Wireless SAW Strain Sensing in Machining Force Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current sensor solutions for monitoring cutting forces in machining processes are invasive, expensive, and limited to dedicated R&D centers due to their complex measurement chains and impractical integration into production systems, making widespread implementation challenging.

Innovation Solution

A wireless and passive sensing system using surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors and transceiving antennas, which can detect strain on cutting tools and workpieces, allowing for remote monitoring without the need for power sources or complex amplification circuits, and can operate effectively in environments with metal and fluids that interfere with electromagnetic signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional sensor solutions are used to monitor cutting forces, then measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting force monitoring capabilityVSAvoidcomplex measurement chain
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical sensor systems with acoustic emission-based detection. Instead of using complex force sensors and measurement chains, the system uses acoustic emission sensors to detect stress waves generated during cutting, thereby substituting a mechanical measurement system with an acoustic field-based system that is simpler and more robust

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the essential measurement function from the complex conventional system by focusing only on detecting acoustic emission signals from the cutting zone. This extraction approach eliminates unnecessary components of traditional force measurement systems while retaining the core capability to monitor cutting forces through acoustic signal analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Measurement precision

If invasive sensor solutions are implemented, then cutting force data is obtained, but ease of operation and integration are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting force measurementVSAvoidintegration into production systems
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the measurement system into independent acoustic emission sensors that can be placed on existing machine components without requiring system-wide modifications. This segmentation allows the sensors to be independently installed and operated, greatly simplifying integration into production systems while maintaining measurement capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If complex measurement systems are deployed, then monitoring capability is achieved, but productivity and cost-effectiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool life prediction accuracyVSAvoidmachining productivity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service measurement system where acoustic emission sensors automatically detect and record cutting zone conditions without requiring external intervention or complex processing systems. The sensors autonomously monitor stress waves and provide real-time feedback on tool condition, enabling reliable tool life prediction while maintaining high machining productivity through minimal system overhead

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 cost-effective, flexible, and practical monitoring of cutting forces in various machining processes, improving tool life prediction, reducing scrap, and enhancing machining productivity by providing real-time data on tool wear and process conditions.

Implementation Method 1

A wireless and passive sensing system using surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors and transceiving antennas, which can detect strain on cutting tools and workpieces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSurface acoustic wave: Surface Acoustic Wave

Implementation Method 2

the at least one SAW sensor and the at least one transceiving antenna arrangement are arranged to receive energy from an interrogation signal and output a strain response signal detected by the at least one SAW sensor in response to the interrogation signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic energy reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3930958B1System for wireless and passive monitoring of strain during manufacturing processes
Publication Date: 2024.03.20 THE PROVOST FELLOWS FOUNDATION SCHOLARS AND THE OTHER MEMBERS OF BOARD OF THE COLLEGE OF THE HOLY AND UNDIVIDED TRINITY OF QUEEN ELIZABETH NEAR DUBLIN
  • EP3930958B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3930958B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3930958B1 patent drawingFigure 4a~4c

AI summary

Provided is a sensing system for wireless and passive monitoring of strain during a manufacturing process that depends on force to apply the energy into the manufacturing process, the sensing system comprising: at least one surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor for detecting strain, the at least one SAW sensor being positioned in a force path located on or in the structure of one or more objects under test; and at least one transceiving antenna arrangement being connectable to the at least one SAW sensor, wherein the at least one SAW sensor and the at least one transceiving antenna arrangement are arranged to receive energy from an interrogation signal and output a strain response signal detected by the at least one SAW sensor in response to the interrogation signal.