Tool Controller Licensing for Flexible Multi-Tool Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assembly processes require complex tools with rigid functionality sets that fail to adapt to changing requirements without software updates, leading to inflexible tool performance and long lead times.
Innovation Solution
A tool controller system that enables different functionality sets for tools by using license types to specify allowed functions, allowing for automatic updates without modifying the tool controller software, enabling flexible adaptation to new requirements through a license server or hardware dongle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tools are designed with rigid functionality sets, then tool performance is stable and reliable, but adaptability to new requirements deteriorates and requires software updates with long lead times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tool's functionality into two independent parts: a stable core software that ensures reliability, and separate license files that provide adaptability. The license files contain function enablement data that can be independently updated without modifying the core tool software, allowing functionality to be segmented and distributed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces license files as an intermediary between the user and the tool's functionality. These license files act as a mediator that enables or disables specific functions without requiring changes to the tool's core software, thus providing adaptability while maintaining stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tools are designed with flexible functionality sets, then adaptability to new requirements is improved, but device complexity increases and requires sophisticated software update mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The license file serves as a simple intermediary that manages functionality without adding complex update mechanisms. The tool controller simply reads and executes instructions from the license file, avoiding the need for complex software update systems while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of functionality management from software code modifications to data-based license file configurations. By treating functionality enablement as a data parameter rather than a software structure change, the system achieves flexibility without increasing device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If software updates are required to add new functions, then tool functionality can be enhanced, but lead time for implementation increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares functionality in advance by pre-configuring license files with function enablement data. When new functionality is needed, the appropriate license file is simply distributed and activated, eliminating the need for time-consuming software update cycles and immediately enabling new capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses license files as copyable data objects that can be rapidly distributed and deployed. Instead of updating complex software systems, the solution copies and activates pre-prepared license files, dramatically reducing implementation time from months to minutes.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method and a tool controller (100) for enabling different functionality sets for at least a first and a second tool (200). The method comprising the steps of. Retrieving at least a first license type. The first license type specifies a first set of functions allowed to be performed by at least the first tool (200). Next the method comprising retrieving at least a second license type. The second license type specifies a second set of functions allowed to be performed by at least the second tool (200). Thereafter the method comprising enabling the first set of functions for at least the first tool (200). In the next step the method comprising enabling the second set of functions for at least the second tool (200).