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Multi-purpose machine metering/monitoring apparatus

  • US 5,870,698 A
  • Filed: 05/03/1997
  • Issued: 02/09/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/03/1997
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. An externally mounted machine metering and monitoring apparatus for selectively metering and monitoring operational characteristics of a predetermined type of machine, said apparatus comprising:

  • a data processor;

    a data input device in communication with said data processor;

    a reconfigurable algorithmic software directing said data processor;

    a data storage unit, wherein discrete data associated with said machine operational characteristics is stored and supplied to said data processor such that said data processor, directed by said algorithmic software, can automatically determine and report at least one of a current and a historical status of said machine operational characteristics;

    at least one reconfigurable communication port configured to selectively provide bi-directional data communication between said machine apparatus and any device selected from the group consisting of a remote computer, a host computer, at least one other machine apparatus and any combination thereof via any communication medium selected from the group consisting of a modem, a power line, an expansion bus, a radio frequency carrier signal and any combination thereof;

    at least one interface cable operationally coupling said metering and monitoring apparatus to said predetermined type of machine, said at least one interface cable being adaptable to operationally couple said metering and monitoring apparatus to at least one of an injection molding machine, a blow molding machine, a mill insertion machine, a stuffing machine, a vending machine, and an office machine; and

    a reconfigurable storage device for storing said algorithmic software, wherein said reconfigurable storage device is adaptable to store at least one of a new algorithmic software and a modified algorithmic software, that directs said metering and monitoring apparatus function in combination with a different predetermined type of machine, and wherein said reconfigurable storage device is adapted to selectively receive said new algorithmic software via any device selected from the group consisting of said machine apparatus, said remote computer, said host computer and any combination thereof.

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