Crimp Machine Die Holder Verification for Die-Fitting Compatibility

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional crimp machine die verification processes are manual and prone to errors, leading to potential mismatches between die sets and fittings, which can result in premature failure and leaky connections.

Innovation Solution

An integrated die verification system within the crimp machine that includes a die identification system, a crimp machine controller, and a crimp database, which automatically verifies the compatibility of die sets with fittings and hoses using near-field communication and a user interface for real-time feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual die verification processes are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to human error and potential mismatches

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveverification accuracyVSAvoidverification system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical verification processes with an automated system using RFID tags, readers, and controllers to verify die set compatibility. The RFID technology eliminates human intervention in the verification process, substituting mechanical/manual operations with electronic identification and verification mechanisms.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses RFID tags that contain copied information about die set identifiers and compatibility data. Instead of manually checking physical die sets against reference materials, the system reads copied information stored in the RFID tags, enabling rapid automated verification without handling the actual die sets during the verification process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If automated die verification systems are implemented, then productivity is improved through real-time verification, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveverification efficiencyVSAvoidverification system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The crimp machine controller performs multiple functions: it controls the crimping operation, manages the database of compatible die sets, processes RFID tag information, and provides user interface operations. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves automated verification without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically verifies die set compatibility without requiring operator intervention. The RFID reader automatically detects and reads die set information, the controller automatically queries the database for compatibility, and the system automatically provides feedback. This self-service capability eliminates manual verification steps and improves productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of information

If manual verification processes are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of information increases due to potential mismatches and errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility information accuracyVSAvoidverification process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides immediate feedback to the operator through the user interface, indicating whether a die set is compatible or incompatible with the selected fitting and hose. This real-time feedback eliminates information loss by ensuring compatibility is confirmed before the crimping operation proceeds, preventing mismatches and errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs compatibility verification before the actual crimping operation. The RFID tag is read, the database is queried for compatibility information, and verification is completed in advance, ensuring that only compatible die sets are used. This preliminary action prevents information loss by confirming compatibility before any physical operation occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Ensures accurate and efficient crimping operations by reducing human error, providing real-time verification, and ensuring consistent assembly of fittings and hoses.

Implementation Method 1

which automatically verifies the compatibility of die sets with fittings and hoses using near-field communication

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear-field communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250356076A1Die holder verification
Publication Date: 2025.11.20 CONTITECH DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
  • US20250356076A1 patent drawing
  • US20250356076A1 patent drawing
  • US20250356076A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A die verification system may include a die holder of a crimp machine, the die holder configured to receive die identification. The system may include a user interface, a data interface. The system may include a controller having one or more processors configured to: receive the die identification from the die holder, reference a crimp database with the die identification, fitting information and hose information; and verify that the die identification is suitable for a crimp process.