Processing Tool Coupling With Protected Optical ID Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current processing tools lack effective identification methods, leading to difficulties in determining tool suitability for specific processes due to similarity in appearance, manual entry errors, and potential loss of serial numbers, resulting in the risk of using unsuitable tools and compromising workpiece quality.
Innovation Solution
A processing tool with a first coupling part featuring a protected one-dimensional or two-dimensional optical machine-readable code as an identification marker, positioned between coupling parts, which is less susceptible to damage from harsh environments and allows for unique tool identification without the need for special marker holding units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If RFID chips are mounted to tools using special chip holding units, then tool identification capability is improved, but the reliability of the identification marker deteriorates because the RFID chip tends to break easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the identification marker directly with the tool body structure, eliminating the need for separate chip holding units. The identification marker is integrated into the tool body itself, which provides structural protection and eliminates the fragility associated with separate mounting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical machine-readable codes (such as Data Matrix codes) that can be directly printed or marked on the tool body surface, creating a durable copy of identification information that does not require physical chips or electronic components.
2Ease of operation
If serial or batch numbers are provided on tool packaging for manual entry, then tool identification is possible, but the time consumption and error risk increase due to manual typing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical entry of identification numbers with optical machine-readable codes that can be automatically scanned and read by machines, eliminating the need for manual typing and reducing errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification marker on the tool body enables the tool to identify itself automatically through machine-readable codes, eliminating the need for operators to manually查找 and enter serial numbers from packaging.
3Loss of information
If general information on tool type level is provided in catalogs, then basic tool information is available, but specific information related to unique individual tools is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments tool information into two levels: general tool type information available in catalogs, and specific individual tool information encoded in unique identification markers on each tool body, allowing both general and specific information to be accessed appropriately.
Solution Approach 2:
The unique identification marker on each tool body serves as an intermediary that links the physical tool to its specific information in databases, enabling retrieval of individual tool data without requiring complex information systems.
4Ease of operation
If the first identification marker is positioned on the tool body surface, then tool identification is accessible, but the identification marker is exposed to harsh environment and may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the identification marker within or between coupling parts of the tool body, effectively nesting it within the tool structure. This provides protection from environmental factors while maintaining accessibility for identification purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification marker can be applied as a durable surface marking or code that is integrated into the tool body surface structure, providing protection similar to a thin film that shields the identification information from environmental damage.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a processing tool (100, 200) comprising a tool body (110,210). The tool body (110,210) comprising a front end surface (115,215), a rear end surface (116,216),at least one side surface (117,217) connecting the front end surface (115,215) and the rear end surface (116,216), and a first coupling part (130,230) extending between a first end (118,218) and a second end (119,219), wherein the first end (118,218) is disposed at, at least any of, the front end surface (115,215), the rear end surface (116,216), or the at least one side surface (117,217), wherein the first coupling part (130,230) being one of a female coupling part (230); and a male coupling part (130); wherein the first coupling part (130,230) comprises a first identification marker (140,240) comprising identification information of the processing tool (100,200). The invention also relates to a processing tool assembly (300).