RFID Tag Automation for Process Measurement Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual configuration of process measurement devices in industrial processes is error-prone and tedious, and mistakes can occur when replacing process components due to worn or unreadable identification data, leading to improper device configuration and erroneous results.
Innovation Solution
A process measurement point system that uses radio frequency identification (RFID) tags on process components to store identifying information, allowing an RFID transceiver to automatically configure the process measurement device, eliminating the need for manual configuration and ensuring accurate identification of components during replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration is used to enter identifying details of process components, then the process measurement device can be configured, but errors occur and the process is tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical configuration process with an automated electronic system. RFID tags store component identifying details, and an RFID transceiver automatically retrieves and transmits this information to the process measurement device, eliminating manual data entry and reducing both errors and effort
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration where the process measurement device automatically obtains its own configuration data through RFID communication. The device configures itself by receiving identifying information from RFID tags on connected components, without requiring operator intervention for data entry
2Loss of information
If model and part numbers are made readable on process components, then identification is possible, but they become worn and hard to read over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical printed labels with electronic RFID tags that store identification data. This eliminates the problem of worn or faded labels, as the electronic data can be read indefinitely without degradation, maintaining information availability throughout the component's service life
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an electronic copy of the component identification data stored in the RFID tag. This digital copy can be read repeatedly without wear, unlike physical labels that degrade over time, ensuring continuous availability of identification information
3Reliability
If automatic configuration using RFID tags is implemented, then configuration accuracy improves and manual errors are eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal RFID-based configuration system that can identify and configure multiple types of process components through a single standardized interface. The RFID tags and transceiver serve multiple functions including component identification, data retrieval, and automatic configuration, reducing the need for component-specific configuration procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary that stores and transmits configuration data between the process component and the measurement device. This intermediary simplifies the interaction by providing a standardized data exchange mechanism, reducing the complexity of direct device-component configuration
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 enables accurate and efficient configuration of process measurement devices, reducing errors and ensuring precise data interpretation, while also providing a continuous inventory of components and facilitating the ordering of replacement parts without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of process components includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that stores identifying information regarding the process component
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A RFID transceiver interrogates RFID tags located on process components and provides identification data stored on the RFID tags to a process measurement device coupled to the process components. Based on the identification data received, the process measurement device configures itself to interpret data provided by the process components. Proper configuration allows the process measurement device to provide meaningful process data to a control room.