Wireless Master Node for Industrial Welding Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication technologies face challenges in harsh environments like welding locations due to noise and security concerns, particularly when extending communication links over long distances and managing multiple remote welding locations in small areas.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication network system that includes a master node device facilitating both long-range communication with a welding power supply unit and short-range communication with welding-related devices, using a star configuration and secure association methods to prevent unauthorized access and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If long cables are extended to remote welding locations, then power can be delivered to remote equipment, but the cables become very cumbersome and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The welding power supply unit and remote welding equipment communicate wirelessly through a master node device, eliminating the need for long physical cables and their associated management challenges.
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication technologies are used in welding environments, then cable management is simplified, but communication reliability deteriorates due to noise and security concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The master node device serves as an intermediary between the welding power supply unit and remote welding equipment. It establishes a star configuration wireless network that mediates communication, providing structured data transmission paths and enhancing security through controlled access points in the noisy welding environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs specific communication parameters and protocols optimized for industrial environments. The wireless communication uses defined data formats, error checking mechanisms, and security protocols that adapt to the harsh welding environment, ensuring reliable operation despite noise and interference.
3Productivity
If multiple remote welding locations are used in small areas, then welding productivity increases, but cable management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication system replaces the mechanical cable infrastructure entirely. Multiple welding locations can operate simultaneously without requiring additional cables running through the workspace, eliminating the complexity of managing multiple long cables in confined areas.
4Ease of operation
If wireless communication is implemented without security measures, then ease of operation improves, but security vulnerabilities increase allowing unauthorized access and interference
Solution Approach 1:
The master node device acts as a security intermediary, controlling and filtering all wireless communications. It manages association between devices, validates communication requests, and prevents unauthorized access to the welding equipment, maintaining security while enabling convenient wireless operation.
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, a system includes a master node device. The master node device includes communication circuitry configured to facilitate communication with a welding power supply unit via a long-range communication link, and to facilitate wireless communication with one or more welding-related devices via a short-range wireless communication network.