Connected Press Tool Control for Autonomous Cloud Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing press tools for pipes lack an efficient and autonomous method for data transmission and machine learning, which limits their operational efficiency and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a control device with a microcontroller and a connection module that enables the tool to establish a network connection independently, allowing for data exchange with a cloud or server, and enabling firmware updates and machine learning capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a press tool is designed with basic mechanical components only, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the operational efficiency and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual data transmission methods with automated electronic systems including microcontrollers, connection modules, and cloud communication capabilities. This substitution enables autonomous data transmission and remote monitoring, significantly improving operational efficiency while managing device complexity through modular integration
Solution Approach 2:
The press tool is equipped with self-service capabilities through automated data transmission functions. The microcontroller independently manages data exchange with cloud services, firmware updates, and operational monitoring without requiring external intervention, thereby enhancing productivity while keeping the control system streamlined
2Loss of time
If data transmission is manual or requires user intervention, then the device complexity is low, but the loss of time for data exchange is high
Solution Approach 1:
The control device with microcontroller is pre-configured with connection module capabilities and cloud communication protocols before deployment. This preliminary setup enables immediate autonomous data transmission upon activation, eliminating time-consuming manual configuration and setup during field operations
Solution Approach 2:
Manual data entry and transmission processes are replaced with automated electronic data exchange systems. The connection module establishes wireless or wired connections to transmit operational data, firmware updates, and diagnostic information automatically, dramatically reducing data transmission time despite increased control device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If the press tool lacks network connection capabilities, then the ease of operation is high and device complexity is low, but the adaptability to various working conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as the central hub for data transmission, firmware updates, operational control, and diagnostic monitoring. This universal control unit adapts to various working conditions by communicating with different cloud services and processing diverse data types, enhancing versatility while managing complexity through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller acts as an intermediary between the mechanical press tool components and the external cloud infrastructure. It translates operational data into transmittable formats and receives control commands, enabling the tool to adapt to various working conditions without requiring complex direct integration with external systems
Data Source
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AI summary
The working device is, in particular, a pressing tool for pipes and the like and has a drive unit provided for a tool of the working device, to which an electronic control unit is assigned. In order to enable optimal operation with this working device, the control unit has at least one microcontroller (37, 50) which is equipped with at least one connection module (38) that can be preconfigured so that the microcontroller (37, 50) automatically establishes a network connection via the connection module (38) and connects to a cloud (32) or a server/data storage device and exchanges data. The working device establishes a network connection after being switched on and/or at intervals/times and/or after certain operating states, connects to a cloud (32) or a server/data storage device, and exchanges data.