Machine Connectivity Modules for Fast Equipment Identification
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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, often relying on discrete and separate systems for each piece of equipment.
Innovation Solution
An equipment identification system that includes connectivity modules communicatively and physically coupled to machines and user devices, allowing for identification of machines through audible or visual signals, and enabling remote control of machine operations such as powering up/down and enabling/disabling operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If discrete systems are used for each piece of equipment, then individual equipment can be managed, but site-wide identification and tracking efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete equipment management functions into a unified system. The central server aggregates data from multiple connectivity modules across different machines, creating an integrated platform for identification, tracking, and monitoring. This merging allows operators to manage entire fleets of equipment through a single interface rather than separate systems for each machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces connectivity modules as intermediary devices between the machines and the central server. These modules equip machines with identification capabilities and enable communication with the centralized system, serving as mediators that bridge the gap between individual equipment and site-wide management infrastructure.
2Productivity
If manual equipment location methods are used, then no additional technology is required, but productivity and site management efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connectivity modules enable machines to self-identify and self-report their status and location automatically. The system performs monitoring and tracking functions autonomously without requiring manual intervention, with machines providing their own data to the central server through their embedded connectivity modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The central server system serves multiple functions simultaneously: identification, tracking, monitoring, and communication. The connectivity modules also perform multiple roles including providing machine identification signals, transmitting status data, and receiving commands, making the system highly versatile rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each function.
3Measurement precision
If equipment status monitoring is performed manually, then simple methods can be used, but measurement precision and reliability of status information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where connectivity modules constantly monitor machine status parameters and transmit this data to the central server. The server processes this feedback information and can send commands back to machines or alert operators, creating a closed-loop monitoring system that maintains up-to-date and accurate status information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual monitoring methods with automated electronic sensing and communication systems. Instead of operators physically checking equipment status, electronic sensors and connectivity modules automatically detect and report machine conditions, transitioning from mechanical/manual observation to electronic automation for improved precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An equipment identification system for identifying and operating one or more machines at a site. The system includes one or more connectivity modules, each connectivity module communicatively and physically coupled to one of the one or more machines. The system also includes a user device configured to communicate with the one or more connectivity modules via a network connection. In response to a user selection on an application hosted on the user device, one or more of the machines are identified by one or both of an audible signal or a visual signal.