Quality monitoring and maintenance for products employing end user serviceable components
US6687634B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 3, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 8, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G15/553
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for monitoring the quality and performance of a product that utilizes end user serviceable components and consumables. In illustrative embodiments, a calibration procedure is employed to determine when and if sub-standard third party replacement components are employed. If such a component is detected, a notification is made to the end user or a service provider. Under certain conditions, the product can be disabled. In another embodiment, electronic labels are employed within the replaceable components. The electronic labels are used to determine the source and quality of the replaceable components, and to interface to sensors which can monitor the consumption of consumables, or for other purposes. Warranty and service costs can be established based on the utilization of the present teachings.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.