RFID Fastener Torque Inspection for Amusement Ride Integrity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional monitoring and maintenance procedures for attraction systems in amusement parks are expensive and time-consuming, leading to a need for improved methods to ensure the structural integrity and efficient operation of these systems.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a system that uses RFID tags with torque stripes to automatically detect if fasteners in the attraction system are properly tightened. The torque stripe completes a circuit in the RFID tag, which emits a radio frequency signal when the stripe is unbroken, indicating the correct torque level. An RFID reader detects this signal to verify the fastener's torque status.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional monitoring and maintenance procedures are used for attraction systems, then structural integrity can be ensured, but the process becomes expensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidmaintenance time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical inspection methods with an RFID-based electromagnetic detection system. The RFID tag with torque stripe uses radio frequency signals to automatically detect fastener torque status, eliminating the need for manual mechanical inspection while maintaining structural integrity monitoring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastener inspection system performs self-monitoring through the RFID tag that automatically detects and reports torque stripe status. The system enables self-service maintenance by continuously monitoring fastener integrity without requiring external inspection personnel, thereby reducing maintenance time and costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional monitoring and maintenance procedures are used for attraction systems, then structural integrity can be ensured, but the cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidmaintenance cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive traditional mechanical inspection procedures with a cost-effective RFID-based electronic monitoring system. The RFID tags with torque stripes provide automated structural integrity monitoring at a fraction of the cost of manual inspection programs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID tag system serves multiple functions including torque monitoring, structural integrity verification, and maintenance scheduling. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple inspection tasks into a single system, reducing overall maintenance costs while ensuring structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If automated RFID monitoring system is implemented, then inspection efficiency and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the monitoring system into independent, modular components: RFID tags attached to individual fasteners, torque stripes as separate sensing elements, and a central reader system. This segmentation allows for easier installation, maintenance, and scaling while maintaining high inspection productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The torque stripe acts as an intermediary element that translates mechanical torque status into an detectable signal for the RFID tag. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by providing a clear, binary indication of fastener status that the RFID reader can easily interpret.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This solution enables automated, efficient, and cost-effective monitoring of fastener torque levels in attraction systems, reducing the risk of structural issues and operational disruptions by promptly identifying loosened fasteners.

Implementation Method 1

an RFID tag comprising a torque stripe extending between the fastener and a reference point of the attraction system, wherein the RFID tag is configured to emit a radio frequency (RF) signal in response to the torque stripe being unbroken, and an RFID reader configured to detect the RF signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadio frequency identification (RFID): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12305686B2Systems and methods for inspection of fasteners in amusement park attractions

Publication Date: 2025.05.20 UNIVERSAL CITY STUDIOS LLC

AI summary

An attraction system includes a first component, a second component, a fastener configured to couple the first component to the second component, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag including a torque stripe extending between the fastener and a reference point of the attraction system, wherein the RFID tag is configured to emit a radio frequency (RF) signal in response to the torque stripe being unbroken, and an RFID reader configured to detect the RF signal.