Portable Service Data Device With Interactive Checklists

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional non-electronic methods and systems for recording, storing, and processing data related to service operations on inspected items, such as machines, are inefficient, leading to errors, poor communication, and inflexibility, which can result in ineffective maintenance and service operations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing a portable service data device with customizable and interactive checklists for data collection and communication, integrated with a server for data storage and processing, along with bar code products for data presentation and scanning, to enhance data management and communication between service administrators, technicians, and other stakeholders.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If non-electronic documents and methods are used for recording and processing service operation data, then simplicity and ease of operation are maintained, but data processing efficiency, communication effectiveness, and error reduction deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddata processing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces non-electronic mechanical document systems with an electronic data collection system comprising a portable device, server, and communication network. This substitution enables automated data processing, real-time communication, and electronic document management, thereby improving data processing efficiency while maintaining ease of operation through user-friendly interfaces and automated workflows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If non-electronic documents are used for service operations, then device complexity is reduced, but communication effectiveness and data accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidcommunication effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a communication network as an intermediary between service technicians and administrators, enabling effective data exchange. The portable device serves as a mobile intermediary that collects field data and transmits it to the server, ensuring accurate information flow without requiring complex direct connections between all parties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The server system provides universal functionality by handling multiple tasks including data storage, processing, communication coordination, and document management. This multi-functional approach improves communication effectiveness while avoiding the need for separate specialized systems for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If non-electronic checklists are used, then ease of manufacture and implementation are maintained, but adaptability to different service operations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of implementationVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic checklists that can be automatically customized based on service operation type, equipment category, and user preferences. The system adapts the checklist content and structure in real-time without requiring manual reconfiguration, enabling high adaptability while maintaining ease of implementation through automated checklist generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows parameter changes in checklist configuration, such as modifying inspection criteria, measurement thresholds, and required documentation based on specific service conditions. These parameter adjustments are made through simple user interfaces, maintaining ease of implementation while achieving versatile adaptability to different service scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7565306B2Service operation data processing using checklist functionality in association with inspected items
Publication Date: 2009.07.21 RPM IND LLC
  • US7565306B2 patent drawing
  • US7565306B2 patent drawing
  • US7565306B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, a system is provided for performing at least one service operation in association with at least one inspected item. The system includes a service data device configured for displaying at least one data screen including at least one checklist configured for operative use in connection with performance of the service operation on the inspected item, the data device being portable and being configured for processing at least one communication; a service administrator having at least one data storage medium configured for storing at least one of the checklists displayed on the data device, the service administrator further having at least one server for enabling at least one communication between the service administrator and the data device; at least a portion of at least one of the checklists being customizable by at least the service administrator; and, at least a portion of at least one of the checklists being electronically interactive in association with performance of the service operation on the inspected item. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.