Machine Control System Serviceability via Removable Identification Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine control systems require replacement of both the remote control console and the on-board controller module if either device fails, leading to unnecessary expenses and inflexibility, as hard-coded IDs prevent programmable pairing and user-replaceable chips can introduce defects and void warranties.
Innovation Solution
A control system with removeably coupled identification devices on the on-board controller module and a control console, allowing external pairing and replacement without opening the module, using RFID or similar technology for secure and flexible control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard-coded ID codes are used in conventional control systems, then system security and pairing are maintained, but serviceability and flexibility are reduced requiring replacement of both devices
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into separate components: a first identification device in the on-board controller module and a second identification device in the remote control console. This segmentation allows independent replacement of each device while maintaining pairing through code verification, resolving the contradiction between security and serviceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses programmable identification codes that can be modified and paired between devices. Instead of fixed hard-coded IDs, the codes can be changed and synchronized between the on-board controller and remote console, enabling flexible replacement while maintaining secure pairing through code matching.
2Ease of repair
If user-replaceable chips are used inside the on-board controller module, then serviceability is improved, but device integrity and warranty are compromised due to opening requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The first identification device is extracted as a separate, externally coupled component rather than being embedded inside the on-board controller module. This external placement allows replacement without opening the module, improving serviceability while preserving device integrity and warranty.
Solution Approach 2:
The externally coupled first identification device acts as an intermediary between the on-board controller module and the remote control console. It can be replaced independently through external connections without requiring access to the internal structure of the controller module, thus avoiding warranty voiding while maintaining serviceability.
3Reliability
If hard-coded IDs are used, then pairing security is maintained, but adaptability and flexibility are reduced preventing multi-machine control
Solution Approach 1:
The identification codes are made programmable and changeable rather than fixed. This allows the same on-board controller module to be paired with different remote control consoles by updating the codes, enabling multi-machine control while maintaining pairing security through code verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The on-board controller module with programmable identification devices can serve multiple machines by pairing with different remote control consoles. The system achieves universality where one controller can control multiple machines through code pairing, while maintaining security through verification protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling a machine is provided. For example, the method includes coupling removeably, at an on-board controller module of a machine, a first identification device, reading, using a reader in the on-board controller module, a code stored in the first identification device, receiving, at the on-board controller module, a wireless message including another code from a control console, comparing, using a processor in the on-board controller module, the code with the received another code, and processing, using a processor coupled to the reader, the wireless message based on the comparing to determine pairing with a second external wireless identification device of a control console to the machine if the code and the received another code match.