Apparatus for monitoring and controlling processing of articles and associated method
US6729005B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 12, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 4, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 12, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53096
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for manufacturing or processing articles includes smart microcontroller boards which cooperate with sensors and a communication system to monitor and control manufacturing processes. Microcontroller boards disposed within a container create a microprocessor module which is secured to the apparatus for controlling the same responsive to information provided to them. Sensors are provided for monitoring operation of the apparatus and providing such information to the microcontroller boards. The communication system provides for communication between the sensors and the microcontroller boards, among microcontroller boards and between the microcontroller boards and other portions of the apparatus which are to be subjected to responsive control. In a preferred embodiment, the microcontroller boards are positioned within a container which is secured in a recess in the apparatus and has an overlying material covering the boards. A plurality of microcontroller modules may be employed in a system. Associated methods are disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.