Shape-Memory Antenna Mount for Accurate Media Line Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification methods for media guides, such as pipes and hoses, are cumbersome, require integration during manufacturing, lack positioning accuracy, and are not applicable to couplings or hoses without reinforcing elements, increasing manufacturing effort and limiting flexibility.
Innovation Solution
An identification element with a shape memory alloy or polymer antenna that changes shape with temperature, allowing easy retrofitting and secure attachment to media guides without tools, suitable for various contours and diameters, including couplings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If transponders are integrated into media lines during manufacturing, then identification capability is achieved, but manufacturing effort increases and positioning accuracy cannot be predetermined
Solution Approach 1:
The identification element is prepared in advance with a predetermined position on the mounting element before attachment to the media line. The mounting element is designed with pre-formed mounting positions that guide accurate placement during installation, eliminating the need for complex positioning during manufacturing integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If transponders are integrated during manufacturing, then identification is achieved, but the method is not applicable to couplings or hoses without reinforcing elements
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is divided into separate components: a mounting element with mounting positions and an identification element with transponder and antenna. This segmentation allows the mounting element to be attached to various media guides (pipes, hoses, couplings) independently, providing universal applicability without requiring integration during manufacturing of each specific component.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical attachment to diverse media guides (including couplings and hoses without reinforcing elements), positions the identification element accurately, and enables retrofitting after manufacturing. This universal mounting solution works across different media guide types without requiring manufacturing-specific integration methods.
3Ease of manufacture
If identification elements are retrofitted after manufacturing, then manufacturing effort is reduced, but positioning accuracy and secure attachment are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element is pre-formed with specific mounting positions and geometric features that ensure accurate positioning of the identification element during retrofitted installation. These pre-designed mounting positions guide the identification element into the correct location without requiring complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element uses shape memory alloy or shape memory polymer materials that change shape in response to temperature changes. This thermal-mechanical response provides automatic positioning and secure attachment during retrofitted installation, replacing complex mechanical alignment and fastening systems.
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
Facilitates easy, cost-effective, and accurate positioning of identification elements on media guides, enabling visual verification and replacement, without modifying the system, and applicable to diverse media routing systems.
Implementation Method 1
the first antenna comprises, at least in sections, a shape memory alloy and/or a shape memory polymer
Implementation Method 2
the first antenna comprises, at least in sections, a shape memory alloy and/or a shape memory polymer
Implementation Method 3
the first antenna comprises, at least in sections, a shape memory alloy and/or a shape memory polymer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an identification element (1) for media lines (2), comprising at least a transponder (10) and at least a first antenna (11) which is connected to the transponder (10) such that signals can be transmitted and which essentially extends away from the transponder (10). The identification element (1) is characterized in that at least parts of the first antenna (11) comprise a shape memory alloy.