Work Machine Sensor Adapter for Automatic Code Data Input

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work machines lack efficient methods to input physical information collected by external sensors, such as bar codes or two-dimensional codes, for improved convenience and management.

Innovation Solution

A sensor unit is mounted to the work machine, comprising a sensor device, a communication adapter, and a controller, which converts and relays collected data to the work machine's storage via interfaces, allowing data input and management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a sensor device is provided outside the work machine to collect physical information, then the convenience and management of the work machine is improved, but the difficulty of inputting the collected data to the work machine increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of work machineVSAvoiddata input complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A communication adapter is introduced as an intermediary device that bridges the sensor device and the work machine. The adapter includes a first interface connecting to the sensor device and a second interface connecting to the work machine, automatically relaying collected data to the work machine's storage part, thereby eliminating the need for manual data input while improving convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If unique information is collected and stored in the work machine, then the management of the work machine is facilitated, but the device complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanagement capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The communication adapter is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a data transmission interface and a power supply interface. The second interface includes both a communication terminal for data relay and a power supply terminal for powering the sensor device, reducing the need for separate components and minimizing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the sensor device is disposed away from the work machine, then various physical information can be collected conveniently, but the reliability of data transmission decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollection convenienceVSAvoiddata transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The communication adapter acts as a reliable intermediary that maintains stable data transmission between the remotely positioned sensor device and the work machine. The adapter ensures automatic and accurate relay of collected data, preserving transmission reliability even when the sensor device is disposed away from the work machine for optimal collection positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances the convenience and management of work machines by enabling easy storage of collected data and unique information, facilitating communication and preventing incorrect packing.

Implementation Method 1

The sensor device may be configured as an optical sensor device that collects information about light as the physical information existing outside the sensor unit.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12564928B2Sensor unit, work machine, communication method, and management method
Publication Date: 2026.03.03 KOKI HLDG CO LTD
  • US12564928B2 patent drawing
  • US12564928B2 patent drawing
  • US12564928B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention improves the convenience of a work machine. A two-dimensional code 15a and a serial number 15b are marked on a name plate 15. The two-dimensional code 15a is a two-dimensional code indicating unique information such as the serial number of a work machine 1. A communication adapter 30 is connected to a battery pack mounting portion 2c of the work machine 1. The communication adapter 30 has a function of supplying power to the work machine 1 and a function of communicating with the work machine 1 and a PLC 60. A camera 67 reads the two-dimensional code 15a of the work machine 1, and transmits the serial number of the work machine 1 to the PLC 60. The PLC 60 transmits the serial number to the communication adapter 30. The work machine 1 stores the received serial number in its own internal memory.