Data processing: measuring – calibrating – or testing – Measurement system in a specific environment – Quality evaluation
Reexamination Certificate
1998-05-27
2001-02-13
Isen, Forester W. (Department: 2747)
Data processing: measuring, calibrating, or testing
Measurement system in a specific environment
Quality evaluation
Reexamination Certificate
active
06188967
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an arrangement and to a method for the utilization of audio signals as a feedback mechanism which is employed for the controlling of manufacturing processes; particularly for monitoring the process parameters and operating conditions.
2. Discussion of the Prior Art
Currently, in the technology which encompasses manufacturing processes, signals which are employed for feedback control for the manufacturing processes, are presented visually to a user or operator online and are readily observable on a suitable display screen of a monitor. Quite frequently, feedback signals are provided in real time, but in actuality, need not necessarily be in real time, inasmuch as control charts are examples of feedback which is online, but typically is not in real time. Although in all instances, visual feedback is provided, it is nevertheless subject to considerable limitations in being able to effectuate control over manufacturing processes. For instance, it is not a readily easy task for a human observer or operator to simultaneously monitor a plurality of manufacturing process parameters, each of which may control a separate and distinct process function; and also to concurrently be able to devote adequate attention to visual monitoring. Quite frequently, the visual feedback signals are displayed in the form of representative lines on the display screen, each line being generally in a different color and designating a baseline associated with a particular process function, parameter or operating condition. When these lines fluctuate or deviate from baselines, and at times resultingly intersect or coincide, the coloring of the various displayed lines become illegible or smudged, so as to render it difficult for the observer to be able to accurately ascertain which particular manufacturing process function is subject to problems which would necessitate taking either some corrective action on the part of the user, or possibly even requiring the shut-down of the manufacturing process for more detailed investigation of the apparent process problem.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In order to improve upon and obviate the limi tations encountered in the foregoing feedback control for manufacturing processes which is in the nature of visual displays, the present invention provides for the feedback control for manufacturing processes to be in the form of audio signals which will facilitate the monitoring and controlling by a user of manufacturing processes, and enable the implementation of simultaneous corrective actions with regard to manufacturing process parameters and/or operating conditions.
In essence, the human ear is extremely efficient in separating a composite audio signal into its discrete components; for example, in a symphony it is quite easily possible to perceive, within any period of time the presence of clarinets, French horns, violins, and other types of musical instruments. On the other hand, in the employment of visual signals, particularly those represented in colors, the human eye tends to integrate the various color components; i.e. yellow and blue integrate into green, red and blue integrate into purple, and so forth, so that individual components are not readily observable and it becomes difficult for a user or operator to monitor individual manufacturing process parameters and conditions over protracted periods of time.
Pursuant to the inventive concept, there is accordingly provided an arrangement and a method for audio feedback control in which different sets of audio frequency ranges are concurrently utilized in order to facilitate the simultaneous feedback control of a plurality of manufacturing process parameters and process conditions. In essence, each of the particular audio frequency ranges may be dedicated to the control of a specific and individual process parameter, and wherein each of these audio ranges possesses a baseline representative of a proper manufacturing operation, indicative of the condition that the therewith associated process parameter is precisely on target. Moreover, audio signal variations about the baseline may be encountered, which signify actual process parameter deviations from the target, and consequently, as the process parameter deviates from its target value, the therewith associated audio signal varies in proportion with the degree of deviation, thereby continually keeping the operator of the process control system informed all times as to state of the respective process parameters which are under his supervision and control.
In accordance with a preferred feature of the invention, the audio signals may utilize audio frequency ranges which respectively simulate the sounds of specific musical instruments, which are employed in order to enhance or enable the capability of distinguishing among the various manufacturing processes and/or process parameters which are under the control of the operator. For example, each specific simulated musical instrument, such as a clarinet or the like, possesses a distinct timbre or set of timbres for its associated frequency range. Thus, it becomes possible to distinguish the difference between the high frequencies timbre and the low frequencies timbres of the clarinet in comparison with the other simulated musical instruments which are employed in generating the audio signals. Consequently, the same instrument can be utilized to control several parameters of the same manufacturing process; however, the one instrument is usually employed for controlling one parameter. The timbre of an instrument is normally generated by the addition of harmonics of varying amplitudes to its primary frequencies, which readily separates different musical instruments. As a result, the partitioning or separation of frequency ranges includes the harmonic effects which form the timbres of the various instruments. Moreover, sound value can be employed to convey information, such as the existence of a dangerous process condition or state, and that immediate attention and/or corrective action must be applied to that particular process parameter. It is also possible to utilize changes in sound tempo to convey additional information concerning the state of manufacturing process parameters; for example, to indicate fluctuations in parameter values. For instance, the faster the parameter values vary, the faster is the tempo of the therewith associated simulated musical instrument providing the audio signal.
The selection of specific musical instruments or their simulated sounds so as to produce feedback audio signals representative of specific process parameters is under the control of the operator controlling the manufacturing process. Although the foregoing, utilization of audio signals is basically intended as a substitute or replacement for currently employed visual feedback signals employed in controlling manufacturing processes or their parameters, it is possible, within the scope of the invention, that in a particular application, both audio and visual signals can be selectively or simultaneously employed to provide a feedback mechanism for an operator in order to assist the latter in controlling various manufacturing processes or process parameters and conditions, and to be able to undertake any necessary corrective action.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement for the generating of audio signals employable by a user as a feedback mechanism for exercising control over manufacturing processes.
It is another object of the present invention to provide an arrangement facilitating the audio feedback control of manufacturing processes in which a plurality of different audio frequency ranges or sets of ranges are employed to simultaneously control a plurality of the manufacturing process parameters and process conditions.
Yet another object of the present invention resides in the provision of a method of utilizing audio signals as a feedback mechanism for controlling manufacturing processes.
Still another object
Kurtzberg Jerome M.
Levanoni Menachem
Lew John Stephen
International Business Machines - Corporation
Isen Forester W.
Kaufman, Esq. Stephen C.
Pendleton Brian
Scully Scott Murphy & Presser
LandOfFree
Audio feedback control for manufacturing processes does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Audio feedback control for manufacturing processes, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Audio feedback control for manufacturing processes will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2593529