Wireless Welder Remote Control Without Fragile Signal Cables

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing welding systems face issues with fragile communication cables that can be damaged, introducing high-frequency electrical noise, and limiting operator convenience and productivity due to the need for physical proximity to adjust welding parameters.

Innovation Solution

A wireless remote control system that allows operators to control welding parameters from a remote location using a receiver connected to the welding power source via an existing control cable port, enabling wireless signal transmission and reception to regulate welding operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a communications cable is used for remote control, then control signals can be transmitted to the welding power source, but the cable is fragile and can be damaged by crushing or snagging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidcable durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based control system with a wireless communication system. The wireless remote control transmits control signals through electromagnetic waves (radio frequency communication) instead of physical cable connections, eliminating the mechanical vulnerability of cables to crushing and snagging while maintaining remote control functionality.

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

2Ease of operation

If a communications cable is used for remote control, then control signals can be transmitted, but high frequency electrical noise is introduced to the system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidelectrical noise interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless communication system replaces the cable-based electrical connection, thereby eliminating the cable's role as a conduit for high-frequency electrical noise. By transmitting control signals through radio frequency electromagnetic waves instead of physical cables, the system avoids the noise interference that plagues cable-based communications in high-voltage welding environments.

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

3Reliability

If the operator walks back to the machine to make adjustments, then welding parameters can be changed, but productivity is reduced and operator convenience is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter adjustment accuracyVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless remote control system enables operators to adjust welding parameters from a distance using wireless communication, eliminating the need to physically return to the machine. This maintains accurate parameter control while significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity by allowing continuous monitoring and adjustment without interruption to the welding process.

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

4Ease of operation

If additional cables are added for control communication, then remote control is enabled, but device complexity and portability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidcable management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless communication system replaces the additional control cables that would be required for remote operation. By using radio frequency electromagnetic waves for signal transmission, the system eliminates the physical cable infrastructure needed for control communication, thereby reducing overall system complexity and improving portability while maintaining full remote control functionality.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11148220B2Method and apparatus for wireless remote control communication of a welder
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • US11148220B2 patent drawing
  • US11148220B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus of communicating control signals to a welding power source from a remote location includes a welding system operated by control signals transmitted by a wireless remote control that can be remotely located from the welding power source. A plurality of welding parameters in the welding system are set and adjusted in response to wireless command signals transmitted to a receiver that is connected to the welding power source via a connection port and is further connected to a controller in the welding power source. In this regard, an operator is able to quickly and efficiently control a welding system from a remote location, with no more cables than are necessary to perform the intended task.