Interchangeable Sensor Module for Tool Location Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool locating devices require tools to be adapted to the locating device, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when retrofitting existing tools with external power supplies.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable module with a sensor unit is designed to be inserted between the tool and the external energy store, allowing easy adaptation and retrofitting of tools by providing a separate housing for the sensor unit and connecting elements for external power supplies, including ultrasonic sensors and a control unit for wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locating sensors are permanently attached to tool housings, then tool location tracking is achieved, but tool adaptation to the locating device becomes cumbersome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locating device is segmented into a separate sensor unit that can be independently attached to or removed from the tool housing. This allows the sensor unit to be detached and transferred between different tools without permanently modifying each tool, thereby reducing adaptation complexity while maintaining reliable location tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
A separate sensor unit acts as an intermediary between the locating device and the tool. This intermediary component contains the locating sensors and can be coupled to different tools through standardized interfaces, eliminating the need to permanently integrate sensors into each tool housing and simplifying tool adaptation.
2Reliability
If tools are adapted to the locating device, then location tracking functionality is achieved, but retrofitting existing tools becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is pre-assembled with all necessary locating sensors and coupling mechanisms before being attached to the tool. This preliminary preparation allows for quick retrofitting of existing tools without requiring complex on-site modifications, thereby improving retrofitting efficiency while ensuring complete location tracking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed with universal coupling capabilities that can be attached to multiple different tool types through standardized interfaces. This multi-functional design enables a single sensor unit to be retrofitted onto various existing tools without requiring tool-specific adaptations, significantly improving retrofitting efficiency.
3Volume of moving object
If sensor unit is integrated with power supply, then compact design is achieved, but adaptability to different power supply configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is segmented into a separate external component that can be detached from the sensor unit. The sensor unit maintains a compact design with integrated power management circuitry, while the external power supply can be configured in different ways (rechargeable battery, disposable battery, wired connection) to provide adaptability to various power supply configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The sensor unit can accept different power supply types through standardized interfaces, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements and power availability scenarios while maintaining a compact sensor unit design.
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 solution simplifies tool adaptation and retrofitting, ensuring consistent sensor usage and energy storage location, while allowing for wireless data communication and control signals to enhance process control and quality assurance.
Implementation Method 1
The locating device is equipped with three receivers for ultrasonic signals and, by measuring the time of flight of signals from various transmitters attached to tools
Implementation Method 2
by measuring the time of flight of signals from various transmitters attached to tools, is able to locate these transmitters
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
Disclosed is a device for locating tools (1) during deployment on a workpiece by means of a sensor unit with location sensors (9, 10, 11), in particular by means of ultrasound sensors, wherein the sensor unit for locating the tool (1) is arranged in an exchange module (26), which has outlet contacts for supplying the tool (1) with operating current, and the tool (1) is designed with corresponding connecting elements for connection to the exchange module (26).