Sensor Identification via Parameter Matching in Stationary States

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Solution Overview

Problem

In machines with multiple identical sensors, it is challenging for controllers to uniquely identify each sensor and distinguish between their corresponding locations, especially during startup, due to identical sensor outputs and positions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where a controller compares a unique parameter value detected by each sensor with predefined values in a predefined stationary state, associating the sensor with the corresponding part when a match is found, allowing for unique identification and positioning of sensors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple identical sensors are used on different parts of the machine, then the sensing capability and coverage are improved, but the ability to uniquely identify each sensor and distinguish their locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensing capabilityVSAvoidsensor location identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making each sensor's detection capability specific to its local position on the machine. Each sensor detects parameters unique to its location (e.g., specific orientation angles, positional coordinates), allowing the controller to identify sensor locations based on the local characteristics of detected parameters rather than relying on sensor identifiers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by having sensors detect different parameter values or parameter combinations that change based on their location. The controller compares detected parameter values against predefined values associated with specific parts, enabling location identification through parameter matching rather than sensor identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If identical sensors with same part number are positioned on various parts, then manufacturing cost and ease of replacement are improved, but the complexity of distinguishing between data from multiple sensors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor installationVSAvoidsensor identification system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling sensors to automatically identify their own locations through the parameters they detect. Each sensor independently determines its position by detecting local parameters and matching them with predefined values, eliminating the need for manual identification or complex external identification systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing parameter values and their corresponding sensor locations in the controller's memory before operation begins. This pre-prepared reference data allows for rapid and automatic sensor identification during machine operation without adding real-time complexity to the identification process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If sensors are positioned on movable parts without predefined association, then flexibility in sensor placement is improved, but the time required to associate sensor data with correct parts during startup increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor placement flexibilityVSAvoidsensor association time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical or manual sensor association methods with an automated parameter-based identification system. Instead of physically tagging or manually configuring sensors to specific parts, the system uses detected parameter values (such as orientation, position, or other physical quantities) to automatically match sensors with their corresponding parts through computational comparison.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11157708B2Method and system for identifying sensors on machines
Publication Date: 2021.10.26 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US11157708B2 patent drawing
  • US11157708B2 patent drawing
  • US11157708B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for identifying a sensor among as plurality of identical sensors on a machine is disclosed. The method includes comparing, by a controller, a unique value of a parameter detected by the sensor with a predefined value of the parameter. The unique value of the parameter is detected in a predefined stationary state of at least one part of a plurality of parts of the machine. The method further includes associating, by the controller, the unique value of the parameter detected by the sensor with the at least one part when the unique value of the parameter matches with the predefined value of the parameter. The predefined value of the parameter corresponds to a value of the parameter attained by the at least one part in the predefined stationary state of the at least one part.