RFID Bolting Sequence Monitoring System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bolting operation monitoring systems face challenges with manual sequence marking, lack of trackability, and interference issues with RFID transmission, which affect the accuracy and safety of bolting operations, especially in public safety-related equipment.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system that includes a torque tool with a built-in RFID reader and an RFID tag on the bolt, allowing for automatic setup of bolting sequences, real-time torque control, and data storage on the RFID tag or cloud server, ensuring compliance with the bolting sequence and tracking production history.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual marking with color pen is used to indicate bolting sequence, then the bolting sequence can be tracked, but the procedure becomes cumbersome and not trackable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical marking system (color pen) with an automated electronic RFID-based system. The RFID reader automatically reads tags on bolts to determine bolting sequence, eliminating manual marking operations while ensuring reliable tracking of the bolting process
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the RFID reader automatically identifies bolts and determines the bolting sequence without human intervention. The system autonomously tracks which bolts have been tightened and in what order, freeing operators from manual recording tasks
2Loss of information
If RFID technique is used for bolting monitoring, then data accessibility and tracking are enhanced, but transmitting capability and interference problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a middle device (transducing device) as an intermediary between the RFID reader and the bolt RFID tag. This transducing device converts RFID signals into other forms (such as optical or mechanical signals) that are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference, thereby maintaining data accessibility while overcoming transmission interference problems
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple detection methods beyond RFID alone, including optical sensors and mechanical position detection, to universally ensure bolting monitoring. This multi-functional approach compensates for RFID interference issues by providing alternative detection pathways
3Measurement precision
If torque control device with program is used to monitor tightening torque, then torque control accuracy is improved, but the RFID tag does not participate in bolting sequence monitoring and cannot verify bolt correctness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the torque control function with RFID identification and sequence monitoring functions into an integrated system. The torque control device communicates with the RFID reader to verify bolt correctness and track bolting sequence, ensuring both precise torque control and reliable process monitoring work together
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 system ensures accurate and safe bolting operations by automating sequence monitoring, reducing manual errors, and enhancing data accessibility for liability tracking, while overcoming RFID interference issues.
Implementation Method 1
The RFID reader includes a transmitting antenna, which is configured to extend through the through hole and attached to a place on the edge surface of the output shaft closest to the tag of the bolt. The built-in data in the RFID tag of the bolt can be accessed by the antenna or the bolting information sensed by the torque sensing module can be stored in the RFID tag.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is a monitoring system and method for a bolting operation, during which a torque tool is coupled to a torque sensing and transmitting adapter disposed of with an RFID reader or a middle device to read the information in the RFID tag attached to each bolt following the preset bolting sequence. After receiving the information, a torque control device evaluates whether the bolts are valid and memorizes the bolting sequence, edits and stores in the memory. The torque control device continuously monitors whether the operator does follow the programmed bolting sequence and the bolting mode to fasten the bolt with target torque value and issues a warning if otherwise. Meanwhile, the torque control device writes the bolting information in the tag or stores the information in a peripheral server or in a cloud server via the Internet for later inquiry.