Systems and methods to gather, store and transfer information from electro/mechanical tools and instruments

摘要

A fastener and corresponding communication system comprises a first fastener having a first end and a second fastener having a second end. The first fastener has an integrated circuit positioned to be electrically coupled to a first communication interface on the first end of the fastener. The second end also has a second communication interface, the first communication interface and the second communication interface electrically coupled together when the first fastener and the second fastener are fastened together. The first fastener preferably has a hollow cavity therethrough and the integrated circuit is positioned inside the first fastener. At least one electrical signal line, preferably only one, exists through the hollow cavity in communication with the integrated circuit. The method comprises coupling a first fastener and a second fastener together and receiving and transmitting information via a first signal line and a second signal line extending through the first fastener and the second fastener to an integrated circuit positioned in the first fastener.