Tool Holder RFID Recess Layout for Orientation-Independent Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool identification devices, particularly for rotating tools, face challenges with RFID transponders detaching due to their large size and metal affixation, and require specific orientation for reading, limiting robustness and usability.
Innovation Solution
A device with a read/write head extending above and/or below the tool holder over at least 70% of its diameter, featuring a recess for an RFID transponder oriented upwards or downwards, ensuring communication regardless of tool holder orientation and using a ferritic RFID transponder to shield from metal interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an RFID chip is mounted over the entire circumference of the tool holder to enable reading regardless of orientation, then reading reliability is improved, but the RFID chip becomes very large in dimension and prone to detachment during loading
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID transponder is segmented into a compact form factor and integrated into a recess in the tool holder rather than spanning the entire circumference. This segmentation allows the RFID function to be achieved with a much smaller component that is mechanically more stable and less prone to detachment during tool loading operations.
2Ease of operation
If a laterally mounted RFID transponder is used for tool identification, then the identification function is achieved, but reading can only take place with suitable orientation of the tool holder
Solution Approach 1:
The read/write head is extended in the axial direction (above and/or below the tool holder) rather than being confined to a lateral position. This dimensional extension creates an overlapping reading zone that spans the tool holder's diameter, allowing reading to occur regardless of the tool holder's rotational orientation around its longitudinal axis.
3Ease of manufacture
If an RFID transponder is affixed on metal surfaces for tool identification, then the identification function is achieved, but the transponder often becomes detached during processing due to loading forces
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID transponder is nested within a recess in the tool holder rather than being affixed on the external metal surface. This nesting approach provides mechanical protection and secure retention of the transponder during tool loading and processing operations, eliminating the detachment problems associated with surface mounting.
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
Enables robust and orientation-independent tool identification, preventing RFID transponder detachment and ensuring continuous operation without additional mechanical extensions, as the read/write head overlaps with the RFID transponder's radiation geometry in any position, maintaining communication effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
using a ferritic RFID transponder to shield from metal interference
Implementation Method 2
a read/write head (RWH) for communicating with the RFID transponder
Data Source
AI summary
A device for the identification of a tool which is accommodated in a tool holder includes a read/write head configured to communicate with an RFID transponder. The read/write head extends above and/or below the tool holder over at least 70% of an overall diameter of the tool holder. The tool holder has a longitudinal axis and, on its side, a recess which is formed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tool holder and in which the RFID transponder is inserted such that the transfer curve of the RFID transponder runs upwards and/or downwards, as seen from the recess, in a direction of the longitudinal axis of the tool.