Tool management system
US10656614B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 2016 |
| Grant date | May 19, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/37618
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A tool management system includes a plurality of individual tool retention units that are in electronic communication with a central webserver. Each tool retention unit is designed to independently monitor a designated toolset and transmit tool use data to the webserver. The data compiled by the webserver can be routinely evaluated to ensure proper accountability of all tools within a particular workspace. Due to the autonomous nature of each unit, subsets of tools within a larger monitored collection can be added, removed or replaced without disruption of monitoring amongst the remainder of tools. In one embodiment, a tool retention unit is constructed as a chest comprising a plurality of individual, swappable drawers housed within a common frame. In use, each drawer is provided with a controller that is configured to monitor its designated toolset and transmit any tool-related data to a main controller in communication with the webserver.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.