Sensor Data Association for Automated Machine Updates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for updating on-board computer information about sensor devices on machines are prone to human error, are time-consuming, and face limitations such as inaccessible or damaged labels and restricted range of RFID devices.

Innovation Solution

A method using a wireless local area network to obtain sensor data from multiple devices, filter and identify relevant data, associate it with machine components, and transmit this information for automated machine updates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual update method is used, then operator can enter sensor device information, but human error occurs and update process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of sensor device informationVSAvoidupdate process time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing sensor devices to automatically transmit their identification information and component association data to the on-board computer without requiring manual data entry. The sensor devices self-configure by broadcasting their details which are automatically captured and processed by the update device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of data entry with an automated wireless communication system. Instead of operators physically entering data through keyboards or interfaces, the system uses wireless transmission and automatic data capture to substitute the mechanical interaction with electronic automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If barcode scanning device is used, then automated data collection is possible, but labels may be inaccessible or damaged making scanning impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of data collectionVSAvoidavailability of label information
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between sensor devices and the on-board computer. Instead of relying on physical labels that may be damaged or inaccessible, the sensor devices themselves act as intermediaries that directly transmit their identification information electronically, eliminating the need for physical barcode labels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Extent of automation

If RFID device is used, then automated identification can be achieved, but communication range is limited and additional components are required on sensor devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic sensor device identificationVSAvoidadditional components on sensor devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using standard wireless communication capabilities that are already present in most modern sensor devices. Instead of requiring specialized RFID components, the system uses universally available wireless interfaces (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) that sensor devices already possess for other purposes, thereby achieving automation without adding complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 approach reduces human error, speeds up the update process, and overcomes limitations of manual and RFID-based methods by providing accurate and efficient sensor data association and machine updates.

Implementation Method 1

obtaining, using a wireless local area network communication, sensor data from a plurality of sensor devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless local area network communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11507360B2Automatically obtaining sensor data for machine update
Publication Date: 2022.11.22 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US11507360B2 patent drawing
  • US11507360B2 patent drawing
  • US11507360B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system may comprise: a reader device comprising: one or more memories; and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the one or more memories. The one or more processors may be configured to: obtain, using a wireless local area network communication, sensor data from a plurality of sensor devices associated with a machine; identify, from the sensor data, information identifying a sensor device of the plurality of sensor devices; generate sensor device information that associates the information identifying the sensor device with information identifying a component of the machine; and transmit the sensor device information to cause the machine to be updated using the sensor device information.