Workpiece Data Linking by Hand Tracking for Reject Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for sorting out parts on machine tools, such as laser-cut goods, are prone to errors and inefficiencies, particularly when logging rejects, as users must physically move between the sorting table and a terminal, and manual logging can be error-prone.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a locating system to determine the position of a user's hand above a sorting table, allowing for gesture-based selection and logging of workpieces, linking information directly to their data records, thereby reducing errors and streamlining the sorting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a user visually compares each workpiece with an order drawing and manually logs rejects at a terminal, then the sorting-out procedure can be performed, but the user must physically move between the sorting table and terminal, increasing time consumption and potential for errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical movement between sorting table and terminal with an optical/electronic system. A locating system (cameras, markers) tracks the user's hand position and identifies workpieces automatically, eliminating the need for physical travel to a terminal while maintaining logging accuracy through automated data capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a locating system and control unit that mediates between the user's visual inspection at the sorting table and the logging process. This intermediary automatically captures hand position, identifies workpieces, and logs rejects without requiring the user to leave the sorting table, thus reducing time loss while maintaining reliability.
2Loss of time
If multiple correction logs are performed collectively, then time is saved, but the logging process becomes susceptible to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the logging process into individual workpiece-level operations. The locating system identifies each workpiece separately by tracking hand position and comparing with workpiece data, allowing selective logging of only those workpieces that require rejection. This segmented approach maintains accuracy while being more efficient than collective logging of all workpieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the locating system that continuously monitors hand position and provides real-time identification of the workpiece being inspected. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically log rejects at the moment of identification, ensuring accuracy while minimizing time loss compared to delayed collective logging.
3Productivity
If a locating system is used to track hand position and automatically identify workpieces, then logging accuracy improves and time loss is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the locating system multi-functional by using it for both workpiece identification during inspection and automated reject logging. The same camera system and marker detection mechanism serve dual purposes: tracking hand position to identify which workpiece is being viewed and automatically capturing reject information. This universality improves productivity while limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically identifying workpieces and logging rejects based on tracked hand position, eliminating the need for separate manual logging operations. The locating system and control unit work autonomously to capture and record reject information, improving productivity while the automated nature reduces the operational complexity despite increased system complexity.
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
This approach enhances process reliability, optimizes production times, and reduces costs by minimizing errors and time spent on assigning rejects, improving the overall efficiency of the sorting procedure.
Implementation Method 1
determining a position of a hand of the user in a space above the arrangement of workpieces at the selection time using a locating system
Data Source
AI summary
A method for linking information with a workpiece data record of a workpiece includes registering a selection time relating to a first action of a user that has a spatial relationship with a workpiece, determining a position of a hand of the user in a space at the selection time using a locating system, deriving a selection position in a support plane from the determined position of the hand, selecting a workpiece data record from the workpiece data records by comparing the selection position with relative positions and contours of the workpieces, registering a second action in which the user carries out a gesture movement, wherein an information item to be logged in a database is assigned to the gesture movement, reading the information item from the database, and linking the information item with the selected workpiece data record.