Multi-Ring RFID Antenna for Electrode Cap Milling Tool Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
In metal processing for electrode cap reworking in resistance welding, existing devices face challenges with material removal efficiency, limited service life due to volume loss, and the need for manual selection of milling tools, which can lead to incorrect tool selection and increased follow-up costs in automated processes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-ring antenna is integrated into the electrode cap milling device to electronically control the selection of milling tools through an RFID transponder, allowing for contactless monitoring and data retrieval of tool information, ensuring accurate tool recognition and process monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual selection of milling tools is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to incorrect tool selection
Solution Approach 1:
The milling tool carries its own identification information (RFID transponder or data matrix code) that enables automatic recognition by the monitoring system. The tool essentially identifies itself, eliminating the need for manual selection and ensuring correct tool-workpiece matching without requiring complex external verification systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tool selection with an automated electronic monitoring system using RFID antennas or optical cameras combined with image processing. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with electronic automation improves reliability while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
2Productivity
If material removal is performed with each machining operation, then productivity is improved, but loss of substance increases limiting service life
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system continuously tracks the electrode cap's geometry during machining operations. By comparing actual measurements with target specifications, the system provides feedback that enables precise control of material removal, removing only the necessary amount to restore the cap's functional shape while minimizing unnecessary material loss and extending service life.
3Manufacturing precision
If chip removal devices are added to the cutter holder, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chip removal function is integrated directly into the cutter holder structure itself, rather than being a separate additional device. The cutter holder design incorporates features that facilitate chip evacuation, merging multiple functions (cutting and chip removal) into a single component, thereby improving surface quality without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
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
The multi-ring antenna enables precise tool selection and monitoring, reducing follow-up costs and extending tool service life by ensuring correct tool usage and data-driven process optimization.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-ring antenna 1 is arranged on a tool carrier 2 in the vicinity of a rotationally symmetrical electrode cap milling tool, such that the multi-ring antenna 1 encloses the rotationally symmetrical milling tool. The rotationally symmetrical milling tool 3 carries an RFID transponder 4.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to the use of a multiring antenna (1) and an RFID system for monitoring tools (3) during the machining of rotationally symmetrical workpieces, wherein a multiring antenna (1) is arranged on a tool carrier (2) close to a rotationally symmetrical tool (3) in such a way that the multiring antenna (1) surrounds the rotationally symmetrical tool (3), and said rotationally symmetrical tool (3) carries an RFID transponder (4). Said RFID transponder (4) is arranged in its position on the rotationally symmetrical tool (3) in such a way that it is located in the electromagnetic ring field of the multiring antenna (1), and that the multiring antenna (1) is arranged on the tool carrier (2) in such a way that a query of the RFID transponder (4) on the rotationally symmetrical tool (3) is possible in every position during movement and during idleness.