Machine Inspection System Using Remote Sensor Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems require physical removal and proximity of machine components to a master module for inspection before starting, which is impractical for certain components and lacks comprehensive safety assurance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising permanently located sensors next to machine components that transmit specific signals to a central module, which only activates the ignition system after a predetermined sequence of inspections is completed, allowing remote and sequential safety checks without physical proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical removal and proximity of machine components to a master module is required for inspection, then inspection accuracy can be ensured, but the ease of operation deteriorates and certain components cannot be inspected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical component removal and proximity placement with an optical/electronic sensing system. Sensors detect component states (presence, position, condition) remotely through fields or signals, eliminating the need for mechanical manipulation and physical proximity to the ignition system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices between the machine components and the ignition control system. These sensors act as mediators that detect component states and transmit information to the control unit, which then determines whether to enable ignition, thus replacing the need for direct physical interaction between components and the master module.
2Reliability
If physical proximity to master module is required for component inspection, then inspection completeness can be ensured, but device complexity increases due to manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service inspection system where sensors automatically detect and report the state of machine components without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously determines whether all components are properly installed and ready for operation, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle and position components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection processes with automated sensing technology. Multiple sensors monitor different components simultaneously, providing comprehensive inspection coverage without the complexity of manual handling procedures and reducing the need for operator training and intervention.
3Reliability
If components must be removed for inspection, then inspection thoroughness is improved, but loss of time increases due to removal and reinstallation procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs inspection actions preliminarily and continuously through installed sensors that monitor component states in real-time or near-real-time. The system is already in place to detect component presence, position, and condition, eliminating the need for time-consuming removal and reinstallation procedures during each inspection cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous monitoring of machine components through permanently installed sensors that remain active during operation. This continuous surveillance provides ongoing inspection capability without interrupting machine operation, thereby eliminating downtime associated with periodic removal and reinstallation of components for inspection.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system wherein an essential inspection of components of a machine or vehicle is performed and wherein the inspected components do no need to be brought into close proximity to the mechanism or device that activates the starting element of the machine. Moreover, the system of the present invention allows extending the essential safety inspection to those machine components that cannot be removed or are no practical to remove in order to be inspected. Still, the present invention provides a system that forces the safety essential inspection of machine components to be performed by not allowing the electrical feeding of the ignition mechanism that start the operation of the machine unless the essential inspection system is activated by completing a predetermined protocol or sequence of inspection steps.