Pull test inspection tool for testing wires or other components

Abstract

The apparatus includes a portable device (102, 102a-102d) including a connector (110, 402) configured to contact or grasp a portion of the component (104) and apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device also includes a handle (116) configured to be pulled to apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device further includes an indicator (202) configured to at least one of: (i) identify a force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull-test.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to inspection tools and, more particularly, to pull test inspection tools for testing wires or other components. [Background technology]

[0002] A variety of electrical connectors are available for receiving wires or other components and forming an electrical connection. For example, some electrical connectors work by having an operator or machine press one end of a wire into the electrical connector, creating a one-way lock. In some cases, electrical connectors use angled, spring-loaded metal teeth that grip the wire in one direction and resist movement of the wire in the opposite direction. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure provides a pull test inspection tool for testing wires or other components.

[0004] In a first embodiment, an apparatus includes a portable device including a connector configured to contact or grasp a portion of the component and apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device also includes a handle configured to be pulled to apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device further includes an indicator configured to at least one of: (i) identify a force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull-test.

[0005] In a second embodiment, the method includes contacting or gripping the component to be tested during pull-testing of the component with a connector of the portable device. The method also includes pulling a handle of the portable device to cause the connector to apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The method further includes using an indicator of the portable device to at least one of: (i) identify a force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull-test.

[0006] Other technical features may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

[0007] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary system in which a pull test inspection tool may be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0009] [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a first exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure.

[0010] [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a second exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a third exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates a fourth exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates a fourth exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] 1 illustrates a fourth exemplary pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure.

[0013] [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates an exemplary application of a pull test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] 1-9 described below and the various embodiments used to explain the principles of the present disclosure are illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented in any type of suitably arranged device or system.

[0015] As mentioned above, a variety of electrical connectors are available for receiving wires or other components and forming an electrical connection. For example, some electrical connectors operate by having an operator or machine press one end of a wire into the electrical connector, creating a one-way lock. In some cases, electrical connectors use angled, spring-loaded metal teeth that grip the wire in one direction and resist movement of the wire in the opposite direction.

[0016] Unfortunately, if the wire insulation is not properly stripped, if the wire is not properly inserted into the electrical connector, if the wire is the wrong size for the connector, or if the pins of the electrical connector are not properly seated, the wire may feel properly inserted and locked by the metal teeth or otherwise secured by the electrical connector. However, in reality, the wire may simply be held in place by the friction of improperly stripped insulation or by the bent or oversized wire itself, rather than by the connector. Furthermore, in some situations, such as when a system is already deployed in the field or when a subsystem is already assembled and there is little physical access to the system or subsystem wires, it may be difficult for a tester or other personnel to grasp the wires to perform a pull test. Furthermore, pull tests may be difficult to perform in harsh conditions, such as when the tester is wearing gloves, during winter, when it is raining or snowing, during wartime, or when noise, sand, wind, or other environmental factors are present.

[0017] The present disclosure provides a variety of pull test inspection tools that can be used during a pull test to apply a force to a wire or other component for testing. For example, as described in more detail below, each pull test inspection tool includes at least one hook or other connector that can be placed around, received, coupled to, secured to, or otherwise contacting a portion of the wire or other component being tested. Each pull test inspection tool also includes a handle that an operator, robot, or other tester can pull to apply a force to the wire or other component. Each pull test inspection tool further includes an indicator that can identify the force being applied to the wire or other component and / or when a specified amount of force has been applied to the wire or other component. In some cases, cable ties or other temporary clamps can be used with any of the pull test inspection tools to provide a secure connection to the wire or other component being tested, which can help improve testing of the wire or other component and provide consistency of operation for repeated use. Also, in some embodiments, temporary or permanent friction levers or other mechanisms can be used to assist in gripping the wire or other component prior to testing.

[0018] Each pull test inspection tool can be used to verify whether a wire is properly inserted into and secured by an electrical connector, to verify whether a wire is properly soldered or otherwise spliced ​​with another wire, or to verify some other condition of the wire or other component being tested. For example, each pull test inspection tool may enable an operator to determine whether each wire or other component being tested meets minimum criteria (e.g., minimum pull force), such as determining whether the wire is securely held in place by teeth or other components of a wire connector. Pull test inspection tools can be inexpensive to produce, can provide repeatable results, can be adaptable to a variety of field conditions, and can provide visual or audible indications of success or failure (e.g., when the grip of the tool can be felt by hand or the tool's buzzer can be heard). Pull test inspection tools can also provide ease of use, and minimal training may be required. In some cases, the pull test inspection tool is very lightweight, perhaps weighing less than a standard mobile smartphone, which is useful because the pull test inspection tool is a portable handheld device. Additionally, the pull test inspection tool may operate non-destructively and only apply forces to the wire or other component being tested equivalent to forces that a human hand might otherwise apply to the wire or other component under normal operation. In some cases, the pull test inspection tool may intentionally release the wire or other component being tested with a set force to prevent damage to or destruction of the component. In some cases, applying the appropriate force to the wire by the pull test inspection tool may actually help to properly seat the wire into the electrical connector.

[0019] There are a variety of pull testers available, ranging from those that pull small electrical connectors to those that pull large ski trams, sailboats, and climbing cables, but they are generally not suitable for use with already assembled electrical components, are generally not suitable for field operations that require electrical components, and often can damage delicate components. Depending on the implementation, the pull test inspection tools of the present disclosure may use scales, trip fuses, meters, or other components that aid in pull testing of wire connectors that are already assembled from the wire end (rather than the connector end). For example, each pull test inspection tool may use cam locks or cable ties to grip the wire or other component being tested, along with a hook or other connector that is attached to a fuse assembly, a tension meter, a digital scale, or other components of the pull test inspection tool. This may eliminate the need to grip the connector itself during the pull test, which is often required with other pull testers. In some cases, the pull test inspection tools may be configured to grip the wire or other object being tested within an enclosed space.

[0020] It should be noted that while the pull test inspection tool is often described in this patent document as being used to inspect the quality of insertion of a wire into an electrical connector, this is for purposes of illustration and explanation only. The pull test inspection tool disclosed in this patent document may be used for pull tests involving any other suitable components or joints or unions of components. Thus, the pull test inspection tool described below may be used in any other suitable environment and for any other suitable purpose. Also, while the pull test inspection tool is often described in this patent document as being used by a human tester, the pull test inspection tool may be used by a robot or any other suitable automated or other system. As a specific example, the robotic system may use one or more optical or other sensors to assist in positioning the pull test inspection tool, and the robotic system may apply a force to the pull test inspection tool once the pull test inspection tool is properly positioned to perform the pull test.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system 100 in which a pull test inspection tool 102 may be used in accordance with the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 includes a wire 104 to be tested, which is (ideally) secured by an electrical connector 106. The inspection tool 102 is used here to verify whether the wire 104 is properly secured by the electrical connector 106, which may or may not be obvious or easily testable depending on the circumstances. For example, in this particular example, the electrical connector 106 is located within a case 108, which may impede the tester's ability to see the electrical connector 106. Thus, the inspection tool 102 may be used by an operator to pull the wire 104 and test whether the wire 104 is properly secured by the electrical connector 106. However, it should be noted that the inspection tool 102 may be used to test any other suitable wire that is assumed to be secured by any other suitable electrical connector (regardless of whether the electrical connector is positioned within or obscured by a case or other structure). Additionally, as discussed above, the inspection tool 102 may be used to perform pull tests on any other suitable components. Additionally, it should be noted that the sizes of the various components depicted in FIG. 1 have been exaggerated for ease of illustration and explanation.

[0022] The inspection tool 102 of this example includes a connector 110 that can be placed around, receive, couple to, secure to, or otherwise contact a portion of the wire 104. When the inspection tool 102 is pulled by an operator, the connector 110 applies a force to the wire 104, pulling the wire 104 and allowing a determination of whether the wire 104 is properly secured by the electrical connector 106. The connector 110 represents any suitable structure configured to temporarily apply a force to the wire 104 or other component being tested. In this exemplary embodiment, the connector 110 has the form of an open hook, which allows the wire 104 or other component being tested to pass through an opening in the hook and enter an interior space of the hook. The opening in the hook can have any suitable size or angle, such as, for example, when the hook has an opening of about 30° or other suitable opening that allows the wire 104 or other component to be received within the hook. In some cases, the connector 110 may be coated with rubber or other low durometer material, such as a soft or pliable material, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane grip polymer (one example is 3M's gripping material TB400). This material can provide tackiness that is useful for gripping the wire 104 or other component during pull testing. However, any other suitable connector 110 may be used herein, such as, for example, a pair of structures that cooperate to capture a portion of the wire 104 or component between the structures (one example is described below).

[0023] In some embodiments, the connector 110 may represent one of a plurality of interchangeable hooks or other interchangeable connectors 110 that may be used with different types or sizes of wires 104 or other components being tested. As a particular example, the different connectors 110 may be used to test wires 104 of different thicknesses or gauges, such as, for example, 12-22 American Wire Gauge (AWG) wire or equivalent British, metric, or other measurement standards wire. Each of the one or more connectors 110 may be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material(s), such as, for example, high tensile spring steel coated with a soft or pliable material.

[0024] In this example, at least a portion of the connecting wire 112 of the inspection tool 102 extends through the hollow shaft 114, and the connecting wire 112 couples the connector 110 to a handle 116 of the inspection tool 102. The connecting wire 112 may be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material(s). However, it should be noted that the use of the connecting wire 112 is optional, and that the connector 110 may be directly or indirectly coupled to the handle 116 in any other suitable manner. The shaft 114 may extend any suitable length along the inspection tool 102, and may be used, for example, to help position the connector 110 by moving the connector 110 so that a portion of the wire 104 or other component being tested passes into the connector 110. The shaft 114 may be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material(s), such as, for example, one or more metals or plastics.

[0025] The handle 116 represents a portion of the inspection tool 102 that an operator can pull to test the wire 104 or other component. The handle 116 may be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material(s), such as, for example, a metal or plastic core covered with ergonomic foam. The handle 116 may also have any suitable shape. For example, in some embodiments, the handle 116 may represent a straight or curved handle. In other embodiments, the handle 116 may form a partial or complete loop or other shape that facilitates positioning and pulling the inspection tool 102. In some cases, the handle 116 may be telescopic and lockable so that the length of the inspection tool 102 can be adjusted as needed or desired.

[0026] The housing 118 represents a portion of the inspection tool 102 where the connector 110 is coupled to the handle 116 via connecting wires 112. The shaft 114 may extend from the housing 118 such that when an operator manipulates the handle 116, the shaft 114 moves to position the connector 110 as needed or desired. The housing 118 may be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material(s), such as, for example, one or more metals or plastics.

[0027] As described in more detail below, the handle 116, the housing 118, or other portions of the inspection tool 102 may include indicators configured to identify the force being applied to the wire 104 or other component being tested and / or to identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the wire 104 or other component being tested. For example, the indicators may include an analog or digital tension meter configured to indicate the force being applied to the wire 104 or other component, a torque meter or other force meter configured to click / beep / vibrate when a specified amount of force is applied to the wire 104 or other component, a fuse configured to break or separate when a specified amount of force is applied to the wire 104 or other component, an analog or digital scale configured to indicate the force being applied to the wire 104 or other component, or a spring configured to release its grip when a specified amount of force is applied to the wire 104 or other component. The indicators may provide one or more forms of perceptible feedback (e.g., audible or tactile feedback) in response to at least the specified amount of force being applied to the wire 104 or other component under test. This allows an operator of the inspection tool 102 to determine whether the wire 104 or other component is capable of withstanding at least a specified amount of force being applied to the wire 104 or other component.

[0028] In some instances, it may be necessary or desirable to hold the wire 104 or other component more securely against or with the connector 110 than can be achieved using only the friction of the wire 104 or other component along the connector 110. In those instances, a temporary clamp (e.g., a cable tie 120 or a toothed clamp 122) may be used to allow the connector 110 to more securely grip the wire 104 or other component during testing. Once testing is complete, the temporary clamp can be removed from the wire 104 or other component. If reusable, the temporary clamp may then be used to test another wire 104 or other component.

[0029] Also, in some examples, the pull test inspection tool 102 may be configurable to provide feedback (such as, for example, audible or tactile feedback) at force levels slightly above and / or slightly below the desired amount of force applied to the wire 104 or other component. For example, the pull test inspection tool 102 may be configurable to provide feedback at force levels about 5% above and / or about 5% below the desired amount of force applied to the wire 104 or other component. This type of feedback can be used to assist in training a human tester to generally apply the correct amount of force to the wire or other component being tested. Note that the value of 5% is here for illustrative purposes only and can be varied as needed or desired.

[0030] Although FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a system 100 in which a pull test inspection tool 102 may be used, various modifications may be made to FIG. 1. For example, the inspection tool 102 may be used with any other suitable wires, regardless of how the wires are used, the electrical connectors used with the wires, and the positioning of the electrical connectors or wires. Also, as discussed above, the inspection tool 102 may be used to pull test components other than wires. Furthermore, the form factors of the inspection tool 102 itself and the various components of the inspection tool 102 may be readily varied from that shown in FIG. 1. In general, the inspection tool 102 itself may have any suitable size, shape, and dimensions, and each component of the inspection tool 102 may have any suitable size, shape, and dimensions.

[0031] 2 illustrates a first exemplary pull test inspection tool 102a in accordance with the present disclosure. For ease of explanation, the inspection tool 102a may be described as being used in the system 100 to test the wire 104 of FIG. 1. However, the inspection tool 102a may be used in any other suitable system for pull testing of any other suitable components.

[0032] 2, the inspection tool 102a includes a gauge or other indicator 202 disposed between the connecting wire 112 and a shaft 204 that is coupled to or forms part of the handle 116. It should be noted, however, that the indicator 202 may be disposed in any other suitable location, such as, for example, along the shaft 204 or within the handle 116. The indicator 202 represents a gauge or other structure that can measure the force being applied to the test wire 104 or other component or can indicate when a specified amount of force has been applied to the test wire 104 or other component.

[0033] In some cases, the indicator 202 may provide the amount of force (in digital or analog form) being applied to the wire under test 104 or other component. In these cases, the indicator 202 may take the form of an analog or digital tension meter, an analog or digital scale, or other mechanism that identifies the actual force being applied to the wire under test 104 or other component. An operator may view the measurements provided by the tension meter, scale, or other mechanism to determine whether the appropriate force has been applied to the wire under test 104 or other component.

[0034] Also, in some cases, the indicator 202 may provide audible feedback (such as, for example, a vibration, a snap, or a beep), tactile feedback, or other discernible feedback in response to at least a specified amount of force being applied to the wire 104 or other component under test. In those cases, the indicator 202 may take the form of a torque meter that emits a clicking sound, a fuse that breaks or separates, or other mechanism that provides some type of discernible feedback when a specified amount of force is applied to the wire 104 or other component under test. An operator may use the feedback to determine whether the appropriate force has been applied to the wire 104 or other component under test. An exemplary type of fuse that may be used as the indicator 202 is a plastic or other tension-breakable fuse link, such as a replaceable pin. The fuse may have a pin that breaks or physically separates when a "break-away" tension is reached, allowing the operator to feel the physical break without the operator needing to see the inspection tool 102 (which is useful in harsh conditions). In some cases, this type of fuse may be injection molded and may be disposable. Fuses may also be resettable, meaning that parts of the fuse may be separated but reconnected after separation for testing of the same or another component.

[0035] A combination of these approaches may also be used. For example, the inspection tool 102a may include both (i) a tension meter, scale, or other mechanism that outputs the force applied to the wire 104 or other component, and (ii) a torque meter, fuse, or other mechanism that generates discernible feedback when a specified amount of force is applied to the wire 104 or other component. In general, the inspection tool 102a may include any suitable type(s) of indicator(s) that provide information related to the force applied to the wire 104 or other component during testing.

[0036] 3 illustrates a second exemplary pull test inspection tool 102b in accordance with the present disclosure. For ease of explanation, the inspection tool 102b may be described as being used in the system 100 to test the wire 104 of FIG. 1. However, the inspection tool 102b may be used in any other suitable system for pull testing of any other suitable components.

[0037] 3, the inspection tool 102b includes a tension-based gravity scale 302 that includes a spring 304 wrapped around a shaft 204 that is coupled to or forms part of the handle 116. The gravity scale 302 can indicate an amount of force based on how far the spring 304 extends when a force is applied to the wire 104 or other component under test. An operator can view the measurements recorded by the gravity scale 302 to determine whether an adequate force has been applied to the wire 104 or other component under test.

[0038] 4 illustrates a third exemplary pull test inspection tool 102c according to the present disclosure. For ease of explanation, the inspection tool 102c may be described as being used in the system 100 to test the wire 104 of FIG. 1. However, the inspection tool 102c may be used in any other suitable system for pull testing of any other suitable components.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 4, the inspection tool 102c is similar in shape to the inspection tool 102a. However, the inspection tool 102c also includes a pre-gripped manually operated clamp including an additional connector 402 connected to a support shaft 404. The additional connector 402 can now move longitudinally back and forth (along the length of the inspection tool 102c) and somewhat side to side via rotation of a slide or lever 406. A pivot point 408 indicates where the slide or lever 406, the support shaft 404, and / or the bar 410 are rotatably coupled to each other or to other components of the inspection tool 102c. In this example, pulling the free end of the slide or lever 406 backwards or toward the handle 116 moves the additional connector 402 forwards or away from the connector 110. Pushing the free end of the slide or lever 406 forwards or away from the handle 116 moves the additional connector 402 backwards or toward the connector 110. This allows a portion of the test wire 104 or other component to be securely secured between the connector 110 and the connector 402, which may be useful in some cases (such as when the test wire 104 or other component is slippery). The connectors 110 and 402 can now collectively form a pre-gripping clamp that can be used to secure onto the test wire 104 or other component.

[0040] Although not shown here, a spring may be used to bias the slide or lever 406 to a forward position so that the connector 402 is pulled backwards without any external influence. The force of the spring may be overcome by an operator pulling the slide or lever 406 backwards, which pushes the connector 402 forward. This may allow, for example, the connector 402 to move forward ahead of the connector 110 so that the wire 104 or other component may be placed between the connector 110 and the connector 402. When the slide or lever 406 is released, the spring force may pull the connector 402 back towards the connector 110, allowing the connectors 110 and 402 to be secured onto the wire 104 or other component for testing. The connectors 110 and 402 may remain secured onto the wire 104 or other component while the operator uses the inspection tool 102c to pull the wire 104 or other component during a pull test. However, if an operator attempts to apply excessive pulling force to the wire 104 or other component under test, the spring may allow the connectors 110 and 402 to separate and release the wire 104 or other component, thereby helping to avoid damage to the wire 104 or other component.

[0041] It should be noted that while connectors 110 and 402 are shown here as having the same shape (open hooks with the same general orientation), this is not necessarily required. For example, connectors 110 and 402 may have complementary shapes that cooperatively secure onto wire 104 or other components disposed between connectors 110 and 402. It should also be noted that while indicator 202 is shown as being used here, nothing prevents a pre-gripped manually operated clamp from being used with inspection tool 102b having gravity scale 302.

[0042] 5A-5C illustrate a fourth exemplary pull test inspection tool 102d according to the present disclosure. For ease of explanation, the inspection tool 102d may be described as being used in the system 100 to test the wire 104 of FIG. 1. However, the inspection tool 102d may be used in any other suitable system for pull testing of any other suitable components.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the inspection tool 102d includes a crossbar-shaped handle 116 that extends generally transverse to the length or longitudinal axis of the inspection tool 102d. The handle 116 includes an indicator 202 integrated therein, although the indicator 202 may be located elsewhere as described above. The inspection tool 102d also includes connectors 110 and 402. In this example, the connectors 110 and 402 have complementary structures. More specifically, the connector 110 includes a smaller U-shaped hook that can contact one side of the test wire 104 or other component, and the connector 402 includes an inverted U-shaped hook that can contact the other side of the test wire 104 or other component. The connectors 110 and 402 can apply opposing forces to the test wire 104 or other component to grip the test wire 104 or other component between the connector 110 and the connector 402. For example, the connector 110 can be extended beyond the connector 402 to receive the test wire 104 or other component, and the connector 110 can be pulled back toward the connector 402 to secure the test wire 104 or other component between the connector 110 and the connector 402.

[0044] In this example, the clamping force applied to the connector 110 is provided by a structure including a movable block 502 that can slide relative to a fixed block 504. A spring 506 couples the fixed block 504 to a block 508 that is fixedly connected to the movable block 502 by one or more bars 510. The one or more bars 510 thus connect the movable block 502 and the block 508 while passing through one or more openings in the fixed block 504. One or more support shafts 404 are coupled to the fixed block 504 and pass through one or more openings in the block 508. One or more additional support shafts 512 couple the connector 110 to the block 508 (rather than using the connecting wires 112). With this configuration, forward sliding of the movable block 502 pushes the block 508 away from the fixed block 504, extending the spring 506 and allowing the connector 110 to be pushed forward and past the connector 402. When the movable block 502 is released, the spring 506 pulls the block 508 back, moving the connector 110 towards the connector 402 and securing it onto the wire 104 or other component being tested.

[0045] Note that in this example, the handle 116 is coupled to the remainder of the inspection tool 102d by a crown 514 or other moveable component. However, this is not necessarily required and the handle 116 may be coupled to one or more other components of the inspection tool 102d in any other suitable manner. For example, the handle 116 may include or be coupled to the shaft 204, as described above.

[0046] 2-5C show examples of pull test inspection tools 102a-102d, various modifications may be made to FIGS. 2-5C. For example, the inspection tools 102a-102d may be used to pull test components other than wires. Additionally, the form factors of the inspection tools 102a-102d themselves and the various components of the inspection tools 102a-102d may readily vary from those shown in FIGS. 2-5C. In general, each of the inspection tools 102a-102d itself may have any suitable size, shape, and dimensions, and each of the components of the inspection tools 102a-102d may have any suitable size, shape, and dimensions. Additionally, any suitable combination of features shown in FIGS. 2-5C may be used together in a single pull test inspection tool, regardless of whether that particular combination of features is shown in the figures or described above. As specific examples, any of the pull test inspection tools shown in Figures 2-5C may include any suitable type(s) of indicator(s), and any of the pull test inspection tools 102a-102b shown in Figures 2 and 3 may include the pre-gripping manually operated clamps shown in Figure 4 or Figures 5A-5C.

[0047] 6A-9 show an exemplary application of a pull-test inspection tool according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, any of the pull-test inspection tools described above or designed according to the present disclosure may be used to pull-test one or more wires 602 that have been inserted into at least one lever nut 604. Each lever nut 604 here includes one or more levers 606, each of which can be opened or closed to control whether an internal clamp 608 of the lever nut 604 is secured to a stripped end of one of the wires 602. A pull-test can now be performed to ensure that each wire 602 is properly secured by a corresponding internal clamp 608 of the associated lever nut 604.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 7 , any of the pull test inspection tools described above or designed according to the present disclosure may be used to pull test one or more wires 702 inserted into one or more threaded connectors 704, sometimes referred to as “Euro” style connectors. The connectors 704 include screws 706 that lock onto the stripped ends of the wires 702 and can be turned to release the stripped ends. An internal conductive structure within the connectors 704 allows electrical signals to pass between the different wires 702. A pull test can now be performed to ensure that each wire 702 is properly secured by the corresponding screw 706 of the associated connector 704.

[0049] 8A and 8B, any of the pull test inspection tools described above or designed according to the present disclosure may be used to pull test one or more wires 802 that have been inserted into at least one push wire connector 804. Each push wire connector 804 includes an internal connector that facilitates insertion of multiple wires 802 and resists removal of the wires 802. One or more internal conductive structures within each push wire connector 804 allow electrical signals to pass between the different wires 802 inserted into the push wire connector 804. A pull test can now be performed to ensure that each wire 802 is properly secured by its associated push wire connector 804.

[0050] 9, any of the pull test inspection tools described above or designed in accordance with the present disclosure may be used to pull test one or more wires 902 that are bonded together. In this example, multiple wires 902 may be soldered or otherwise bonded together at joints 904, where a pull test may be performed to ensure that each joint 904 has sufficient strength to maintain the connection of the associated wires 902.

[0051] Although Figures 6A-9 show examples of uses for the pull test inspection tools 102, 102a-102d, various modifications may be made to Figures 6A-9. For example, the pull test inspection tools 102, 102a-102d may be used in any other suitable manner and are not limited to testing wires arranged in the configurations shown in Figures 6A-9.

[0052] The following describes exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure that implement or relate to a pull test inspection tool, however, other embodiments may be used in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0053] In a first embodiment, the apparatus includes a portable device including a connector configured to contact or grip a portion of the component and apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device also includes a handle configured to be pulled to apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The portable device further includes an indicator configured to at least one of: (i) identify a force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull-test.

[0054] In a second embodiment, the method includes contacting or gripping the component to be tested during pull-testing of the component with a connector of the portable device. The method also includes pulling a handle of the portable device to cause the connector to apply a force to the component during pull-testing of the component. The method further includes using an indicator of the portable device to at least one of: (i) identify a force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull-test.

[0055] Any single feature or any suitable combination of the following features may be used with the first or second embodiment. The connecting wire may attach the connector to the indicator or handle, and the hollow sleeve may be configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting wire. The indicator may include an analog or digital tension meter configured to indicate a force being applied to the component, and / or an analog or digital scale configured to indicate a force being applied to the component. The indicator may include a force meter configured to provide feedback when a specified amount of force is applied to the component, and / or a fuse configured to break or separate when a specified amount of force is applied to the component. The indicator may be configured to provide an audible or tactile feedback in response to at least the specified amount of force being applied to the component. The connector may represent one of a plurality of interchangeable connectors. The connector may be configured to release the component during a pull test to protect the component from excessive force. A second connector may be provided, the connector may be configured to be secured to the component, and a slide or lever may be configured to move at least one of the connectors. A spring can be configured to bias the slide or lever to pull one of the connectors toward the handle. The connector can include a hook and the second connector can include a counter hook, and the hook and counter hook can be configured to contact opposite sides of the component.

[0056] It may be advantageous to explain the definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document. The terms "include" and "comprise," as well as their derivatives, mean including without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase "associated with" and its derivatives may mean include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or connect with, couple to or couple with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or be bound with, have, have a property of, have a relationship to or have a relationship with, etc. The phrase "at least one of," when used with a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and that only one item of the list may be required. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes any combination of A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B, and C.

[0057] Descriptions in this disclosure should not be construed as suggesting that a particular element, step, or function is essential or critical to be included in the scope of a claim. The scope of patented subject matter is defined solely by the scope of the allowed claims. Moreover, no claim shall invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112 with respect to any of the appended claims or claim elements unless the precise words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim, followed by a participle identifying the function.

[0058] While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, modifications and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the above description of exemplary embodiments does not define or limit this disclosure. Other modifications, substitutions, and alterations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus for verifying whether a component is secured to an electrical connector, comprising a portable device, The mobile device includes: a connector configured to contact or grip a portion of the component and apply a force to the component during pull testing of the component; a handle configured to be pulled to apply the force to the component during the pull-test of the component; an indicator configured to at least one of: (i) identify the force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force is applied to the component during the pull-test; a connecting wire attaching the connector to the indicator or to the handle; a hollow sleeve configured to receive at least a portion of the connection wire. Device.

2. The indicator: an analog or digital tension meter configured to provide an indication of the force being applied to the component; and an analog or digital scale configured to indicate the force being applied to the component.

2. The apparatus of claim 1.

3. The indicator: a force meter configured to provide feedback when the specified amount of force is applied to the component; a fuse configured to blow or separate when the specified amount of force is applied to the component; 2. The apparatus of claim 1.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the indicator is configured to provide audible or tactile feedback in response to at least the specified amount of force being applied to the component.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises one of a plurality of interchangeable connectors.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the connector is configured to release the component during the pull-test to protect the component from excessive force.

7. An apparatus comprising a portable device, The mobile device includes: a first connector configured to contact or grasp a portion of the component and apply a force to the component during pull testing of the component; a handle configured to be pulled to apply the force to the component during the pull-test of the component; an indicator configured to at least one of: (i) identify the force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force is applied to the component during the pull-test; A second connector; a slide or lever configured to move at least one of the first connector and the second connector; the first connector and the second connector are configured to be secured to the component; Device.

8. The device of claim 7 , further comprising a spring configured to bias the slide or the lever to pull one of the first connector and the second connector toward the handle.

9. the first connector comprises a hook; the second connector comprises an inverted hook; the hook and the counter hook are configured to contact opposite sides of the component; 8. The apparatus of claim 7.

10. Contacting or gripping the component to be tested during a pull test of the component with a connector of a portable device to verify whether the component is secured to an electrical connector; pulling a handle of the portable device to cause the connector to apply a force to the component during the pull-test of the component; using an indicator of the portable device to at least one of: (i) identifying the force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identifying when a specified amount of force is applied to the component during the pull-test; a connecting wire attaches the connector to the indicator or to the handle; a hollow sleeve receiving at least a portion of the connecting wire; method.

11. The indicator: an analog or digital tension meter configured to provide an indication of the force being applied to the component; and an analog or digital scale configured to indicate the force being applied to the component. The method of claim 10.

12. The indicator: a force meter configured to provide feedback when the specified amount of force is applied to the component; a fuse configured to blow or separate when the specified amount of force is applied to the component; The method of claim 10.

13. The method of claim 10 , wherein the indicator provides audible or tactile feedback in response to at least the specified amount of force being applied to the component.

14. The method of claim 10 , wherein the connector comprises one of a plurality of interchangeable connectors.

15. The method of claim 10 , further comprising releasing the component during the pull test to protect the component from excessive force.

16. Contacting or gripping a component to be tested during a pull test of the component with a first connector of a portable device; pulling a handle of the portable device to cause the first connector to apply a force to the component during the pull-test of the component; using an indicator of the portable device to at least one of: (i) identify the force being applied to the component during the pull-test; and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force is applied to the component during the pull-test; using a slide or lever to move at least one of the first connector and the second connector of the portable device; the first connector and the second connector are configured to be secured onto the component. method.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising using a spring to bias the slide or the lever to pull one of the first connector and the second connector toward the handle.

18. the first connector comprises a hook; the second connector comprises an inverted hook; the hook and the counter hook are configured to contact opposite sides of the component; 17. The method of claim 16.

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