Power Tool Control with RFID Pairing and Dynamic Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered rotary knives in the meat processing industry are hazardous to operate due to rudimentary drive controls and prone to premature failure from design flaws, leading to unsafe conditions and unnecessary wear.
Innovation Solution
A system for controlling power tools, incorporating a handpiece with an RFID tag and wireless transceiver, paired with a power pack containing a wireless transceiver, RFID reader, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media, enabling secure wireless pairing and dynamic braking to enhance safety and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If rudimentary drive controls are used in powered rotary knives, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and operational control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control systems with electronic and wireless communication systems. The RFID reader, wireless transceiver, and processor create an electronic control architecture that communicates wirelessly between components, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and switches while improving safety through programmable control logic and dynamic braking capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an RFID tag as an intermediary component that enables identification and pairing between the handpiece and power pack. This intermediary facilitates secure wireless communication and control, allowing the system to establish authenticated connections without direct physical or electrical contact, thereby improving safety while maintaining control
2Ease of manufacture
If design flaws are present in powered rotary knives, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but reliability and service life deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic pairing functionality where the RFID reader automatically detects and pairs with authorized handpieces without manual intervention. The system also includes self-diagnosis capabilities through the processor that can detect operational status and communicate wirelessly, allowing the device to monitor and report its own condition, thereby improving reliability without adding complex manual maintenance procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through wireless communication between the power pack and handpiece. The processor continuously monitors operational parameters and communicates status information wirelessly, enabling real-time feedback on system health, battery status, and operational conditions. This allows for proactive maintenance and early detection of potential failures, extending service life while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
3Reliability
If wireless pairing with RFID technology is implemented, then operational safety and control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the wireless transceiver and processor to perform multiple functions: wireless communication, pairing authentication, operational control, and diagnostic monitoring. The RFID system serves both identification and authorization functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby improving safety capabilities while limiting the increase in overall system 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 system provides safer operation and reduces premature failure by ensuring secure pairing and dynamic braking, enhancing the control and longevity of powered rotary knives.
Implementation Method 1
interrogate the RFID tag with the RFID reader; receive an RFID signal from the RFID tag including unique identifying information for the handpiece
Data Source
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AI summary
A power pack for a power tool that controls and expels energy from motor operations. The power pack includes an electric motor powering the power tool, and non-transitory computer readable storage media having computer executable instructions configured to monitor and control operation of the electric motor and the power tool.