Intevia FAQ

Fastener Network

FAQs

Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

• Disclaimer/General Info

• Fastening Mechanisms

• Actuator

• Electronics

• User Interface

• Sensors

• Energy Delivery

• Fastener Network

• Operating System

• Application Software

Q: What is meant by the term "Fastener Network"?

A: Fastening mechanisms can be configured into networks and remotely controlled by software programs. Additionally, sensors can be linked through the network to support when and how to activate fasteners. Networking typically occurs at three levels:

Intelligent fastening mechanisms can interface to external networks using a range of interfaces and protocols e.g. RS485, Bluetooth, RF, CANbus etc.

Intelligent fastening mechanisms can be hierarchically networked to each other (peer-to-peer networking is in development) using a similar range of interfaces; and

Intelligent fastening mechanisms can control a network of "slave" fasteners (fasteners without an embedded microprocessor). One "master" fastener can support the activation and control of many "slave" fastener configurations.

Q: How is the fastening mechanism identified?

A: Each fastening mechanism has a unique identity (or network address) that allows it to be individually addressed and hence controlled in networked configurations.

Q: What types of networking can connect to the fastening mechanisms?

A: Yes, fastening mechanisms may be connected to simple wired networks such as CAN or RS-485, or can be interconnected via standard or custom wireless links such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, RF or class licensed radio networks. In some applications, high speed wired Ethernet or wireless 802.11 networking can be used.

Q: Can existing networks be used?

A: Yes, fastening mechanisms can be connected to existing standard networks, such as a CAN bus network in an aircraft, vehicle or an Ethernet network in a building. The electronics provide the necessary physical and electrical interface and the operating system provides the required communications protocol and processing facilities. Fastening mechanisms may be programmed to operate with custom, proprietary or industry standard communications protocols.

Q: Are wireless networked fastening mechanisms possible?

A: Yes - intelligent fastening mechanisms currently support wireless communication networks, however they still require power.

Q: Can the fastening mechanism health be monitored?

A: Yes, fastening mechanisms electronics and communications facilities allow the fastener condition to be uploaded from internal sensors. This provides the ability for impending fault conditions to be reported and acted upon.