RFID Track Positioning for Aircraft Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing systems face challenges in accurately positioning machine tools in three-dimensional spaces, particularly in aircraft production environments, where precise machining operations are required to ensure correct locations on work pieces.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a track with location indicators, such as RFID devices, that provide unique tags to identify positions along the track, allowing machine tools to be accurately positioned using RFID detectors and logic instructions executed by processors to determine the center point of the RFID device for precise placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional positioning systems are used to position machine tools, then the system complexity is reduced, but the positioning precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
An RFID positioning system serves as an intermediary between the machine tool and the workpiece, using RFID tags attached to the workpiece and readers on the machine tool to establish precise positional relationships without complex mechanical positioning systems. The RFID system mediates the positioning function by wirelessly transmitting location data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical positioning systems with an RFID-based electromagnetic field system. Instead of relying on complex mechanical guides, rails, and manual positioning mechanisms, the system uses RFID tags and readers to determine positions, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic/electromagnetic field-based positioning.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning methods are used, then the device complexity is minimized, but the manufacturing precision and reliability of machining operations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID positioning system provides continuous feedback on the machine tool's position relative to the workpiece. The reader detects the RFID tag's position, and this information is fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts the machine tool's position to achieve precise alignment, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-positioning of the machine tool by automatically detecting RFID tags on the workpiece and calculating the required position adjustments. The machine tool serviceably positions itself based on RFID data without requiring complex external positioning equipment or manual intervention.
3Reliability
If RFID positioning system is implemented, then positioning reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID positioning system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides positioning information, identifies workpiece locations, tracks machine tool positions, and enables automated control. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated RFID-based platform, improving reliability without proportionally increasing 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
This solution enables accurate and reliable positioning of machine tools, preventing errors in machining operations by ensuring correct alignment with predetermined locations on aircraft structures, thereby enhancing production efficiency and reducing the likelihood of incorrect machining.
Implementation Method 1
detecting, with an RFID detector, a first location of a first boundary of the RFID device
Data Source
AI summary
Manufacturing systems and methods are disclosed. In one example, a system includes a track to be positioned proximate a structure. The track has a length extending along an axis and a location indicator positioned along the length of the track. The location indicator provides a unique tag which identifies a location of the location indicator along the first axis.