Tool Part Dimension Coding for Precise Machine Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine operations face inefficiencies due to manual handling and human error in positioning tool parts, leading to incorrect tool placement, potential damage, and increased time and costs in manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a unique machine-readable code on tool parts to provide individual dimension information, allowing for precise positioning and assembly by reading the code with a reader device, reducing the need for manual measurement and minimizing human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and visual inspection are used to position tool parts, then the operator can verify tool part location, but human error leads to incorrect positioning and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical measurement with an automated optical reading system. A reader device scans a machine-readable code (barcode or data matrix) on the tool part, automatically capturing dimension information without human intervention. This substitution eliminates human error in positioning while simplifying the operator's task to merely scanning the code.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool part carries its own identification information through the machine-readable code, which contains dimension data specific to that individual part. The system enables self-identification and self-verification by automatically reading this code, allowing the tool part to 'tell' the system its own dimensions without requiring manual measurement or verification by the operator.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement is performed to verify tool part dimensions, then positioning accuracy can be confirmed, but significant time is spent on localization and verification
Solution Approach 1:
The dimension information is pre-encoded into the machine-readable code during tool part manufacturing or preparation. This preliminary action stores the measurement data in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site measurements. When the tool part arrives at the machine, its dimensions are already known and can be instantly retrieved by scanning the code.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual measurement activities with automated optical code reading. Instead of using calipers, micrometers, or other manual measuring instruments, the system uses a reader device to optically scan the machine-readable code and automatically extract dimension information, dramatically reducing verification time while maintaining precision.
3Productivity
If individual tool parts are manufactured with tolerance ranges, then manufacturing is more efficient, but each part requires additional measurement before use
Solution Approach 1:
The machine-readable code serves as an intermediary carrier that bridges manufacturing and usage. During manufacturing, the code is applied to the tool part and stores the actual measured dimensions within the tolerance range. This intermediary eliminates the need for repeated measurements at the machine, as the code provides the exact dimension data needed for positioning and setup.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for utilizing an identification marker on a tool part for determining a dimension thereof. The system includes a reader device for reading a machine readable code, and an electronic device connected to the reader device. The electronic device has a processing circuitry that causes the system to detect with the reader device, an identification marker at a tool part, wherein the identification marker is a unique machine readable code read by the reader device, and the unique machine readable code of the identification marker, and obtain from the unique machine readable code, individual dimension information data including at least one individually measured dimension of the tool part measured when manufacturing the tool part. A method and a computer program product for utilizing an identification marker on a tool part to be used for determining a dimension of the tool part and to a tool part is also provided.