Machine Operation Monitoring via Magnetic Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine monitoring systems fail to provide detailed information on machine usage, including operational status and time of use, which is crucial for rental companies managing equipment at customer locations.
Innovation Solution
A real-time locating system with a tag and detector arrangement that generates a wireless signal to determine the machine's position and detects magnetic field characteristics indicative of its operational status, allowing for accurate monitoring of machine usage without extensive modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If prior art monitoring systems are used, then machine location can be tracked, but detailed operational status and usage timing information is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system uses the existing real-time locating system infrastructure for dual purposes: both location tracking and operational status monitoring. The tag and detector arrangement originally designed for location determination is repurposed to also detect machine operation characteristics, eliminating the need for separate monitoring hardware and achieving multi-functionality from a single system
Solution Approach 2:
The machine itself generates the magnetic field characteristics that serve as the detection signal for operational status. The machine's own operational characteristics (magnetic field variations during operation) are used to monitor its own status, eliminating the need for external sensors or additional monitoring equipment attached to the machine
2Measurement precision
If detailed machine operation monitoring is implemented, then usage information is obtained, but system complexity and modification requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical or electronic sensors that would directly measure machine parameters with a magnetic field-based detection system. The detector monitors magnetic field characteristics generated by the machine's electrical components (motors, generators, ignition systems), substituting direct mechanical measurement with indirect electromagnetic field detection, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary between the machine's internal operation and the external monitoring system. Instead of directly accessing mechanical parameters or installing complex sensors inside the machine, the system detects the magnetic field that naturally emanates from the machine's electrical components during operation, providing precise monitoring through a non-intrusive intermediary medium
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive modifications to real-time locating system are made, then comprehensive monitoring is achieved, but implementation cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves versatility by making the real-time locating system perform multiple functions: location determination, operational status detection, and usage timing recording. The same tag and detector infrastructure used for location tracking is utilized to detect magnetic field characteristics indicating machine operation, eliminating the need for separate monitoring systems and reducing implementation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the location tracking function and operational monitoring function into a single integrated system. The tag that transmits location data also carries operational status information, and the detector that determines position also detects magnetic field characteristics indicating machine operation. This consolidation reduces the number of separate systems needed and simplifies implementation
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
Enables detailed monitoring of machine operation, including power consumption and usage patterns, providing insights into safe and appropriate usage while being cost-effective and simple to implement.
Implementation Method 1
at least one detector intended to be arranged on the machine, wherein the at least one detector is configured to detect at least one characteristic of a magnetic field generated by the machine
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for monitoring the operation of a machine intended to be tracked by a real-time locating system comprises: a tag intended to be arranged on the machine, the tag being configured to generate a wireless tag signal allowing determination of a position of the tag; and at least one detector intended to be arranged on the machine, the at least one detector being configured to detect at least one characteristic of a magnetic field generated by the machine. Detection of the at least one characteristic is indicative of the machine being operative. The arrangement makes it possible to obtain a detailed understanding of how the machine is used in a cost-effective manner. A real-time locating system comprising such an arrangement and a method for monitoring the operation of a machine are also disclosed.