U.S. patent application number 14/219665 was filed with the patent office on 2015-09-24 for methods for developing customer loyalty programs and related systems and devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Hypertherm, Inc.. Invention is credited to Richard Adams, Phillip N. Parker, Roger E. Young, JR..
Application Number | 20150269603 14/219665 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54142534 |
Filed Date | 2015-09-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150269603 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Young, JR.; Roger E. ; et
al. |
September 24, 2015 |
Methods for Developing Customer Loyalty Programs and Related
Systems and Devices
Abstract
In some aspects, methods for measuring a level of usage of one
or more replaceable consumable components within a material
processing system can include detecting a type of consumable
component in use within a processing device of the material
processing system; determining, using a computing system, if the
type of consumable component in use is a specific type of
consumable component; and determining, using the computing system,
a usage ratio of the specific type of consumable component used
relative to other types of consumable components used within the
processing device during a cumulative time period of use of the
material processing system.
Inventors: |
Young, JR.; Roger E.; (West
Lebanon, NH) ; Adams; Richard; (Norwich, VT) ;
Parker; Phillip N.; (Hanover, NH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hypertherm, Inc. |
Hanover |
NH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54142534 |
Appl. No.: |
14/219665 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/14.27 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05H 1/36 20130101; B26F
3/004 20130101; G06Q 30/0226 20130101; B23K 26/702 20151001; G06K
7/10009 20130101; H04L 67/10 20130101; H04L 67/22 20130101; H04W
4/21 20180201 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20060101
G06Q030/02; H04L 29/08 20060101 H04L029/08 |
Claims
1. A method for validating customer characteristics associated with
a user's usage of one or more replaceable consumable components
within a material processing system, the method comprising:
detecting, using a computing system, a usage of the one or more
replaceable consumable components within the material processing
system; obtaining, over a communication network, a usage metric for
the material processing system from the computing system, the usage
metric for the material processing system being associated with the
one or more replaceable consumable components used within the
material processing system and based on identification of the
consumable components installed in the material processing system
during operation; comparing, using the computing system, the usage
metric to a threshold usage metric; and determining, based on the
comparing the usage metric to a threshold usage metric, if the
user's usage indicates a selected level of customer usage.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the obtaining the usage metric
includes determining a frequency of use of a particular type of
consumable.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein the comparing the usage metric
includes determining a ratio that the particular type of consumable
component is used relative to a total usage of the material
processing system.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein the comparing the usage metric
includes determining whether or not a consumable component of a
predetermined type is installed in the material processing system
during usage.
5. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining whether or not a
consumable component of the predetermined type is installed within
the material processing system during usage includes identifying
the consumable component installed in the material processing
system by communicating with a signal device disposed in or on the
consumable component.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein the obtaining the usage metric
includes communicating with the consumable component during
use.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein the communicating with the
consumable component during use includes obtaining system operating
parameters of one or more uses of the material processing
system.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising, responsive to
determining that the user's usage indicates a predetermined level
of customer usage, providing a user with one or more benefits.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving information
relating to usage of the processing device during one or more
previous operation sequences.
10. A method for measuring a level of usage of one or more
replaceable consumable components within a material processing
system, the method comprising: detecting a type of consumable
component in use within a processing device of the material
processing system; determining, using a computing system, if the
type of consumable component in use is a specific type of
consumable component; and determining, using the computing system,
a usage ratio of the specific type of consumable component used
relative to other types of consumable components used within the
processing device during a cumulative time period of use of the
material processing system.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the determining the usage ratio
includes transferring information regarding the type of consumable
component in use to an external computing device that is configured
to determine the usage ratio.
12. The method of claim 10 wherein the detecting the type of
consumable component comprises communicating with a signal device
disposed in or on the consumable component.
13. The method of claim 10 wherein the specific type of consumable
component comprises a particular manufacturer or OEM type or
channel source.
14. The method of claim 10 wherein the determining the usage ratio
comprises determining a frequency of use of the specific type of
consumable component relative to a frequency of use of consumable
components that are not of the specific type.
15. The method of claim 10 wherein the determining the usage ratio
comprises repeatedly determining whether or not a consumable
component of the specific type is installed in the material
processing system during usage.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the determining whether or not a
consumable component of the specific type is installed in the
material processing system during usage comprises communicating
with a signal device disposed in or on the consumable
component.
17. The method of claim 10 further comprising supplying information
relating to usage of the processing device to the material
processing system.
18. A material processing system comprising: a material processing
system control unit configured to be operably connected to a
processing device; a consumable identification module in
communication with the control unit, the consumable identification
module being configured to detect a type of consumable component in
use within a processing device of the material processing system; a
usage tracking module in communication with the control unit, the
usage tracking module configured to determine a usage ratio of a
predetermined type of consumable component used within the
processing device relative to other types of consumable components
used within the processing device during a cumulative time period
of use of the material processing system; and a communication
module in communication with the control unit, the communication
module being configured to provide over a communication network
information regarding a usage ratio of the predetermined type of
consumable component used within the material processing
system.
19. The material processing system of claim 18 wherein the
consumable identification module comprises a communication device
configured to communicate with a consumable component during
use.
20. The material processing system of claim 19 wherein the
consumable identification module is disposed within the material
processing device and is configured to communicate with a data tag
disposed in or on the consumable component, the data tag comprising
identifying information relating to the consumable component.
21. The material processing system of claim 20 wherein the
communication module is configured to transmit information relating
to the consumable component to the communication network.
22. The material processing system of claim 18 wherein the
communication network comprises an Internet based cloud system
configured to transmit material processing system usage information
relating to the type of consumable components used to the third
party.
23. The material processing system of claim 18 wherein the
communication network comprises a mobile telecommunication system
configured to transmit material processing system usage information
relating to the type of consumable components used to the third
party.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure relates generally to material processing
systems, and more specifically to methods for developing customer
loyalty programs and related systems and devices.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Material processing systems, such as thermal processing
torches (e.g., plasma arc torches), are used in the heating,
cutting, gouging, and marking of materials. Typically, a plasma arc
torch includes multiple replaceable consumable components, which
can include an electrode mounted within a torch body, a swirl ring,
a nozzle, one or more retaining caps, and a shield. The nozzle
typically has an exit orifice, electrical connections, passages for
cooling, and passages for arc control fluids (e.g., plasma gas).
Optionally, the swirl ring can be used to control fluid flow
patterns in the plasma chamber formed between the electrode and the
nozzle. In some torches, a retaining cap can be used to position
the nozzle and/or swirl ring in the plasma arc torch.
[0003] In operation, the torch produces a plasma arc, which is a
constricted jet of an ionized gas with high temperature and
sufficient momentum to assist with removal of molten metal. Each
consumable can be selected to achieve optimal performance (e.g., an
optimal current level, maximum lifespan, etc.) in view of specific
processing constraints, such as the type of material being cut
and/or the cut shape desired. Installing incorrect consumables into
a torch can result in poor cut quality and decreased cut speed. In
addition, incorrect consumables can reduce consumable life and lead
to premature consumable failure. Additionally, in some cases, it
can be difficult for a third party torch system manufacturer to
guarantee performance of its systems if aftermarket consumables
(e.g., consumables not manufactured or otherwise authorized by the
system manufacturer) are used in the torch system by user without
the manufacturer's knowledge or approval.
[0004] Other types of material processing systems, such as water
jet processing systems or laser processing systems also typically
include various consumable components that are used to operate
their respective processing devices (e.g., water-jet cutting heads
and laser cutting heads).
SUMMARY
[0005] In some aspects, methods for validating customer
characteristics associated with a user's usage of one or more
replaceable consumable components within a material processing
system can include detecting, using a computing system, a usage of
the one or more replaceable consumable components within the
material processing system; obtaining, over a communication
network, a usage metric for the material processing system from the
computing system, the usage metric for the material processing
system being associated with the one or more replaceable consumable
components used within the material processing system and based on
identification of the consumable components installed in the
material processing system during operation; comparing, using the
computing system, the usage metric to a threshold usage metric; and
determining, based on the comparing the usage metric to a threshold
usage metric, if the user's usage indicates a selected level of
customer usage.
[0006] Embodiments can include one or more of the following
features.
[0007] The obtaining the usage metric can include determining a
frequency of use of a particular type (e.g., manufacturer or OEM or
channel source) of consumable. The comparing the usage metric can
include determining a ratio that the particular type of consumable
component is used relative to a total usage of the material
processing system. The comparing the usage metric can include
determining (e.g., by periodically tracking) whether or not a
consumable component of a predetermined type is installed in the
material processing system during usage. For example, the
determining whether or not a consumable component of the
predetermined type is installed within the material processing
system during usage can include identifying the consumable
component installed in the material processing system by
communicating with a signal device disposed in or on the consumable
component. The obtaining the usage metric can include communicating
with the consumable component during use. For example,
communicating with the consumable component during use can include
obtaining system operating parameters of one or more uses of the
material processing system. The method can also include, responsive
to determining that the user's usage indicates a predetermined
level of customer usage, providing a user with one or more
benefits. The method can also include receiving information
relating to usage of the processing device during one or more
previous operation sequences.
[0008] In some aspects, methods for measuring a level of usage of
one or more replaceable consumable components within a material
processing system can include detecting a type of consumable
component in use within a processing device of the material
processing system; determining, using a computing system, if the
type of consumable component in use is a specific type of
consumable component; and determining, using the computing system,
a usage ratio of the specific type of consumable component used
relative to other types of consumable components used within the
processing device during a cumulative time period of use of the
material processing system.
[0009] Embodiments can include one or more of the following
features.
[0010] The determining the usage ratio can include transferring
information regarding the type of consumable component in use to an
external computing device (e.g., the third party client device, the
communication networks, or another computing device) that is
configured to determine the usage ratio. The detecting the type of
consumable component can include communicating with a signal device
disposed in or on the consumable component. The specific type of
consumable component can include a particular manufacturer or OEM
type or channel source. The determining the usage ratio can include
determining a frequency of use of the specific type (e.g., a
manufacturer, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), or a
channel source) of consumable component relative to a frequency of
use of consumable components that are not of the specific type. The
determining the usage ratio can include repeatedly determining
(e.g., periodically tracking) whether or not a consumable component
of the specific type is installed in the material processing system
during usage. For example, the determining whether or not a
consumable component of the specific type is installed in the
material processing system during usage can include communicating
with a signal device disposed in or on the consumable component.
The method can also include supplying information relating to usage
of the processing device to the material processing system.
[0011] In some aspects, material processing systems can include a
material processing system control unit configured to be operably
connected to a processing device (e.g., a plasma torch); a
consumable identification module in communication with the control
unit, the consumable identification module being configured to
detect a type of consumable component in use within a processing
device of the material processing system; a usage tracking module
in communication with the control unit, the usage tracking module
configured to determine a usage ratio of a predetermined type of
consumable component used within the processing device relative to
other types of consumable components used within the processing
device during a cumulative time period of use of the material
processing system; and a communication module in communication with
the control unit, the communication module being configured to
provide over a communication network information regarding a usage
ratio of the predetermined type of consumable component used within
the material processing system.
[0012] Embodiments can include one or more of the following
features.
[0013] The consumable identification module can include a
communication device configured to communicate with a consumable
component during use. For example, the consumable identification
module can be disposed within the material processing device and
can be configured to communicate with a data tag disposed in or on
the consumable component, where the data tag can include
identifying information relating to the consumable component. The
communication module can be configured to transmit information
relating to the consumable component to the communication network.
The communication network can include an Internet based cloud
system configured to transmit material processing system usage
information relating to the type of consumable components used to
the third party. The communication network can alternatively or
additionally include a mobile telecommunication system (e.g., a 3G
antenna disposed on the material processing system power supply)
configured to transmit material processing system usage information
relating to the type of consumable components used to the third
party.
[0014] Embodiments described herein can have one or more of the
following advantages.
[0015] In some aspects, the systems and methods described herein
can be used to enable a third party (e.g., a manufacturer, seller,
reseller, original equipment manufacturer (OEM), or other similar
party) that makes or sells one or more components of a material
processing system (e.g., power supplies, torches, consumable
components (e.g., consumables), etc.) to monitor and manage the use
of their products by an end user in a more efficient manner than
possible with some other systems. For example, the systems and
methods described herein can generally permit the third party to
track, monitor, or verify if and when a specific type (e.g., a
preferred type (e.g., a certain brand or manufacturer)) of
consumable components is installed and/or in use in the material
processing system relative to other types (e.g., non-preferred
types) of consumable components. In some embodiments, this may
enable verification of matched installation and/or usage of
consumables in or with a power supply (e.g., installation of a
third party's consumables on the same third party's power supply).
In some cases, as discussed herein, a third party may manufacture
and/or sell both power supplies and consumable components and the
verification of the matched consumables with a power supply can be
used for quality or troubleshooting purposes. Additionally or
alternatively, in some examples, the type of the processing device
itself (e.g., a manufacturer or brand of a torch) being used with
the material processing system can also be identified by a third
party to track, monitor, or verify if and when a specific type of
torch is used.
[0016] Based on information obtained about the user's usage of the
preferred types of consumable components, the third party can offer
beneficial treatments to the user. For example, the third party and
the user can agree that if the user uses the preferred type of
consumable components a certain amount of usage time (e.g., for
over 90% (e.g., 100%) of operations while using the preferred
type), the third party will provide products or services to the
user at discounted or reduced costs. In some cases, the third party
may provide the user with discounted (e.g., free) components of the
material processing system (e.g., a torch or a power supply of a
thermal torch processing system) if the user uses only the
preferred type of consumable components (e.g., consumable
components manufactured by the third party).
[0017] Additionally, using material processing systems with
consumable components having signal devices (e.g., RFID data tags)
can enable the third party to monitor the user's usage more easily
and more accurately than with some other material processing
systems. For example, in some cases, third parties can monitor and
track what types of consumables are being used in a user's system
automatically using any of various communications systems. Whereas,
with some other types of material processing systems, a third party
may need to rely on reports provided by the user (or other possibly
inconclusive or inaccurate methods) in order to determine if the
user is using the preferred type of consumable components in
accordance with an agreement between the user and the third
party.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example material
processing system having a communication network to transmit usage
information to a third party.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example material
processing system having a telecommunications based communication
network to transmit usage information to a third party.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example material
processing system having a communication network that includes an
Internet accessible computer system to transmit usage information
to a third party.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting an example method for
validating customer characteristics associated with a user's usage
of consumable components within a material processing system.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting an example method for
asserting customer loyalty based on usage of one or more
replaceable consumable components within a material processing
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] In some aspects, material processing systems (e.g., thermal
processing systems, water jet processing systems, etc.) can include
components and systems that enable monitoring and tracking
different types of consumable components that are used within the
material processing system. By monitoring the types of consumables
used by the material processing systems, third parties can execute
various customer service programs to offer one or more beneficial
treatments to users depending on their use of products from the
third party.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 1, a material processing system (e.g., a
thermal torch system (e.g., a plasma arc torch system), a water jet
processing system, a laser processing system, or other material
processing system) 100 generally includes a processing device
(e.g., a torch device (e.g., a handheld torch or a mechanized or
automated torch)) 102 that is operably connected to a material
processing system power supply 104 to receive electrical power and
gas (e.g., pilot gas or cutting gas) for operation. In examples in
which the material processing system 100 is in the form of a water
jet processing system, the processing device 102 can include a
water-jet cutting head. In examples in which the material
processing system 100 is in the form of a laser processing system,
the processing device 102 can include a laser cutting head.
Similarly, the power supply 104 can alternatively or additionally
provide other connections to the processing device, for example to
provide water to a water jet cutting head or to provide electricity
to a laser cutting head.
[0025] During use, the processing device (e.g., torch) 102 can
generate a cutting beam or arc (e.g., a plasma arc from a torch)
for cutting a workpiece (e.g., a metal plate-like workpiece) when
the processing device 102 is connected to the power supply 104. The
torch 102 generally includes a torch body that defines a plasma gas
flow path for directing a plasma gas to a plasma chamber in which a
plasma arc is formed. An electrode (not shown) can be disposed
within the torch body for generating the plasma arc. The torch 102
typically includes one or more consumable components (e.g., an
electrode, a nozzle, a shield, and one or more retaining caps) that
can be used to direct gas flow, to generate a plasma arc, and to
protect torch components during use. Other types of material
processing systems can also include various consumable components.
For example, water jet processing systems can include various
consumable components, such as an orifice, an orifice plate, a
nozzle, or a pump device. Similarly, laser processing systems can
include various consumable components, such as one or more lenses
or nozzles.
[0026] The power supply 104 includes a control unit (e.g., a
microprocessor) 106 that is configured to control the operation of
the power supply 104 and the torch (or other processing device) 102
during use. The control unit 106 is also configured to communicate
with other components (e.g., modules) of the material processing
system, which can be part of the power supply 104. For example, the
power supply 104 can also include a usage tracking module 108
and/or a communication module 110. It is noted that in some
embodiments, the control unit 106, the usage tracking module 108,
and/or the communication module 110 can be formed as separate
modules or components in communication with one another or one or
more components having multiple functionalities of one or more of
these modules.
[0027] As discussed below, the usage tracking module 108 can be in
communication with the control unit 106 and a consumable
identification module (e.g., a consumable identification module
arranged in or on the torch 102) 109 to track or monitor what types
of consumable components are installed and used in the torch
102.
[0028] The communication module 110 can be configured to
communicate (e.g., via wired or wireless communication) with the
control unit 106, the usage tracking module 108, and/or the
consumable identification module 109 disposed in the torch 102.
[0029] Additionally, one or more components of the power supply
(e.g., the communication module 110 or the control unit 106) are
typically in communication (e.g., wired communication or wireless
communication) with a communication network (e.g., a communication
system) 112 that is configured to provide information about the
material processing system to a third party 114. The third party
114 can include a person (e.g., a serviceperson, a machine
operator, a representative of the manufacturer of the material
processing system, power supply, torch or consumable component).
For example, the information can include information about the
processing device, such as information regarding the type of
consumable component (e.g., brand or manufacturer information)
installed in the torch (or other type of processing device) 102
during one or more usages of the torch. Additionally or
alternatively, as mentioned above, the type of the processing
device itself (e.g., a manufacturer or brand of a torch) being used
with the material processing system can also be monitored and
identified by a third party. In some examples, the communication
network is configured to provide information regarding a type of
consumable component used within the material processing system. In
some embodiments, the communication network can include a local
area network (LAN) in communication with the power supply 104
and/or the third party 114.
[0030] The power supply 104 is typically configured to communicate
with a consumable component during use, for example, using a
consumable identification module 109 arranged in one or more system
components. In some embodiments, the consumable identification
module 109 can communicate with the consumable component installed
in the system and also with the control unit 106 or another
component of the power supply 104. Therefore, the material
processing system can obtain information regarding the consumable
component (e.g., identifying information) using the consumable
identification module 109 and transmit the information to the third
party 114, for example, via the control unit 106, the communication
module 110, and the communication network 112. In some cases, usage
of the power supply 104 may additionally or alternatively be
monitored and verified so that it can be provided (e.g., reported)
to the third party 114. Monitored usage of the power supply 104 can
be used to enable the third party to determine an amount of use
(e.g., a percentage of use) of the preferred type consumables
associated with the power supply 104.
[0031] In some examples, the consumable identification module 109
is configured to communicate with a data tag (e.g., a
radio-frequency identification (RFID) device) disposed in or on one
or more of the consumable components installed in the torch (or
other processing device) 102. For example, the consumable
identification module 109 can include a data reading device (e.g.,
an RFID reading device) disposed within one or more components of
the material processing system (e.g., the torch 102, the power
supply 104, the control unit 106, or the communication network 112)
that is configured to communicate with the data tag disposed in or
on one or more of the consumable components. In some cases, the
data tag can include identifying information relating to the
consumable component, which can be read by the consumable
identification module 109 so that the consumable component can be
identified, for example, to determine if the consumable is a
specific or preferred type (e.g., a particular brand or
manufacturer). As discussed below, the identifying information can
be used by a third party 114 in communication with the
communication network 112 to enable any number of various customer
service programs based on the user's usage of the preferred type of
consumable component. As mentioned above, the material processing
system can also be configured to monitor and determine the type of
processing device (e.g., torch) being used therein. For example,
the power supply can additionally or alternatively include an
identification module (e.g., a torch identification module) to
communicate with the torch. In some cases, the torch identification
module can include a data reading device (e.g., an RFID reading
device) disposed within or in communication with the power
supply.
[0032] Additional information regarding communicating with and
identifying consumable components installed in a material
processing system (e.g., thermal processing system) can be found in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/838,919 entitled, "Systems,
Methods, and Devices for Transmitting Information to Thermal
Processing Systems," the contents of which are hereby incorporated
by reference in their entirety.
[0033] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the communication
module 110 is configured to transmit information relating to the
consumable component to the communication network 112. As discussed
below, such information can be used for any of various reasons
including troubleshooting the material processing system or for
analyzing system usage for providing additional services. In
particular, the communication network can be used to transmit
information regarding what type (e.g., what brand) of consumable
components are being used by the material processing system during
use. For example, the communication network can analyze and
determine how often a particular type (e.g., brand or manufacturer)
of consumable components are used by the material processing system
relative to other types of consumable components. The communication
network can include one or more systems that are configured to
permit the third party 114 to analyze the types of consumable
components that have been used by the material processing system
100. In some embodiments, the communication network 112 can include
a computing system that the third party 114 can use to obtain
information about the material processing system usage. For
example, the material processing system 100 (i.e., and
communication network 112) can be configured to track and/or record
the types of consumable components used in the torch 102 during
various processing operations.
[0034] Periodically, the third party can access the communication
network 112 to review, study, and/or download the usage information
to determine if the user's usage indicates that the user meets a
certain predetermined level of usage loyalty (i.e., loyalty to the
third party) in accordance with an agreement between the user and
the third party. For example, the third party 114 can physically
visit the user's work area (e.g., factory or similar manufacturing
facility) and manually use the communication network 112 to access
and extract the usage information. In some cases, the third party
114 could download the usage information to a memory device (e.g.,
a USB jump drive or similar portable memory storage device).
However, other configurations are possible. In some examples, the
third party 114 includes a client device (e.g., an external
computing device) in communication (e.g., wired or wireless
communication) with the communication network 112 that can be used
to extract usage information.
[0035] As discussed below, the material processing systems can
include other communication networks having any of various types of
systems and communication techniques to permit the third party to
access the user's usage information.
[0036] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 2, a material
processing system 200 can alternatively or additionally include a
communication network 212 that utilizes cellular telephone based
telecommunication networks (e.g., mobile telecommunication
technology systems). The communication network 212 can be
integrated within or in communication with the power supply 104 to
transmit information from the power supply 104 to the third party
114. For example, the communication network 212 can include a
telecommunication antenna (e.g., a mobile telecommunication
antenna) 213 in communication with the power supply 104 (e.g., with
the communication module 110), by which information can be
transferred to the third party 114. In some cases, the antenna is
in the form of a 3G-type mobile telecommunications antenna in
wireless communication with the power supply and can broadcast a
signal to be received by the third party 114. In some examples, the
antenna can be disposed as an integral component within the power
supply 104.
[0037] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 3, a material
processing system 300 can alternatively or additionally include a
communication network 312 that is in communication with the
Internet to communicate with the third party 114. For example, the
communication network 312 can include an Internet based cloud
network system 316 configured to transmit material processing
system usage information relating to the type of consumable
components used to the third party 114. The communication network
312 can include one or more devices in communication with the power
supply 104 (e.g., with the communication module 110). Such devices
can include a torch controller system (e.g., a computer numerical
controller (CNC)) 318 used to control movement of the processing
device 102 during use and a computing system (e.g., a production
floor personal computer) 320 used to operate various components of
the material processing system 300 that, using the Internet based
cloud system, can be placed in communication with the third party
114. The third party 114 is also in communication with the Internet
based cloud system 316 to receive usage information about the
material processing system 300. As discussed above, the third party
114 can include a computing device accessible by a third party
representative (e.g., a representative of the manufacturer of the
material processing system, power supply, processing device or
consumable components used within the system). In some embodiments,
the communication network 312 can include a local area network
(LAN) in communication with the power supply 104, the computer
numerical controller 318, the computing system 320, and/or the
third party 114.
[0038] The material processing systems described herein (e.g., the
material processing system 100, 200, or 300) can be used to carry
out any of various different system management, material
processing, or customer service methods or processes.
[0039] For example, in some aspects, the material processing
systems can be used to track and determine how much a certain type
of consumable component (e.g., a certain manufacturer of consumable
component(s)) is used by the material processing system relative to
other types of consumable components (e.g., consumable components
of other manufacturers). This information can be useful to third
parties (e.g., consumable component manufacturers) because, in some
cases, the third party may provide products or services at reduced
(discounted) costs to users based on the users using components
(e.g., consumable components) that are manufactured only by the
manufacturer. For example, in some embodiments, a method (400) for
validating a customer characteristic (e.g., a customer loyalty to a
certain type of consumable component) associated with a user's
usage of a replaceable consumable component within a material
processing system can first include detecting a usage of a
consumable component within the material processing system. (402)
For example, a computing system (e.g., the power supply 104) can be
used to detect a usage of one or more consumable components
installed and used within a material processing device (e.g., the
torch 102). In some embodiments, a consumable identification device
(e.g., the consumable identification module 109) can communicate
with a signal device disposed on the consumable components to
detect the consumable installed in the torch.
[0040] Next, a usage metric (e.g., a usage ratio) of the material
processing system associated with the usage of the one or more
replaceable consumable components used within the material
processing system can be obtained (e.g., collected (e.g.,
automatically collected)). (404) For example, the usage metric can
be associated with the usage of a certain type (e.g., specific or
preferred type) of consumable components within the material
processing system. The usage metric can be obtained (e.g., by the
third party) using the various systems and devices, such as the
communication network 112, telecommunication communication network
212, the Internet cloud-based communication network 312, and/or
other suitable communication networks that are configured to
transmit information relating to usage of the processing device
(e.g., torch) 102 using the consumable identification module 109,
power supply 104, the control unit 106, the usage tracking module
108, or the communication module 110.
[0041] In some embodiments, obtaining the usage metric includes
determining a frequency of use of a specific type (e.g., a
preferred type (e.g., a certain manufacturer, OEM, or channel
source)) of consumable component based on identification of the
consumable component installed in the material processing system
(e.g., in the processing device). For example, obtaining the usage
metric can include determining a ratio that the preferred type of
consumable component is used relative to a total usage of the
material processing system. That is, the amount that the preferred
type of consumable component is used relative to the amount that
the non-preferred type of consumable is used in place of the
preferred type of consumable can be determined. For example, the
usage metric can include a percentage of time that the material
processing system is used with the preferred type of consumable
relative to other consumables.
[0042] Obtaining the usage metric can include repeatedly
determining (e.g., periodically tracking) whether or not a
consumable component of the preferred type is installed in the
material processing system during usage. In some cases, determining
whether or not a consumable component of the preferred type is
installed in the material processing system during usage includes
identifying the consumable component installed in the material
processing system. For example, identifying the consumable
component can include communicating with a signal device (e.g., a
data tag) disposed in or on the consumable component. Additionally
or alternatively, the consumable component can be identified by
directing a fluid flow through a flow-restriction element of the
consumable component and measuring a flow characteristic of the
fluid flow therethrough.
[0043] Obtaining the usage metric can include communicating (e.g.,
using RFID technology) with the consumable component during use.
For example, communicating with the consumable component during use
can include reading a data tag (e.g., a radio-frequency
identification (RFID) device) disposed in or on the consumable
component, where the data tag contains identifying information
relating to the consumable component.
[0044] In some embodiments, obtaining the usage metric can include
receiving usage data from an Internet based source (e.g., the
communication network 112 or 312) or broadcasting usage data to an
Internet based source. In some embodiments, the obtaining the usage
metric can include receiving usage data from a mobile
telecommunication network (e.g., the communication network 212). In
some cases, the obtaining the usage metric can include obtaining
other system cutting information (e.g., system operating (e.g.,
cutting) parameters) including a time duration during which the
system was operated using unidentified consumables, material
thickness of material being cut or welded, number of system starts,
arc hours of system operation, and other cutting information.
[0045] In some embodiments, the method can also include determining
if the material processing system is properly configured based on
the consumable component determined as being installed within the
material processing system. For example, in some embodiments, the
material processing system can access information from the
consumable component that provides system setup instructions based
on the type of consumable installed in the torch. For example, in
some cases, the method can include determining if a gouging nozzle
is installed in a torch when the material processing system is
programmed to perform a gouging operation.
[0046] In some cases, obtaining a usage metric includes the system
determining that it is unable to communicate with a particular
consumable component during use. That is, a material processing
system may be configured to communicate with preferred consumable
components during recommended or authorized uses (e.g., any or all
authorized uses) of the system and therefore, if the system
determines that its processing device (e.g., torch) is being
operated but the system cannot communicate with any consumable
components, it can be determined that the preferred type of
consumable components are not being used by the user during such
monitored use. In particular, some consumable components are
required for proper operation of the processing device (e.g., the
electrode and the shield of a torch, a lens of a laser cutting
head, or an orifice of a water jet cutting head), so if the
processing device is being operated but the system cannot
communicate with any consumable components, the system can
determine that the processing device is being operated without
using the preferred type of consumable component.
[0047] As discussed above, the material processing system can
utilize the communication module and/or the consumable
identification module to communicate with the consumable components
during use of the processing device to monitor and track the type
of consumable component in use. The power supply (e.g., the control
unit or the usage tracking module) and the communication network
can track and compile such usage information in order to
form/determine the usage metric. By way of a non-limiting example
for illustration purposes, if the material processing system
determines that its processing device has been operated for 100
hours in total and the preferred type of consumable component was
being used for 50 hours, then the usage metric would be 50% based
on the 50 hours out of the total 100 hours. Similarly, if the
preferred type of consumable was in use during the total 100 hours
of usage, then the usage metric would be 100%.
[0048] The usage metric obtained from the communication network can
then be compared to a threshold usage metric (406). In some
embodiments, the usage metric can be compared using the power
supply (e.g., the usage tracking module 108) or an external
computing system. For example, the comparing the usage metric can
include determining a ratio (e.g., a time ratio) that the specific
(e.g., preferred) type of consumable component is used relative to
a total usage of the material processing system. In some
embodiments, the comparing the usage metric can include repeatedly
determining (e.g., periodically tracking) whether or not a
consumable component of the specific type is installed in the
material processing system during usage. In some embodiments, the
threshold usage metric represents a desired amount of time that the
third party anticipates, expects, or requires the preferred type of
consumable component to be used by the user relative to
non-preferred types of consumable components. For example, the user
of the material processing system may have an agreement with a
third party manufacturer of consumable components that provides
preferential treatment based upon certain usage metrics. In some
cases, a user may agree to use a material processing system
provided by the third party according to one or more usage metrics.
For example, the threshold usage metric can include using the
preferred type of components at least 50% of the total usage time
(e.g., at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at
least 95%, 100%). In some cases, the threshold usage metric may be
based on a national and/or international average usage of the
preferred type of components, this average being generated by
monitoring users on a given material processing system provided by
the third party. That is, in some embodiments, a user may receive
beneficial treatment if their usage meets or exceeds a national
and/or international average usage of the preferred type of
components by other users.
[0049] With the collected usage metric compared to the threshold
usage metric, it can be determined if the user's usage indicates a
predetermined level of customer usage (e.g., customer loyalty)
(408). That is, if the user's usage meets or exceeds the threshold
metric, then it can be determined that the user is using the
preferred type of consumable component in accordance with the third
party's direction or agreement. For example, if the threshold usage
metric was 75% but the obtained usage metric was only 50%, then it
would be determined that the user's usage fails to indicate the
predetermined level of customer loyalty. Therefore, the third party
may elect to not provide beneficial treatment to the user.
Alternatively, if the threshold usage metric was 75% and the
obtained usage metric was 90%, then it would be determined that the
user's usage indicates the predetermined level of customer loyalty.
The example values for usage metrics provided herein are merely
non-limiting examples for illustration purposes only and can be any
of various other values based on the user and the third party.
[0050] In some embodiments, in response to determining that the
user's usage indicates the predetermined level of customer loyalty,
a user can be provided with one or more benefits. In some cases,
based on the customer loyalty determined by the user's usage, the
third party (e.g., the manufacturer or seller of one or more of the
components of the material processing system) can provide the user
with one or more benefits. For example, the benefits can include
discounted equipment purchasing options (e.g., warranties,
discounts on spare parts, discounted (e.g., free) material
processing systems (e.g., power supplies or processing devices), or
discounted system upgrade options). Alternatively or additionally,
the benefits can also include one or more discounted service
options (e.g., system service contracts, system training visits, or
semi-automated (e.g., automated) consumable component replacement
services based on receiving information that a consumable has
reached its end of life usage). In some embodiments, the benefits
based on the user's usage can be graduated, for example, as a
percentage of use. For example, as the percentage of the user's
usage increases, more (e.g., greater quantity or greater monetary
value) benefits can be offered or provided to the user. In some
cases, graduated usage levels can be established at any of various
percentages. By way of an example, graduated levels can be set at
70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%, where additional benefits are made
available at each increasing graduated level.
[0051] The material processing systems described herein can also be
used by a user to assert that their usage meets or exceeds a
threshold usage level set by the third party, for example, the
predetermined level of customer loyalty.
[0052] For example, in some aspects, a method (500) for asserting a
level of usage of one or more replaceable consumable components
within a material processing system (e.g., the material processing
systems 100, 200, 300) can first include detecting a type of
consumable component in use within a material processing system
(e.g., within a processing device (e.g., the torch, water-jet
cutting head, laser cutting head, or other processing device) 102).
(502) As discussed above, in some embodiments, a consumable
component can include a signal device (e.g., an RFID device) with
which one or more components the material processing system (e.g.,
the consumable identification module 109) can communicate to
identify the consumable component and the type of consumable
component can be detected by communicating with the signal device.
In some cases, as discussed above, the signal device includes
identifying information relating to the consumable component.
[0053] Next, it can be determined if the type of the consumable
component is a specific predetermined (e.g., preferred) type of
consumable component (504). For example, it can be determined if
the consumable component in the material processing system is a
particular manufacturer or OEM type. In some cases, the power
supply or communication network can read the identifying
information from the consumable component and compare it to
expected identifying information values for the preferred type of
consumable component. As discussed above with respect to the method
400, in some embodiments, it can be determined that the consumable
component in use is not of the preferred type simply by determining
that it cannot be communicated with. That is, if the preferred type
of consumable component is configured to establish communication
with the power supply during use, the lack of such communication
can be interpreted as the consumable being a non-preferred
type.
[0054] Additionally, a usage metric (e.g., a usage ratio) of the
predetermined type of consumable component used within the material
processing system relative to other types of consumable components
can be determined (506). For example, as discussed above, the usage
metric (e.g., usage ratio) can be a ratio of the amount of time
that a predetermined (e.g., preferred) type of consumable component
is used within the material processing system relative to a
cumulative time period of total use of the material processing
system. In some cases, determining the usage ratio includes
determining a frequency of use of the predetermined type (e.g.,
manufacturer, OEM, or channel source) of consumable component
relative to a frequency of use of consumable components that are
not of the predetermined type.
[0055] In some examples, determining the usage ratio includes
determining a percentage of time (e.g., arc hours) that a first
type (e.g., the predetermined (e.g., preferred or specific) type)
of consumable component is used relative to a usage of a second
type (e.g., non-specific or non-preferred type) of consumable in
place of the predetermined type of consumable. Determining the
usage ratio can also include determining (e.g., periodically
tracking) whether or not a consumable component of the preferred
type is installed in the material processing system during usage.
In some embodiments, the determining the usage ratio can include
determining a number of starts during which the first type of
consumable component is used relative to the number of starts
during which a second type of consumable is used rather than (e.g.,
in place of) the first type of consumable.
[0056] In some embodiments, determining whether or not a consumable
component of the predetermined (e.g., preferred) type is installed
in the material processing system during usage comprises
identifying the consumable component installed in the material
processing system. For example, as discussed above, identifying the
consumable component can include communicating with a signal device
(e.g., an RFID data tag) disposed in or on the consumable
component. In some cases, as discussed above (e.g., with respect to
the method 400), identifying the consumable component and obtaining
a usage metric can include the system determining that it is unable
to communicate with a particular consumable component during use.
Based on the lack of expected communication with a particular
consumable component, the system can determine that the preferred
type of consumable is not installed in the processing device during
the use. Additionally or alternatively, identifying the consumable
component can include directing a fluid flow through a
flow-restriction element of the consumable component and measuring
a flow characteristic of the fluid flow therethrough.
[0057] The method 500 can also include communicating the determined
usage ratio to an external computing system in communication with a
client device (e.g., a third party client device). In some cases,
determining the usage ratio includes transferring information
regarding the type of consumable component in use to an external
computing device (e.g., the computing system (power supply 104),
the communication networks 112, 212, 312, the third party client
device 114, or one or more other computing devices). As discussed
above, the material processing system can utilize the consumable
identification module to communicate with the consumable components
during use of the processing device to monitor and track the type
of consumable component in use. Over time, the power supply (e.g.,
the control unit 106 and/or the usage tracking module 108) and the
communication network can track and compile such usage information
in order to form/determine the usage metric.
[0058] As discussed above (e.g., with respect to method 400), based
on the determined usage metric of the user, the third party can
consider the customer loyalty of the user. If the customer's usage
metric meets or exceeds a threshold usage metric, it can be
determined that the user meets a certain, predetermined level of
usage (e.g., loyalty), which may be defined by an agreement between
the user and the third party. Also as discussed above, if the
user's usage indicated the predetermined level of loyalty, then the
third party may provide the user with one or more beneficial
treatments including discounted products or services.
[0059] The methods described herein can also include supplying
information relating to use of the processing device during one or
more prior operational sequences to a computing system (e.g., to
the power supply) or to the third party. In addition or
alternatively to monitoring use of the material processing system
to enable the third party to provide benefits to a user, the
systems and methods described herein can be used for monitoring and
tracking warranty information relating to the material processing
system. That is, third parties can utilize the systems described
herein to review and validate warranty claims made by a user of the
material processing system.
[0060] For example, as discussed herein, information can be
exchanged (e.g., written) between the power supply or the
processing device and the consumable installed within the
processing device to record or otherwise document the usage of the
system. In some embodiments, information can be provided to or
otherwise stored on a signal device (e.g., an RFID tag) installed
in or on a processing device (e.g., torch) or power supply relating
to the usage of the material processing system. Then, if the
material processing system is returned to a third party (e.g., as
being damaged, returned for service, submitted for a warranty
claim, or returned for another reason), the third party can access
the signal device to review the stored information to understand
the conditions in which the material processing system has been
operated by the user. With the knowledge and better understanding
of how the material processing system has been used (e.g., in
accordance with or violation of a user agreement), the third party
can make educated decisions regarding how to treat the user. For
example, a third party may opt to not honor a warranty claim if it
can be determined or established that the user violated a user
agreement when using the system.
[0061] In some cases, the information can include conditions, such
as power levels or gas flow provided to a processing device (e.g.,
a torch) during a failure scenario of the processing device. The
information can include a number of hours during which the material
processing system has been used, for example, to determine that the
system has been used for more hours than authorized. In some
embodiments, the information can include, for example, the number
of different consumables (e.g., types, OEMs, or total number of
consumables) that were used in the processing device during a
specified time. In some cases, the specified time can include the
life of the processing device. In some cases, the information can
include a number of start sequences that the processing device has
undergone during a specified time (e.g., its lifetime).
[0062] While the systems and methods herein have generally been
described as including or being used with certain types of material
processing systems, such as plasma arc processing systems, the
material processing systems can additionally or alternatively
include any of various other types of systems including laser
processing systems, water jet processing systems, or other types of
systems. Additionally, the methods discussed herein can be executed
in association with any of various other types of material
processing systems including laser processing systems, water-jet
processing systems, or other types of systems.
[0063] While various embodiments have been described herein, it
should be understood that they have been presented and described by
way of example only, and do not limit the claims presented herewith
to any particular configurations or structural components. Thus,
the breadth and scope of a preferred embodiment should not be
limited by any of the above-described exemplary structures or
embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the
following claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *