Magnet Mounting Pad with Integrated RFID Tag for Machine Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data collection devices, such as the SKF model WMCD2, are cumbersome, expensive, and require extensive training, making it difficult to efficiently collect data from industrial machines, especially when trying to monitor operations like temperature and vibration, and existing solutions do not allow for easy identification of specific RFID tags on machinery.

Innovation Solution

A magnet mounting pad with an integrated RFID tag and antenna, which allows a mobile data collector with an RFID reader to automatically read the unique identity of the RFID tag when placed on the pad, initiating measurements such as vibration and temperature readings, and simplifying the data collection process by preloading Point IDs and settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If data collection devices are used to monitor industrial machines, then data collection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the data collection device from the identification function by using an independent RFID tag on the mounting pad. The mobile data collector focuses only on reading RFID tags and collecting sensor data, while the RFID tag provides machine identification. This segmentation simplifies the data collector design and reduces cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting pad with RFID tag provides self-identification capability, automatically presenting its unique ID to the mobile data collector when placed on it. This eliminates the need for manual machine identification input and simplifies the data collection process without requiring complex identification systems in the data collector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If RFID tags are placed on machinery for identification, then identification capability is improved, but difficulty in reading specific tags increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification capabilityVSAvoiddifficulty in reading specific RFID tags
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting pad with integrated RFID tag acts as an intermediary between the mobile data collector and the machinery. When the data collector is placed on the mounting pad, the pad's RFID tag provides a clear, unambiguous identification signal, eliminating confusion from multiple RFID tags on the machinery and enabling reliable reading of the specific target.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If manual data collection processes are used, then operational control is improved, but time consumption and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational controlVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting pad is pre-configured with an RFID tag containing a unique ID that links to pre-defined measurement parameters and settings. When the mobile data collector reads the RFID tag, it automatically retrieves the associated measurement configuration, eliminating manual setup time and reducing operational complexity while maintaining control over measurement parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 efficient and streamlined data collection by automatically identifying and initiating measurements on industrial machines, reducing the complexity and cost associated with current data collection methods, and simplifying the process for users by preloading Point IDs and settings.

Implementation Method 1

an RFID antenna integral to the RFID tag, the antenna for transmitting the unique identity of the RFID tag

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a ferromagnetic contact body for housing the magnet mounting pad

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9747540B2Magnet mounting pad with RFID tag
Publication Date: 2017.08.29 AB SKF SKF PATENT DEPARTMENT
  • US9747540B2 patent drawing
  • US9747540B2 patent drawing
  • US9747540B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An RFID tag reading system affixed to a machine bearing housing is provided. The reading system includes a mobile data collector having an RFID reader for reading a unique identity of the RFID tag, an magnet electro-mechanically connected to the mobile data collector and a magnet mounting pad fixed to the machine housing. The magnet mounting pad having a ferromagnetic contact body for housing the magnet mounting pad and an RFID antenna disposed within the RFID tag for transmitting a unique identity of the RFID tag. The RFID tag is disposed within the ferromagnetic contact body. The magnet is magnetically connected to the magnet mounting pad. The mobile data collector automatically reads the unique RFID tag identity transmitted from the antenna of the RFID tag when the combination mobile data collector and magnet are placed onto the RFID mounting pad.