measuring tool head movement and force applied to the clamp, eliminating the need for manual operator inspection and providing reliable, objective detection data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring sensor data (acceleration, force) during the clamp release process and providing real-time information about release status. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically determine whether release was successful without requiring manual verification, improving both reliability and speed.
2Measurement precision
If frequency analysis and machine learning algorithms are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes mechanical vibration analysis through inertial measurement units that detect characteristic vibrations occurring during clamp release. By analyzing the frequency and pattern of these vibrations, the system can precisely determine release status. This physical phenomenon-based approach provides high measurement precision while keeping the processing requirements manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in multiple parameters (acceleration, force, vibration frequency) during clamp release and uses machine learning to analyze these parameter changes. This multi-parameter approach improves detection precision by capturing the complex dynamics of release, while the parameters themselves are naturally occurring physical measurements rather than requiring complex generation.
3Loss of information
If automated recording and traceability are implemented, then production traceability is ensured, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated recording of clamp release data without requiring manual intervention. Sensors automatically capture movement and force data, the system automatically analyzes this data to determine release success, and traceability information is automatically recorded. This self-service capability ensures complete production traceability while minimizing the complexity burden on operators.
4Reliability
If POPP clamp is released without successful engagement, then clamping force is not applied, but this may go undetected causing leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of clamp release status immediately when release is attempted, using inertial sensors to detect tool head movement and force sensors to detect engagement. By detecting the release action and its outcome in real-time, the system can identify failed releases before the clamp is considered successfully installed, preventing potential leaks from occurring.
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
Enhances the reliability of clamp release detection, reduces false positives, and automates traceability, ensuring efficient and reliable clamping operations in production environments.
Implementation Method 1
inertial measurement electronics arranged to make measurements of a movement of the tool head
Implementation Method 2
The band 101 can be pried open, such that it has a larger diameter, whilst maintaining its substantially circular shape. Opening the band 101 places it under tension, such that, when released, the band 101 contracts back to its original diameter.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of operating a pre-opened pre-positioned clamp, the clamp being operable between an open and a closed position. The method comprises releasing the clamp from the open position using a tool head (201), making measurements of a movement of the tool head resulting from the releasing, recording data relating to the measurements, determining a frequency content of the data, and, on the basis of the determined frequency content, determining whether the clamp has moved to the closed position.