Encoded Parameter Transfer for Material Analysis Equipment Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for material preparation and analysis equipment require advanced user knowledge to input correct parameters, leading to errors and inefficiencies, especially when handling different types of accessories or samples, and lack efficient data transfer and backup solutions.

Innovation Solution

The use of encoded information, such as barcodes and QR codes, is implemented to simplify parameter setting and data transfer through a tag reader system, allowing machines to automatically read and process settings, reducing user intervention and improving data management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional parameter input methods are used, then users can operate the equipment, but user knowledge requirements increase and errors occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter settingVSAvoidparameter accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses barcodes and QR codes as visual copies of parameter information. Instead of requiring users to manually input parameters, the system creates machine-readable visual representations of equipment settings that can be scanned and automatically processed, eliminating manual entry errors and reducing knowledge requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual parameter input system with an automated optical recognition system. Barcode/QR code scanners automatically capture parameter information and transmit it to the equipment, substituting manual keyboard input or dial adjustments with automated digital recognition and processing

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

2Productivity

If manual parameter input is used, then equipment can be operated, but setup time increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup speedVSAvoidparameter entry time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-encoding all equipment parameters into barcode or QR code formats before the equipment is used. The parameter information is prepared in advance in a machine-readable format, so when setup is needed, the information is already ready to be scanned and applied without manual transcription or calculation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates visual copies of parameter data in barcode/QR code format that can be rapidly scanned and transferred to the equipment. This copying mechanism eliminates the time-consuming process of manual parameter entry while maintaining accuracy, as the scanner directly reads the pre-prepared visual information

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If encoded information systems are implemented, then data transfer efficiency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using standard barcode and QR code technologies that can represent multiple types of parameter information (equipment settings, material specifications, operational parameters) within a single visual format. This universal encoding system can handle diverse data types without requiring different input mechanisms for each parameter category

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces barcode/QR codes as intermediary elements between the parameter source and the equipment control system. These visual codes serve as a mediator that translates complex parameter sets into a compact, scannable format that can be easily processed by automated systems, simplifying the overall data transfer architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11861446B2Method and apparatus for using encoded information for material preparation and analysis equipment
Publication Date: 2024.01.02 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • US11861446B2 patent drawing
  • US11861446B2 patent drawing
  • US11861446B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a disclosure for using indicia to handle information for use in material preparation and analysis equipment.