Reteachable Switching Circuit Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices for machine guarding in industrial applications require separate inventory for re-programmable and non-re-programmable switches, leading to double inventory and increased maintenance costs, while also lacking the ability to lock against reteaching new actuators.
Innovation Solution
A reteachable switching circuit with a non-contact sensor and processor that allows reteaching a new target without operator manipulation and locks against further reteaching after a predetermined number of attempts, using radio frequency identification for coding and induction for sensing, and a memory to store identification codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switching devices are made re-programmable to reduce inventory, then device versatility is improved, but security against unauthorized reconfiguration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The switching device includes a programmable parameter (locking status) that can be changed from unlocked to locked state. This parameter change enables the device to transition between re-programmable and secure states, resolving the contradiction by allowing both versatility and security through different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device dynamically changes its functionality based on the locking status. When unlocked, it accepts new actuator codes (versatile mode); when locked, it prevents code changes (secure mode). This dynamic behavior allows the same device to provide both re-programmability and security as needed.
2Reliability
If separate switching devices are provided for re-programmable and non re-programmable applications, then security is improved, but device complexity and inventory management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The switching device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a re-programmable switch when unlocked and as a secure fixed switch when locked. This universal design eliminates the need for separate device types, simplifying inventory management while maintaining both security and flexibility options.
Solution Approach 2:
The device's functionality is segmented into distinct operational modes (unlocked/re-programmable and locked/secure) controlled by the locking status parameter. This segmentation allows a single physical device to provide the functionality of multiple device types without requiring actual multiplication of hardware.
3Ease of operation
If the switching circuit allows unlimited reteaching attempts, then ease of operation is improved, but security against unauthorized reconfiguration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs a preliminary action (locking) after a predetermined number of reteaching attempts. This preliminary locking action prevents further unauthorized reconfiguration attempts while still allowing legitimate reprogramming within the allowed limit, thus balancing ease of operation with security.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides feedback through the locking mechanism that indicates when the maximum number of reteaching attempts has been reached. This feedback system informs operators of the device's security state and prevents further reprogramming attempts, maintaining both operational ease within limits and security beyond limits.
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 reteaching of switching circuits for new targets without operator intervention, reducing maintenance costs and preventing unauthorized reconfiguration by locking the system after a set number of reteaching attempts, thus providing a cost-effective and secure solution for machine guarding.
Implementation Method 1
a non-contact sensor and a target movable into and out of a sensing range of the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for teaching a switching circuit is provided. The method includes presenting a target within a sensing range of a sensor of the switching circuit for a pre-determined duration and acquiring an identification code of the target via the sensor. The method also includes storing the acquired identification code for operating the switching circuit and locking the switching circuit against learning identification codes of any other target prior to reaching an allowed number of reteaching attempts.