Metrology Device NFC Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metrology instruments lack efficient methods for communication and control between the device and external devices, limiting operator control, configuration, and data transfer, especially in remote or field settings.
Innovation Solution
Integration of near field communication (NFC) technology in metrology devices allows for wireless communication with portable devices, enabling remote control, configuration, and data transfer, including the use of NFC tags that can operate without a power source, eliminating the need for mechanical components like slip rings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication devices are integrated into metrology instruments, then communication and data transfer capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable computing device serves multiple functions: it acts as a remote control interface for the metrology instrument, a configuration device for setting parameters, a data transfer station for uploading/downloading measurement data, and a power source for wireless communication. By consolidating these functions into a single universal device, the system avoids the complexity of multiple separate components while achieving versatile communication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable computing device functions as an intermediary between the operator and the metrology instrument. It provides a user-friendly interface for controlling the instrument, configuring parameters, and managing data, thereby simplifying the interaction complexity while enhancing communication versatility.
2Device complexity
If NFC tags without power sources are used, then hardware complexity is reduced, but communication reliability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical NFC tags with active wireless communication modules that can be powered by the portable computing device's power source. This substitution enables reliable two-way communication while maintaining the benefit of eliminating mechanical slip rings and contacts, as the wireless power and data transfer occurs through electromagnetic fields rather than physical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable computing device provides power to the wireless communication module on the metrology instrument through wireless energy transfer. The communication system serves itself by using the same wireless interface for both power delivery and data communication, eliminating the need for separate power cables or mechanical power transfer mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If remote control and configuration capabilities are added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control interface, configuration capabilities, and data management functions into a single portable computing device that communicates wirelessly with the metrology instrument. This consolidation allows the operator to perform all control and configuration tasks from a remote location using a familiar device (smartphone or tablet), significantly improving ease of operation while the complexity is contained within the integrated communication module rather than distributed across multiple components.
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
Facilitates efficient communication and control of metrology devices with portable computing devices, allowing for remote configuration, data transfer, and automatic updating of parameters, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing hardware complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the first wireless communications device being configured to modulate an operating field of an external device when the external device is equal to or less than a first distance from the first antenna
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for communicating between a 3D metrology instrument and a portable computing device via near field communications. In one embodiment, the metrology device is an articulated coordinate measurement machine (AACMM), a laser tracker, a laser scanner or a triangulation scanner, and the portable communications device is a cellular phone or a tablet. The portable device may use the NFC to retrieve data stored on a circuit associated with an object to be inspected and use the data to perform an inspection on the object using the metrology device.