RFID-Embedded Elastomeric Fluid Seal for Asset Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid seals made of elastomeric materials face challenges in providing effective sealing under static and dynamic conditions at various pressures with minimal friction for a long, maintenance-free service life, and lack efficient tracking and identification methods.
Innovation Solution
Embedding radio frequency identification (RFID) transponders into the body of elastomeric fluid seal members, such as o-rings or sanitary gaskets, during the molding process, allowing for programming with specific information and unique identifiers that can be cross-referenced with electronic databases for tracking and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If RFID transponders are embedded into elastomeric fluid seal members, then tracking and identification efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID transponder with the elastomeric fluid seal member into a single integrated unit. The transponder is embedded within the seal body during the molding process, merging the tracking function with the sealing function. This eliminates the need for separate tracking devices and reduces overall system complexity despite adding functionality to the seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric fluid seal member is transformed into a multi-functional component by integrating the RFID transponder. The seal now simultaneously performs its primary sealing function and provides tracking, identification, and monitoring capabilities. This universal approach allows one component to serve multiple purposes, improving information tracking without requiring additional separate devices.
2Loss of information
If RFID transponders are embedded into the seal body, then tracking capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID transponder is embedded into the seal body during the initial molding process, before the seal is assembled or installed. The preform is molded with the transponder already positioned within the elastomeric material, and then cured to finalize the integrated structure. This preliminary integration simplifies subsequent assembly steps and ensures proper positioning without requiring post-molding modifications.
3Reliability
If the transponder is centered in the seal body, then seal functionality is maintained, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different properties to different regions of the seal body. The elastomeric material is formulated and positioned to provide optimal sealing characteristics at the sealing surfaces, while the RFID transponder is positioned in the central region where it does not interfere with sealing functionality. This local differentiation allows the transponder to be embedded without compromising the seal's primary function.
Data Source
AI summary
O-ring or other fluid seal member (10) and method of making such member. The member has a body (12) provided as a preform of a curable elastomeric polymeric material. A radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder (50) is inserted into the preform. The preform is then cured to form the body and to embed the RFID transponder (50) therein.