Connected Machine Identification Using Audible and Visual Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work equipment systems, such as lifts and telehandlers, lack an efficient method for identifying, tracking, tasking, monitoring, and servicing machines at a work site, relying on discrete and separate systems for each piece of equipment.
Innovation Solution
An equipment identification system that includes connectivity modules communicatively coupled to machines and user devices, allowing for the identification of machines through visual or audible signals, and enabling remote control of machine operations such as powering up/down and enabling/disabling operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete systems are used for each piece of equipment, then each function can be performed independently, but the overall system complexity increases and management efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete equipment management functions (identification, tracking, tasking, monitoring, servicing) into a single integrated system using connectivity modules that communicate with a centralized platform, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The connectivity modules are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - they can identify equipment through visual/audible signals, track location, monitor status, and enable remote control, allowing a single component to replace multiple discrete systems
2Reliability
If multiple discrete systems are deployed for equipment management, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the time and resources required for management increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging identification, tracking, monitoring, and control functions into a single integrated system accessible through one user interface, the patent reduces the time required to manage equipment while maintaining comprehensive coverage across all management aspects
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-establishes connectivity modules on equipment and maintains continuous communication channels, allowing managers to quickly access and control equipment without setting up separate systems for each function, thereby reducing management time
3Measurement precision
If separate systems are used for equipment identification and control, then system specialization is improved, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connectivity module is designed as a universal component that simultaneously provides precise equipment identification through visual/audible signals and enables remote control operations, eliminating the need to switch between specialized systems and thereby improving operational efficiency while maintaining identification accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
An equipment identification system for identifying machines at a site includes a plurality of machines configured to generate one or both of audible signals or visual signals and a user device. The user device is configured to communicate with the plurality of machines through a network connection, identify a subset of the plurality of machines based on a user selection, instruct each machine in the subset to generate a first indication, and instruct one or more of the machines that are not included in the subset to generate a second indication, wherein the second indication is different from the first indication.