Interactive Probe Configuration Tool for Machine Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagnostic systems for machines are complex and time-consuming to configure, often requiring detailed English-language descriptions, which can lead to inaccuracies, especially for non-English speakers and inexperienced users, limiting their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A probe configuration tool with a graphical user interface that displays a shaft icon and probe icons, allowing users to intuitively define the orientation and type of probes through interactive input, simplifying the configuration process and reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex computer software is used for probe configuration, then the system can provide comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and difficult for inexperienced users
Solution Approach 1:
The probe configuration process is segmented into distinct visual components: a shaft icon representing the machine axis, probe icons representing measurement points, and a probe position indicator showing orientation. This segmentation allows users to configure each element independently and visually verify the configuration, reducing errors and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
A graphical user interface acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex diagnostic system. The GUI provides visual icons and indicators that mediate the configuration process, translating complex probe orientation and positioning data into intuitive visual representations that users can understand and modify without extensive technical knowledge.
2Loss of information
If detailed English-language descriptions are used for probe configuration, then comprehensive machine information can be provided, but non-English speakers may define the configuration inaccurately
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on text descriptions, the system uses visual icons that copy or represent the actual physical components: a shaft icon represents the machine axis, probe icons represent the physical probes, and their spatial arrangement copies the actual probe positioning on the machine. This visual copying eliminates language barriers while maintaining complete configuration information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual indicators including color-coded probe icons and position indicators to convey configuration information. Different colors and visual states provide immediate feedback about probe orientation and configuration status, replacing text-based descriptions with universally understandable visual signals.
3Loss of information
If the probe configuration interface displays all information simultaneously, then users have complete information available, but the interface becomes complex and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple configuration elements are merged into a single integrated visual display: the shaft icon, probe icons, and probe position indicator are combined in one graphical interface. This merging allows users to see all configuration information simultaneously in a unified visual representation rather than scattered across multiple screens or text fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration interface transitions from a two-dimensional text-based layout to a graphical dimension that visually represents the three-dimensional spatial relationships of probes on the machine shaft. The probe position indicator shows orientation and location in space, adding a visual dimension that makes complex spatial configuration intuitive and easy to understand.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for defining a probe configuration using an interactive probe configuration tool is provided. The probe configuration tool comprises a shaft icon displayed on the probe configuration tool, and a probe position indicator configured to display an orientation of at least one first probe icon relative to the shaft icon. The probe position indicator is further configured to modify the orientation of the at least one first probe icon based on input from a user. The probe configuration tool further comprises a probe type indicator configured to display a type of the at least one first probe icon, wherein the probe position indicator and the probe type indicator are simultaneously displayed on a presentation interface.